International trade is important and controversial. All countries participate in international trade, yet all countries also restrict trade. In every country, you can find people and groups who favor freer trade and others who oppose it. This course will introduce you to economic theories of trade and its application to understanding current trade issues, policies, and negotiations.
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International Political Economy
Impact the policies and regulations that shape business activity in the global economy.
Shape policies that govern economic and business practices in our interconnected world.
Study the effects of globalization on economic and political influencers, including governments and international institutions, and impact regulations that shape business activity.
Areas of Focus
- Globalization and development
- International economic institutions
- International finance and macroeconomic policy
- International trade and regulatory policy
- Multinational corporations and global supply chains
- Political economy of global energy and environment
Internship Experiences
Gain skill in applying your knowledge to real issues in the public or private sector. Prior to graduation, you’ll also complete a 300-hour internship at an approved site.
Previous Internship Sites
- United Nations Industrial Development Organization
- Deloitte Consulting LP
- National Endowment for Democracy
- International Fund for China’s Environment
- U.S. Green Building Council
- WEConnect International
Career Paths
With a keen understanding of global trade, finance, and politics, paired with deep analytical skills, you’ll be prepared for careers in a range of industries, from the government and nonprofits, to large corporations and banks.
Potential Workplaces
- Global companies and nonprofits like MAXIMUS, the Asia Society, and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development
- Government agencies like the U.S. Department of State, the Federal Reserve, and the SEC
- Global finance organizations like the World Bank, Bloomberg, and the International Monetary Fund
- Consulting firms like Ernst & Young and Deloitte Consulting
Major Courses and Plans of Study
As an international political economy major, you’ll benefit from GSPIA’s strengths in international trade, global finance, and development, while tailoring your study to your career pursuits. You’ll also complete a set of required degree courses, which are outlined in the MPIA plan of study.
View MPIA plan of studyFeatured Courses
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Why do states select the financial policies that they do, and with what effects? This course will introduce you to important political and economic actors that compose the international financial system. You’ll learn about different types of financial flows and the politics and economics that surround currency policy, sovereign debt, political risk, credit ratings, and regulatory policy decisions.
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This course focuses on the international financial system and its significance for policy-making. Topics include: the balance of payments, foreign exchange markets, fixed and flexible exchange rates, purchasing power parity, and, alternative monetary regimes. The course will introduce the relevant economic theory and its application to international finance and policies.
Faculty Experts
Learn from and collaborate with faculty who have real-world and in-depth research experiences in international politics and economics.
View All FacultyCenters, Institutes, and Initiatives
Gain experience in research, teaching, and public service dedicated to global politics and economics.
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