MA Economics and Statistics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

This joint honours program combines economic theory and applied statistical techniques, offering rigorous training in econometrics, stochastic modelling, and statistical inference. It is ideal for students aiming for technical careers in finance, insurance, or further study in economics.

The program spans four years, with a progressive structure:​

  • Year 1: Introduction to Economics and two elective courses from other academic areas.
  • Year 2: Economics 2, building upon the first-year foundation.​
  • Years 3 & 4: Advanced study in economic theory, quantitative methods, and specialized topics. Students have the opportunity to engage in deeper study of essential themes learned in the first two years.

Learning and Assessment Methods

The program employs a diverse range of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, and tutorials. Assessment is conducted through a combination of formative work, providing ongoing feedback, and summative assessments that contribute to the final course grade. These methods ensure a comprehensive evaluation of students' understanding and application of economic concepts.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

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. (An Economics Honours Dissertation or A Project in Mathematics)

  • 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.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduate Employability: The University is ranked in the UK's top 10 for the employability of its graduates, reflecting strong career prospects for Economics graduates. 96% of graduates were employed or pursuing further study within 15 months post-graduation. ​89% secured positions classified as “graduate-level” or enrolled in advanced academic programmes

The Careers Service supports students during their studies and for up to two years after graduation. Services include:

  •  Digital tools to assess your skills and strengths
  • Guidance on gaining experience (part-time jobs, internships, vacation work)
  • Graduate job search support and tailored application advice
  •  Practice interviews, CV reviews, and access to careers events
  •  Informed decision-making tools to shape your career path

Graduates pursue careers in diverse sectors:​

  • Finance and Banking: Roles in investment analysis, financial consulting, and banking.​
  • Government and Policy: Positions in economic policy development and public administration.​
  • Consulting: Engagements in economic and management consulting firms.

After you complete your programme, you may want to go on to further study at Edinburgh or a different university. You could progress to:

  • Master's Degrees: In fields like economics, statistics, data science, or finance.​
  • Professional Qualifications: Such as becoming a Chartered Accountant or Actuary.​
  • Doctoral Studies: Leading to academic or high-level research careers.

 

Program Key Stats

£28,000
£ 29
Jan Intake : 14th Apr


10 %

Eligibility Criteria

A*AA
3.3
39
80

N/A
N/A
6.5
92

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Data Analyst – Use statistical tools to interpret economic and business data
  • Econometrician – Apply statistical models to test economic theories and forecast outcomes
  • Statistician – Work in public or private sectors generating and analyzing data for decision making
  • Policy Analyst – Use evidence and statistics to evaluate government programs
  • Quantitative Analyst – Build models for pricing risk or trading in financial markets
  • Actuary – Apply statistics and economics to insurance or pension modeling
  • Research Officer – Conduct empirical studies for academic or institutional purposes
  • Financial Risk Analyst – Measure and monitor risk using economic and statistical methods
  • Operations Analyst – Use quantitative tools to improve efficiency in business operations
  • Health Economist – Use statistics to evaluate healthcare policy and system outcomes
  • Academic – Teach and publish in statistics and applied economics
  • Survey Methodologist – Design surveys and interpret data for public agencies or businesses
  • Data Scientist – Analyze structured and unstructured data for policy or business insight
  • Economic Consultant – Use statistical evidence to support litigation regulation or business cases
  • Public Sector Analyst – Provide statistical input into economic policy planning

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