Comparative Economics and Policy MA

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University College London

Program Overview

The MA in Comparative Economics and Policy at University College London (UCL) is a one-year interdisciplinary program that explores how economic systems and policy frameworks evolve across countries and regions. It’s ideal for students who want to understand the institutional foundations of economic performance and engage with real-world policy challenges in both developed and emerging economies.

Curriculum Structure

Term 1
Students begin with core analytical and theoretical training through modules like Quantitative Methods and Comparative Economic Systems. These courses introduce key tools for economic analysis and explore how different institutional arrangements—from market economies to post-socialist systems—shape outcomes.

Term 2
The second term deepens the focus on policy and governance. Students take Advanced Quantitative Methods and choose from electives such as Public Policy and Regulation, Corporate Governance, or Economic Development and Policy. These modules allow students to critically assess how governments and institutions influence economic growth, innovation, and inequality.

Term 3
Students complete a supervised dissertation (approx. 12,000 words), applying their skills to a research topic of their choice. This independent project is supported by faculty from UCL’s School of Slavonic and East European Studies (SSEES), and often involves original data analysis or comparative policy evaluation.

Focus areas: Comparative economics, public policy, institutional development, governance, quantitative analysis
Learning outcomes: Economic systems analysis, policy evaluation, advanced data skills, institutional comparison
Professional alignment (accreditation): Not professionally accredited, but highly respected across policy, consultancy, and international development sectors
Reputation (employability rankings): UCL ranks #9 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2025 and is consistently among the UK’s top universities for graduate employability

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MA in Comparative Economics and Policy at UCL is designed to equip students with hands-on analytical skills and policy insight through a blend of rigorous training and access to world-class resources. Students engage directly with real-world data, policy debates, and institutional case studies, supported by the facilities and expertise of UCL’s School of Slavonic and East European Studies (SSEES). The program emphasizes applied learning, preparing graduates for roles in consultancy, government, and international development.

Here’s how students gain practical experience throughout the year:

Quantitative Methods Modules: Students use statistical software such as STATA and R to analyze economic data and evaluate policy outcomes.
SSEES Research Seminars: Weekly events feature guest speakers from institutions like the OECD, EBRD, and UK government, offering exposure to current policy challenges and career pathways.
UCL Library Services: Full access to the SSEES Library and UCL’s Main Library, including specialized databases like IMF eLibrary, World Bank Open Data, and JSTOR.
Group Projects: Modules such as Public Policy and Regulation include collaborative assignments that simulate policy design and institutional analysis.
Dissertation Supervision: Students work one-on-one with academic experts to develop a research project grounded in empirical analysis, often using proprietary datasets or comparative fieldwork.
Digital Tools & Training: Students receive support in using bibliographic software, data visualization platforms, and online research tools to enhance their academic work.
UCL Careers Service: Offers tailored support including employer networking events, CV clinics, and sector-specific guidance for careers in policy, economics, and development.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MA in Comparative Economics and Policy at UCL are well-prepared for careers in international development, economic consultancy, public policy, and financial services. The program’s emphasis on institutional analysis and policy evaluation makes it especially valuable for roles such as policy analyst, development economist, regulatory advisor, and economic consultant. Many alumni work with global organizations, think tanks, and government bodies.

Here’s how UCL helps you take the next step:

UCL Careers Service: Offers tailored support including sector-specific career panels, employer-led workshops, and access to the Handshake platform for global job listings and internships.
Graduate Outcomes: 95% of UCL postgraduate students are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation, with strong representation in policy, consultancy, and development sectors.
Industry Connections: The School of Slavonic and East European Studies (SSEES) maintains active links with institutions like the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), OECD, and UK government departments, often hosting guest lectures and collaborative research.
Long-Term Value: UCL’s global reputation ensures that your degree remains a powerful credential for career advancement and international mobility.
Salary Potential: UCL postgraduates report median salaries well above national averages, especially in economics, policy, and consultancy roles.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates frequently pursue PhD study in economics, public policy, or area studies at UCL or other top universities. The program provides a strong foundation for doctoral research in comparative institutions, governance, and development economics.