International Political Economy (MSc)

NA On Campus Masters Program

Queens University Belfast

Program Overview

The International Political Economy MSc at Queen’s University Belfast helps you make sense of how global politics and economics shape the world we live in — from trade and development to inequality and global governance. It is an ideal choice for students who are curious about international affairs and want to build strong analytical and research skills that can open doors to careers in policy, international organisations, and global leadership.

Curriculum Structure

This one-year Master’s programme is designed to be intensive and intellectually rewarding. You will begin by developing a solid foundation in political economy theory, exploring how power, markets, and institutions interact at a global level, before moving on to more applied topics such as global governance and development. Alongside taught modules, you will complete a substantial dissertation or research project, allowing you to investigate a global economic or political issue that genuinely interests you and to graduate with strong independent research credentials.

Focus Areas (in a string)

Global political economy, global governance and globalisation, inequality and development, political and economic research methods.

Learning Outcomes (in a string)

Critical understanding of international political economy, ability to analyse complex global issues, strong qualitative and quantitative research skills, independent policy and academic analysis.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme develops competencies valued across government, international organisations, non-governmental organisations, think tanks, and consultancy roles, with a strong emphasis on policy analysis, evidence-based decision making, and critical thinking.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Queen’s University Belfast has a strong global reputation in politics and international studies, with Politics and International Relations ranked among the top 200 subjects worldwide in the QS World University Rankings.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

One of the strengths of the International Political Economy MSc at Queen’s is how closely learning is connected to real-world global issues. Teaching is research-led and highly interactive, meaning you will regularly discuss current political and economic challenges in seminars and workshops rather than simply learning theory in isolation. You will be taught by academics who are actively researching global political economy, giving you insight into contemporary debates and policy questions as they unfold:

Research-focused seminars that apply political economy theories to real cases such as global trade, finance, development, and inequality
Small-group discussions and workshops designed to strengthen analytical writing, policy evaluation, and critical thinking
Access to Queen’s University Belfast’s extensive library services and digital resources, supporting advanced research and data analysis
Opportunities to engage with events, talks, and research activity linked to the Senator George J. Mitchell Institute for Global Peace, Security and Justice, broadening your exposure to global policy debates

Facilities and Resources:
Students benefit from Queen’s award-winning library system, specialist research collections, and study spaces that support postgraduate-level research and collaboration.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the International Political Economy MSc leave Queen’s with a strong combination of analytical ability, research experience, and global awareness — qualities that are highly valued by employers worldwide. Whether you are aiming to influence policy, work in international organisations, or move into research-driven roles, this degree provides a strong foundation for your next step:

Careers Support: Queen’s Careers, Employability and Skills service offers tailored career coaching, CV and interview support, skills workshops, and employer engagement activities
Graduate Destinations: Alumni typically progress into roles such as policy analyst, economic researcher, international development officer, consultant, and government or NGO programme officer
Employer Value: The programme’s emphasis on research, critical thinking, and global analysis aligns closely with the needs of employers working on international and policy-focused issues
Global Recognition: A Queen’s postgraduate degree is internationally recognised and respected across public, private, and third-sector organisations

Further Academic Progression:
For students interested in research and academia, this MSc provides excellent preparation for doctoral study (PhD) in areas such as Political Economy, International Relations, Development Studies, or related social sciences, building on Queen’s strong research culture and supervisory expertise.