Economics MA (Hons)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

The MA (Hons) in Economics at University of Edinburgh invites you to explore how individuals, firms, governments and societies make decisions that shape everything from growth to unemployment and crises. It’s ideal for curious, mathematical thinkers who want to use economics to understand real-world issues and then step confidently into careers in business, policy or research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 & 2:

In your first two years you’ll cover foundational modules such as Economics 1 (which explores supply/demand, consumer behaviour and strategic interaction) and Economics 2 (focusing on macroeconomics including growth and fluctuations). You’ll also study quantitative and statistical methods to support your economic modelling and analysis.

Year 3 & 4 (Honours years):

In the final two years you’ll move into honours study — selecting from advanced options such as Econometrics, Game Theory, Labour Economics & Inequality, and perhaps choosing a dissertation in your fourth year to apply your skills to a real research question. Your academic focus will deepen and you’ll benefit from optional study abroad or joint-honours flexibility.

Focus areas: Economics, Econometrics, Quantitative Methods & Trade, Growth & Policy Issues

Learning outcomes: You will gain strong analytical and mathematical understanding of economic systems; interpret empirical data and economic models; evaluate policy and business decisions; and communicate economic insight clearly.

Professional alignment (accreditation): The MA (Hons) is the standard undergraduate honours degree awarded at the University of Edinburgh for economics.

Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Edinburgh is ranked 18th in the UK for Economics according to The Complete University Guide 2025.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At University of Edinburgh’s Economics MA (Hons) programme you’ll do more than learn from textbooks — you’ll engage with real datasets, participate in small-group research tasks and access the Department’s specialised resources to build your analytical and problem-solving skills in a real academic environment. With the School of Economics in Edinburgh, you’ll benefit from research-led teaching and initiatives that connect you with economic policy, industry data and global issues. Here are some of the specific ways you’ll gain hands-on experience:

Use of the Department’s dedicated facilities and materials: the “Studying Economics at Edinburgh” brochure outlines student access to its library, data resources, skills modules and research-informed teaching.
Small-group teaching and independent study: in Years 1 & 2 you’ll take modules such as Economics 1 and Economics 2, and Statistical Methods for Economics, where you’ll analyse real data and build econometric skills.
Research-led tutorials and Honours options: in Years 3 & 4 you’ll have access to honours modules via the School of Economics and you may choose to undertake a dissertation or project that uses advanced data or policy work.
Library & digital resources: the University provides access to extensive economic journals, databases and software tools for econometric analysis (as referenced in the programme’s brochure).
Location and networking: Based in Edinburgh, you’ll benefit from a capital-city environment with exposure to policy institutions, research seminars and conferences — supporting your practical learning.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from the MA (Hons) in Economics at the University of Edinburgh move into roles such as economist, financial analyst, policy advisor and data analyst — utilising their strong quantitative skills and theoretical grounding to drive decisions in business and policy. With 89 % of recent graduates in “highly skilled” employment or further study and average earnings of £34,500 within 15 months, you’re joining a programme with proven outcomes:

Here’s what supports your success:

Career Services Support: Edinburgh’s Careers Service provides dedicated economics-careers consultants, online toolkits, employer visits and tailored CV/interview support.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: For the MA (Hons) Economics, ~83 % were in work or study 15 months after graduation, with typical earnings of £34,500 after 15 months.
University–Industry Links: Students encounter employers like the European Investment Bank, Bank of England, Ernst & Young, and accountancy/consultancy firms via the School of Economics.
Accreditation & Long-Term Value: A University of Edinburgh economics degree is recognised globally and valued by employers for its rigorous quantitative training and research-based teaching.
Graduation Outcomes: 96 % of School of Economics undergraduates were either employed or in further study (including self-employment) within survey timeframe; 89 % in highly skilled roles.