MSc Economics

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

Swansea University

Program Overview

This advanced MSc is designed for graduates in economics or related fields who want to deepen their expertise and fast-track their career. You’ll develop the analytical, research, and communication skills required of a professional economist, while gaining insight into real-world policy and business decisions.

Curriculum Structure

Core Learning (Full Year):
You’ll study Principles of Environmental and Energy Economics, International Finance, and Development Economics, building a strong foundation in global economic systems and policy analysis. Modules are taught by faculty who regularly advise governments and publish in international journals, ensuring your learning is both rigorous and relevant.

Optional Modules (Semester 2):
You’ll choose up to 60 credits from a range of specialist options, including Big Data Analytics, Empirical Finance, and Econometric Methods. These modules allow you to tailor your learning to your career goals — whether in banking, consultancy, or research — and apply your skills to complex economic challenges.

Dissertation (Summer):
You’ll complete an independent research project, supported by expert supervision. This is your chance to explore a topic you’re passionate about and demonstrate your ability to conduct applied economic analysis.

Focus areas

Applied economics, econometrics, financial systems, development policy, environmental economics, big data analytics.

Learning outcomes

Conduct economic research, apply econometric tools, analyse global financial systems, evaluate policy decisions, communicate complex ideas clearly.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Delivered by the School of Social Sciences, with strong links to industry and policy organisations including Dell and Ernst & Young.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This MSc is designed to help you apply economic theory to real-world challenges through hands-on research, data analysis, and policy evaluation. You’ll work with industry-standard tools, collaborate on applied projects, and benefit from Swansea’s strong employer partnerships and research-led teaching. The program is delivered by the School of Social Sciences, where teaching is shaped by active consultancy and policy engagement.

Here’s how experiential learning is built into the program:

Independent Economics Dissertation, allowing you to explore a topic of your choice with expert supervision
Access to specialist software and data tools used in modules like Big Data Analytics and Empirical Finance
Opportunities to engage with industry-informed teaching, shaped by Swansea’s partnerships with Dell, Ernst & Young, and other employers
Delivered by faculty who regularly advise governments and publish in international journals
Full access to Swansea University’s digital library, research databases, and postgraduate study spaces
Located at Singleton Park Campus, offering proximity to research centres and co-location with industry

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this program are equipped with advanced analytical and research skills that are highly sought after across sectors. Many go on to work as economic analysts, policy advisors, financial consultants, or data specialists in government, banking, consultancy, and international organisations. The program’s emphasis on applied economics and real-world decision-making ensures you’re ready to make an impact from day one.

Here’s how Swansea supports your next steps:

Access to dedicated postgraduate career support, including unlimited one-to-one guidance, employer events, and CV/interview coaching
Delivered by the School of Social Sciences, with strong employer links including Dell and Ernst & Young
Located at Singleton Park Campus, with co-location alongside industry and research centres
Swansea University is ranked among the UK’s top universities for graduate employability, with a strong track record of placements in investment banking, consultancy, and government roles
Students benefit from research-led teaching, shaped by faculty who advise governments and publish in international journals

Further Academic Progression:
This MSc provides a strong foundation for doctoral study in economics, public policy, or interdisciplinary research. You’ll be well-prepared to pursue a PhD at Swansea or other leading institutions, especially if your dissertation aligns with global economic challenges or development policy.