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Postgraduate courses in economics
Specialist subjects in Economics
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Some of you may be interested in a Masters that specialises in a particular field, such as Econometrics or Financial Economics; normally the requirement would be that two or three of the electives chosen are within the field specialism. For example, an MSc in International Trade would have the standard core modules as outlined above. Among the electives would be trade theory, trade policy analysis (such as how to measure protection and how to evaluate policy reforms), commodity markets (the special features of trade in agricultural commodities, oil, operation of future markets), etc. Similarly, an MSc in Development Economics would address the concerns of low income countries, with electives that address poverty, agriculture and rural households, the impact of aid, the operation of the World Bank and IMF, the position of low income countries in international trade, etc. Students who want to specialise should choose a Department with a research reputation in the relevant area.

Which university?

 

You've decided you want a Masters in Economics, but how do you choose from the many Universities offering courses? In addition to any personal reasons you may have, there are three crucial factors to consider. First, how good in the Department? For graduate study, it is important that the Department has a good research record. If you want to specialise in a particular branch of Economics, you want to be taught by staff at the forefront of their field; ask the Department. Second, does the institution offer the specialist electives you are interested in? Third, is the University located somewhere you would like to live? Some Universities are centre-city, others in a campus a few miles from the centre, and others some way outside the city.

Entrance requirements

The good Departments will require that applicants for a taught Masters have a good honours degree in Economics, normally at least a 2.1 or equivalent, and be able to demonstrate proficiency in English.

Studying a postgraduate course in economics is recommended for those of you who wish to reach the high-flying jobs in your field. As a postgraduate, you will have the knowledge, skills and potential that will put you ahead of the rest. Before you apply for a postgraduate course in economics, make sure you do plenty of research into the departments and the career destinations of particular courses. Good luck!

 

Study this subject here: University of Nottingham - School of Economics