Finance and Economics (Research) MA

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

Newcastle University

Program Overview

The MA Finance and Economics (Research) at Newcastle University is designed for students who want to truly understand how financial markets and economic systems work — and how to research them at an advanced level. It’s especially well suited if you’re thinking about progressing to a PhD or building a career where strong analytical, quantitative, and research skills really matter.

Curriculum Structure

Year One – Building strong research and analytical foundations
In your first year, you’ll focus on developing the core skills needed for advanced research in finance and economics. Modules such as Research Methods in Economics and Finance, Introductory Econometrics, and Applied Econometrics train you to analyse data, test economic theories, and work confidently with quantitative models. Alongside this, Information Skills and Qualitative Methodology in the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences help you design research projects and critically evaluate academic literature.

Year Two – Specialisation and independent research
The second year allows you to shape the degree around your interests while applying what you’ve learned to real research questions. You’ll choose from specialist options like Financial Theory, Corporate Finance, Financial Derivatives, and International Trade, before completing a substantial dissertation. This independent research project is a major highlight of the programme and gives you hands-on experience in producing original academic work at postgraduate level.

Focus areas:

Finance and economic research, econometrics, quantitative analysis, financial theory, independent dissertation research

Learning outcomes:

Advanced research capability, strong quantitative and econometric skills, critical and analytical thinking, confidence in handling complex financial and economic data, and the ability to communicate research clearly

Professional alignment (accreditation):

The programme is closely aligned with ESRC doctoral training expectations and provides an excellent pathway into PhD study, research roles, policy analysis, and analytical positions in finance

Reputation (employability rankings):

Newcastle University is a UK Russell Group university with a strong academic reputation, and Newcastle University Business School holds EQUIS accreditation, reflecting high international standards that are valued by employers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Newcastle, the MA Finance and Economics (Research) isn’t just about reading textbooks — it’s about rolling up your sleeves and putting what you learn into practice. From the very beginning, you’ll gain hands-on experience working with real data, using industry-standard software, and tackling research questions just like professional economists and finance analysts. The programme is set within the Business School’s research-rich environment, so you’ll have access to labs, collaborative spaces, and expert guidance that make learning interactive and practical. Group workshops, seminars, and one-on-one supervision mean you’ll be supported while developing the kind of skills that employers and PhD programmes are looking for.

Here’s what that looks like day-to-day:

Industry-standard software: Get practical experience with tools like Stata, R, MATLAB, SPSS, Eviews, and SAS for econometric and financial analysis.
Interactive learning through Canvas: Access all course materials, submit assignments, receive feedback, and collaborate with classmates digitally.
Team-based workshops and problem-solving: Work with peers on real-world research challenges, learning to communicate and collaborate effectively.
Supervised dissertation: Lead your own research project with guidance from expert supervisors — a true hands-on experience in independent study.
Experimental and Behavioural Economics Lab: Engage in lab-based research, perfect if your interests lie in behavioural or experimental finance and economics.
Campus study and collaboration spaces: Take advantage of quiet zones, group pods, computer clusters, and career support areas designed to help you learn and connect.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduating from the MA Finance and Economics (Research) opens doors to careers where your analytical and research skills really make a difference. Many of our students go on to become Research Analysts, Economic Consultants, Financial Data Specialists, or Policy Advisors, using the practical and theoretical knowledge they gained during their studies:

Career support from day one: Newcastle’s Careers and Employability Service helps you with one-on-one guidance, CV and interview preparation, job search strategies, and continues to support you for up to three years after graduation.
Employer connections and networking: You’ll have opportunities to meet and learn from organisations like Bloomberg, PwC, UBS, Lloyds, and P&G, building connections that can help jumpstart your career.
Strong graduate prospects: Newcastle graduates enjoy excellent employment outcomes, backed by a Careers Service that has earned 5 QS Stars for Employability, reflecting the university’s strong ties to industry.
Competitive salaries: Economics and finance graduates typically start around £30,000, with potential to grow to £34,000 after three years and £47,000 after five years as you gain experience.
Long-term value of your degree: Being part of Newcastle University, a respected Russell Group institution, gives your qualification credibility worldwide, helping you stand out in competitive job markets.

Further Academic Progression:
If you’re interested in research, this MA naturally leads into PhD study, including pathways like the ESRC Northern Ireland and North East Doctoral Training Partnership (NINE DTP). It’s a great stepping stone if you want to pursue a career in academia, high-level policy analysis, or research institutes, giving you the chance to continue deepening your expertise.