MPhil in Economic Research

10 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Cambridge

Program Overview

Cambridge’s MPhil in Economic Research is a fast-paced, 10-month program designed for students preparing to enter a PhD in Economics or pursue high-level research roles. It suits those with strong quantitative backgrounds who want to deepen their expertise in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics before advancing to doctoral study.

Curriculum Structure

Single Academic Year (10 months)
The program delivers intensive training through core modules in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Econometrics, each taught at a level that prepares students for PhD-level coursework. You’ll also choose optional papers such as Public Economics, Development Economics, or Finance, depending on your research interests. Alongside taught modules, you’ll complete a Research Thesis, supervised by Cambridge faculty, which allows you to explore a specialised topic and demonstrate your readiness for doctoral research.

Focus areas: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Public Economics, Development Economics
Learning outcomes: Advanced research skills, theoretical and empirical proficiency, readiness for PhD-level study or analytical roles in policy and finance
Professional alignment (accreditation): Ideal preparation for Cambridge’s PhD in Economics or research careers in central banks, international organisations, and academia
Reputation (employability rankings): Cambridge ranks 4th globally for graduate employability (QS 2025); the Faculty of Economics is internationally recognised for its research excellence

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in Cambridge’s MPhil in Economic Research sharpen their practical skills through intensive training in econometric modeling, theoretical analysis, and independent research. The program is housed within the Faculty of Economics, offering access to specialised software, dedicated research spaces, and one-on-one supervision from leading economists. With a strong emphasis on preparing students for doctoral study, the course integrates hands-on learning with world-class academic resources.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded in the program:

Software & Tools: Students use Stata, Matlab, and LaTeX for econometric analysis, simulations, and academic writing, with support available through faculty-led workshops.
Research Thesis: The core of the program is a supervised Research Thesis, where students develop original work aligned with their intended PhD focus.
Libraries: Full access to the Marshall Library of Economics, which offers extensive collections in economic theory, policy, and data resources, along with Bloomberg terminals and digital databases.
Faculty Facilities: Students work within the Austin Robinson Building, home to the Faculty of Economics, which includes seminar rooms, computing labs, and collaborative study spaces.
Seminars & Workshops: Weekly research seminars and graduate workshops expose students to current work by Cambridge faculty and visiting scholars.
Institute Links: The program connects with research centres such as the Cambridge-INET Institute and the Centre for Financial Analysis & Policy (CFAP), offering exposure to cutting-edge research and policy engagement.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Cambridge’s MPhil in Economic Research are exceptionally well-prepared for doctoral study and advanced analytical roles in policy, finance, and academia. Many go on to become economic researchers, central bank analysts, policy advisors, or quantitative consultants. The program’s rigorous training and research focus make it a direct pathway to high-impact careers.

Here’s how Cambridge supports your future success:

Career Services: The Cambridge University Careers Service offers tailored support for economics postgraduates, including one-on-one guidance, employer-led workshops, and access to the Handshake platform for global job opportunities.
Employment Stats: While most graduates continue to PhD study, those entering the workforce report strong outcomes—Cambridge postgraduates in economics earn median salaries of £40,000–£50,000 within six months of graduation.
University–Industry Partnerships: The Faculty of Economics collaborates with institutions like the Bank of England, HM Treasury, and the Centre for Financial Analysis & Policy (CFAP), offering exposure to policy-relevant research and recruitment pipelines.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: The MPhil is internationally recognised as a gateway to top-tier PhD programs and research careers, with alumni progressing to institutions like Harvard, LSE, and Princeton.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates have gone on to roles in central banks, international organisations, economic think tanks, and leading universities.

Further Academic Progression:
The MPhil is specifically designed to prepare students for Cambridge’s PhD in Economics. With its emphasis on research readiness and advanced coursework, it also positions graduates to apply for doctoral programs at other world-leading institutions in economics, finance, or public policy.