MSc Economics

Course prospectus hero image

Key information

Degree

MSc Economics

Types of study

Full time / Part time

Duration

12 months full-time / 24-48 months part-time

Start date

September

Faculty

Economics / Faculty of Humanities and Social Sciences

Entry requirements

Course Requirements: 2:1 (upper second-class honours degree or international equivalent) with significant economics content and good performance in mathematics.

English Language Requirements: Applicants whose first language is not English, and who do not have a degree from a UK institution, are required to have the following English language qualifications before they can register on an academic programme:

  • IELTS: 6.5 (with no less than 6.0 in each element) or
  • PTE Academic: 71 (minimum 65) or
  • TOEFL (IBT): 90 (minimum 19 in Writing and Listening, 20 in Reading and 22 in Speaking)

Course overview

The MSc in Economics is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of current economic thinking and equip them with the technical tools necessary to create and analyse microeconomic and macroeconomic models. Students will also gain a comprehensive understanding of econometric techniques. The programme offers elective modules at the intersection of economics and data science, such as Machine Learning for Economics, and addresses contemporary issues in China, including Development Economics, Health Economics, and Environmental Economics.

The academic year consists of two semesters. Review and assessment take place at the end of each semester. While most summative assessments take place at the end of the semester, some take place during the teaching period along with a range of formatively assessed exercises, essays and projects. After the successful completion of coursework in semester two, students proceed to undertake a dissertation.

Highlights of this Programme

  • Advanced Mastery of Economic Theory and Tools: Graduates will attain a sophisticated understanding of economic principles, theories, and modern analytical techniques, equipping them with both quantitative and qualitative expertise essential for high-level research, analysis, and policymaking.
  • Specialisation in High-Demand Fields: Students will have the opportunity to specialise not only in foundational areas such as macroeconomics, microeconomics, and econometrics, but also in emerging and impactful fields like health economics, development economics, and environmental economics, enhancing their relevance and employability in targeted sectors.
  • Strong Research and Critical Thinking Capabilities: The programme emphasises the development of rigorous research skills and the ability to think critically about complex economic issues—enabling graduates to assess evidence, construct reasoned arguments, and propose innovative, evidence-based solutions.
  • Diverse and Prestigious Career Pathways: Graduates will be well-prepared for leadership roles across a broad spectrum of sectors, including governmental and international organisations, financial and consulting firms, NGOs, and academic institutions, with a qualification that signals expertise in economics and data-driven decision-making.

On successful completion of the programme, students will obtain:

  • A deep and adaptable skill set in economic analysis, supported by advanced technical and analytical training.
  • Specialised knowledge in chosen sub-fields, allowing them to stand out in the job market and contribute authoritatively to their area of interest.
  • The ability to conduct independent economic research and engage critically with real-world policy challenges.
  • Access to a wide range of career opportunities that require expert-level understanding of economics and empirical methods.

Course structure

Students take 180 credits worth of modules. In semester one students take four core compulsory modules in the analysis of microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, econometric theory and economic data analysis. In semester two, all students take one further required advanced module, which can be in microeconomics or macroeconomics, and choose two optional modules from a wide choice. All students will also start work on dissertation by taking two modules in economic research methodology in the first and second semester. After completing all modules in the two semesters, students then proceed to undertake a Dissertation.

Year 1 modules

+

ACADEMIC YEAR 2026-2027

Compulsory Modules:

  • Microeconomics
  • Macroeconomics
  • Economic Research Methodology I
  • Econometric Theory
  • Economic Research Methodology II
  • MSc dissertation: Economics

Optional Modules:

  • Advanced Microeconomics
  • Advanced Macroeconomics
  • Machine Learning for Economics
  • Development Policy Analysis
  • Health Economics
  • Environmental and Resource Economics

Please note that the structure of this degree and its modules may be subject to change.

Fees

Chinese Mainland students

120,000 RMB / year

China's Hong Kong, Macao & Taiwan students

120,000 RMB / year

International students

130,000 RMB / year

More information

Contact us

Student Recruitment and Admission Office

University of Nottingham Ningbo China
199 Taikang East Road, Ningbo, 315100, China

E. admissions@nottingham.edu.cn
T. +86 (0574) 8818 0182
W.


Faculty Office of Humanities and Social Sciences

Room 306, Innovation and Enterprise Building (IEB)
University of Nottingham Ningbo China
199 Taikang East Road, Ningbo, 315100, China

E. FHSS@nottingham.edu.cn
W.


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