MSc International Political Economy Research

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

London School of Economics and Political Science

Program Overview

This research-focused MSc is ideal for students planning to pursue a PhD or a career in policy research, international organisations, or academia. It offers rigorous training in political economy theory, global governance, and research methodology, culminating in a substantial dissertation.

Curriculum Structure

Michaelmas Term (Autumn)
Students begin with core theoretical foundations and research design. Modules include International Political Economy and Theories and Concepts in International Political Economy, which explore key debates in trade, finance, and global governance. You’ll also take Research Design in International Relations, which prepares you to formulate and structure your dissertation project.

Lent Term (Spring)
The focus shifts to specialised topics and empirical analysis. Students choose from options like Politics of Money in the World Economy or Globalisation and Regionalisation, while continuing with Quantitative Analysis for Political Science or Qualitative Research Methods. These modules build the analytical tools needed for independent research.

Summer Term (Final)
Students complete a 15,000-word dissertation, supervised by faculty experts. This is a major piece of original research, allowing students to investigate a topic in international political economy using advanced theoretical and methodological approaches.

Focus areas

Global trade, international finance, monetary systems, development, global governance, research methodology

Learning outcomes

Students will master core theories in international political economy, apply advanced research methods, and produce original academic work suitable for doctoral progression or policy research.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Delivered by LSE’s Department of International Relations and Department of Government, the program is not professionally accredited but is highly respected by academic institutions, international organisations, and policy think tanks.

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.)

This research-intensive program is designed to prepare students for doctoral study or policy research careers. From day one, students engage with cutting-edge debates, develop methodological expertise, and conduct independent research under expert supervision. LSE’s facilities and academic environment offer a rich platform for hands-on learning and scholarly development.

Here’s how the program supports experiential learning throughout the year:

Research Design in International Relations: This core module trains students in formulating research questions, designing methodologies, and preparing for dissertation work
Quantitative and Qualitative Methods: Students choose between Quantitative Analysis for Political Science and Qualitative Research Methods, gaining hands-on experience with data analysis tools and fieldwork techniques
15,000-word Dissertation: A major piece of original research, supervised by faculty experts, allowing students to investigate a topic using advanced theoretical and empirical approaches
LSE Library: One of Europe’s largest social science libraries, offering access to specialised databases in international relations, economics, and global governance
Digital Learning Environment: All students use Moodle for interactive course materials, assignment submission, and discussion forums
Public Lectures & Events: Students attend high-profile talks hosted by the Department of International Relations, featuring global policymakers, economists, and scholars
Research Centres: Opportunities to engage with the International Inequalities Institute, Global Economic Governance Commission, and STICERD, which host workshops, seminars, and policy forums
Software Access: Depending on research focus, students may use Stata, R, or NVivo for data analysis and qualitative coding
Career Services: LSE Careers provides tailored support including employer panels, internship listings, and guidance for research and policy roles

Let me know if you’d like help showcasing these experiential elements in your application or exploring research pathways during the program.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of this research-intensive program are equipped for roles in international organisations, policy think tanks, academic institutions, and government agencies. Common career paths include Policy Researcher, International Affairs Analyst, Economic Consultant, and PhD Candidate. The program’s emphasis on methodology and independent research makes it especially valuable for those pursuing long-term careers in global policy or academia.

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 research 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 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 academic research
Alumni Network: Graduates join a powerful global network of professionals working in diplomacy, development, finance, and higher education

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates of the MSc International Political Economy (Research) are exceptionally well-prepared for PhD programs at LSE and other top universities worldwide. The program’s emphasis on research design, methodology, and dissertation work provides a strong foundation for doctoral study in political science, international relations, development studies, or global governance.