Analytical Political Economy
The Master of Arts in Analytical Political Economy at University of Duke provides a rigorous academic structure designed to help students understand how economic principles and political institutions interact to shape public policy, market outcomes, and societal development. The program emphasizes theoretical frameworks, mathematical modeling, and empirical analysis, giving learners the ability to evaluate how incentives, governance structures, and collective decision-making influence political and economic behavior. Through interdisciplinary coursework, students cultivate skills that are analytical, methodical, data-oriented, and precise, allowing them to examine political economy questions with a high level of academic depth.
Across the one-year curriculum, learners gain experience with advanced research methods, statistical tools, and comparative institutional analysis, supported by faculty mentorship and access to specialized resources. The program encourages students to analyze real-world policy issues, explore the role of political constraints in economic outcomes, and evaluate the impact of institutions on growth, distribution, and global cooperation. Through seminars, modeling exercises, and applied research, students develop evidence-based, integrated, systematic, and forward-thinking reasoning that prepares them for both academic inquiry and policy-focused careers.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Analytical Political Economy
- Degree Type: Master of Arts
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 29 January 2026
- Location: Duke University, United States
- Field of Study: Economics
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Program Structure
• Semester 1 – Foundations of Political Economy Analysis
- Microeconomic Foundations of Political Economy
- Political Institutions and Collective Decision-Making
- Quantitative Methods for Political Economy
- Comparative Politics and Economic Systems
• Semester 2 – Advanced Modeling & Applied Political Economy
- Game Theory and Strategic Behavior
- Political Economy of Development and Public Policy
- Applied Econometrics for Political Economy Research
- Research Project / Policy Modeling Study
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program can pursue opportunities across government agencies, policy research institutes, international organizations, and economic consulting firms, where the ability to interpret political and economic interactions is highly valued. Many work as policy analysts, economic researchers, legislative advisors, or quantitative analysts responsible for evaluating institutional performance, forecasting policy effects, and assessing governance-related economic challenges. Others contribute to think tanks, financial institutions, global development organizations, or academic environments where analytical modeling, statistical reasoning, and policy interpretation guide strategic decisions. With its combination of theoretical depth and applied methodological training, the program equips graduates to engage with complex political-economic problems using strong empirical and conceptual tools.
Why Choose This Program
Students choose this program because it offers a rigorous integration of economics, political science, and quantitative analysis supported by faculty recognized for advanced analytical expertise, creating an environment ideal for developing strong conceptual and empirical skills. The curriculum provides access to modern research tools, interdisciplinary seminars, and opportunities to engage with current policy debates, helping learners refine their analytical judgment across both economic and political contexts. This structure supports independent research while giving students the opportunity to build a solid academic foundation that prepares them for competitive roles in research, policy design, and institutional analysis. With its focus on modeling, empirical evaluation, and institutional insight, the program provides a powerful pathway for students committed to understanding how political and economic forces shape real-world outcomes.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States
