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The MSc Finance and Economics at St Andrews combines rigorous training in financial theory, quantitative methods, and economic analysis, ideal for students aiming to work in investment, policy, or research. It suits graduates from economics, finance, or related disciplines who want to deepen their expertise in both fields and apply it to real-world financial decision-making.
Curriculum Structure
Semester 1: Core Foundations in Finance and Economics
Students begin with Corporate Finance and Macroeconomics, developing a strong understanding of financial decision-making, capital structure, and macroeconomic policy. Econometrics introduces statistical techniques for analysing financial and economic data, preparing students for empirical research and forecasting.
Semester 2: Advanced Applications and Specialisation
In the second semester, students take Advanced Corporate Finance and Advanced Macroeconomics, which explore topics such as asset pricing, financial markets, and open economy macroeconomics. Advanced Econometrics builds on earlier skills with time series and panel data methods, while students begin preparing for their dissertation.
Summer Term: Independent Research Project
Students complete a supervised Finance and Economics Dissertation, applying theoretical and empirical tools to a topic of their choice. This is an opportunity to explore areas such as financial regulation, investment strategy, or macro-financial linkages using real-world data and advanced modelling techniques.
Focus areas
Corporate finance, macroeconomics, econometrics, financial markets, policy analysis
Learning outcomes
Students graduate with the ability to apply financial and economic theory, conduct empirical research, and evaluate investment and policy decisions using quantitative tools
Professional alignment (accreditation)
Delivered by the School of Economics and Finance, the program aligns with professional standards in financial analysis, economic consultancy, and policy research
Reputation (employability rankings)
The University of St Andrews ranks 1st in the UK for student satisfaction and 3rd overall (Guardian University Guide 2024), with a strong reputation for economics and finance research and graduate outcomes
Students in the MSc Finance and Economics program at St Andrews gain practical skills through advanced econometric modelling, financial analysis, and independent research. The School of Economics and Finance provides access to specialist software, research centres, and collaborative learning spaces that mirror professional environments in finance and policy.
Here’s how the program brings theory into practice:
Graduates from St Andrews’ MSc Finance and Economics are well-prepared for careers in investment analysis, financial consultancy, policy advisory, and economic research. Alumni have gone on to work at institutions such as the Bank of England, PwC, and global asset management firms. The program’s dual emphasis on finance and economics ensures versatility across both private and public sectors.
Here’s how St Andrews supports your career journey:
Further Academic Progression:
This MSc provides a strong foundation for doctoral study in finance, economics, or public policy. St Andrews offers PhD opportunities through its School of Economics and Finance, and graduates are well-positioned for funded research programs across the UK and internationally.
A 2.1 Honours degree from a recognised UK university in Economics or Finance with a significant Economics component; or a 2.1 joint Honours in Economics and another subject that includes substantial training in microeconomics, macroeconometrics and econometrics.ELTS Academic (including IELTS One Skill retake): 7.0 minimum scoreTOEFL iBT Listening: minimum 91 with 16 Reading: 16 Speaking: 19 Writing: 19USA: Postgraduate candidates will be expected to hold a bachelor's degree (BA or BS) with a minimum GPA of 3.3, B+, or 76%.Indian: Postgraduate candidates will be expected to hold a bachelor's degree (BA, BSc, BCom or BTech) awarded after a minimum of three years, with grades ranging from 60% to 80% or 7.0-9.0 CGPA, depending on the institution attended.Careers in Commercial bankingHedge fund managementInsurance and risk managementPrivate equity managementMarket or securities analysis
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University of St Andrews
