MA History and Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Edinburgh

Program Overview

The University of Edinburgh’s MA History and Economics is a rigorous joint honours degree that explores how historical events shape economic systems—and how economic theory helps us understand the past. It’s perfect for students who want to combine analytical thinking with a deep understanding of global change, policy, and society.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Students begin with Economic Principles and Historiography I, gaining foundational knowledge in micro and macroeconomics alongside critical approaches to historical writing and interpretation. Optional modules such as Themes in Modern History or Social History 1 allow students to explore diverse periods and perspectives.

Year 2
The second year introduces Introductory Econometrics and Applications of Economic Analysis, where students learn to apply statistical tools to real-world data and policy questions. In history, modules like Historical Skills and Methods II and Modern European History deepen research techniques and thematic understanding.

Year 3
Students take advanced economics modules such as Essentials of Econometrics, Topics in Microeconomics, and Topics in Macroeconomics, applying theory to contemporary and historical contexts. History options may include The Global Cold War, Slavery in the British Atlantic World, or The Making of the Modern Middle East, allowing students to specialise in areas of interest.

Year 4
Final-year students complete a History Dissertation, conducting independent research under expert supervision. Economics modules such as Advanced Economic Analysis and International Trade round out the degree, while history options like Britain and the First World War or The Soviet Union after Stalin offer depth and focus.

Focus areas: Economic theory, econometrics, international trade, modern history, political economy, historical research
Learning outcomes: Students will analyse historical and economic systems, apply quantitative methods, and conduct independent research across both disciplines
Professional alignment (accreditation): Not professionally accredited, but aligned with QAA benchmarks in History and Economics
Reputation (employability rankings): University of Edinburgh ranks #22 globally in QS World University Rankings 2025 and is highly regarded for excellence in both History and Economics

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the University of Edinburgh’s MA History and Economics program develop practical skills through hands-on data analysis, archival research, and access to world-class digital and physical resources. The program is designed to help students understand how historical events shape economic systems—and how economic tools can be used to interpret the past and inform the future.

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

Econometrics with STATA and R: Modules like Introductory Econometrics and Essentials of Econometrics involve working with real-world data using industry-standard software.
Independent Dissertation Supervision: Final-year students complete a History Dissertation, conducting original research with guidance from faculty in the School of History, Classics and Archaeology.
Access to Bloomberg Terminals: Economics students use Bloomberg terminals in the Business School’s Finance Lab to analyse market trends and global economic indicators.
Digital Archives and Research Tools: History students access digitised primary sources, including the Edinburgh Research Archive, British History Online, and Historical Texts, for coursework and dissertations.
Library & Study Spaces: The Main Library and Business School Hub offer access to JSTOR, Eikon, ScienceDirect, and other databases supporting both historical and economic research.
Edinburgh Award for Employability: Students can participate in this structured program to develop transferable skills and gain formal recognition for extracurricular achievements.
Interdisciplinary Seminars and Guest Lectures: The program includes opportunities to attend research seminars and talks from historians, economists, and policy experts.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the University of Edinburgh’s MA History and Economics program are equipped with a rare blend of analytical and contextual insight, making them highly attractive to employers across sectors. This joint honours degree prepares students for careers in policy analysis, economic consultancy, journalism, and public service — with typical roles including policy advisor, economic analyst, research officer, and heritage consultant. Here’s how the university supports their progression:

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 History, Classics and Archaeology 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 Scottish Government, National Records of Scotland, and Deloitte, offering guest lectures, internships, and research opportunities.
Long-Term Value: While not professionally accredited, the program supports progression into roles requiring postgraduate qualifications in economics, public policy, or historical research.
Global Reputation: The University of Edinburgh ranks #22 globally in QS World University Rankings 2025 and is internationally recognised for excellence in both History and Economics.

Further Academic Progression:
Students can continue their studies with a master’s degree in Economic History, Public Policy, International Relations, or Historical Research at Edinburgh or other top institutions. The program’s strong research foundation and interdisciplinary training also support entry into PhD-level study.