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Economics

The Specialization in Economics (Commerce) is available to all majors within the Bachelor of Commerce degree. It equips students with the knowledge and analytical skills to understand the forces shaping business, finance and the global economy. Students build a strong foundation in economic theory while exploring topics such as market behaviour, public policy, international trade and data analysis.

Through hands-on learning, students develop the ability to interpret economic trends, evaluate business strategies and make evidence-based decisions. This specialization prepares graduates to solve complex economic and business challenges and pursue careers in finance, consulting, government, policy, research and other data-driven fields.

The Specialization in Economics requires students to complete three approved courses (nine credit hours). These courses may be taken as part of the electives in the BCom program map. The specialization is available to students who have completed their first year and are in good academic standing.

Through this specialization, students develop:

  • Foundational knowledge of economic theory and applied economic analysis
  • An interdisciplinary understanding of economic issues
  • Knowledge of socially and environmentally responsible economic policies and practices

Required Courses (choose 3)

Students must complete three courses (nine credit hours) from the following list:

  • BUSI 3998U – Energy Economics
  • BUSI 3999U – Environmental Economics
  • POSC 2800U – Introduction to Business, Economy and Society
  • POSC 3000U – Introduction to Political Economy
  • POSC 3800U – Special Topics in Business, Economy and Society
  • POSC 4000U – Special Topics in Political Economy

Important note: Students cannot double-count courses in a specialization and their major(s). If a course is listed in both in a major and a specialization, students must select a different elective to satisfy the requirements of this specialization.                   

Students are responsible for checking prerequisites, co-requisites and enrolment restrictions. Not all courses are available every year, and enrolment capacities apply. Students are strongly encouraged to consult their Faculty Advisor or FBIT to ensure they meet all enrolment requirements.


FAQ

  • What is a specialization?
    A specialization is an addition to your degree where you take no additional courses, just specific electives that align with the topic.
  • How do you take a specialization?

    You have to do 2 things to take a specialization:

    1. Apply for the specialization on MyOntarioTech > Undergraduate Forms > Change of program and readmission forms > Change of specialization
    2. Take the courses that align with your specialization, seen on this page and considering your program map

    Then wait for confirmation from an Academic Advisor and you're in! You can apply for the specialization after you've already taken a course. Example: You are entering your fourth year and you have taken Fundamentals of AI for Business already as an elective, you can apply for the AI for Business specialization and sign up for the remaining courses in the specialization.

    NOTE: Registration opens in 2026! Please stay tuned for announcements in the near future.

  • When can I apply for the specialization?

    Apply for the specialization in your second or third year. You can take the first course in the specialization in your second year of studies if the pre-requisites are satisfied.

    NOTE: Registration for both Commerce specializations opens in 2026. Announcements will be posted on our webpage and social media accounts.

  • What are the deadlines for applying?
    There is no specific deadline, but some courses require prerequisites to take before graduation. We recommend that you start taking the courses in the second or third year of your studies. Your academic advisor can help you plan for your courses.
  • What are the benefits of taking the specialization?
    Specializations are designed to not add any extra courses or time to your degree, and give you an enhanced skill set in a specific area. Specializations can prepare you to be more competitive on the job market and hopefully more successful in your careers. Specializations may also spark interest in graduate programs in a related field.
  • Can you take more than one specialization?
    Yes, however you should be mindful of the implications for your program map and degree completion time.
  • I have more questions. Who can I contact for more info?
    Your academic advisor can answer questions about specializations or any other academic matters.

    Please also browse our website and the academic calendar for more information. We also share announcements on our social media accounts!