MSc Political Economy of Late Development

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

London School of Economics and Political Science

Program Overview

The MSc Political Economy of Late Development at LSE gives you the tools to understand why some countries thrive while others struggle to grow. Perfect for students from social sciences or humanities, this programme blends history, economics, and policy to help you tackle real-world development challenges and make an impact in government, international organisations, or research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Over this intensive one-year programme, you’ll start with core modules like Development: History, Theory and Policy, which explores how ideas about development have evolved over time, and Theories, Paths and Patterns of Late Development, where you analyse why some economies take different growth paths. Historical Analysis of Economic Change gives you practical tools to study long-term economic trends, while your electives let you focus on areas that interest you, whether that’s a particular region or a specialised policy topic. The year concludes with a dissertation, giving you the chance to research a topic you’re passionate about and produce work that could influence real-world policy.

Focus Areas

Political and economic development, global growth patterns, historical perspectives, regional studies, development policy, research and analysis skills.

Learning Outcomes

You’ll graduate able to analyse long-term economic change, apply theory to practical development challenges, interpret data from different regions, and carry out independent, high-quality research.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Delivered jointly by LSE’s Department of Economic History and the Department of International Development, this programme combines rigorous social science research with practical relevance, ensuring your studies are recognised and respected worldwide.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

LSE is consistently ranked among the top schools globally for social sciences and management, with graduates highly sought after by governments, international organisations, NGOs, think tanks, and research institutions. Its global alumni network and career support give you a head start in building an impactful career.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

In the MSc Political Economy of Late Development, learning goes far beyond lectures. You’ll gain hands-on experience designing and conducting independent research through your dissertation, applying theory to real-world development challenges. The programme gives you access to rich academic resources, supportive learning platforms, and a vibrant community of scholars, helping you build the practical skills and analytical tools needed for a career in development, policy, or research.

Here’s how your learning experience is supported in practice:

Conduct independent research for your dissertation, developing your own research question, gathering evidence, and connecting historical analysis with contemporary policy challenges.
Build strong analytical skills through core modules like Historical Analysis of Economic Change and Theories, Paths and Patterns of Late Development, learning to interpret complex data and historical trends.
Use LSE’s online learning platform to access lectures, reading materials, and discussion forums, keeping you connected with faculty and peers.
Explore millions of books, journals, and data sources at the LSE Library, including the British Library of Political and Economic Science, ideal for in-depth research.
Improve writing, presentation, and research skills through workshops and one-to-one guidance at LSE LIFE and other academic support services.
Work collaboratively with peers in study spaces and group rooms across campus, encouraging teamwork and discussion.

You’ll benefit from world-class facilities that make research, collaboration, and learning engaging, practical, and fully supported.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MSc Political Economy of Late Development often go on to build careers where understanding development, policy, and historical analysis really makes a difference. Many find themselves working in international organisations, government policy teams, research units, or consultancy roles that influence real-world development outcomes. Typical career roles include Development Policy Analyst, Economic Researcher, International Development Consultant, and Public Sector Advisor, giving you the skills employers in NGOs, multilateral institutions, and public organisations highly value.

Your career journey is supported in several practical ways:

LSE Careers Service offers personalised guidance, workshops, employer presentations, and networking events to help you explore sectors and secure the right opportunities.
Employment outcomes for LSE graduates are strong, with the vast majority in skilled employment or further study within 15 months of graduation, reflecting the international recognition of LSE qualifications.
University–industry connections provide access to fellowships, internships, and graduate roles in international organisations and NGOs, helping you gain practical experience alongside your studies.
Long-term value comes from being part of LSE’s global alumni network and the school’s outstanding reputation in social sciences, giving your degree lifelong credibility.
Graduation outcomes show that students leave well-prepared for both policy-focused careers and research-oriented roles in academia or think tanks.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this MSc, you have a strong foundation to pursue doctoral study in development studies, economic history, public policy, or other related social sciences. Many graduates go on to PhDs or other research degrees, giving them the chance to specialise further and make a meaningful contribution to academic and policy research.