Course

EDS379 Global Political Economy

Credits (ECTS):10

Course responsible:Melanie Sommerville

Campus / Online:Taught campus Ås

Teaching language:Engelsk

Limits of class size:60 students

Course frequency:Annually

Nominal workload:250 hours

Teaching and exam period: Autumn parallel

About this course

Global Political Economy (GPE, also called international political economy) considers the dynamic interplay between politics and economics at a global scale and the relations of power that underpin processes of distribution, production, trade, consumption and accumulation. We examine the intersections between economic and political phenomena within and across state borders, as well as the interrelationships between states and non-state actors, markets, institutions, civil society actors and social movements. Pivotal issues in the contemporary global economy, such as trade and tariffs, foreign direct investment, international finance and debt, the role of transnational corporations, labor and migration, and globalization and regionalisation will be discussed as part of a historically contextualised exploration of power and global inequality. Although some attention is given to liberalist and realist perspectives, the emphasis is on critical interpretations in the course.

Learning outcome

The course aims to provide students with:

  • Familiarity with and the ability to distinguish between key approaches and theories in Global Political Economy.
  • Knowledge about the political dynamics of the global economy and the capacity to give an overview of key actors, governance institutions, and processes of distribution and accumulation of wealth and resources therein.
  • Experience in analyzing historical and contemporary case studies and empirical evidence by drawing on Global Political Economy approaches.
  • Opportunities to develop independent and critical thinking skills.
  • Experience formulating clear arguments that are supported with adequate evidence and logic in written and oral expression.
  • Learning activities

    The course spans the autumn parallel and includes an integrated set of lectures and seminars.

    In lecture sessions, the course convenor and select guest lecturers will provide an overview of the weekly topic, identifying contending perspectives and situating the topic within the field of Global Political Economy.

    Seminars in turn provide opportunities for applying the knowledge gained, including through reflection on the readings, discussions, case studies, and student-led presentations on selected topics related to the course.

    Students are expected to complete the required readings prior to the lecture and seminar sessions, to attend the sessions, and to participate actively in discussion and engagement exercises.

  • Teaching support
    Office hours and procedures for the course convener will be explained at the first class meeting. A course schedule and syllabus will be made available in Canvas.
  • Prerequisites
    A relevant Bachelor degree or equivalent
  • Assessment method

    This course has portfolio assessment with two components:

    1. A presentation delivered in one of the seminar periods (students work in small groups to complete this component).
    2. A research paper on a chosen topic of maximum 5000 words (students work individually to complete this component).

    Grades are on the AF scale. Students must obtain a passing grade on both assignments to pass the course.



    Continuous assessment Karakterregel: Letter grades
  • Examiner scheme
    Both internal and external examiners will participate in the grading.
  • Mandatory activity
    Completion of the components and tasks described under 'Assessment Method'.
  • Teaching hours
    Combination of lectures and seminars
  • Preferential right
    M-IR, M-GDS, M-IES and M-GEP