Political economy of capitalism
The programme teaches economic theories and methods, the objects of economic inquiry as well as its normative conclusions. It incorporates the socio-political and historical foundations of economic activity as an explicit part of its curriculum.
90 ECTS 3 to 5 semesters
Language English
The assets of the master
A programme unique in Europe
The master of political economy in capitalism offers a study in political economy that is unique in Europe and goes well beyond the narrow limits of traditional teaching in mainstream economics. The programme offers students a distinctive and stimulating intellectual breadth in its field of study.
The master is designed for students who are seeking a solid foundation in political economy rather than a multidisciplinary programme. The curriculum is organised around a core group of obligatory courses that will give students a solid grounding in the political economy of capitalism. Students then develop basic knowledge and skills in three areas of inquiry by choosing from a selection of courses in comparative political economy, economic history and international economics.
Economics from a social science perspective
The programme is enriched by perspectives from other social sciences, notably from sociology, political science and history, but only to the extent that they are concerned with economic phenomena such as the social relations that incorporate a trade or monetary dimension, that influence the distribution of economic resources or that shape the allocation of power.
A programme according to your interest
Students may choose from a selection of courses in comparative political economy, economic history and international economics. They also have the opportunity to tailor their programme to their own interests by choosing from a list of optional courses. As an integral element of their Master's degree, students will write a dissertation based on their own original research in political economy, conducted under the supervision of an instructor in the programme, with the option of continuing their research in political economy by writing a doctoral dissertation being available to excellent students.
Study plan
Required classes 36 credits
Heterodox Economics
Political Economy of Capitalisms
Capitalism & Enterprise
Economic Policy
Quantitative Methods
Research Atelier
Option classes and electives 30 credits
History of Global Capitalism
History of Financial Crises
Social and environmental dilemmas in capitalism
Comparative Politics
International Political Economy
The Economics of Globalization
Growth, Distribution and Politics: Empirical Perspectives
Master's thesis or work placement dissertation 24 credits
Admission conditions
A Bachelor in history - economics - society with 60 credits in economics or an equivalent degree in another field, upon completion of supplementary courses to be determined based on prior studies.
Application deadline
Registration for the master's degree takes place between the beginning of January and 28 February for the following academic year (start of courses in September).
Tuition fees and scholarships
- Tuition fees at UNIGE are 500 Swiss francs per semester
- Scholarships
- Accomodation
- Other student services
