Economics and Policy Analysis
Entry requirements
Normally applicants will possess a minimum 2:2 honours primary degree in economics or a programme where economics is a major component (for example, business/commerce). An interview may form part of the application process.In exceptional circumstances an applicant who cannot satisfy the undergraduate requirement may be accepted on the basis of relevant professional experience.
Months of entry
September
Course content
The MSc in Economics and Policy Analysis at UL is specifically designed to equip students with the practical skills required for a career in economics. The current global economic crisis demonstrates the need for well-educated and trained economists in a number of spheres. The programme has a strong applied public policy focus which will prepare graduates for positions that require the application of economic knowledge and practical skills. The program has recently been ranked 30th in Western Europe by EdUniversal Best Masters. It is also the first and only masters in economics in Ireland that offers the potential to obtain a double degree through our partnership with HEC Liège (the Business School of the University of Liège) in Belgium. HEC Liège is one of the best Business Schools in Europe and was recently awarded EQUIS accreditation, one of the top two international accreditations for Business Schools that, to date, has been awarded to only approximately 160 Schools worldwide. While the double degree option involves a 2nd year of study at the Masters level it represents a significant opportunity to further develop your skills as an economist and to increase the range of career opportunities available to you.
The programme also incorporates an international field trip element. Previous trips have included visits to the OECD, the European Investment Bank, the European Stability Mechanism and the European Commission.
Why should you consider the MSc in Economics and Policy Analysis.
- An emphasis on applied economic skills such as data analysis, econometrics and policy analysis.
- The course also has a strong focus on policy orientated aspects of economics such as macro, industrial and education policy.
- The unique potential to achieve a double degree in conjunction with HEC Liège
- We are ranked by Eduniversal in the top 50 Masters in Economics within Western Europe
- We have an extremely strong employment record with past graduates working across the private and public sector.
Double Degree Option
As the only masters in economics in Ireland to offer the potential to obtain a double degree through our partnership with HEC Liège, the programme offers the opportunity for a number of students to undertake a semester of study in the Business School of the University of Liège. As part of the agreement, a number of selected students registered for the MSc. in Economics and Policy Analysis can complete two semesters of study here in UL before going to Liège for a further semester of study and then complete a dissertation which is jointly supervised by faculty from UL and Liège. Upon completion, these particular students receive two separate Master degrees – UL’s MSc. in Economics and Policy Analysis and Liège’s Master in Economics.
While the double degree option involves a 2nd year of study at the Masters level it represents a significant opportunity to further develop your skills as an economist and to increase the range of career opportunities available to you. Opting for the double degree involves no extra fee (students only pay the fee for UL’s MSc. in Economics and Policy Analysis) and the entire programme in Liège is taught through English so it is not necessary to have any background in French.
Delivery
The programme will be delivered through interactive lectures and tutorials, guided reading, small group team work, seminars and workshops. The student experience will be enhanced through an international business workshop, professional development modules and guest speakers from industry and related academic areas.
Programme Content
The MSc in Economic Analysis is a one-year, full time programme. The programme consists of two semesters of four modules and a research paper to be completed over the Summer.
Semester 1
Microeconomics Theory; Macroeconomic Theory; Evolution of Economic Theory; Global Finance & Capital Markets; Data Management for Policy Analysis and Evaluation
Optional Module - Professional Development 1
Semester 2
Econometrics; Public Finance and Regulation; Industrial Policy: Theory, Practice and Evaluation; Labour and Education Economics; Dissertation Preparation
Optional Module - Professional Development 2
Summer
Dissertation
International Business Workshop
Information for international students
The overseas equivalent as determined by the Course Team in consultation with UL Graduate School will meet this requirement. Where candidates are non-native English language speakers, they should meet the University's English language requirements.
Qualification, course duration and attendance options
- MSc(Econ)
- full time12 months
- Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
Careers Positions as an economist in banking, finance, financial services, government agencies (e.g. civil service, central bank, state sponsored bodies), education (lecturing and teaching), further study (PhD), research.
Course contact details
- Name
- Dr. Darragh Flannery
- darragh.flannery@ul.ie
- Phone
- +353 61 202975