Economics MSc

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Surrey

Program Overview

The MSc Economics at the University of Surrey is designed for students who want to master economic theory and apply it to real-world policy and business challenges. It suits graduates from economics or related disciplines who are ready to deepen their analytical skills and explore areas like development, behavioural economics, and macroeconomic policy.

Curriculum Structure

Semester 1
Students begin with a strong foundation in core economic theory and quantitative methods. Modules such as Microeconomic Analysis and Macroeconomic Analysis explore consumer behaviour, market structures, and national economic performance. Econometrics 1 introduces students to statistical techniques for analysing economic data, preparing them for applied research and policy evaluation.

Semester 2
The second semester focuses on specialised and applied topics. Students choose from modules like Development Economics, which examines global inequality and policy interventions, and Behavioural Economics, which explores how psychological factors influence decision-making. Econometrics 2 builds on earlier skills with more advanced modelling techniques, while optional modules such as Environmental Economics or International Trade allow students to tailor their learning.

Summer Term
Students complete a supervised Dissertation, conducting original research on a topic of their choice. This capstone project allows them to apply theoretical and empirical skills to a real-world economic issue, supported by expert academic guidance.

Focus areas

Microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, behavioural economics, development economics, environmental economics, international trade

Learning outcomes

Graduates will be able to critically evaluate economic models, apply advanced quantitative techniques, and conduct independent research to inform policy and business decisions

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Delivered by Surrey Business School, the program benefits from strong industry links and research-led teaching. The School is accredited by AACSB, ensuring global recognition of its academic standards

Reputation (employability rankings)

The University of Surrey ranks in the top 20 in the UK 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 program gain real-world skills through data-driven coursework, independent research, and access to Surrey’s specialist facilities. From econometric modelling to behavioural analysis, students work with real datasets, use industry-standard software, and engage in supervised projects that mirror professional practice. The dissertation is a major experiential component, allowing students to investigate a topic of their choice using advanced analytical methods.

Here’s how Surrey supports experiential learning in Economics:

Econometrics modules (1 & 2): Students use statistical software such as Stata and R to analyse real-world data and build predictive models.
Dissertation project: A supervised, independent research experience that develops critical thinking, data handling, and academic writing skills.
Surrey Business School facilities: Includes modern computing labs, collaborative workspaces, and access to Bloomberg terminals for financial data analysis.
University of Surrey Library: Offers extensive economics databases, journals, and research support services.
Digital learning tools: Students benefit from SurreyLearn, the university’s virtual learning environment, which supports interactive coursework and group collaboration.
Institute for Sustainability: Offers cross-disciplinary research opportunities for students interested in environmental economics and policy.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Students on the MSc Economics program develop practical skills through rigorous econometric training, independent research, and access to Surrey’s specialist digital and physical resources. The program blends theoretical depth with applied learning, ensuring students are confident using data, software, and analytical frameworks to solve real economic problems. The dissertation is a key experiential component, allowing students to explore a topic of their choice with expert supervision and professional research methods.

Here’s how Surrey supports experiential learning in Economics:

Econometrics modules (1 & 2): Students work with professional software such as Stata and R to analyse real-world datasets and build predictive models.
Dissertation project: A supervised, independent research experience that develops critical thinking, data handling, and academic writing skills.
Surrey Business School facilities: Includes computing labs, collaborative workspaces, and access to Bloomberg terminals for financial data analysis.
University of Surrey Library: Offers extensive economics 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.
Institute for Sustainability: Provides cross-disciplinary research opportunities for students interested in environmental economics and policy.