The field of political economy can cover the impact of governmental regulations on every level of economics from a worldwide perspective to individual consumerism. Students may also study the historical and social significance of this discipline to understand how markets are influenced by public policy as globalization continues to trend.

An associate degree is an undergraduate degree offered in the US and a few other countries. Associate degrees are a qualification below a bachelor's degree. Many students earn associate degrees during their first few years of higher education. Since they usually require about two years of study, these degrees can act either as job qualifications or as precursors to more advanced degrees.