Master of Arts (Economics) Programme Guide

Programme Overview

The Master of Arts in Economics is a rigorous two-year postgraduate programme designed to provide students with advanced theoretical knowledge, quantitative skills, and analytical tools to understand complex economic issues. This programme prepares graduates for careers in various sectors including academia, government, international organizations, financial institutions, and policy research.

Our curriculum balances theoretical foundations with practical applications, enabling students to apply economic concepts to real-world problems. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and the development of economic models to address contemporary challenges in both domestic and global economies.

Programme Objectives

• To develop advanced understanding of economic theories and their applications
• To enhance quantitative and analytical skills required for economic analysis
• To cultivate the ability to formulate and evaluate economic policies
• To develop research capabilities to contribute to economic knowledge
• To prepare students for careers in academia, research, policy-making, and the private sector
• To foster critical thinking about economic issues from diverse perspectives
• To provide specialized knowledge in chosen fields of economics

Curriculum Structure

The Master of Arts in Economics is a two-year programme comprising four semesters. Students must complete a total of 60 credits to graduate.

First Year

Second Year

Elective Courses

Students can choose electives from the following specialization areas:

• Development Economics
• Financial Economics
• Behavioral Economics
• Labor Economics
• Environmental Economics
• Health Economics
• Industrial Organization
• Political Economy
• Urban and Regional Economics
• Economics of Digital Platforms

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the MA in Economics programme, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate advanced knowledge of microeconomic and macroeconomic theories
• Apply econometric methods to analyze economic data and test hypotheses
• Formulate and evaluate economic policies using appropriate analytical frameworks
• Identify and analyze economic problems at local, national, and international levels
• Communicate economic ideas effectively through written and oral presentations
• Utilize quantitative tools including statistical software and economic modeling
• Critically evaluate economic research and literature
• Conduct independent research and contribute to economic knowledge
• Apply ethical considerations to economic analysis and policy recommendations

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for admission to the MA Economics programme, applicants must:

Application Documents

• Completed application form
• Official transcripts of all previous academic work
• Statement of purpose (500-1000 words)
• Two letters of recommendation from academic referees
• Curriculum vitae or resume
• Writing sample (optional but recommended)

Teaching and Assessment

The programme utilizes a variety of teaching methods to maximize learning outcomes:

Teaching Methods

• Interactive lectures and seminars
• Problem-solving workshops
• Computer laboratory sessions for econometric analysis
• Case study discussions
• Research presentations
• Guest lectures by industry professionals

Assessment Methods

• Written examinations
• Research papers and essays
• Problem sets and quantitative assignments
• Presentations
• Class participation
• Dissertation/Thesis

Research Opportunities

Research is an integral component of the MA Economics programme. Students have multiple opportunities to engage in research:

• Dissertation/Thesis: Students complete a substantial research project (8 credits) under the guidance of a faculty supervisor.
• Research Assistantships: Outstanding students may apply to work as research assistants on faculty projects.
• Research Seminars: Regular seminars featuring presentations by faculty, visiting scholars, and students.
• Economic Research Centre: Students may participate in projects conducted by the department's Economic Research Centre.
• Student-Initiated Research: Encouragement and support for students to develop their own research interests.

Career Prospects

The MA in Economics opens diverse career pathways for graduates:

Private Sector

• Economic analyst/consultant
• Financial analyst
• Market research analyst
• Business journalist
• Investment banker
• Corporate strategist
• Pricing analyst

Government and International Organizations

• Economist in central banks
• Policy analyst in government ministries
• Research economist in international organizations (World Bank, IMF, UN)
• Trade analyst
• Regulatory economist

Academic and Research Institutions

• Lecturer in economics
• Research fellow
• Economic policy researcher
• PhD candidate in economics

Faculty and Expertise

Our faculty members are renowned economists with extensive research experience and industry connections:

• Professor Michael Chen Development and Growth Economics
• Professor Sarah Williams Labor and Public Economics
• Professor David Kumar Financial Economics and Markets
• Professor Elena Rodriguez International Trade and Policy
• Professor James Thompson Econometric Methods
• Professor Catherine Okafor Behavioral Economics
• Professor Robert Kim Environmental Economics
• Professor Aisha Patel Health Economics

Student Support

We provide comprehensive support to ensure student success:

Academic Support

• Writing support services
• Quantitative skills workshops
• Academic advising
• Dissertation supervision
• Peer tutoring programs

Professional Development

• Career counseling services
• Internship placement assistance
• Networking events with alumni and industry professionals
• CV and interview preparation workshops
• Conferences and seminars attendance support

Student Life

• Economics Society
• Study groups
• Guest lecture series
• Annual economics symposium
• Student awards and scholarships

Application Process and Timeline

Application Deadlines

• First Round: January 15
• Second Round: March 15
• International Applicants: May 1
• Late Applications: June 15 (space permitting)

Timeline

• Applications open: November 1
• Notification of admission decisions: Within 6 weeks of application
• Acceptance deadline: 4 weeks from notification
• Orientation: Last week of August
• Classes begin: First week of September

Application Process

1. Complete online application form
2. Upload required documents
3. Pay application fee ($50)
4. Submit application
5. Admissions committee reviews application
6. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interview
7. Admission decision communicated

Financial Information

Tuition Fees

• Full-time domestic students: $15,000 per year
• Full-time international students: $25,000 per year
• Part-time students: $1,250 per credit

Funding Opportunities

Contact Information

Department of Economics

Address: Room 305, Social Sciences Building, 123 University Avenue

Email: economics.program@university.edu

Phone: +1 (555) 123-4567

Website: www.university.edu/economics/ma-program

Programme Coordinator

Dr. Jane Smith

Email: jane.smith@university.edu

Office Hours: Monday and Wednesday, 2-4 PM