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Political Economy

Coursework

The Political Economy postgraduate degrees introduce students to key economic debates within their social, political, historical and institutional contexts. The approach is pluralist, encouraging students to critically analyse issues and engage with a range of theoretical perspectives and their empirical applications. 

You will study issues such as country risk, globalisation, financialisation and fragility, economic and social policies, development and trade, economic and environmental sustainability, labour and migration, developing economies and economic inequality. 

Our degrees are designed to encompass and support a range of training and experiences – including media, business, government policy, social and community work and public health. Our students and staff reflect this diversity and bring a variety of perspectives to the classroom.

Awards and requirements

Please refer to the course resolutions in this handbook for information on the specific admission requirements for different coursework award courses.

Master of Political Economy

Candidates for the Master of Political Economy are required to complete 72 credit points including:

  • a minimum of 18 credit points from core units of study
  • a minimum of 18 credit points from selective units of study
  • a maximum of 24 credit points from elective units of study
  • a minimum of 6 credit points of capstone units of study

These units may include an optional 18 credit points specialisation, as listed in the unit of study table.

Graduate Diploma in Political Economy

Candidates for the Graduate Diploma in Political Economy are required to complete 48 credit points including:

  • a minimum of 12 credit points from core units of study
  • a minimum of 12 credit points from selective units of study
  • a maximum of 18 credit points from elective units of study
Graduate Certificate in Political Economy

Candidates for the Graduate Certificate in Political Economy are required to complete 24 credit points including:

  • a minimum of 6 credit points of core units of study
  • a maximum of 18 credit points from selective units of study

Reduced volume of learning (RVL)

Candidates who have completed previous study in a relevant discipline may be eligible for a reduction in the requirements in accordance with the table below.

Level of prior learning Full-time duration Credit points to complete Requirements for completion of degree
AQF Level 7 e.g. a bachelor's degree in a directly relevant field in the Humanities, Social Sciences, Law, Agriculture, Veterinary Science, Medicine 1.5 years (dependent on the specialisation selected) 72  
Relevant professional experience N/A N/A Reduction in requirements may be granted on a case by case basis by Departmental approval up to a maximum of 24 credit points.
AQF Level 8 e.g. Honours in a relevant discipline 1 year 48  

Contacts and further information