Postgraduate taught 

Global Economy MSc

Labour and the Global Economy SPS5012

  • Academic Session: 2025-26
  • School: School of Social and Political Sciences
  • Credits: 20
  • Level: Level 5 (SCQF level 11)
  • Typically Offered: Either Semester 1 or Semester 2
  • Available to Visiting Students: No
  • Collaborative Online International Learning: No

Short Description

This course examines the core human dimension of the growth of the global economy: its impact on labour, meaning both employment for money wages, and the collective organisation of workers in trade unions. It relates the organisation, rewards and problems of labour - including class, gender and racial inequalities - to the competitive pressures of the integrated, global economy.

Timetable

2 Hours per week over 10 weeks.

Assessment

Assessment will be through coursework which could include individual essay, class presentation and group work - total equivalent to 4000 words 

Course Aims

To examine changes in the organisation of work in the global economy, including migration of labour as well as capital.

To analyse the impact of the global economy on the conditions of labour, including monetary rewards and social benefits.

To explore the changing collective identities and institutions of workers in the global economy

Intended Learning Outcomes of Course

On successful completion of this programme students will be able to understand and critically assess:

■ The role of business and employers in reshaping the organisation of labour in the global economy.

■ The role of national and supra-national authorities in regulating and de-regulating labour in the global economy.

■ The factors shaping and encouraging the migration of capital and employment in the global economy.

■ The factors shaping and inhibiting the migration of labour in the global economy.

■ Differences and divisions of class, gender and race in the experience of labour in the global economy.

■ The capacity of workers in the global economy to establish collective identities, institutions and interests

Minimum Requirement for Award of Credits

Generic regulations apply