International Political Economy MSc

The MSc in International Political Economy (IPE) is designed for those seeking to engage with the pressing economic and political challenges of our time, from financial crises and trade disputes to global inequality and sustainable development. You will be equipped with the knowledge and analytical skills to critically assess the structures, hierarchies, and power dynamics that govern finance and trade, drive globalisation and economic nationalism, and shape the distribution of wealth and poverty within and across states, regions, and the world. The MSc in International Political Economy provides a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between politics and economics in the global system. You will explore the conceptual and theoretical foundations of IPE, focusing on how globalisation has transformed the movement of capital, goods, and labour. The programme examines key issues such as neoliberalism, international trade, financialisation, economic nationalism, gender and the global economy, development and post-development, and poverty and inequality. Through a combination of core courses and optional specialisations, you will develop the ability to analyse complex global economic challenges from multiple perspectives. You will critically engage with contemporary debates on international finance, trade agreements, and the role of international institutions, bridging the gap between theory and real-world policy. Beyond academic knowledge, this programme equips you with practical skills highly valued by employers. You will develop expertise in policy analysis, data interpretation, and economic research, preparing you for careers in government, international organisations, NGOs, think tanks, multinational corporations, and financial institutions. With a strong focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and the intersection of political and economic forces, this programme ensures you graduate with the skills and insights necessary to navigate and influence the rapidly evolving global economic landscape.

Applicants for admission will normally be expected to hold a relevant Honours degree with a 2:2 standard from a recognised university or body in International Relations, Politics, Economics, Management, Business Studies, Law, Geography, History or cognate subject deemed appropriate by the School of Social Science. Applicants without this qualification may be admitted subject to having an alternative qualification, or an approved level of work experience appropriate to the field of study e.g. government officials, members of UK or other armed forces, officials of International Organizations and business executives. Also taken into careful consideration is the trajectory of results, an applicant without an overall 2.2 but with 2.2 results in their final two years of study may be admitted.