The MSci Mathematics with Economics at the University of Exeter is a four‑year integrated master’s degree that combines deep mathematical training with modern economic theory and practice — perfect if you love analytical thinking and want to understand how quantitative methods drive economic decisions. This programme suits students who enjoy both mathematics and economics, and who aspire to careers in finance, economic analysis, consultancy, policy, data science, or further postgraduate research.
Curriculum structure
Year One
In your first year, you’ll build core mathematical skills through modules covering Mathematical Structures, Mathematical Methods, Probability, Statistics and Data, and foundations of analysis. Alongside this, you’ll study the basic concepts of economics in Economics I and Economics II, learning how fundamental economic principles apply to real‑world decisions and markets.
Year Two
In year two, you’ll gain deeper insight into economic behaviour with Microeconomics II and broaden your mathematical knowledge through compulsory and optional modules such as Differential Equations, Vector Calculus, Real Analysis, Complex Analysis, and Linear Algebra. These courses develop the mathematical tools needed to model dynamic economic systems and quantitative problems.
Year Three
In your third year, you’ll examine how mathematical techniques are applied to valuing and analysing economic and financial systems while selecting from advanced mathematics options like Fluid Dynamics, Graphs, Networks and Algorithms, Stochastic Processes, Mathematical Biology and Ecology, and more. You’ll also complete Research in Mathematical Sciences and a level‑3 economics module to deepen your analytical and research experience.
Final Year
Your final (fourth) year focuses on advanced research and synthesis. You’ll undertake a substantial independent project that explores a topic of your choice under academic supervision, tying together your mathematical and economic learning. You’ll also have the chance to specialise further by selecting optional modules that reflect your academic interests and career goals, developing high‑level analytical and research skills.
Focus areas (in a string):
Advanced mathematical analysis · Economic theory · Quantitative modelling · Probability and statistics · Research methods · Decision‑making frameworks
Learning outcomes (in a string):
Develop deep mathematical insight, apply rigorous quantitative methods to economic problems, conduct independent research, interpret data with economic and statistical reasoning, and communicate complex analytical findings effectively.
Professional alignment (accreditation):
This degree is delivered in partnership with Exeter’s Business School, combining mathematical rigour with economic insight to prepare you for professional standards in economics, quantitative analysis, and finance.
Reputation (employability rankings):
Exeter’s Mathematics and Economics programmes are highly regarded in the UK, consistently ranking well in national guides for both subjects and showing strong graduate outcomes. Graduates are well‑positioned for careers in finance, consulting, policy, economic research, data analytics, and related fields, reflecting the strength of combined quantitative and economic training.
On the MSci Mathematics with Economics programme at Exeter, you’ll gain both high-level mathematical expertise and real economic understanding through an integrated curriculum taught jointly by the Mathematics department and the Business School. You’ll engage with modern topics from inflation and market behaviour to economic development and multinational finance, and you’ll apply mathematical and statistical methods to authentic economic problems throughout your studies. The degree emphasises active learning with lectures, seminars, tutorials, examples classes, and project work that help you use theory in practical contexts.
A standout feature is your advanced research project in the final year, where you explore a topic you’re passionate about under academic supervision, building independent research skills that are directly relevant for postgraduate study or analytical careers. There’s also an optional Year in Industry variant that lets you gain professional experience in a business or economic setting, further enhancing your real-world readiness.
Integrated maths and economics teaching: From Year 1, you combine core mathematics modules with structured economics content, learning how mathematical concepts support economic analysis and decision-making.
Applied quantitative tools: Throughout the course, you’ll work with mathematical computing, data-oriented statistical techniques, analytical modelling, and problem-solving methods that are essential in both economics and quantitative careers.
Independent research project: In your fourth year you’ll complete a research-led project under academic supervision, choosing a topic that aligns with your interests and building skills in investigation, analysis, and communication.
Year in Industry option: If you select the five-year variant, you’ll spend your third year in a professional placement, developing transferable workplace skills, applying your mathematical and economic knowledge in a real business context, and building your professional network.
Varied elective modules: As you move through the degree, you can tailor your studies with optional mathematics and economics modules, plus opportunities to take free-choice credits from other disciplines that expand your analytical perspective.
Project-based and applied work: Many modules feature project activities, case studies, and report writing that help you practise real analytical communication — a key skill for consultancy, research, finance, and policy roles.
Supportive academic culture: You’ll benefit from tutorials, workshops, and academic guidance that help you deepen understanding, refine problem-solving techniques, and build confidence working with complex quantitative and economic concepts.
Facilities list available on the University of Exeter campus facilities webpage.
Why This Programme Is a Great Choice
MSci Mathematics with Economics gives you a powerful blend of deep mathematical reasoning and real economic insight — exactly the combination that employers in finance, consulting, data analytics, economic policy, and research are looking for. You’ll graduate with strong analytical skills, experience in economic modelling and interpretation, and confidence applying quantitative techniques to real problems.
Graduates of the MSci Mathematics with Economics at the University of Exeter are prepared for careers that combine strong quantitative analysis with economic insight. Typical roles include Economic Analyst, Data Analyst, Financial Consultant, Policy Advisor, and Actuarial Analyst, reflecting the high demand for graduates with advanced mathematical and economic expertise:
• The programme develops advanced mathematical, statistical, and computational skills alongside applied economics knowledge, enabling graduates to analyse complex economic and financial systems.
• Optional placements and research projects provide real-world experience, enhancing employability and practical understanding of economic and financial markets.
Progression & Future Opportunities:
University services that help you to employ: Students are supported by Exeter’s Careers service, offering personalised career guidance, CV and application support, interview coaching, employer networking events, workshops, and careers fairs to help secure internships and graduate roles.
Employment stats and salary figures: Mathematics and economics graduates typically achieve strong outcomes, with most entering graduate-level employment or further study within 15 months. Early-career salaries often range from £30,000–£35,000, reflecting the demand for analytical and economic skills.
University–industry partnerships: Professional placements, research projects, and applied modules provide practical experience and networking opportunities with employers in finance, consulting, policy, and economic research sectors.
Long-term accreditation value: The programme equips graduates with skills recognised and valued by employers globally, supporting career credibility and long-term professional development in economics, finance, or analytics.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates progress into roles in economic consultancy, financial analysis, data analytics, policy advisory, actuarial work, or pursue further academic study in mathematics, economics, or finance-related disciplines.
Further Academic Progression:
• Students may continue to master’s programmes in Economics, Financial Economics, Data Science, Quantitative Finance, Applied Mathematics, or Research-led Economics degrees, further specialising in their chosen field.
• The degree also supports progression toward professional qualifications (e.g., CFA, actuarial exams) or research-focused postgraduate study, offering flexible pathways into finance, consultancy, economic research, or academia.



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