Economics and Finance MSc

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Surrey

Program Overview

The MSc Economics and Finance at the University of Surrey is ideal for students who want to combine rigorous economic analysis with financial expertise. It suits graduates from economics, finance, or related disciplines who are ready to explore how economic theory and financial tools shape markets, policy, and investment decisions.

Curriculum Structure

Semester 1
Students begin with a strong foundation in core economic and financial principles. Modules such as Macroeconomic Analysis and Foundations of Finance introduce key concepts in national economic performance and financial decision-making. Econometrics 1 equips students with statistical tools to analyse data and test economic and financial models.

Semester 2
The second semester focuses on applied and specialist topics. Students explore Financial Econometrics, which builds advanced modelling skills for financial data, and International Finance, which examines exchange rates, global capital flows, and risk management. Optional modules such as Behavioural Finance or Development Economics allow students to tailor their learning to specific interests.

Summer Term
Students complete a supervised Dissertation, conducting original research on a topic that integrates economics and finance. This capstone project allows students to apply theoretical and empirical skills to a real-world issue, supported by expert academic guidance.

Focus areas

Macroeconomics, financial econometrics, international finance, behavioural finance, development economics, econometrics

Learning outcomes

Graduates will be able to apply economic and financial theory to real-world problems, use advanced quantitative techniques, and conduct independent research to inform policy and investment decisions

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Delivered by Surrey Business School, which is AACSB-accredited—ensuring global recognition of its academic and professional standards

Reputation (employability rankings)

The University of Surrey ranks in the UK top 20 for Economics (Complete University Guide 2024) and is consistently recognised for graduate employability and student satisfaction

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students on the MSc Economics and Finance program develop practical skills by working with real financial datasets, applying econometric models, and conducting independent research. The program blends theoretical depth with applied learning, ensuring students are confident using digital tools, financial software, and analytical frameworks to solve real-world problems. The dissertation is a key experiential component, allowing students to explore a topic that integrates economics and finance under expert supervision.

Here’s how Surrey supports experiential learning in Economics and Finance:

Financial Econometrics module: Students use professional software such as Stata and R to model and analyse financial data.
Dissertation project: A supervised, independent research experience that builds analytical, writing, and data-handling skills.
Bloomberg terminals: Available in Surrey Business School, offering access to real-time financial data and analytics tools used by professionals.
Surrey Business School facilities: Includes computing labs, collaborative workspaces, and access to specialist software for financial modelling and analysis.
University of Surrey Library: Offers extensive economics and finance databases, journals, and research support services tailored to postgraduate study.
Digital learning tools: Students benefit from SurreyLearn, the university’s virtual learning environment, which supports interactive coursework and group collaboration.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Economics and Finance are well-prepared for careers that demand both economic insight and financial expertise. The program’s blend of theory, data analysis, and applied finance opens doors across banking, consultancy, policy, and investment. Typical roles include: Financial Analyst, Economist, Investment Consultant, and Risk Manager.

Here’s how Surrey supports your career journey:

Surrey Careers and Employability Service: Offers personalised career coaching, employer networking events, CV and interview preparation, and access to the exclusive job platform, Surrey Pathfinder.
Graduate Outcomes: 95% of Surrey postgraduates were in work or further study within 15 months of graduation (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2023).
Industry Connections: Surrey Business School maintains strong links with employers such as HSBC, Deloitte, and the Bank of England, enhancing internship and job placement opportunities.
AACSB Accreditation: The Business School’s global accreditation ensures long-term recognition and credibility of your degree.
Graduate Success: Alumni have progressed to roles in financial institutions, government departments, multinational corporations, and top-tier consultancies.

Further Academic Progression:
Students who complete the MSc Economics and Finance may choose to pursue doctoral study (PhD) in economics, finance, or related fields. The program’s rigorous training in econometrics, financial modelling, and research methods provides a strong foundation for academic careers or advanced research roles.