Course Structure
The MSc in Economic Policy is a part-time programme designed for working professionals and runs over two academic years, beginning in September. Teaching takes place in person on Fridays during teaching terms, with approximately six hours of lectures each Friday.
Overview
- Duration: 2 years (part-time)
- Start date: September 2025
- Teaching format: In-person, Fridays only
- Total credits: 90 ECTS (Taught modules: 60 ECTS / Dissertation: 30 ECTS)
- Attendance requirement: Students must be present within two weeks of the course start date; otherwise, their place will be deferred to the next intake.
Programme Components
The programme is structured around three key stages of study, followed by a supervised dissertation:
1. Core Modules
Students complete six compulsory modules which provide a strong foundation in economic theory and policy analysis:
- Microeconomic Policy (Year 1, Semester 1)
- Macroeconomic Policy (Year 1, Semester 1)
- Quantitative Methods for Economics I (Year 1, Semester 1)
- Quantitative Methods for Economics II (Year 1, Semester 2)
- Applied Policy Evaluation (Year 1, Semester 2)
- Research Methods for Economics (Year 2, Semester 1)
2. Elective Modules
Students choose three electives from a suite of applied policy topics:
Year 1, Semester 2 (choose one):
- Regulation and Banking
- Behavioural Economics
Year 2, Semester 1 (choose two):
- Urban and Housing Economics
- Health Economics
- Energy, Environment and Climate Change
- Taxation and Welfare
3. Dissertation
In the final semester, students undertake an independent research project on a policy-related topic, supported by an academic supervisor.
- Word count: 10,000–15,000
- Submission: July of Year 2
Learning Outcomes
On successful completion, graduates will be able to:
- Understand the principles underpinning modern economics
- Analyse policy formulation using economic methods
- Apply core economics tools in a policy context
- Conduct data-driven policy research
- Explore real-world policy challenges in at least three focus areas
- Produce and present a substantial policy-relevant research dissertation