MSc Economics of Business and Management

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Essex

Program Overview

The MSc Economics of Business and Management at the University of Essex equips you with the analytical tools and economic insight to tackle complex business challenges. It’s ideal for students who want to blend economic theory with practical business strategy—whether you're aiming for a career in consultancy, finance, or corporate leadership.

Curriculum Structure

Autumn Term
You’ll begin with Microeconomics and Macroeconomics, which build a strong foundation in market behaviour, firm strategy, and economic policy. Econometric Methods introduces statistical techniques for analysing business and economic data, preparing you for applied research and decision-making.

Spring Term
In the second term, Applied Econometrics allows you to work with real-world datasets to evaluate business performance and policy impacts. You’ll also study Management Economics, which explores how economic principles apply to organisational decision-making, pricing strategies, and resource allocation. Optional modules such as Public Choice or International Trade let you tailor your learning to specific interests.

Summer Term
You’ll complete a supervised dissertation, applying your theoretical and empirical skills to a business-focused research question. This is your opportunity to produce original work—whether analysing firm behaviour, market dynamics, or strategic management decisions.

Focus areas: Business economics, management strategy, econometrics, organisational decision-making, policy analysis
Learning outcomes: Economic modelling, data analysis, strategic thinking, applied research
Professional alignment (accreditation): Delivered by Essex’s Department of Economics, known for its strength in applied economics and business analysis
Reputation (employability rankings): 4th in the UK for research power in economics and econometrics (REF 2021); Top 25 in the UK for economics and econometrics (QS World University Rankings 2024)

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The MSc Economics of Business and Management at Essex is designed to give you hands-on experience with the tools and techniques used by economists and business strategists. You’ll work with real datasets, master econometric software, and apply economic theory to business decision-making. The program is delivered by Essex’s Department of Economics, known for its strength in applied research and quantitative analysis.

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

Software Training: Modules like Econometric Methods and Applied Econometrics include practical training in STATA and R—essential tools for business analytics and economic modelling.
Economics Computer Lab: A dedicated facility equipped with specialist software and technical support for econometrics and quantitative research.
Dissertation with Business Focus: Your final project involves independent research using real-world data, allowing you to explore topics like firm behaviour, market strategy, or organisational performance.
Group-Based Assignments: Modules such as Management Economics and Public Choice include collaborative projects that simulate business decision-making and policy evaluation.
Albert Sloman Library: Provides access to leading economics and business journals, datasets, and digital archives including JSTOR, EconLit, and OECD iLibrary.
Department Seminars and Guest Lectures: Regular events feature speakers from HM Treasury, the Bank of England, and top consultancies, offering insight into current business and economic practice.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Economics of Business and Management at Essex are equipped to bridge economic insight with strategic business thinking. This makes them highly sought after in roles that demand both analytical depth and commercial awareness. Typical job titles include: business economist, strategy analyst, financial consultant, and policy advisor.

Here’s how Essex supports your career journey:

Essex Career Services: Offers lifetime support including personalised career coaching, employer networking events, and access to exclusive job boards. Economics students also benefit from departmental workshops and alumni-led career panels tailored to business-focused roles.
Graduate Outcomes: Students leave with advanced skills in econometrics, management economics, and applied research—ready to contribute to evidence-based decision-making in both corporate and policy environments.
Industry Connections: The Department of Economics hosts regular seminars and guest lectures featuring professionals from HM Treasury, the Bank of England, and leading consultancies, giving students direct exposure to applied business and economic practice.
Long-Term Value: Delivered by a globally recognised department, the MSc ensures your qualification is respected across sectors and internationally.
Employment Reputation: Essex ranks 4th in the UK for research power in economics and econometrics (REF 2021), and is consistently ranked among the top 25 UK universities for economics (QS World University Rankings 2024).

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their studies through Essex’s PhD in Economics or related doctoral programs in business, finance, or public policy. The MSc also provides a strong foundation for interdisciplinary research in management science or behavioural economics.