Taught Masters - MA in International Political Economy

Since the early 1970s the study of international politics has been complemented by the emergence of the sub-discipline called International Political Economy (IPE). Taking as its starting point the proposition that the international system, as well as the place of the nation-states and regions within it, cannot be adequately understood in the absence of an analysis of the world economy, this course provides an advanced introduction to this sub-discipline. Unlike the disciplines of Economics or International Economics, IPE is interested principally in the relationship between economics and politics at the international and global levels. It is also much more theoretical in orientation. Accordingly, this course introduces you to the principal theories of international political economy and explores links between global, regional and national politics, as well as a range of thematic issues concerning hegemony, development, governance and co-operation.

The international political economy has been subject to major change in recent years. This course sets the historical context and provides a practical approach to analysis of this change. It investigates the most recent innovative theoretical developments in the field, and the link to debates on globalisation and to other major developments within the world economy, including issues such as the recent financial crisis. The option modules provide you with the opportunity of studying in-depth the process of economic and political restructuring within particular states and regions.

International Political Economy is a particular strength of the Department, and you will be taught by academics at the very forefront of research in this area. You will also have the opportunity to get involved with the Department's Political Economy Research Centre (PERC), and the Sheffield Political Economy Research Institute (SPERI), which is directed by two professors from the Department.

The programme is built around the spine of two 30 credit core modules (POL6800 - Theories and Issues in IPE; and POL6550 - US Hegemony). These will introduce, at an advanced level, students to the key theories, concepts, methodologies and debates in the area IPE. Students will take a further two, unrestricted, 30 credit modules, plus a 60 credit dissertation utilising research skills acquired during the taught part of the programme.

Course Structure

All students must undertake 180 credits of modules as follows:

• Two core modules: POL6800 Theories and Issues in International Political Economy (30 credits) and POL6550 US Hegemony (30 credits);
• Option modules to the value of 60 credits (all modules are subject to availability);
• POL6670 Dissertation for MA in International Political Economy (60 credits).