International Political Economy, MSc

Program Overview

The International Political Economy MSc program at the University of Aberdeen equips graduates to understand the structures, hierarchies, and power dynamics that shape the global political economy. Through a combination of taught courses and an independent research project, students gain a critical understanding of major theoretical debates, apply conceptual tools to analyze global issues, and develop the skills necessary for further studies or professional work in various sectors. The program attracts students from diverse backgrounds, fostering a vibrant and intellectually stimulating learning environment.

Program Outline

International Political Economy, MSc

Degree Overview:

The International Political Economy, MSc program at the University of Aberdeen, prepares graduates to understand the structures, hierarchies, and power dynamics that regulate finance and trade, drive globalization and economic nationalisms, and impact the distribution of wealth and poverty across and within states, regions, and the world.

Objectives:

• Equip students with a critical understanding of the major theoretical and empirical debates concerning the global political economy.
• Enable students to apply conceptual tools in the analysis of concrete global issues, such as the regulation of finance, global trade regimes, economic inequality, and environmental problems.
• Provide the key analytical tools and the theoretical frameworks necessary for engaging in critical and independent research in IPE.
• Prepare students for further studies in IPE or professional work in the public, private, and/or non-profit sectors.

Outline:

Program Content:

• Covers various dimensions of globalization through consideration of recent changes occurring in the economic, political, social, and cultural realms of society.
• Analyzes substantive topics including global inequality, financialization, precarization of work, global regulation, climate change, gender in the international political economy, and religion as a factor in global conflict and security.
• Examines the key concepts and theoretical paradigms used in the study of international political economy including neo-liberalism, Marxism, and feminist political economy.
• Explores the role of power and ideology in shaping the global political economy.
• Engages with diverse case studies to illustrate theoretical arguments and provide empirical insights.

Program Structure:

• 12-month full-time or 24-month part-time program.
• Comprises taught courses and an independent dissertation or research project.
• Taught courses typically focus on specific issues or themes related to the global political economy.

Course Schedule:

Stage 1:

• Introduces key theories and themes in the disciplinary study of International Political Economy.
• Topics include: globalization, global inequality, financialization, precarization of work, global regulation, climate change, gender in international political economy, and the environment in international politics.
• Students also participate in modules aimed at developing research and writing skills.

Stage 2 (Full-time only):

• Covers advanced topics in international political economy.
• Students choose from a range of specialized electives focusing on specific issues or regions.
• Dissertation preparation begins in this stage.

Stage 3:

• Students undertake an independent research project in the form of a dissertation.
• The dissertation allows students to apply the knowledge and skills acquired throughout the program to an in-depth investigation of a specific topic or issue.

Assessment:

• Assesses students through a variety of methods, including written exams, essays, coursework, oral presentations, and the final dissertation.
• Aims to assess students' theoretical understanding, analytical capacity, research skills, and ability to present their findings effectively.

Teaching:

• Uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, group work, and individual tutorials.
• Lectures offer an introduction to key themes and concepts in international political economy.
• Seminars provide space for in-depth discussion and analysis of specific topics.
• Group work promotes collaboration and the development of research skills.
• Individual tutorials offer personalized feedback and support to students.

Careers:

• Graduates pursue careers in various sectors, including:
• Public sector: government departments, international organizations, regulatory bodies.
• Private sector: international business, investment banking, consulting firms.
• Non-profit sector: development NGOs, research institutions, advocacy organizations.
• Program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in these careers.

Other:

• The program attracts students from diverse backgrounds and countries, creating a vibrant and intellectually stimulating learning environment.
For a complete picture of the program, it is recommended to consult the official website of the University of Aberdeen.

EU / International students: £23,800 UK: £11,100