The MSc Economics at SOAS offers a unique blend of mainstream and heterodox economic theory, equipping students to tackle global challenges like inequality, climate change, and financial instability. It’s ideal for those who want to explore pluralist perspectives and apply rigorous analytical tools to real-world economic issues.
Curriculum Structure
Preliminary Phase
Before formal teaching begins, all students complete a compulsory Preliminary Mathematics and Statistics course via SOAS Moodle. This ensures a strong foundation in quantitative methods for those from diverse academic backgrounds.
Core Modules
You’ll study Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Econometrics with R Coding, and Advanced Econometrics with R Coding. These modules cover everything from inflation and growth to market structures and empirical analysis, all taught through pluralist and policy-relevant lenses.
Specialisation Options
You can tailor your degree by choosing one of three pathways:
Regional and General Options
You’ll also explore regional modules like China and World Development, Economic Development in the Asia Pacific Region, and Political Economy of Development and Change in the Middle East. General options include Growth and Development, Evaluation Methods for Economic Policy, and Advanced Macroeconomics.
Dissertation
The program culminates in a 10,000-word dissertation focused on economic theory, policy, or a specialised topic. Students can apply for co-supervision through the SOAS Global Partnerships Programme, collaborating with experts from institutions like the World Bank, UNCTAD, and UNIDO.
Focus areas: Pluralist economics, international finance, environmental economics, institutional analysis, regional development
Learning outcomes: Economic modelling, R coding, policy evaluation, empirical research, global economic critique
Professional alignment (accreditation): Co-supervised dissertation opportunities with the World Bank, UNCTAD, UNIDO, and others via SOAS Global Partnerships Programme
Reputation (employability rankings): Ranked Top 30 in the UK for Economics (QS World University Rankings 2025)
The MSc Economics at SOAS is designed to immerse you in real-world economic analysis through applied coursework, coding-intensive modules, and research collaborations. Whether you're modelling financial systems or evaluating policy with R, the program ensures you graduate with the tools and experience needed to make an impact in global economics.
Here’s how experiential learning is embedded in the program:
Graduates of the MSc Economics at SOAS are equipped to work across international finance, policy analysis, research, and development sectors. With a strong foundation in pluralist theory and applied econometrics, alumni often pursue roles such as economic analyst, financial consultant, policy advisor, and research economist.
Here’s how SOAS supports your career journey:
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their studies through SOAS’s MPhil/PhD in Economics or pursue doctoral research in international finance, development, or environmental economics. The MSc also provides a strong foundation for interdisciplinary academic careers.
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