14May
PostgraduateCourse summary
Although this is a full-time degree programme, it is expected that students undertaking relevant work will be able to complete the programme if they have a first degree in a related subject. This MA programme is aimed at graduates with a strong interest in the history of economic ideas and the application of economics to questions of public policy. It offers the opportunity to study in detail a range of ideas in self-guided fashion and to conduct a significant piece of independent research on a particular topic of the student’s choice. Online seminars will cover topics on Adam Smith; David Ricardo; John Stuart Mill; Alfred Marshall; the marginalists and neoclassical economics; Karl Marx; Friedrich Hayek and the Austrians; J.M. Keynes; James Buchanan, Gordon Tullock and public choice theory; the Frankfurt School; behavioural economics; the environment and the debate on sustainability. The programme is not primarily vocational in orientation, although possession of the award is likely to enhance the careers of school and FE teachers and policy advisors at local and national levels. It could also lead naturally on to further study and research at doctorate level. It is particularly envisaged that the programme will appeal to candidates of all ages who are attracted to the subject area for its intrinsic interest and wish to pursue a structured learning experience in a sympathetic environment.
Assessment method
The programme will start with a series of weekly webinars spread over one and a half terms (October – February). These webinars will cover all the major thinkers and schools of Political Economy, from Adam Smith to Karl Marx, from Friedrich Hayek to the Frankfurt School, among others. Each webinar is led by an expert topic under discussion, and the student is expected to do initial reading in advance and to participate actively in these sessions. You will also receive group and individual preparation as you work on your dissertation Supervisors will be appointed with an interest in the student’s topic area, and the student will receive regular one-to-one online sessions with the supervisor as the dissertation progresses. This will include written feedback on drafts of the dissertation. Assessment will be based on a project proposal, which will link to material covered in the seminar sessions. This proposal (c5000 words) will be weighted at 60 units, of which 10 units will be based on verbal presentation and response to questions. The dissertation (15,000 words) will be weighted at 120 units.
How to apply
International applicants
With staff and students from over 90 countries around the world, the University enjoys a wonderful and culturally diverse atmosphere. Ranked joint 4th in England and joint 7th in the UK in the National Student Survey (NSS) for student satisfaction this year, the University and has always scored highly since it started taking part 14 years ago. We provide support for students from outside the UK including: assistance with visa application and renewal; guaranteed accommodation in halls of residence; and a personal tutor to support your academic studies. Academic staff are available to help and advise, and operate an open-door policy. We have the best staff to student ratio of any university in the UK. Our students have formed a number of overseas clubs, and there is a sports and social programme each term to ensure you enjoy your time with us. Our idyllic setting between Oxford and Milton Keynes offers access to a range of cultural and social activities and Bicester Village, the renowned shopping outlet is a short bus ride away. English Language requirements: it is very important that your English level is of a good standard for you to be successful in your studies. All applicants must achieve specific requirements in all four components (listening, reading, speaking and writing). Please check our website for more details of the undergraduate or postgraduate language requirements for your course. https://www.buckingham.ac.uk/international/english-language-requirements/.
Entry requirements
Good Honours (2.1 or above) BA or BSc degree in an appropriate discipline and/or equivalent professional qualification or Prior Experiential Learning. This programme is also open to candidates with initiative and a proven ability to operate as self-guided learners, corroborated where appropriate through an admissions interview.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £8267 | Whole course |
| Northern Ireland | £8267 | Whole course |
| Scotland | £8267 | Whole course |
| Wales | £8267 | Whole course |
| Channel Islands | £8267 | Whole course |
| EU | £14500 | Whole course |
| International | £14500 | Whole course |
| Republic of Ireland | £14500 | Whole course |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Sponsorship information
Postgraduate First-Class Scholarship – 33% discount for graduates with a first-class honours degree recognised to UK standard Buckingham Postgraduate Scholarship – 25% discount for Buckingham graduates with a 2:1 undergraduate degree; 33% discount for those with a first-class degree
Provider information
University of Buckingham
Hunter Street
Buckingham
MK18 1EG