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The University of Newcastle offers a 1-year MA in Finance and Economics (Research) for students who are drawn to the intersection of finance, economics, and research. This program is particularly well-suited for those aiming to build a solid academic foundation in both disciplines while honing the analytical skills needed to tackle real-world economic and financial challenges. What makes this degree stand out is its focus on independent research, making it an excellent stepping stone for students planning to pursue a PhD or enter research-intensive roles in industry.
Curriculum Structure:
This programme thoughtfully combines academic research with theoretical depth. Students engage with cutting-edge economic theory and practical quantitative methods, including:
Core Research Methods in economics and finance
Quantitative Techniques and econometrics using industry-standard software
A Dissertation Project where students undertake original research with expert academic guidance
Optional Modules such as Behavioural Economics, International Finance, or Policy Evaluation, allowing for personal specialisation
The curriculum is designed not only to deliver knowledge, but also to cultivate critical thinking and analytical precision.
Accreditation:
The programme is delivered through the Newcastle University Business School, which holds Triple Crown Accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS, and AMBA) – a status held by only a small percentage of business schools globally. This underscores its dedication to academic quality, industry relevance, and global standards.
Campus Location:
Based in the dynamic and multicultural city of Newcastle upon Tyne, students benefit from a stimulating academic environment, access to cutting-edge research facilities, extensive libraries, and a strong sense of community. The business school maintains robust connections with industry, policy institutions, and a global network of researchers, opening up rich opportunities for academic and professional development.
Although the program is research-oriented, there are various opportunities to connect theory with practice:
Research Assistantships: Collaborate on live research projects alongside faculty members
Consultancy Projects: Address real-world policy or economic challenges through structured projects
Seminars and Guest Lectures: Learn directly from seasoned economists, analysts, and policy experts
Technical Training: Gain hands-on skills in Stata, R, Python, and other analytical tools used across academia and industry
Newcastle University’s Careers Service supports students with:
Personalised career guidance
Help with CVs, applications, and interviews
Networking events and career fairs
Advice on PhD applications or further postgraduate study
Employability:
Graduates of the programme are well-equipped for a wide range of roles in academic research, economic consultancy, financial services, policy advisory, and international institutions. Typical job titles include:
Financial Analyst, Economic Researcher, Policy Advisor, Risk Consultant, Investment Strategist, PhD Researcher, Data Analyst, Research Associate, Public Sector Economist, and Central Bank Analyst. Many also go on to lectureships or doctoral programmes.
Further Academic Progression:
This MA serves as a rigorous foundation for those looking to pursue a PhD in Finance or Economics, or specialised postgraduate degrees in areas such as Development Economics, Financial Engineering, or Public Policy.
IELTS - 6.5 overall (with a minimum of 6.0 in all sub-skills).TOEFL - 90 overall (with a minimum of 19 in listening, 20 in reading, 22 in speaking, and 20 in writing). Students benefit from access to world-class research hubs such as the Centre for Research in Accounting, Finance and Economics (CRAFE) and the Centre for Urban and Regional Development Studies (CURDS). These centres actively support student-led research and often host symposia, workshops, and guest panels.Beyond typical econometrics packages, students receive training in advanced statistical modelling using software like MATLAB, EViews, and Python, which is particularly useful for those interested in quantitative finance or macroeconomic simulation.Ethical and Policy-Focused Research Themes: Students often explore issues such as financial sustainability, inclusive growth, environmental finance, and post-crisis economic resilience, reflecting the university’s mission to produce socially conscious economic research.Newcastle has research ties with institutions across Europe, Asia, and Australia, occasionally opening up joint research opportunities or visiting scholar sessions for MA students.academic researchersresearch assistants in health economicspolicy analystsdata analystsconsultantsfinancial analystseconomic analystsinvestment analystsresearch associates in creative industrieslecturers in economicseconomistsfinancial tradersPhD candidatespublic sector advisorsand economic development officers
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