Athabasca University

Programme overview

Athabasca University's Political Economy major is a fully online, four-year Bachelor of Arts that explores political and economic systems at local and global levels. The program can be taken with a focus on either global political economy or Canadian political economy. There are no set start dates—students may enrol at any time and begin courses immediately. AU notes a typical student profile (average age 39) and reports high outcomes for graduates (94% employment rate, $45k median income and 97% student satisfaction, per AU institutional data and the 2024 Graduate Outcomes Survey).

What you'll study

The curriculum develops understanding of:

• global political and economic issues
• the dynamics and needs of a knowledge‑based global society and marketplace
• local and global political and economic practices, policies, and institutions

Students choose a concentration in either global political economy or Canadian political economy. The BA is structured as a 120‑credit degree and supports options such as double majors or a 30‑credit minor subject (subject to program requirements and possible additional credits).

Entry requirements

There are no formal admission prerequisites for the four‑year degree. Applicants must be at least 16 years old. You can apply online anytime; once the application form is completed and the one‑time application fee is paid, you become an AU student and may register for courses immediately.

Career prospects

The program aims to prepare graduates to analyse complex political and economic landscapes and to adapt to varied career pathways. AU presents the degree as suitable both for students starting their careers and for professionals seeking to retrain or broaden their skill set. Graduates from AU reported strong employment outcomes in the 2024 survey cited above.

Scholarships & funding angle

Athabasca University indicates a range of financial aid and award options to help students overcome financial barriers. Tuition is charged on a per‑course, pay‑as‑you‑go basis, course fees vary by location and other factors, and estimated program costs are available in the AU Calendar. The university also offers transfer credit and Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) to potentially reduce the number of courses required; students must complete a minimum of 30 credits at AU if transfer credit is applied.