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International Political Economy● OpenMastersPreview

MSc in International Political Economy

Explore the intersection of economics and politics globally with this advanced master’s programme at Queen’s University Belfast.

Best for:Best for graduates in social sciences, humanities, or arts with a strong interest in global governance, economic policy, and political theory, or professionals seeking to transition into international political economy roles.

Queen's University Belfast · Belfast, Ireland
More professors at Queen's University Belfast
Global governanceEconomic policy analysisInternational tradeComparative political systemsGeopolitical dynamicsInstitutional economics
This is a masters position — not a PhD studentship.
Deadline
Applicants are advised to apply as early as possible and ideally no later than 14th August 2026 for courses which commence in late September. In the event that any programme receives a high number of applications, the University reserves the right to close the application portal prior to the deadline stated on course finder. Notifications to this effect will appear on the application portal against the programme application page.
Funding
—
12 months (Full-time) / 3 years (Part-time)
Start date
Late September 2026
12 months (Full-time) / 3 years (Part-time)
Location
Belfast
Ireland

Overview

The MSc in International Political Economy (IPE) at Queen’s University Belfast offers students a rigorous interdisciplinary curriculum to analyse the complex relationships between economics and politics across global, national, and sub-national levels. This programme is ideal for graduates in social sciences, humanities, arts, or professionals with relevant experience seeking to deepen their understanding of geopolitical dynamics, trade policies, and governance structures. Through theoretical frameworks and real-world case studies, students will engage with contemporary challenges such as globalisation, institutional power, and economic inequality. The programme fosters critical thinking and analytical skills, preparing graduates for careers in academia, international organisations, policy-making, or research. Applicants are expected to demonstrate academic excellence and proficiency in English to fully benefit from the course’s immersive learning environment.

International Political EconomyGlobalisation studiesEconomic policyPolitical theoryInternational relationsGovernance analysisSocial sciences researchPolicy evaluation

What you'll do

  • Develop a critical understanding of the interplay between economics and politics at global, national, and sub-national levels.
  • Analyse real-world case studies and contemporary challenges in international political economy.
  • Engage with theoretical frameworks to interpret geopolitical dynamics and trade policies.
  • Conduct independent research on topics related to economic governance, institutional power, and policy implementation.
  • Participate in seminars, discussions, and workshops to refine analytical and critical thinking skills.
  • Collaborate with peers and faculty to explore interdisciplinary perspectives on economic and political issues.

Requirements

Degree required: A strong second-class honours (2.2) degree or equivalent qualification in Social Sciences, Humanities, or Arts, or a 2.2 honours degree in any subject with relevant professional experience.

Language: English; IELTS score of 7.0 with no less than 6.0 in any component, or equivalent qualification acceptable to the University (taken within the last 2 years).

Instruction: English

Required skills
  • Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
  • Ability to synthesise complex theoretical and empirical evidence
  • Proficiency in academic research and writing
  • Familiarity with interdisciplinary approaches to political and economic analysis
Nice to have
Experience in policy analysis or international relationsFluency in statistical or quantitative methods for social sciencesPrior exposure to global governance or economic policy debates
Eligibility
  • No specific nationality restrictions, but non-EEA nationals must meet UKVI English language requirements for visa purposes.
  • No age restrictions, but applicants must meet the minimum academic entry requirements.

Funding & terms

Type
Unknown
Amount
—
Duration
12 months (Full-time) / 3 years (Part-time)
Programme
—

Programme and admissions

Admissions not verified

A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.

Intake
Not confirmed by the source
Duration
Not confirmed by the source
Teaching language
Not confirmed by the source
Taught / research mode
Not confirmed by the source
Study mode
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Campus
Not confirmed by the source
Prerequisites
Not confirmed by the source
Application instructions
Not confirmed by the source
Tuition
Not confirmed by the source
Funding
Not confirmed by the source

How to apply

Deadline: 2026-08-14

Applicants should apply as early as possible through the university’s official application portal. The programme may close early if a high volume of applications is received. Detailed instructions for the application process are available on the Queen’s University Belfast postgraduate study page.

Documents required
  • CV or curriculum vitae
  • Academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s, if applicable)
  • Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS or equivalent)
  • Statement of purpose or research proposal (if required)
  • Two letters of recommendation (if applicable)
↗Check programme and admissions

Contact

Lab
School of History, Anthropology, Philosophy and Politics
Queen's University Belfast
Ireland
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Check admissions, intake and funding with the official source; a listing does not mean applications are open.