Course summary

Economics is more relevant than ever to understand contemporary events in the global economy and provide the tools and techniques for business and governments to address the issues they face. Reflecting the needs of both private and public sector employers, our highly practical MSc prepares you to assess business problems, interpret public policy and effectively communicate the insights that economic analysis can provide. Aimed at those with a genuine interest in the application of economics to real-world situations, this course aims to provide you with an in-depth knowledge of the latest theories, practices and key concepts in economics that underpin public sector policy and business decision-making. This includes the various scenarios where we explore strategic interaction, market failure and macroeconomic objectives. The focus is very much on developing the practical skills needed by a working economist – the ability to apply economic techniques to complex problems and provide specialist advice. You will gain hands-on experience with the industry-standard computing and econometrics software used to analyse and manipulate data. You will be taught by staff who share their experience working and consulting for government departments such as the Department for Transport, local authorities and supranational organisations such as the OECD. There is an increasing demand worldwide for economic analysis in local and central government, non-governmental organisations, and charities in areas such as international development, urban and regional development policy, education or research. Past graduates have become Fast Stream economists in the UK Government Economic Service and HM Treasury, and others have gained employment as economists in charities and the private sector.