Economics and Finance MSc

Overview

This course provides an opportunity to combine an understanding of sophisticated economic theory with advanced finance concepts.

You’ll look at micro and macroeconomics and the methodology of econometric research, whilst acquiring a solid grounding in corporate finance and the financial economics tools commonly used in financial services, quantitative investment analysis and research.

The course is developed and delivered by highly qualified staff with research and consultancy expertise. You’ll take an open-minded approach to economic problems, studying current mainstream theoretical and applied techniques alongside a range of alternative critical perspectives, equipping you to meet the growing demand for economics that can address and resolve real-world problems.

Our Economics department stands for a distinctive type of economics, which is realistic, interdisciplinary and policy relevant. We take an open-minded approach to economic problems, and draw on expertise from one of the major hubs of heterodox economics research in the UK.

Commentary and coverage in the media has highlighted the need for more philosophical discussion about how best to approach economics. Leeds University Business School has been recognised in The Economist as one of the few universities in the UK offering a 'model' for this approach. The University also hosts the Applied Institute of Research in Economics.

In addition, you will learn advanced finance concepts from leading academics and practitioners in the Business School’s Accounting and Finance department. You will be able to access the knowledge of our advanced specialist research units, including the Centre for Advanced Study in Finance, the International Banking Institute and the Credit Management Research Centre.

Course content

Throughout the year you’ll study a set of core modules that develop your understanding of economics and finance. As well as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics and how it is applied to real-life problems, you’ll build your knowledge of international banking and finance and corporate finance as a whole.

This knowledge base will support your specialist learning when you choose from a range of optional modules. You could explore different areas of economics such as the economics of globalisation, or concentrate on financial topics such as corporate governance or financial derivatives.

These different elements of your learning will give you in-depth knowledge of specific topics alongside your broader grounding in economics and finance. You’ll also sharpen your research skills and gain an awareness of different methodologies. All of these aspects will come together in your dissertation – an independent research project on a topic of your choice. You’ll undertake this over a period of three months with the support of an academic supervisor.

Modules

_{Compulsory modules}

• Corporate Finance
• International Banking and Finance
• Macroeconomics
• Microeconomics
• Applied Econometrics
• Econometrics
• Dissertation

_{Optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)}

You'll also choose two optional modules.

• Financial Derivatives
• Corporate Governance
• Economics of Globalisation and the International Economy
• Behavioural Economics
• Money, Monetary Policy and the Global Financial Crisis

Learning and teaching

We use a variety of teaching and learning methods to help you make the most of your studies. These will include lectures, seminars, workshops, online learning and tutorials.

Assessment

We use assessment methods such as exams, research reports, written assignments, essays and project work, depending on the modules you choose.

Applying, fees and funding

_{English language requirements}

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English

International students who do not meet the English language requirements for this programme may be able to study our postgraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

This pre-sessional course is designed with a progression route to your degree programme and you’ll learn academic English in the context of your subject area. To find out more, read Language for Economics and Finance (6 weeks) and Language for Business: Economics and Finance (10 weeks).

If you need to study for longer than 10 weeks, read more about our postgraduate pre-sessional English course.

_{How to apply}

Application deadline:

We operate a staged admissions process for this course with selection deadlines throughout the year.

If you do not receive an offer in a particular round, you will either be notified that your application has been unsuccessful, or we will carry your application forward to be considered in the next round.

Please see our How to Apply page for full details and the application deadlines for each stage.

APPLY 

Documents and information you’ll need

• A copy of your degree certificate and transcript, or a partial transcript if you’re still studying
• Two academic references
• A personal statement
• An up-to-date CV
• Evidence of your English language qualifications, if English is not your first language
• A letter of sponsorship, if you need one.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

_Fees

• UK/EU: £9,500 (total)
• International: £21,500 (total)

Read more about paying fees and charges.

For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.

_{Scholarships and financial support}

We award a range of scholarships to UK, EU and international students. Scholarships are available to candidates who can demonstrate an excellent academic record and show excellent professional and personal skills.

There are several scholarships available for this course that you may be eligible for, including:

• Masters in Economics International Excellence Scholarships
• Masters in Economics UK/EU Excellence Scholarship
• Dean's Excellence Scholarship (UK/EU and International)
• Leeds Alumni Bursary and Excellence Scholarship

Read more about Business School scholarships.

Career opportunities

This course will provide you with the essential knowledge and skills to pursue a career in finance and economics, and certifies your abilities for prospective employers. It also provides a sound basis for you to study at PhD level.

Graduates of our MSc Economics and Finance have careers worldwide as advisers, researchers and quantitative analysts in economic and financial institutions, consultancy and public service.

Visit the Economics and Finance MSc page on the University of Leeds website for more details!