Economics and Policy of Energy and the Environment MSc

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University College London

Program Overview

Program Overview
The Economics and Policy of Energy and the Environment MSc at UCL is a one-year specialist program that blends economic theory with real-world policy applications in energy, climate change, and environmental regulation. It’s ideal for students who want to shape sustainable policy, work in energy markets, or pursue careers in environmental consultancy and international development.

Curriculum Structure

Term 1
Students begin with foundational modules like Microeconomics for Energy and the Environment and Environmental Measurement, Modelling and Valuation. These courses build the analytical and quantitative skills needed to assess environmental impacts and design effective policy interventions.

Term 2
The second term deepens the focus with modules such as Energy Economics and Environmental and Resource Economics. Students explore market structures, pricing mechanisms, and regulatory frameworks, while electives like Econometrics for Policy or Behavioural Economics and Game Theory allow for tailored specialisation.

Term 3
Students complete a supervised dissertation, applying their skills to a research topic such as carbon pricing, energy transitions, or environmental valuation. This independent project is supported by faculty from the UCL Institute for Sustainable Resources and often involves original data analysis or policy evaluation.

Focus areas: Energy economics, climate policy, environmental valuation, sustainable development, regulation
Learning outcomes: Policy design, quantitative analysis, market evaluation, environmental modelling
Professional alignment (accreditation): Not professionally accredited, but highly respected across energy, environment, and policy 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 Economics and Policy of Energy and the Environment MSc at UCL is designed to immerse students in the practical realities of energy markets, climate policy, and environmental regulation. Delivered by the UCL Institute for Sustainable Resources, the program blends economic modelling with hands-on policy analysis, supported by cutting-edge tools, expert-led workshops, and access to global datasets. Students engage with real-world challenges through simulations, research, and industry-informed teaching.

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

Software & Modelling Tools: Students use STATA and R for econometric analysis, and Excel-based models for energy systems and policy simulations.
Group Projects: Modules like Environmental and Resource Economics and Energy Economics include collaborative assignments that mirror consultancy-style evaluations and policy briefs.
Dissertation Research: Supervised by leading academics, students conduct independent research using proprietary datasets and policy modelling frameworks.
UCL Institute for Sustainable Resources (ISR): Hosts seminars, guest lectures, and research events with partners such as the International Energy Agency, UK government departments, and major consultancies.
Digital Resources: Full access to UCL’s library system, including databases like OECD iLibrary, ScienceDirect, and World Bank Open Data.
UCL Careers Service: Offers sustainability-focused career panels, employer networking events, and access to the Handshake platform for internships and graduate roles.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Economics and Policy of Energy and the Environment MSc at UCL are equipped to lead in the transition to sustainable energy and environmental policy. Many go on to work as energy economists, climate policy advisors, sustainability consultants, or analysts in government, NGOs, and global firms. The program’s blend of economics, modelling, and policy makes it especially valuable for roles at the intersection of data and decision-making.

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

UCL Careers Service: Offers tailored support including employer-led workshops, sustainability career panels, 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 energy, environment, and policy sectors.
Industry Connections: Delivered by the UCL Institute for Sustainable Resources, the program benefits from partnerships with organisations like the International Energy Agency (IEA), UK Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, and major consultancies such as PwC and Cambridge Econometrics.
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, sustainability, and consultancy roles.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often pursue PhD study in energy economics, environmental policy, or sustainable development at UCL or other leading institutions. The MSc provides a strong foundation for doctoral research in climate modelling, resource economics, and policy evaluation.

Explore the official program page