International Political Economy

What is the global economy and how is it shaped by relationships of power that are generated by political decision-making? Where traditional economics tends to focus on the market as something that simply exists, and politics tends to ignore or underplay it, this course helps you understand that the two are inextricably linked.

Course description

We can't begin to understand how political decisions are made without examining the economic context that shapes them, yet we also cannot grasp why the economy functions in the way it does without understanding the profoundly political decisions that determine who gets what, when, why and how.

This course will expand your understanding of contemporary capitalism by looking at how the global political economy is constituted, the ways in which it functions to benefit particular groups, countries and people, and how it is evolving.

You'll be taught by expert academics who are pushing the boundaries of international political economy. You will learn how to analyse the operation of contemporary capitalism, who wins and loses from it, and whether we can achieve more equal, just and sustainable societies.

The MA International Political Economy degree attracts a hugely diverse student community. Some may have already studied politics and international relations previously. Others may have little academic experience in the subject, but wish to better understand the evolution of the global political economy in an era marked by significant economic upheaval.

Please see our University website for the most up-to-date course information: https://sheffield.ac.uk/postgraduate/taught/courses/2026/international-political-economy-ma