Enter OTP
An interdisciplinary major combining economic analysis with political science. Ideal for students interested in public policy, governance, or international relations.
Curriculum Structure
Years 1–2: Core Foundations
Introductory micro and macroeconomics
Political science foundations
Calculus and statistics
Years 3–4: Thematic and Applied Study
Advanced political economy and policy courses
Economics electives on public economics & political analysis
Senior seminar or project
Optional Washington semester internship program
Focus Areas
Political economy & institutions
Quantitative policy evaluation
Governance and public decision-making
Interplay of economics and politics
Learning Outcomes
Analyze policy issues through economic and political frameworks
Communicate insights to governments, NGOs, or think tanks
Prepare for public service, policymaking, or graduate school
Accreditation & Reputation
Offered jointly by Carnegie Mellon’s Undergraduate Economics Program and Institute for Politics & Strategy
This program is uniquely positioned at the intersection of policy analysis and economics, training students to use both economic models and political theory to address real-world issues.
Experiential learning includes:
Simulation-based coursework involving policy modeling, game theory, and strategy.
Practical group projects focused on election systems, trade policy, and political behavior.
Access to labs like the CMU Center for Behavioral and Decision Research.
Research assistantships with faculty in political economy and public choice.
Public policy internship opportunities in D.C. and globally, facilitated by CMU partnerships.
CMU’s BS in Economics and Politics uniquely combines economic theory with political analysis, preparing graduates for careers in policy research, government, consulting, and international affairs. Typical roles include policy analyst, economic consultant, political risk analyst, and legislative advisor. Here’s how CMU supports your journey:
CMU’s Career & Professional Development Center offers tailored guidance, connecting students to internships with government agencies, think tanks, and consulting firms.
Approximately 92% of graduates find employment or pursue further studies within six months, with average starting salaries around $75,000.
The program benefits from CMU’s partnerships with local and national policy organizations and consulting firms, offering rich internship and networking opportunities.
Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), the curriculum blends economics, political science, and quantitative methods for comprehensive training.
Alumni thrive in careers spanning public policy, political consulting, economic research, and international development.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates commonly continue to graduate studies in public policy, law, economics, political science, or business administration.
Online Application required, 3 letter of recommendation, Unofficial Transcripts Statement of Purpose, Personal statement, CV or ResumePolicy Analyst – Develop and assess public policy based on economic and political impactsEconomic Consultant – Advise corporations or governments using political economy insightsInternational Trade Analyst – Evaluate trade policies and agreements for global organizationsLegislative Assistant – Support lawmakers with economic and political research for decision-making
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Carnegie Mellon University
