Political Science-Political Economy
The Political Science: Political Economy Bachelor of Arts program at Pennsylvania University is a four-year, full-time undergraduate program designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between economics and political systems. The curriculum integrates political theory, economics, public policy, quantitative analysis, and research methodology, enabling students to analyze the economic and political forces that shape societies, evaluate policy decisions, and understand the impact of governance on economic outcomes. Students engage in research projects, data analysis, and applied studies, cultivating analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills essential for professional or academic careers in political economy, public policy, economics, or international relations.
Throughout the program, students participate in seminars, workshops, and experiential learning guided by faculty experts in political science, economics, and policy research. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary analysis, applied research, and data-driven decision-making, preparing graduates to assess political and economic systems, interpret policy impacts, and contribute to research or policy initiatives. Students leave the program with analytical skills, research competence, quantitative proficiency, and critical reasoning, fully prepared for careers or advanced study in political science, economics, public policy, or international studies.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Political Science-Political Economy
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Arts
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Economics
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Political Economy
- Introduction to Political Economy and Political Science
- Fundamentals of Microeconomics and Macroeconomics
- Research Methods and Critical Thinking
- Historical Perspectives on Economic Policy
Year 2 – Intermediate Study in Political and Economic Systems
- Comparative Political Economy
- Public Policy Analysis and Economic Regulation
- Applied Research Projects in Political and Economic Contexts
- Electives: International Trade, Political Institutions, or Development Economics
Year 3 – Advanced Analysis and Applied Research
- Advanced Political Economy and Policy Evaluation
- Quantitative Methods in Economics and Political Science
- Applied Projects in Governance and Economic Analysis
- Electives: Global Political Economy, Political Risk Analysis, or Economic Development
Year 4 – Capstone and Professional Integration
- Senior Thesis or Independent Research Project
- Seminar in Contemporary Issues in Political Economy
- Professional Portfolio Development
- Internship or Applied Project in Government, Policy Institutes, or Research Organizations
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Political Economy program are prepared for careers in policy analysis, economic research, government and public service, consulting, international organizations, and academic research. Alumni may work as policy analysts, economic advisors, political consultants, researchers, or pursue graduate studies in political science, economics, public policy, or international relations. The program equips graduates to analyze political and economic systems, interpret policy outcomes, and apply research and analytical skills to real-world challenges. With strong research, quantitative, and analytical skills, graduates are highly competitive in professional and academic environments focused on policy evaluation, economic analysis, and applied political research.
Why Choose This Program
This program is distinguished by its integration of political theory, economic analysis, applied research, and interdisciplinary study within a four-year curriculum. Students benefit from mentorship, experiential learning, and applied projects that connect theoretical knowledge with practical applications in governance, policy, and economics. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and problem-solving, preparing graduates to evaluate complex political and economic challenges, develop evidence-based solutions, and contribute meaningfully to professional and academic initiatives. For students passionate about political economy, public policy, and economic analysis, this program offers a rigorous, immersive, and career-focused pathway to professional and academic success.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
