University of Sheffield United Kingdom

International Political Economy MA

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 1 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree Masters Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The International Political Economy MA at the University of Sheffield offers you a deep dive into the complex interplay between global politics and economic systems. You will explore how political decisions shape economic outcomes and, conversely, how economic forces influence political structures, preparing you to analyse contemporary capitalism and its evolving dynamics. This Master's degree is ideal for students seeking to understand the distribution of wealth and power in a globalised world, equipping you with critical tools to examine issues of development, inequality, and environmental sustainability.

This full-time, on-campus MA programme is delivered over one year, featuring a core curriculum in Approaches to Political Economy and Research Preparation, alongside a substantial dissertation. You will engage with optional modules such as Contemporary Global Security, Policy-Making in the Real World, and Political Economy of Global Environmental Change, allowing you to tailor your studies. Through rigorous academic inquiry and engagement with diverse perspectives, you will develop advanced analytical skills, preparing you for careers in international organisations, policy analysis, research, or further doctoral study.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA program in International Political Economy offers a rigorous exploration of the complex interplay between political and economic forces on a global scale. Students will engage with core modules covering fundamental approaches to political economy, understanding politics, and essential research and dissertation preparation. The curriculum also provides a wide array of optional modules, allowing for specialization in areas such as global security, development, environmental change, European Union governance, and the political economy of capitalism and crisis.

1 MA modules

Approaches to political economy Core
Understanding politics Core
Research and dissertation preparation Core
Politics dissertation Core
Contemporary global security Optional
Policy-making in the real world Optional
Development and the state Optional
Democratic governance in the 21st century: problems, innovations and solutions Optional
Global health and global politics Optional
Political economy of global environmental change Optional
Capitalism and crisis Optional
Freedom Optional
Terrorism and political violence Optional
The governance and politics of the European Union Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 35,576.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 35,576.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 667.00 - USD 2,267.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,222.00 - USD 4,028.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 3,222.00
Utilities & Bills USD 4,028.00 - USD 5,034.00
Estimated Total USD 8,056.00 - USD 11,278.00

Living cost estimates are based on Sheffield Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

92%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingConstruction Technology & Digital SolutionsCorporate Finance & TreasuryCorrections & RehabilitationCrop Production & FarmingFood Processing & ManufacturingHome Health & Long‑Term CareInternational & Human Rights LawTax & Financial LawTax & Legal Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Deloitte UK

Department for Business and Trade

European commission

Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

HBSC

United Nations

Why Study International Political Economy MA at University of Sheffield

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Sheffield in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about International Political Economy MA at University of Sheffield

Can I work while studying?

International students in a Degree course can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. They can work full-time during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can submit scores from TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 88 or an IELTS overall score of 6.5 is necessary.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as policy analysts, international relations specialists, economic consultants, trade advisors, or development coordinators.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course explores contemporary capitalism by examining the global political economy and how it benefits different groups. You'll also analyze key actors and their interactions within political institutions to understand economic outcomes.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The International Political Economy MA intake month is September. Make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your spot.
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