MSc Applied Economics

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University College Dublin

Program Overview

The MSc in Applied Economics at University College Dublin offers advanced training in economic theory and quantitative methods, with a strong emphasis on applying these skills to real-world policy and business challenges. It is ideal for graduates who want to become professional economists, policy advisors, or analysts, and who are eager to combine rigorous academic study with practical application.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Semester 1)
Students begin with core modules in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Econometrics, which provide the theoretical and empirical foundations for applied economic analysis. These courses are designed to sharpen analytical thinking and quantitative skills, preparing students to tackle complex economic problems.

Year 1 (Semester 2)
The focus shifts to specialized field modules such as Development Economics, International Trade, or Public Economics, allowing students to tailor their studies to areas of interest. Alongside these, advanced econometrics training deepens their ability to work with data and evaluate policy outcomes.

Focus Areas

Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Development Economics, International Trade, Public Economics.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will master advanced economic theory and econometric techniques, enabling them to critically evaluate policy, conduct independent research, and provide evidence-based solutions in government, business, and international organizations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The MSc in Applied Economics is awarded at NFQ Level 9, ensuring international recognition and alignment with Ireland’s national qualifications framework.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

UCD is consistently ranked among the top 1% of universities worldwide and is Ireland’s leading economics department. The program’s graduates benefit from UCD’s strong reputation and employability outcomes, with alumni progressing into roles in government, consulting, finance, and international organizations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

One of the most distinctive aspects of UCD’s MSc in Applied Economics is how it blends rigorous academic study with practical, hands-on training. Students don’t just learn theory — they actively apply econometric tools, work on real-world policy problems, and gain exposure to professional environments through research and internship opportunities. The program is designed to ensure graduates leave with both the intellectual depth and the practical skills employers and research institutions demand.

To give you a clear picture of how experiential learning is embedded in this program, here are the specific opportunities and facilities available:

Software Training: Students gain direct experience with econometric and statistical software such as Stata and R, which are essential for modern economic analysis and policy evaluation.
Internship Option: In the summer trimester, students can choose to complete a professional internship, applying their skills in government agencies, financial institutions, or research organizations.
Supervised Research Thesis: Alternatively, students may undertake a supervised thesis, working closely with faculty to design and execute original research on applied economic issues.
Collaborative Projects: Coursework emphasizes applied problem-solving, with group assignments and case studies that mirror the collaborative nature of professional economics.
Seminars & Workshops: Students participate in departmental seminars and workshops, engaging with UCD faculty and visiting scholars on contemporary economic debates.
Library Access: Full access to UCD’s James Joyce Library and specialized economics collections, providing extensive datasets, journals, and digital resources.
School of Economics Facilities: As Ireland’s leading economics department, UCD offers strong links to policy institutions and research bodies, enhancing students’ exposure to real-world applications.
Networking Opportunities: Departmental events and alumni connections provide valuable pathways into careers in consulting, finance, government, and international organizations.

This experiential framework ensures that graduates leave not only with advanced theoretical knowledge but also with the ability to apply econometric tools, conduct independent research, and engage confidently with professional and academic communities.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of UCD’s MSc in Applied Economics are highly employable thanks to their advanced training in theory, econometrics, and applied policy analysis. Typical career paths include roles as economic analysts in government departments, financial economists in banks or consultancies, policy advisors in NGOs or international organizations, and research associates in think tanks or universities. The program is designed to open doors both to immediate employment and to further academic progression:

University Career Services: UCD’s Careers Network provides tailored support, including employer events, one-to-one guidance, and access to the Graduate Outcomes Survey, which tracks employment and further study nine months after graduation.
Employment Stats: UCD consistently ranks among the top 1% of universities worldwide and is recognized for strong graduate employability. According to UCD’s Graduate Outcomes Survey, the majority of graduates are in employment or further study within nine months.
Industry Partnerships: The School of Economics maintains strong links with Irish policy institutions such as the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) and the Central Bank of Ireland, offering students exposure to real-world policy and research environments.
Accreditation Value: The MSc is awarded at NFQ Level 9, ensuring international recognition and long-term career portability.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni progress into diverse roles across consulting firms, government agencies, NGOs, and doctoral study at leading institutions worldwide.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc in Applied Economics, students are exceptionally well-prepared to continue into PhD-level research either at UCD or at other top international universities. The program’s strong emphasis on econometrics, applied modules, and supervised thesis work provides the foundation for doctoral study in economics, finance, or related quantitative fields. Many graduates leverage this pathway to pursue academic careers, advanced policy research, or specialized consultancy.