MA Economics (Hons)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Heriot Watt University Edinburgh

Program Overview

This degree immerses you in how individuals, firms and governments make decisions and how those decisions affect resource distribution, policy, markets and society. It’s ideal if you’re curious about the economic forces shaping the world and want to build strong analytical, quantitative and communication skills for a broad range of careers.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1: You’ll start with core modules such as The Economy, Critical Academic Skills, Introduction to Accounting and Introduction to Economic and Financial Analysis. These give you the foundation in economic thinking, financial tools and professional scholarship that prepares you for deeper work ahead.

Year 2: At this stage you engage with intermediate economics topics like Intermediate Economics 1: Theory and Techniques, Introduction to Data Analysis and Probability, Statistical Techniques and Intermediate Economics 2. You’ll sharpen your statistical, probability and economic modelling skills and begin to analyse real-world data and institutional frameworks.

Year 3: In your final year you’ll specialise via advanced modules such as Advanced Economics 1, Introductory Econometrics, along with options like Public Choice and Welfare Economics, Games and Behaviour, and the Econometrics Project. Here you’ll apply your knowledge independently, carry out research, and develop professional readiness for the next step.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

From day one, you’ll engage in group assignments, case-study work and applied projects designed in consultation with industry. You’ll also use specialist tools and work in modern facilities that mirror the working world. Here are the key features:

Access to group-based case study assignments and “applied group projects” across the programme, driven by the Edinburgh Business School’s Industry Advisory Board of business leaders.
Use of statistical and data-analysis modules (e.g., Introduction to Data Analysis and Probability, Statistical Techniques, Econometrics Project) where you will work with real datasets and analysis tools as part of the curriculum.
Opportunity to work on an economics dissertation in Year 4 (Economics Dissertation 1 & 2) which will involve independent research, data collection and professional-style presentation of findings.
Facilities supported by the Edinburgh Business School research environment, in association with research centres such as the Centre for Energy Economics Research and Policy (CEERP) and the Spatial Economics and Econometrics Centre (SEEC) — giving you access to staff research, computing and library facilities.
Guest lectures, industry-leader talks and applied workshops where you will hear from CEOs, directors and experts who shape policy and business; these provide networking opportunities and practical insights into the economics profession.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The university’s dedicated Careers Service supports students and graduates with tailored one-to-one coaching, employability workshops, sector-specific employer events and global internship opportunities.
From the latest survey results: over 84% of Heriot-Watt undergraduates are in full-time employment or further study within 15 months of graduation.
Industry-linked partnerships and employer recognition: the university is ranked 1st in Scotland and joint 2nd in the UK for graduate employability in the 2024 Graduate Outcomes survey.
Long-term accreditation and professional value: Heriot-Watt’s credentials in economics, business and data-driven disciplines are backed by top ranking positions and employer reputation, helping graduates gain global recognition and professional mobility.
Graduation outcomes: Many graduates of the Economics programmes move into high-skill roles and senior professional careers within banks, consultancies, government, finance and analytics.

Additional Information & Requirements

Advanced Highers: BB, must include one of Accounting, Business, Economics or Maths; plus AABB at Higher. If applicant lacks Advanced Higher Maths, must have Higher Maths at B.

A-Levels: BBC (including Maths)

International Baccalaureate: 29 points, must include Higher Level 5 in Business Management and Higher Level 5 in one of Maths or Economics.

BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM in Business/Economics subject and must include Maths.

HND Business: BB in graded units or HND Accountancy: BBB in graded units.

English language requirement: Minimum IELTS 6.0 (overall) with no component below 5.5.

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