Economics (MSc) 2016 entry
The MSc in Economics provides advanced training in essential elements of economics - microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics - plus a range of specialist options covering theoretical and empirical approaches that reflect the interests of the staff in the department.
Course type
Postgraduate; leading to a Master of Science (MSc)
Course duration
One year full time
Entry requirements
A 2.1 degree classification from a recognised UK university in Economics or 2.1 Joint Honours in Economics and another subject that includes substantial training in mathematics, statistics, micro, macro and econometrics.
If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
English language proficiency. See English language tests and qualifications.
Tuition fees
UK and EU: £6,800
Overseas: £16,250
Application deadline
Application requirements
- CV
- either a detailed personal statement including a list of current modules being undertaken (1,000 words) or a sample of academic written work (2,000 words)
- two academic references
- academic transcripts and degree certificates
- English language requirements certificate.
For further guidance on application requirements, please see postgraduate taught programmes page.
If you are looking to start this programme in 2017, you can find information about 2017 entry on the 2017 Economics MSc page. Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in our archive.
Course information
Course highlights
- In the 2014 UK Research Excellence Framework exercise, the School was ranked joint tenth in the UK and second in Scotland on the basis of the quality of its research publications, with over 80% of the research publications being classified as internationally excellent or world-leading.
- Our emphasis on smaller group teaching allows a high level of student-teacher interaction encouraging a warm and friendly learning environment.
- The programme aims to prepare students for jobs at a senior level in a wide range of areas: economics, finance, commerce, insurance, academia, diplomatic service and banking.
- Supplementary lectures in mathematical and statistical methods are available.
Teaching format
The MSc in Economics is a one year taught postgraduate programme run by the University of St Andrews' School of Economics and Finance. The programme consists of traditional lectures, tutorials, seminars and computer lab work in small groups of 6 to 12 students; and a 15,000 word dissertation in an area of your choice. Courses are assessed both continuously and with end of semester exams.
Every MSc student is assigned an adviser at the beginning of the year. Your adviser will provide you with individual guidance on essay planning and writing, module choice, dissertation topics and academic conduct.
Further particulars regarding curriculum development.
Modules
Each module typically comprises:
- 20 lecture contact hours
- 4 contact hours including seminars, workshops and tutorials
- intensive independent study
- 50% continuous assessment
- 50% by two-hour examination.
Compulsory modules
All students taking an Economics MSc must take three compulsory modules in the first semester. These are:
- Macroeconomics: advanced treatment of the core models and concepts used in modern macroeconomics
- Microeconomics: advanced treatment of the core models and concepts used in modern microeconomics
- Econometric Methods and Applications: advanced level training in econometric methods.
Optional modules
In your second semester, you will have the opportunity to choose three modules from a selection of topics. The topics, and therefore module titles, vary year on year as they reflect research interests of our staff. Examples currently include:
- Econometric Time Series Analysis: advanced treatment of the core theory and practice of time series econometrics
- Monetary Policy: key issues in monetary policy
- Financial Intermediation: main theoretical issues involved in financial intermediation with a focus on analytical models
- Portfolio Theory and Management: key issues in asset allocation and portfolio composition and management at an advanced level
- Experimental Economics: the methodology of experimental economics and the dialogue between theoretical and laboratory-based empirical work
- Corporate Governance and Risk: the relationship between corporate liabilities and corporate actions
- Mergers and Acquisitions: key issues in mergers and acquisitions literature
- Risk Management: classical techniques in risk and insurance.
The modules listed ran in the academic year 2015-2016 and are indicative of this course. There is no guarantee that these modules will run for 2016 entry.
Take a look at the most up to date modules in the module catalogue.
Dissertation
The final element of the MSc is a 15,000 word dissertation. The dissertation should be on an area of economics that you are interested in, chosen either from a list of topics or developed with your supervisor who will support you through the process.
Funding
There are several funding options for postgraduate students.
After the MSc
Careers
There is a long-standing tradition of our graduates working in a wide variety of challenging and rewarding posts in economics, finance, commerce, insurance, industry, academia, government, diplomatic service and banking. They work in the UK, Europe, and North America; and more frequently in locations such as China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan and Thailand.
Contact
School of Economics and Finance
Castlecliffe
The Scores
University of St Andrews
KY16 9AR
Phone: +44 (0)1334 46 2439
Email: pgt@st-andrews.ac.uk
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online. (PDF, 72 KB).
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online. (PDF, 84 KB).