Department of Economics

Masters study

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Develop your research mindset

At Essex, you look at the world through an economist's lens, taking a critical approach to dismantle a proposition and working with data and robust methodologies to build your argument based on sound evidence.

We'll teach you advanced theory and methods, and you'll work closely with our creative and committed academics - research stars who are pioneering new solutions to global issues, inspiring your education. You develop the knowledge and understanding that will help you have a career to be proud of.

We're home to staff and students from all over the world who have a strong sense of belonging and want to think, learn and achieve together. They want to influence and improve the world - for themselves and others.

Why choose us?
  • We’re 18th in the UK for economics in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023
  • 4th in UK for research power in economics and econometrics (Times Higher Education research power measure, REF 2021)
  • Top 25 in the UK for Business and Economics in THE World University Rankings by Subject 2023
"The department lived up to its reputation and surpassed it. It combined academic excellence with people that were engaging, accessible, genuinely helpful and interested in your development."
Angelos Stenimachitis MSc Economics

Access to national research

We're the leading university in the UK for economic and social research and a focal point for national funding.

We work closely with the Institute for Social and Economic Research (ISER) and the UK Data Archive (UKDA), both based on our Colchester Campus. Many of our researchers collaborate on projects, applying economic theory to real-life situations. 

As a student, you can access these services through joint modules, a seminar series and by working with ISER staff. You can also use data from the UKDA for your work and access the expertise of staff for advice on data collection.

Study your Economic Masters with a scholarship

Emily explains why she chose to come and study at Essex with the GREAT Scholarship and shares advice on what international students should prepare for when coming to study in the UK. Find out more about our scholarships.

One Masters not enough?

We offer a number of postgraduate taught dual awards with our international partners. 

These awards are 1+1 progression arrangements where you work for two Masters degrees, one at Essex and another at a prestigious university across the globe.

Normally, a single Masters degree in Europe would take you two years to complete. Our dual awards allow you to gain two Masters in two years, a year less than studying them separately.

This unique opportunity gives you experience of different cultures, preparing you for an international career, or for a PhD. You also gain a competitive edge when applying for jobs once you leave Essex.

Our dual awards are joint with the University of Konstanz in Germany and Kobe University in Japan. Visit our dual awards page or contact Postgraduate Taught Economics enquiries team to find out more.

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Stay at Essex and save up to 33% on your postgraduate tuition fees. Find out more and discover loads of other great reasons to stay at Essex.

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