Online PhD Program

PhD in Political Economy

The PhD in Political Economy is an interdisciplinary program that is designed to equip you with the theoretical knowledge and research skills necessary to analyze the complex interactions between political and economic systems. It will help to prepare you for advanced research and professional roles in academia, political institutions and the private sector, contributing to the understanding and development of policies that shape our world.

Online Phd in Political Economy Research Areas

With our PhD in Political Economy, you'll have the opportunity to choose from a wide range of research areas, from political economy to public policy, from climate change policy to international trade, or to public sector reforms to economic development and health care systems. This means that you'll develop the specialized knowledge needed to reach your goals. Some research subjects you could undertake on our political economy program include:

The Political Economy of Climate Change Policy

If you choose to specialise in the political economy of climate change policy, you'll investigate the economic and political factors which influence the adoption and effectiveness of climate change policies. You'll analyze the role of international organizations, non-governmental organizations, and nation-states in shaping global climate agreements. This analysis will aid in your study the economic impacts of climate policies on different sectors and regions, particularly in developing countries.

Economic Inequality and Political Stability

When you conduct research into economic inequality and political stability, you'll have the opportunity to examine the relationship between these two factors and how they function within various countries. You'll use the political theory expertise that you have gained to explore how income and wealth disparities influence political behavior, voter turnout, and policy preferences, as well as investigating the role of redistributive policies in mitigating political unrest and fostering social cohesion.

The Political Economy of Trade Agreements

If your research interests lie in the political economy of trade agreements, you'll analyze the economic and political drivers behind the formation of bilateral and multilateral trade agreements. This analysis will form the basis for your study into the impact of trade agreements on domestic economies, labor markets, and economic institutions, and allow you to explore the influence of lobbying and interest groups on trade policy decisions.

Public Sector Reforms and Economic Development

If you choose to direct your research into public sector reforms and economic development, you'll investigate how the changes and reforms made by those working in the public sector will impact the economic and political development of regions and nations. You'll study the effectiveness of different reform strategies, such as privatization, deregulation, and decentralization, in improving public sector efficiency. To carry out this research, you'll examine case studies of countries that have undergone significant public sector transformations.

Political Economy of Health Care Systems

When choosing to study a PhD in Political Economy, you'll have the opportunity to explore the economic and political determinants of health care system design and performance across different countries. This will involve the analysis of the impact of health care policies on economic outcomes, such as labor productivity, income distribution, and poverty reduction. You can also choose to investigate the role of political institutions and interest groups in shaping health care reforms and policies.

Career Opportunities Following a Phd in Business Administration

Graduates who have completed a PhD in political economy will be suitable for a wide range of career opportunities. So, if you're thinking of enrolling in our online PhD in Political Economy, here are just some of the career goals you could aim for.

University Professor

Join the ranks of other faculty members and each political economy, economics, political science, or other academic units at the undergraduate and graduate levels.

Research Fellow

Work at research institutions or think tanks to conduct in-depth studies on political and economic issues, publishing papers, and contributing to academic knowledge.

Policy Analyst

Use your skills with comparative politics to analyze and develop public policies, advise government agencies on economic and political strategies, and assess the impact of these policies.

Economic Advisor

Work with governmental bodies to provide expertise on economic development policy, fiscal management, and economic development strategies.

Economist or Political Advisor

Utilise your skills with international relations to secure positions at international organizations such as the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF), United Nations, or the World Trade Organization (WTO), where you will have the opportunity to analyze global economic and political trends and advise on international policies.

Development Consultant

Collaborate with international NGOs and development agencies to design and implement projects aimed at improving economic and political conditions in developing countries.

Corporate Consultant

Provide expertise to businesses on how political and economic trends affect markets, regulatory environments, and business strategies.

Market Analyst

Work with financial institutions, investment firms, or corporations to analyze market conditions, forecast economic trends, and advise on investment strategies.

Research Director

Use your knowledge of economics, political theory, and social science to lead research initiatives at nonprofit organizations focused on social justice, economic inequality, and political reform.

Advocacy Specialist

Work with advocacy groups to influence public policy, promote economic and political reforms, and engage in public education campaigns.

PhD in Political Economy FAQs

What are the benefits of studying an online PhD in Political Economy?

An online PhD in Political economy will allow you to study from anywhere, and fit your learning around your schedule and personal commitments. This makes online learning particularly beneficial for working professionals or those with family responsibilities. In addition to subject-specific knowledge, you will develop important skills in digital communication, time management, and self-discipline.

How do I know if a PhD in Political Economy is right for my graduate studies?

A PhD in Political Economy is ideal for graduate students who have an interest in Interdisciplinary Research. You should consider whether your career aspirations align with the potential career paths of a political economy PhD, such as academia, policy analysis, government, international organizations, or consulting. It’s also beneficial for prospective students to have a strong foundation in the formal theory of political science, economics, or a related field, so before you apply, you should evaluate your previous academic and research experience to ensure you are prepared for the rigorous training and demands of the program.

How do I study a doctoral degree Political Economy online?

You’ll identify a research topic, develop a dissertation proposal, and conduct original research under the guidance of your faculty advisor. Regularly communicate with your advisor and committee members for feedback and support. Take advantage of opportunities for online teaching assistantships and professional development workshops to gain teaching experience and build your academic profile. Finally you’ll write your dissertation, ensuring it meets the academic standards of your program, and then defend your research before a committee, which may also be conducted virtually.