This programme is intended for graduates with a good first degree in Politics, Economics, History, International Relations and other degrees with similar content.
The MSc International Political Economy Research is designed as a preparation for research work if you are entering the field from another related discipline. The MSc International Political Economy gives an introduction to the academic study of the subject and would be suitable if you plan to progress to a career that might have an international focus.
It is not necessary to decide which programme you prefer until you submit your option choices in the Michaelmas Term, normally in late-October, unless (as a Home/EU applicant) you intend to apply for ESRC funding, in which case you will need to have decided to study the research programme and state this on your application form. If you do not apply for, or do not get, ESRC funding, it may be possible, depending on your choice of options, to change programmes up to the end of the first term of the course.
The majority of the teaching takes place in the Michaelmas and Lent Terms. You must also submit a 10,000 word dissertation by 1 September, or if this falls at the weekend, the first working day after 1 September.
Applicants should note that this programme focuses on political economy and is not a course in international economics. Although economic concepts are taken very seriously, the focus is firmly upon the political determinants and effects of economic outcomes.
Video about International Political Economy
In this short video MSc IPE Programme Director Dr Jeffrey M Chwieroth answers the following questions:
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What is international political economy?
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How does an MSc in IPE differ from an MSc Economics or MSc Politics degree?
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What specific subjects are covered in the core course and options?
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What kinds of backgrounds do students on the course have?
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What kind of jobs do they get?
Right-click to download video| [52mb]
Comments from External Examiners on the 2010-11 session:
External Examiner A:
The standard of marking on this programme, and care and attention towards each piece of assessment, is outstanding. First and second markers show an engagement with students' work that is rare. The marking is utter fair and consistently 'on the money'. There is little to criticise the programme's examination procedures for – perhaps this year there were a few too many x9 marks (beyond those that are arrived at mathematically) showing a little hesitation in class determination. Moreover, last year I suggested that the only area wherein a criticism could be raised is in the relative lack of breadth in the range of assessment (exams continue to figure strongly in the way the programme is assessed). This has not changed and while such a change might be desirable there is nothing in the student performance to suggest that a more diverse assessment regime is something that needs to be pursue tout de suite. As was the case last year, student circumstances were taken seriously and treated appropriately. This remains an outstanding programme.
External Examiner B:
The MSc International Political Economy is examined to the highest standards. Students can feel confident the process is effective and fair to them.
Student work is generally of a very high standard overall. It compares well to work at other British universities of similar repute. The best work was world class and a delight to read. Students and staff are clearly doing excellent work at the LSE.
The examination process is well-organized in the Department and procedures are sensible and work well.
Further information for prospective applicants
Further information for incoming and current students
The following information is only accessible from within the School on an LSE network computer or with an LSE username and password: