MSc International Political Economy (NEW PROGRAMME! Starts September 2013)
Duration: One year full time; two years part time
General Information
The MA International Political Economy (IPE) is designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the institutions, actors, events, and politics of the global economy. Basing itself in international relations theory and method, the programme explores the international trade, monetary and finance systems, the processes of globalization, the impact of emerging economies, and the causes and consequences of economic underdevelopment. The program also probes the linkages of the global economy with international environmental, human rights, gender and migration issues. The programme includes core modules covering both the “British” and “American” schools of IPE. Participants in the research-oriented MSc programme also complete two core modules in research methods and can freely choose the two remaining modules from a wide range of options. In the two research design core modules, MSc students will learn how to address political and social problems using quantitative and qualitative research methods. The courses that can be chosen as electives include all courses offered at the School of Politics and International Relations.
Structure
The MSc in International Political Economy is a 90-credit programmes. Full time students must take three 10-credit modules and a 5-credit Dissertation Design module in the first semester, and three 10-credit modules in the second semester. Students must also submit a thesis worth 25-credits. Part time students take a total of 90-credits over the two-year duration of the part-time programme. As the Dissertation Design module is provided to support students writing their thesis, it must be taken in the second year of study. It is advisable for students to take the core modules in Year 1.
Admission Requirements
Each application is considered on its individual merits. The applicants should have earned an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject such as political science, international relations, social science, sociology, history, geography, economics, global studies, public policy, development studies, EU studies, law/international law etc. with at least Upper Second Class Honours, or its equivalent (an overall GPA of 3.0 (B) or higher in the American system). Relevant professional experience will also be taken into account. Note that meeting the requirements does not guarantee admission. Applicants in their final year of undergraduate study may be admitted conditional on satisfactory completion of their undergraduate degree.
Career Prospects
As with most other qualifications in the social sciences, the MA International Political Economy offers no single predefined career path. Some graduates continue studying towards a PhD or towards professional qualifications in areas such as law or commerce. Others work in public administration, journalism, business, and the voluntary sector.