Master of Arts - International Political Economy

The MA in International Political Economy explores the origins, structures and politics of the global economic order. It examines the historical development of global capitalism as well as a range of contemporary issues related to globalisation and neoliberalism.

This degree is for students from all over the world who are interested in the problems, challenges and opportunities presented by global capitalism, and for those wanting to gain an advanced knowledge of the theories and practice of international political economy from a range of different disciplinary and empirical perspectives. The course is designed for those who are either familiar with the study of political and economic issues at undergraduate level or who are enthusiastic to focus on this area of study at the postgraduate level.

Students will follow a flexible programme with a wide choice of modules. They take two core modules in Globalisation and Governance and International Political Economy that will provide them with a foundation for thinking about the subject. They will then design the rest of the course around their own interests by selecting four modules from a wide range of options. The flexibility of this programme is ideal for those with a broad range of interests in political economy or for those who want to construct a curriculum around a particular area of interest.

Students will also have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of events. They will be welcomed as a member of the International Political Economy research group. This group includes members of academic staff and postgraduate research students who meet regularly to discuss their own research, recent publications and to organise research events including inviting visiting speakers.

Key issues and questions examined include:

• The theoretical foundations of International Political Economy (IPE) • The history of global capitalism • Changes to the global political and economic order • A range of issues central to the study of contemporary IPE, including international economic organisations and regimes • Development • Poverty and inequality • Gender • Environmental sustainability