Visit the MSc Economics and Econometrics page on the University of Kent website for more details!
What attracted you to postgraduate study at Kent?
When I completed my undergraduate degree at Kent in Financial Economics and Econometrics I felt that there was much more about economics that I wanted to learn and so it made sense to me to pursue a master’s degree. The School of Economics is friendly and the staff are very approachable and always willing to offer a helping hand.
How are you enjoying the course?
I chose the masters degree in Economics and Econometrics because it offered the core topics in Economics as well as offering advanced training in econometrics, which is something that I found that other universities of the same calibre lacked.
The teaching at Kent is fantastic for several reasons. All staff are research active so they include this in their teaching, which offers different perspectives on traditional models or theories enabling you to evaluate and critique where necessary. Secondly, classes are small so the environment becomes interactive not only between staff and students but also among students with many debates carrying on after class.
The masters students in the School of Economics are very fortunate to have access to their own study room, something that is not usually offered at other universities. This room is equipped with several computers with all necessary software required to complete the degree and a group study area that proved be very useful throughout the academic year.
What support do you receive as a postgraduate?
The School of Economics is a very supportive department. All academics and administrative staff are friendly and are always willing to help, no matter what the problem is. There is excellent student representation within the School, the School of Economics always asks for the opinion of the student representatives and for the most part carries out their wishes.
At Kent there is a Graduate School that offers excellent support to all postgrads and a variety of skills workshops that range from English skills to academic writing and negotiating. The School of Economics has an Economics Society that has arranged guest speakers from business and economics as well as arranging day trips.
What do you plan to do next?
I plan to go on to pursue a PhD, and then hope to work either for the Debt Management Office here in the UK or in another financial institution.
Why did you choose to study economics at Kent?
Initially, I really liked the campus and had heard good things about Kent. I chose economics because I had enjoyed studying the subject and went on to have an excellent undergraduate experience here. When I finished the course, I didn't have a job lined up so thought I would do something productive and carry on with what I knew while, at the same time, improving my career prospects.
What have you particularly enjoyed?
The School of Economics has felt like a little community, and we all get on well and help each other out. There's a real international mix, too, with students from all over the world. Everyone has a different point of view, so there's always interesting discussions.
How have you found the teaching?
There is more one-to-one interaction with the lecturers and they really care and get involved, so it feels like we are all working together.
How does postgraduate study differ from undergraduate study?
It's more intense and there's a lot more work. At undergraduate level you tend to be spoon fed initially then progress to independent working. At Master's level, the lecturers will give you guidance, but it's up to you to read through things to understand the material. So it's the next step up.
What's the level of support like?
If you don't understand something, you can talk to a member of academic staff after a lecture or there are certain times during the week when they are guaranteed to be in their office. You can just go and ask them – they are very approachable and will take the time to work through a problem with you.
