MA Chinese and Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

Program Overview
The University of Edinburgh’s MA Chinese and Economics is a powerful joint honours degree that blends deep linguistic and cultural immersion with rigorous economic training. It’s ideal for students interested in global trade, diplomacy, or development, offering fluency in Mandarin alongside analytical expertise in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Students begin with Chinese 1, which introduces Mandarin pronunciation, grammar, and basic conversation, and Economic Principles, covering foundational micro and macroeconomic theory. This year builds essential language skills while laying the groundwork for economic analysis.

Year 2
Language study continues with Chinese 2, advancing vocabulary and cultural understanding. In economics, students take Introductory Econometrics and Applications of Economic Analysis, applying statistical tools to real-world data and exploring how economic theory informs policy.

Year 3
Students spend the year abroad in a Chinese-speaking region, fully immersed in language and culture. This transformative experience deepens fluency and intercultural competence while offering exposure to regional economic contexts.

Year 4
Back in Edinburgh, students take advanced modules such as Chinese 4, Chinese Oral, and Chinese Coursework Essay, alongside economics courses like Topics in Microeconomics, Topics in Macroeconomics, and Essentials of Econometrics. The year culminates in an IMES Dissertation, allowing students to explore a topic that bridges both disciplines.

Focus areas: Mandarin language and literature, Chinese culture, microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, international development
Learning outcomes: Students will achieve fluency in Mandarin, apply economic theory to global challenges, and conduct independent research across both disciplines
Professional alignment (accreditation): Not professionally accredited, but aligned with QAA benchmarks in Languages, Area Studies, and Economics
Reputation (employability rankings): University of Edinburgh ranks #22 globally in QS World University Rankings 2025 and is internationally recognised for excellence in Chinese and Economics

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the University of Edinburgh’s MA Chinese and Economics program gain practical skills through immersive language training, hands-on economic analysis, and a transformative year abroad. The program blends cultural fluency with analytical rigour, preparing students to navigate global markets and policy environments with confidence.

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

Year Abroad Immersion: In Year 3, students live and study in a Chinese-speaking region, fully immersed in language, culture, and local economic contexts.
Language Labs and Oral Practice: Modules like Chinese Oral and Chinese 4 use interactive labs and small-group sessions to sharpen speaking and listening skills.
Econometrics with STATA and R: Courses such as Introductory Econometrics and Essentials of Econometrics involve hands-on data analysis using industry-standard software.
Independent Dissertation Supervision: Final-year students complete an IMES Dissertation, conducting original research with guidance from faculty in Chinese studies and economics.
Access to Bloomberg Terminals: Economics students use Bloomberg terminals in the Business School’s Finance Lab to analyse market trends and economic indicators.
Library & Digital Resources: The Main Library and Business School Hub offer access to databases like JSTOR, Eikon, and ScienceDirect, supporting research across both disciplines.
Edinburgh Award for Employability: Students can join this structured program to build transferable skills and gain formal recognition for extracurricular achievements.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the University of Edinburgh’s MA Chinese and Economics program are uniquely positioned to thrive in global careers that demand both economic expertise and Mandarin fluency. This joint honours degree opens doors to roles in international trade, diplomacy, policy analysis, and development — with typical job titles including economic analyst, trade advisor, policy officer, and cultural liaison. The program’s blend of immersive language training and rigorous economics makes it especially valuable in Asia-focused 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 School of Literatures, Languages and Cultures and the School of Economics are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation.
Salary Potential: Economics graduates from Edinburgh report median earnings of £30,000–£35,000 within a year of completing their degree.
Industry Partnerships: The University collaborates with organisations such as the Confucius Institute for Scotland, Scottish Government, and international NGOs, offering guest lectures, internships, and cultural exchange opportunities.
Long-Term Value: While not professionally accredited, the program supports progression into roles requiring postgraduate qualifications in economics, international relations, or East Asian studies.
Global Reputation: The University of Edinburgh ranks #22 globally in QS World University Rankings 2025 and is internationally recognised for excellence in Chinese studies and economics.

Further Academic Progression:
Students can continue their studies with a master’s degree in Economics, Chinese Studies, International Development, or East Asian Relations at Edinburgh or other leading institutions. The program’s strong research foundation and year abroad experience also support entry into PhD-level study.