Economics MSc

12 Months On Campus Masters Program

University of Leeds

Program Overview

The MSc Economics at Leeds equips students with advanced analytical tools and critical perspectives to tackle real-world economic challenges — from financial instability to climate change. It’s ideal for students with a strong foundation in economics who want to deepen their expertise in theory, policy, and applied econometrics.

Curriculum Structure

Semester 1
Students begin with core modules that build advanced theoretical and quantitative skills. Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, and Applied Econometrics form the backbone of this semester, offering rigorous training in economic modelling and data analysis using specialist software.

Semester 2
The second semester allows students to tailor their learning through optional modules such as Monetary Policy, Behavioural Economics, and International Business Theory. These units explore real-world applications of economics in policy, finance, and global markets, while continuing to develop technical and research capabilities.

Summer (Dissertation)
Students complete a supervised dissertation on a topic of their choice, applying theoretical insight and empirical methods to a focused research question. This capstone project showcases their ability to conduct independent economic analysis and communicate findings effectively.

Focus areas

Macroeconomics, microeconomics, econometrics, monetary policy, behavioural economics, international business.

Learning outcomes

Students will graduate with advanced skills in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and policy evaluation — ready to apply these in research, consultancy, or public service.

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Delivered by Leeds University Business School, a member of the Chartered Association of Business Schools and accredited by AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS — ensuring global recognition and professional relevance.

Reputation (employability rankings)

Leeds ranks in the UK Top 10 for Business and Economics (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2024) and boasts a 95.9% postgraduate employability rate within 15 months of graduation.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the MSc Economics program at Leeds gain practical, career-ready skills through hands-on data work, applied research, and access to specialist tools and facilities. The curriculum is designed to bridge theory and practice, with opportunities to analyse real-world economic problems using industry-standard software and participate in research-led teaching. Leeds also offers a guaranteed work experience opportunity through its Applied Institute for Research in Economics, giving students direct exposure to professional research environments.

Here’s how experiential learning comes to life in this program:

Applied Institute for Research in Economics (AIRE): Offers students a guaranteed work experience opportunity, contributing to live research projects and gaining insight into academic and policy-driven economic analysis.
Specialist Software: Students use tools like Stata and R in modules such as Applied Econometrics, developing advanced data handling and modelling skills.
Group Projects & Presentations: Modules like Monetary Policy and Behavioural Economics include collaborative assignments that simulate real-world policy and strategy work.
Leeds University Library: Access to one of the UK’s largest academic libraries, with extensive digital and print resources in economics, finance, and policy.
Digital Learning Platforms: Use of Minerva (Leeds’ virtual learning environment) for coursework, feedback, and access to academic journals and datasets.
Leeds University Business School Facilities: Students benefit from modern seminar rooms, trading rooms, and dedicated postgraduate study spaces.
Guest Lectures & Industry Events: Regular talks from economists, policy experts, and alumni working in government, consultancy, and finance.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Economics at Leeds are equipped to lead in roles that demand analytical precision, policy insight, and data fluency. With advanced training in economic theory and econometrics, they step into impactful careers across government, consultancy, finance, and international development. Common roles include: economic analyst, strategy consultant, policy advisor, and research economist.

Here’s how Leeds supports your next steps:

Leeds Careers Service: Offers tailored support including CV workshops, employer networking events, and access to exclusive job boards. Students can also access Spark, the university’s start-up support hub.
Graduate Outcomes: 95.9% of Leeds postgraduate students are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation (HESA Graduate Outcomes 2020/21).
Industry Connections: Leeds University Business School partners with organisations like Jaguar Land Rover, Unilever, and Leeds City Council, offering exposure to real-world economic challenges.
Global Accreditation: The Business School is triple accredited by AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS — a mark of international quality and employer recognition.
Salary Potential: Economics graduates from Leeds consistently earn above the UK average, especially in roles involving data analytics, policy, and finance.

Further Academic Progression:
Students can pursue doctoral research in economics, finance, or public policy — either at Leeds or other top-tier institutions. The program’s rigorous training in theory and econometrics makes it an excellent foundation for PhD study or specialised postgraduate research.