Newcastle University

Politics

International Political Economy MA

12 months full time; 24 months part time

Fees

UK/EU: full time £5,500 part time £2,750
International: full time £11,165 part time fees
Please refer to our Tuition Fees section for information about changes to fees and fee discounts.

Aims

This MA provides both foundation level and advanced level training in the discipline of international political economy. It includes principal theories and theorists in the discipline, and a theoretical and empirical understanding of the role of states and markets in modern economic history and development. Graduates from the MA will acquire a better understanding of contemporary debates on globalisation and its transformatory effects on states, economies and societies in both advanced and developing countries.

Programme Description

This programme gives you the opportunity to explore key themes in contemporary international political economy, such as the growing tensions between the ‘globalising’ world economy, the traditional nation state and the persistence and causes of poverty. It is enhanced by the lively debates in this growing field of study, with direct contemporary relevance.

You take three compulsory modules (60 credits); three optional modules (60 credits); and complete a dissertation (60 credits). Compulsory modules cover: theories and theorists of international political economy; the state in the international political economy; theories and approaches in the study of politics – power and democracy. Typical optional modules include: globalisation, poverty and development; integration in Europe; global justice and human rights; war, terrorism and peace – ethical perspectives;  doing political research; the rise of China; global politics and popular culture.

Teaching is seminar based and most modules are assessed by a 4,000-word research paper on a topic chosen by the student in consultation with the module leader. Students complete a 12,000-word dissertation during the summer.

Find out more detailed information about the programme modules

Entrance Requirements

An upper-second-class Honours degree or above, or international equivalent, in politics/international studies or a related discipline. Other qualifications or relevant professional experience are also considered. Applicants whose first language is not English require IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 90 (Internet-based), or equivalent. 

If you are an international student and you do not meet the academic and English Language requirements for this degree programme, you may want to consider a preparation course at INTO Newcastle University.  INTO Newcastle University is based on the University campus and offers a range of courses to help you prepare for study in the UK including the Graduate Diploma in Business and Social Sciences.

Tier 4 Student Visas (International Applicants)

The UK Border Agency (UKBA) has now revised its rules for Tier 4 student visa applications regarding English language ability. You are now required to hold a minimum of IELTS 5.5 (or equivalent) in all sub skills (listening, writing, reading and speaking) to be eligible to apply for a Tier 4 visa.

Please note that the University’s English language requirements are normally higher (see above).

Typical Funding

UK/EU students - full or partial fees bursaries may be available from the School.
International students - University scholarships.

How to Apply

There is no closing date for this programme. However, international students applying for September 2012 entry should apply by Friday 13 July 2012 to ensure that they have time to put appropriate arrangements in place.

For the quickest and easiest way to apply, visit our postgraduate online application site.

Further Information

For further information please contact:
Postgraduate Secretary
School of Geography, Politics and Sociology
Telephone: +44 (0) 191 222 5200
E-mail: gps@ncl.ac.uk