The study of Political Economy, which is primarily through the School of Social Science and Policy and the School of Economics, introduces students to the competing approaches to understanding the operation of a modern market economy. Unlike traditional economics programs, which are mathematically orientated, Political Economy takes a historical perspective and focusses on the application of principles to the 'real' world. At the undergraduate level, a core program of courses is available to students enrolled in the Bachelor of Arts (program 3400) and Bachelor of Social Science (program 3420) programs.

A major in Political Economy consists of seven courses totalling 42 units of credit at undergraduate level, at least 12 units of which must be at the 3000 level. Courses taken must include the following four PECO courses plus any three electives from the list below. Electives may be taken at other institutions offering a Political Economy program with the permission of the Coordinator.

Honours level study is available in Political Economy, subject to the approval of the Coordinator.