MA International Political Economy

NA On Campus Masters Program

University of York

Program Overview

The MA International Political Economy at the University of York is designed for students who want to understand how global politics and economics shape today’s most pressing international issues. This programme suits those interested in policy, governance and global affairs, combining strong theoretical foundations with in-depth analysis of real-world economic and political challenges.

Curriculum Structure

Core Foundations
You begin the programme by building a strong conceptual base through the core module Theories and Issues in International Political Economy, where you explore how states, markets and global institutions interact. This stage helps you understand key debates around globalisation, power, development and inequality, while strengthening your academic reading, writing and analytical skills.

Specialisation Through Options
As you progress, you select five optional modules that allow you to tailor the degree to your interests. Options may include areas such as Global Governance, European Public Policy, Conflict and Development, and The Political Economy of Global China, enabling you to explore contemporary global challenges from multiple political and economic perspectives.

Independent Dissertation
The final stage of the programme is an independent dissertation, where you research a topic of your choice in depth. With guidance from an academic supervisor and research workshops, you develop advanced research skills while producing a substantial piece of work that reflects your academic and career interests.

Focus areas (in a string):
International political economy, global governance, development and inequality, international trade and finance, political analysis of global markets

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Advanced analytical and research skills, critical understanding of global political and economic systems, policy evaluation, academic writing and independent research capability

Professional alignment (accreditation):
Delivered by the Department of Politics and International Relations at a Russell Group university, aligned with research-led teaching standards in politics and global studies

Reputation (employability rankings):
The University of York is a Russell Group university with a strong reputation for politics and international relations, recognised for research quality and graduate employability

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

On the MA International Political Economy at the University of York, learning goes far beyond reading theory. From day one, you are actively involved in seminars, debates and research-led discussions within the Department of Politics and International Relations, where teaching is closely linked to real-world global political and economic challenges. You develop practical research and analytical skills through guided supervision, workshops and independent study, all supported by York’s strong academic and professional infrastructure:

Small-group seminars and discussion-based teaching, encouraging debate, critical thinking and confident communication
Research-led teaching, drawing directly on staff expertise in global political economy, governance and international policy
Independent dissertation project, supported by structured workshops and one-to-one academic supervision
University of York Library, offering extensive digital databases, academic journals and specialist resources in politics and economics
Careers and Placements service, providing access to internships, project-based placements, CV clinics and employability workshops
Department-hosted talks and public lectures, giving exposure to current research, policy debates and visiting speakers

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MA International Political Economy leave York with a strong analytical mindset and a clear understanding of how global political and economic systems work together. This combination opens doors to roles where critical thinking, policy awareness and research skills are essential, including policy officer, political or economic analyst, civil service professional, and roles in international organisations, non-governmental organisations and consultancy:

Dedicated careers guidance through York’s Careers and Placements team, including one-to-one advice and sector-specific support
Internships and work-based learning opportunities, helping you gain practical experience alongside your studies
Strong graduate outcomes, reflecting York’s reputation as a research-intensive Russell Group university
Institutional reputation and academic credibility, valued by employers in policy, governance, research and international sectors

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates who wish to continue academically are well-prepared for doctoral study (PhD) in International Political Economy, International Relations, Politics or related social sciences. York’s research-active environment makes this programme a strong stepping stone into academia, policy research or specialist think-tank roles.