MSc Economics and Policy Analysis

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Limerick

Program Overview

The MSc in Economics and Policy Analysis at UL is a one-year, full-time program designed for students who want to combine advanced economic training with a strong applied focus on public policy. It suits graduates aiming for careers in government, finance, consulting, or research, and emphasizes practical skills in data analysis, econometrics, and policy evaluation.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1 (Autumn Semester)
Students begin with core modules such as Evolution of Economic Theory (EC6031), Applied Data Analysis for Economics (EC6061), and Preliminary Mathematics and Statistics for Economics (EC6071). These courses provide a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and data analysis. Specialized modules like Health Economics (EC6081) and Macroeconomics for Policy Making (EC6091) introduce applied perspectives on health systems and global macroeconomic challenges.

Year 1 (Spring Semester)
The focus shifts to applied policy modules, including The Economics of Global Challenges (EC6072), Research Design and Policy Evaluation (EC6082), and Econometrics (EC6112). Students also study Public Finance and Regulation (EC6122), Industrial Policy: Theory, Practice and Evaluation (EC6132), and Labour and Education Economics (EC6142). These modules emphasize practical policy applications, preparing students to analyze and evaluate real-world economic issues.

Summer Semester
Students complete a Dissertation (EC6003/EC6033), applying independent research skills to a policy-relevant topic. This capstone project demonstrates their ability to conduct rigorous analysis and contribute to policy debates.

Focus Areas

Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Econometrics, Health Economics, Public Finance, Industrial Policy, Labour and Education Economics, Global Challenges.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will gain expertise in applied economic analysis, econometric modeling, and policy evaluation, enabling them to critically assess public policy and provide evidence-based recommendations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

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

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The program was ranked in the Top 50 Masters in Western Europe by EdUniversal Best Masters, and UL has a strong employment record, with graduates working across the private and public sectors, including the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service (IGEES) and international organizations.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

One of the strongest features of UL’s MSc in Economics and Policy Analysis is how it blends rigorous academic training with hands-on, practical experience. Students don’t just learn economic theory — they actively apply it to real-world policy challenges through project-based coursework, advanced econometric training, and direct engagement with policymakers. The program is deliberately designed to foster analytical, communication, and quantitative skills that are transferable across government, finance, consulting, and international organizations.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded in this program:

Active Learning Classrooms: Students benefit from small class sizes and newly renovated teaching spaces designed to maximize collaborative learning and group projects.
Software & Digital Tools: Modules such as Applied Data Analysis for Economics (EC6061) and Econometrics (EC6112) train students in statistical and econometric software, including Stata and R, ensuring technical proficiency in data analysis.
Policy-Focused Projects: Courses like Research Design and Policy Evaluation (EC6082) and Public Finance and Regulation (EC6122) require students to design and evaluate policy interventions, mirroring the work of professional economists.
External Engagement: Students interact with visiting speakers from institutions such as the Central Bank of Ireland, the Department of Finance, and the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, gaining insight into current policy debates.
International Opportunities: The program offers Ireland’s only double degree option in economics through UL’s partnership with HEC Liège (University of Liège Business School), giving students international exposure and dual qualifications.
Library & Research Facilities: Students have full access to UL’s Glucksman Library, which provides extensive economics and policy resources, as well as digital databases for applied research.
Capstone Dissertation: The final Dissertation (EC6003/EC6033) allows students to conduct independent, policy-relevant research, often involving real-world data and case studies.

This experiential framework ensures graduates leave UL not only with advanced theoretical knowledge but also with the ability to apply economic insights directly to policy-making, consultancy, and international research environments.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of UL’s MSc in Economics and Policy Analysis are highly sought after for their ability to combine advanced economic training with applied policy expertise. Typical career paths include roles as policy analysts in government agencies, economic consultants in advisory firms, financial analysts in banks or regulatory bodies, and researchers in think tanks or international organizations. The program is deliberately designed to ensure strong employability outcomes and clear pathways into advanced study:

University Career Services: UL’s Cooperative Education & Careers Division (CECD) provides tailored support through the Graduate Outcomes Survey, employer networking events, and career guidance, ensuring students are well-prepared for the job market.
Employment Stats: According to UL’s Graduate Outcomes reports, the majority of graduates secure employment or further study within nine months of graduation, with strong placement across public policy, finance, and consultancy sectors.
Industry Partnerships: Students benefit from UL’s connections with institutions such as the Central Bank of Ireland, the Department of Finance, and the Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, alongside the unique double degree option with HEC Liège Business School in Belgium, which expands international opportunities.
Accreditation Value: The MSc is awarded at NFQ Level 9, ensuring international recognition and long-term career portability.
Graduate Outcomes: Alumni have progressed into roles with the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service (IGEES), multinational consulting firms, and international organizations, applying their expertise to real-world policy challenges.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the MSc in Economics and Policy Analysis, students are well-prepared to continue into PhD-level research at UL’s Kemmy Business School or other leading international universities. The program’s emphasis on econometrics, policy evaluation, and dissertation research provides the foundation for doctoral study in economics, public policy, or applied social sciences. Many graduates leverage this pathway to pursue academic careers, advanced policy research, or specialized consultancy.