MSc Economics

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Kent

Program Overview

Kent’s MSc Economics is designed for students who want to apply economic theory and data analysis to real-world challenges. It suits aspiring analysts, consultants, and policy professionals who want to deepen their understanding of global markets, development, and financial systems.

Curriculum Structure

Autumn Term (Semester 1)
You’ll begin with core modules that build your theoretical and analytical foundation. Microeconomics explores consumer and firm behaviour, market efficiency, and welfare economics. Macroeconomics covers inflation, unemployment, and fiscal and monetary policy. In Research Skills for Economics Dissertation, you’ll learn econometric techniques like regression discontinuity and instrumental variables, preparing you for advanced policy evaluation and causal analysis.

Spring Term (Semester 2)
This semester allows you to tailor your learning through optional modules. You might choose International Economics to study trade theory and exchange rate regimes, or Development Economics to explore poverty, inequality, and institutional reform. Other options include Financial Economics, Sustainable Economic Growth and Environmental Valuation, and Money and Credit, each offering practical insights into specialised areas of economics.

Summer Term (Semester 3)
You’ll complete a supervised Dissertation on a topic of your choice, applying your research and econometric skills to real-world questions. Alternatively, you can opt for the Dissertation Bangladesh module, spending a month at Brac or North South University, co-supervised by faculty from Kent and Bangladesh. This immersive experience offers exposure to NGOs and development-focused institutions, enriching your research with global perspectives.

Focus areas: Development economics, macroeconomics, microeconomics, econometrics, financial economics, environmental valuation, international trade and finance
Learning outcomes: Advanced understanding of economic theory, quantitative analysis, policy evaluation, and independent research skills
Professional alignment (accreditation): Aligned with professional standards in economics and policy analysis, preparing graduates for roles in government, finance, international organisations, and research institutions
Reputation (employability rankings): Kent ranks in the UK’s top 25 for economics research (REF 2021), with 87% of its economics research rated ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Kent’s MSc Economics is designed to immerse students in practical, hands-on learning from day one. You’ll gain experience with econometric software, conduct independent research, and engage with global institutions through Kent’s international partnerships. The program blends theory with application, ensuring you graduate with the skills employers expect and the confidence to tackle real-world challenges.

Here’s how experiential learning is built into the program:

Econometric Software Training: Through the Research Skills for Economics Dissertation module, students learn causal inference techniques using tools like regression discontinuity and instrumental variables.
Dissertation Bangladesh Module: A unique opportunity to spend a month at Brac or North South University, co-supervised by Kent and Bangladeshi faculty. Students engage with NGOs and development institutions, gaining field research experience and global insight.
Dedicated MSc Facilities: The School of Economics provides rooms specifically for MSc students, equipped with computers and collaborative workspaces.
Active Research Centres: Students benefit from Kent’s Development Economics Research Centre, CEAS (agri-environmental policy), and MaGHiC (macroeconomics), which host seminars, workshops, and guest lectures throughout the year.
Economics and Kent Invest Societies: These student-led groups offer opportunities to manage virtual investment portfolios, attend employer events, and network with professionals.
Global Skills Award: Optional workshops and modules that enhance employability and global awareness, available to all postgraduate students.
Library and Digital Resources: Access to the Templeman Library’s extensive economics collection, plus digital databases like JSTOR, EconLit, and Bloomberg terminals.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Kent’s MSc Economics are equipped with the analytical and research skills needed to thrive in competitive global markets. Alumni have secured roles at BNP Paribas, AXA, PwC, and FactSet, working across finance, policy, and development. Typical career paths include: economic analyst, financial consultant, policy advisor, and data strategist.

Here’s how Kent supports your career journey:

Careers and Employability Service: Offers tailored support including CV reviews, mock interviews, employer events, and strategic career planning. Students can book one-on-one appointments and attend workshops throughout the year.
Employment Outcomes: Kent’s economics graduates are highly sought after, with many securing roles in top-tier firms and public institutions. The university’s REF 2021 results show 87% of economics research rated as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’.
Industry Connections: Kent maintains active relationships with employers through its Economics and Kent Invest societies, guest lectures, and research centres like CEAS and MaGHiC, which host events with policy experts and industry leaders.
Long-Term Value: The MSc Economics provides rigorous training in econometrics, policy analysis, and global economics, ensuring graduates meet the standards expected by employers and doctoral programs worldwide.
Graduate Outcomes: Students leave with advanced research skills, practical experience, and a global perspective—qualities that translate into strong employability and career progression.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates who wish to continue their studies can pursue Kent’s structured four-year PhD in Economics, which offers advanced training in research methods and the opportunity to contribute original insights to the field. The MSc also provides excellent preparation for doctoral study at other leading institutions.