Political Economy, Certificate


At a Glance: program details

Certificate Map

  • Location:
  • Additional Program Fee: No
  • Second Language Requirement: No
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 equips students with the tools to analyze the complex relationship between politics and economics. This program emphasizes the mastery of quantitative methods and crisp and impactful writing. This distinct combination ensures that students develop skills to effectively interpret data and craft persuasive arguments for decision-makers. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students explore how governments, institutions and markets interact to shape policies. Analyzing fiscal policies, trade or global economic trends, students gain practical skills to influence actual decisions. Ideal for those looking to participate in policy debates, this certificate offers students the technical and communication skills necessary for success in the field.


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 before the completion of an undergraduate degree. A student who already holds an undergraduate degree may pursue an undergraduate certificate as a nondegree-seeking graduate student.


Career Outlook

In a world of interconnected public and private institutions and global markets, graduates of the political economy certificate program are prepared 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 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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