MA Business and Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

The University of Edinburgh’s MA Business and Economics offers a dynamic joint honours degree that combines strategic business insight with rigorous economic analysis. Perfect for students aiming to lead in finance, consulting, or entrepreneurship, the program explores how firms operate, how markets behave, and how global economic forces shape decision-making.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Students begin with Principles of Economics and Global Challenges for Business, building a strong foundation in micro and macroeconomic theory alongside an introduction to business strategy and international markets. Optional modules like The Business of Sport or Sustainable Development allow early exploration of applied topics.

Year 2
The second year deepens analytical skills through Applications of Economic Analysis and Fundamentals of Finance, while Organisational Behaviour introduces students to leadership, motivation, and team dynamics. Students also begin to explore econometrics and quantitative methods.

Year 3
Students take advanced modules such as Essentials of Econometrics, Strategic Management, and Topics in Microeconomics, applying theory to real-world data and business cases. Electives like Consumer Behaviour or Business Ethics offer tailored pathways into marketing, policy, or corporate responsibility.

Year 4
Final-year students complete a Dissertation in Business or Economics, conducting independent research under expert supervision. Core modules include Topics in Macroeconomics and Advanced Business Analysis, preparing students for graduate roles or further study. Optional courses like International Business or Innovation and Entrepreneurship allow students to specialise.

Focus areas: Microeconomics, macroeconomics, finance, strategic management, econometrics, organisational behaviour, entrepreneurship

Learning outcomes: Students will analyse markets and firms, apply economic theory to business decisions, and develop leadership and research skills across both disciplines.

Professional alignment (accreditation): While not professionally accredited, the program aligns with QAA benchmarks in Business and Economics and supports progression into roles requiring CFA, CIMA, or postgraduate qualifications.

Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Edinburgh ranks #22 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and is consistently recognised for excellence in economics, business, and graduate employability.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the University of Edinburgh’s MA Business and Economics program build practical skills through hands-on data analysis, strategic business simulations, and access to world-class facilities. The program is designed to prepare students for leadership roles in finance, consulting, and entrepreneurship — with a strong emphasis on real-world application and interdisciplinary learning.

Here’s how experiential learning is built into the program:

Quantitative Training in Economics: Modules like Essentials of Econometrics and Applications of Economic Analysis involve hands-on work with statistical software such as STATA and R, using real datasets to model economic behaviour.
Business Simulation Projects: Courses such as Strategic Management and Global Challenges for Business include group-based strategy simulations and case studies that mirror real corporate decision-making.
Dissertation Supervision: Final-year students complete a Business or Economics Dissertation, conducting independent research with guidance from faculty in the Business School and School of Economics.
Access to Bloomberg Terminals: Students can use Bloomberg terminals in the Business School’s Finance Lab to analyse market trends, company performance, and global economic indicators.
Libraries & Digital Resources: The Main Library and Business School Hub provide access to databases like Eikon, JSTOR, and ScienceDirect, supporting research in both disciplines.
Edinburgh Award for Employability: Students can participate in this structured program to develop transferable skills and gain recognition for extracurricular achievements.
Industry Engagement: The Business School hosts employer panels, networking events, and guest lectures from firms such as Deloitte, NatWest Group, and Scottish Enterprise.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the University of Edinburgh’s MA Business and Economics program are highly sought after for their ability to combine strategic thinking with economic insight. This joint honours degree opens doors to careers in consulting, finance, policy analysis, and entrepreneurship — with typical roles including business analyst, economic consultant, financial associate, and strategy advisor. The program’s interdisciplinary structure and practical training give students a competitive edge across sectors:

Careers Service Support: Students benefit from tailored guidance through the University’s Careers Service, including one-to-one coaching, employer networking events, and access to the Edinburgh Award for employability.
Graduate Outcomes: 90% of students from the Business School and School of Economics are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation.
Salary Potential: Economics and business graduates from Edinburgh report median earnings of £30,000–£35,000 within a year of completing their degree.
Industry Partnerships: The Business School collaborates with firms like Deloitte, NatWest Group, and Scottish Enterprise, offering guest lectures, internships, and project-based learning.
Long-Term Value: While not professionally accredited, the program supports progression into roles requiring CFA, CIMA, or postgraduate qualifications in economics, finance, or business.
Global Reputation: The University of Edinburgh ranks #22 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and is consistently recognised for excellence in economics, business, and graduate employability.

Further Academic Progression:
Students can continue their studies with a master’s degree in Economics, Finance, Business Analytics, or Management at Edinburgh or other top institutions. The program’s strong research foundation and quantitative training also support entry into PhD-level study.