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The MA (Hons) Economics program at the University of Edinburgh is a four-year undergraduate degree that explores economic incentives influencing individual, business, government, and societal decisions, as well as their macroeconomic outcomes, including economic growth, unemployment, fluctuations, and financial crises. Understanding these factors is crucial for economic forecasting and policy-making. The four-year degree structure allows students to explore a broad range of subjects during the first two years before specializing in economics in the final two Honours years.
Curriculum Structure The program progresses from foundational economics to advanced specialization:
Year 1: Fundamental principles are introduced through Economics 1, alongside optional courses, offering broad exposure and flexibility.
Year 2: Intermediate courses such as Economics 2 and Statistical Methods for Economics, complemented by elective courses from economics or other approved disciplines.
Year 3: Advanced studies in Topics in Microeconomics, Topics in Macroeconomics, Essentials of Econometrics, and Applications of Econometrics, alongside two elective honours-level economics courses.
Year 4: Students undertake a significant independent research dissertation and select four advanced economics option courses to deepen their specialized knowledge.
Teaching and Assessment Learning methods include lectures, tutorials/seminars, practical workshops, and online resources. Assessments combine formal examinations, coursework, problem sets, quantitative exercises, essays, project reports, and presentations. The honours dissertation in the final year serves as a capstone project.
Rankings and Reputation The University of Edinburgh consistently ranks among the world’s top universities (27th globally in QS World University Rankings 2025). The Economics program is highly esteemed, ranking within the UK's top 10 according to QS rankings. The Economics department is renowned for teaching excellence and strong research expertise, especially in economic theory.
The program emphasizes experiential learning through:
Undergraduate Research: All students undertake an honours dissertation. The Sponsored Dissertations scheme pairs top-performing students with external organizations to research live economic challenges, developing professional analytical skills.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Many students spend a semester or year abroad in Year 3 at partner institutions in Europe, the USA, or globally, enhancing their international perspectives and cultural understanding.
Internships and Work Experience: Students receive robust support in securing internships and part-time professional roles through the University’s Careers Service. Internship placements often include finance, consulting, government, or research roles, significantly enhancing employability.
Student Societies and Co-curricular Activities Students engage with active societies such as:
Economics Society (EconSoc): Offers academic events, panel discussions, networking, career workshops, and special interest groups like EconWomen, sports activities, and publications.
Edinburgh University Trading and Investment Club (EUTIC): Provides practical experience in trading, investment strategies, and managing a student-run fund.
180 Degrees Consulting: Allows students to undertake pro-bono consulting for non-profits and social enterprises, gaining valuable real-world experience.
Additional skills workshops provided by the Edinburgh University Students’ Association (EUSA) offer training in communication, leadership, teamwork, and presentations.
Career Outcomes: Graduates of Edinburgh’s Economics program enjoy strong career outcomes, with 96% employed or pursuing further studies shortly after graduation. Alumni pursue diverse careers in finance, economic consulting, government, policy institutions, international organizations, accountancy, business management, and non-profit sectors. Financial institutions frequently recruit from Edinburgh due to its rigorous quantitative training.
Career Support and Resources: The University offers comprehensive career services, including personalized support from a dedicated Economics Careers Consultant, workshops, career fairs, and ongoing alumni support for up to two years post-graduation.
Graduate Employers and Further Prospects Edinburgh Economics graduates secure positions at prominent global firms, including Ernst & Young, Deloitte, PwC, Accenture, Goldman Sachs, and KPMG, typically in roles such as analysts and consultants. Graduates also find opportunities in central banks, government agencies, and think tanks. Many pursue postgraduate degrees (MSc or PhD) at Edinburgh or other top institutions, facilitated by the program's robust research training.
Mathematics is required. A Levels: B in Mathematics or A in AS Mathematics. IB: HL Mathematics at 5, or SL Mathematics at 6.IB: 39 points with 666 at HLFurther Studies: MSc Economics, MSc Finance, MSc Data Science, MBA (Master of Business Administration), PhD in Economics.Economist – Analyze economic data and trends to advise governments or private firmsInvestment Banking Analyst – Support large financial transactions such as mergers or stock offerings through in-depth financial modelingData Analyst or Data Scientist – Interpret large datasets using tools like Python or R to guide business strategyActuary – Use mathematics and economics to assess risk in insurance pensions or financial servicesManagement Consultant – Help organizations solve operational and strategic problems to improve performanceFinancial Analyst – Evaluate company financials and market trends to support investment or budgeting decisionsPolicy Analyst – Research and evaluate economic and social policies for think tanks or public sector bodiesEconometrics or Statistical Analyst – Apply quantitative techniques to test theories and forecast economic outcomesChartered Accountant – Provide financial reporting tax planning and auditing services for businesses or individualsEconomic Researcher – Conduct academic or applied research on economic issues for universities NGOs or global institutionsMarketing Analyst – Study consumer behavior and market data to guide pricing promotion and product decisionsFinancial Risk Analyst – Identify and measure risks in banking investment or corporate finance environmentsInternational Development Analyst – Work on poverty reduction economic growth and policy reform projects globallyCentral Banker – Contribute to financial regulation monetary policy and economic stability in national or international banksEntrepreneur – Launch businesses in sectors like fintech edtech or consulting using economic knowledge to solve real-world problems
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University of Edinburgh
