Political Economy (Certificate)


At a Glance: program details

Certificate Map

In a world of constant political and economic change, what happens in one part of the globe can have a major impact on events elsewhere. Learn about the immediate and reverberating repercussions of political and economic decisions and conditions, and be a positive force for change.

Program Description

The political economy certificate program engages students in studying the intersection of politics and the economy. Students learn foundational concepts from both economics and political science, and they explore how domestic and international policymakers wrestle with political-economic issues.


Program Requirements

The certificate includes courses in political science, economics and other academic areas that relate to politics and the economy. Students majoring in any subject at the university may be awarded the certificate upon completion of the following: a total of 15 credit hours, of which at least 12 credit hours must be upper division. Nine credit hours must be from The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. All courses must be completed with a grade of "C" (2.00 on a 4.00 scale) or higher.
Part One: Economics Foundation (choose one course) -- 3 credit hours
Part Two: Politics Foundation (choose one course) -- 3 credit hours
Part Three: Political Economics and the World (choose two courses) -- 6 credit hours
Part Four: Related Elective (choose one course) -- 3 credit hours
Prerequisite courses may be needed in order to complete the requirements of this certificate.

Enrollment Requirements

A student pursuing an undergraduate certificate must be enrolled as a degree-seeking student at ASU. Undergraduate certificates are not awarded prior to the award of an undergraduate degree. A student already holding an undergraduate degree may pursue an undergraduate certificate as a nondegree-seeking graduate student.


Career Outlook

The certificate program helps prepare students for careers in a variety of global and domestic environments.

Graduates who have combined the certificate in political economy with their major program of study may become more marketable to employers. They often decide to pursue employment in government, public policy, lobbying, nonprofit agencies or international business.

Example Careers

Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions.

Economics Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 3.8%
  • Median Salary*: 103930

Economists


  • Growth: 6.3%
  • Median Salary*: 113940
  Bright Outlook

Environmental Economists


  • Growth: 6.3%
  • Median Salary*: 113940
  Bright Outlook

Historians


  • Growth: 3.1%
  • Median Salary*: 64540

History Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 1.3%
  • Median Salary*: 79400

Political Scientists


  • Growth: 6.6%
  • Median Salary*: 128020
  Bright Outlook

Political Science Teachers, Postsecondary


  • Growth: 3.7%
  • Median Salary*: 83770

Legislators


  • Growth: 3.4%
  • Median Salary*: 48090

Statisticians


  • Growth: 31.6%
  • Median Salary*: 98920
  Bright Outlook

Urban and Regional Planners


  • Growth: 3.7%
  • Median Salary*: 79540

* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).




Program Contact Information

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