MA Economy State and Society in Economics and Business International

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University College London

Program Overview


The MA Economy, State & Society: Economics & Business (International) at UCL is a multidisciplinary program that explores the intersection of economic systems, political institutions, and business dynamics across Central and Eastern Europe. It’s ideal for students seeking a global perspective on economic transformation, policy-making, and international business strategy, with the flexibility to tailor their studies to regional interests and career goals.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
Students begin with core modules such as Comparative Business Regulation and Political Economy of Global Capitalism, which provide a strong foundation in institutional analysis and market governance. They also take Language modules tailored to their chosen region (e.g., Russian, Polish, or Serbian), enhancing cultural fluency and regional expertise.

Year 2
In the second year, students deepen their focus with modules like Corporate Governance in Emerging Markets and Economic Development and Policies. These courses explore business strategy, financial systems, and policy frameworks in transitional economies. Students also complete a dissertation, conducting independent research on a topic aligned with their regional and thematic interests.

Focus areas: Political economy, business regulation, corporate governance, emerging markets, regional studies
Learning outcomes: Institutional analysis, policy evaluation, cross-cultural business strategy, regional expertise
Professional alignment (accreditation): Not professionally accredited, but highly respected across international policy, consultancy, and business 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 Economy, State & Society: Economics & Business (International) at UCL offers a rich blend of academic depth and practical engagement with real-world institutions, policies, and regional dynamics. Students gain hands-on experience through language immersion, policy analysis, and region-specific research, supported by UCL’s world-class resources and the School of Slavonic and East European Studies (SSEES). The program encourages independent inquiry and collaborative learning, preparing students for careers in international business, policy, and development.

Here’s how students build practical skills throughout the program:

  • Language Training: Students study a regional language (e.g., Russian, Polish, Serbian) with access to SSEES’s dedicated language labs and native-speaking instructors.
  • Fieldwork & Research: Dissertation projects often involve field research or interviews with policymakers, NGOs, or business leaders in Central and Eastern Europe.
  • Group Projects: Modules like Comparative Business Regulation and Corporate Governance in Emerging Markets include team-based assignments that simulate policy briefs and market analysis.
  • Digital Resources: Full access to UCL’s library system, including SSEES’s specialist collections and databases such as JSTOR, ProQuest, and East View.
  • SSEES Research Seminars: Regular events featuring guest speakers from international organisations, think tanks, and academic institutions.
  • UCL Careers Service: Offers region-specific career panels, employer networking events, and access to the Handshake platform for internships and graduate roles.

 

Progression & Future Opportunities


Graduates of the MA Economy, State & Society: Economics & Business (International) at UCL are well-prepared for careers that demand regional expertise, policy insight, and strategic business thinking. Many go on to work as policy analysts, international consultants, market researchers, or regional specialists in government, NGOs, and multinational firms. The program’s interdisciplinary approach and regional focus open doors across sectors and borders.

Here’s how UCL supports your next step:

  • UCL Careers Service: Offers tailored support including region-specific career panels, employer networking events, and access to the Handshake platform for internships and graduate roles.
  • Graduate Outcomes: 95% of UCL postgraduate students are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation, with strong representation in international policy, consultancy, and development sectors.
  • Industry Connections: SSEES maintains active partnerships with organisations such as the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and global consultancies working in Central and Eastern Europe.
  • 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 policy, consultancy, and international business roles.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates often pursue PhD study in political economy, regional studies, or international business at UCL or other leading institutions. The MA provides a strong foundation for doctoral research focused on transitional economies, governance, and institutional reform.

 

Program Key Stats

£N/A

Oct Intake : 14th OctJune Intake : 27th Jun


30 %
Yes
Yes

Eligibility Criteria


N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
7.0
100
2:1
1490
29
No

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Strategy Consultant
  • Economic Analyst
  • Financial Analyst
  • Business Development Manager
  • Management Consultant
  • Policy Advisor
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Investment Analyst
  • Operations Manager
  • and Corporate Strategy Associate  

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