MSc International Political Economy

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

London School of Economics and Political Science

Program Overview

The MSc International Political Economy at LSE offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary approach to understanding how politics and economics intersect on a global scale. It’s ideal for students aiming to work in international organisations, government, finance, or policy analysis, and covers topics ranging from trade and finance to global governance and development.

Curriculum Structure

Michaelmas Term (Autumn)
Students begin with core theoretical frameworks and foundational debates in international political economy. Modules such as International Political Economy and Theories and Concepts in International Political Economy introduce key perspectives on global markets, institutions, and power dynamics.

Lent Term (Spring)
The focus shifts to applied analysis and specialised topics. Students explore modules like Politics of Money in the World Economy and Globalisation and Regionalisation, examining monetary systems, trade blocs, and the political economy of development.

Summer Term (Final)
Students complete a 10,000-word dissertation, conducting independent research on a topic of their choice. This capstone project allows students to apply theoretical and empirical tools to a real-world issue in international political economy.

Focus areas

Global trade, international finance, development, monetary systems, global governance, regional integration

Learning outcomes

Students will critically evaluate global economic systems, apply interdisciplinary theories to policy challenges, and conduct independent research on international political economy topics.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

The program is delivered by LSE’s Department of International Relations and Department of Government, both globally recognised for research and policy impact. While not professionally accredited, the degree is highly respected across international organisations, government agencies, and financial institutions.

Reputation (employability rankings)

LSE ranks #2 globally for Politics and International Studies (QS World University Rankings 2025) and consistently leads UK graduate employability rankings in the social sciences.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students gain practical skills through rigorous coursework, independent research, and exposure to global policy debates. The program is taught by leading scholars in international relations and political economy, and supported by LSE’s world-class facilities, digital platforms, and research centres. From collaborative seminars to dissertation supervision, students engage deeply with the political and economic forces shaping our world.

Here’s how LSE supports hands-on learning throughout the MSc International Political Economy experience:

Dissertation Project: Students complete a 10,000-word dissertation, conducting independent research on a topic of their choice with guidance from faculty experts
Group Seminars: Core modules such as International Political Economy and Theories and Concepts in IPE include seminar discussions and collaborative analysis of case studies
Digital Learning Environment: All students use Moodle, LSE’s virtual learning platform, for accessing course materials, submitting assignments, and engaging in online discussions
LSE Library: One of Europe’s largest social science libraries, offering access to specialised databases in international relations, economics, and global governance
Public Lectures & Events: Students attend high-profile talks hosted by the Department of International Relations, featuring policymakers, diplomats, and global experts
Research Centres: Opportunities to engage with the International Inequalities Institute and Global Economic Governance Commission, which host workshops and policy forums
Software Access: While the program is theory-driven, students may use tools like Stata or R for empirical research in their dissertation, depending on topic and methodology
Career Services: LSE Careers offers tailored support including employer panels, internship listings, and sector-specific guidance for international affairs and policy roles

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this program are equipped to tackle complex global challenges across public, private, and international sectors. Common career paths include Policy Analyst, Economic Consultant, International Affairs Specialist, and Research Officer in organisations such as the UN, World Bank, IMF, and major think tanks. Many also pursue roles in finance, journalism, and government.

Here’s how LSE supports your future beyond the classroom:

Career Services: LSE Careers offers tailored support including one-on-one guidance, employer networking events, and exclusive job boards for international affairs and policy roles
Graduate Outcomes: 91% of LSE master’s graduates were employed or pursuing further study within 15 months (Graduate Outcomes Survey)
Salary Figures: Graduates from LSE’s international relations and political economy programs report competitive starting salaries, often exceeding £40,000 in the first year depending on sector and role
Industry Partnerships: LSE maintains strong links with organisations such as the World Bank, OECD, Chatham House, and European Central Bank, offering students exposure to policy and research environments
Long-Term Value: The LSE brand is globally recognised, offering long-term credibility for career advancement in international policy, governance, and economic strategy
Alumni Network: Graduates join a powerful global network of professionals working in diplomacy, development, finance, and academia

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates of the MSc International Political Economy often continue to PhD programs at LSE or other top universities worldwide. The program’s interdisciplinary training and research experience provide a strong foundation for doctoral study in political science, international relations, development studies, or global governance.