Economics MSc
Economics - MSc
Master the tools to solve complex economic challenges with our Economics MSc. Whether your background is in computer science, economics, engineering, mathematics, or the sciences, you will strengthen your understanding of economic theory and quantitative methods, including advanced econometrics, and apply them to real-world global issues. Build practical experience, sharpen your analytical and critical thinking skills, and develop the expertise to excel in careers across the City, international corporate sectors or pursue PhD studies.
Month of entry
- September, January
Mode of study
- Full time
Fees for 2026/27 academic year
- UK - Full time £11,700 per year.
International - £18,200 per year.
Duration of study
- 1 year full-time, or up to 2 years with Placement
This course is no longer accepting applications from international students for the 2025/26 academic year.
This programme is available with a Placement - an opportunity to complete a 6-12 month placement after the taught element of the course. Apply for the 'with Placement' option below.
Why study Economics at Keele University?
Course summary
Combine advanced economic theory and applied econometrics on our Economics MSc, equipping you with a portfolio of professional skills for successful career pathways as an economist, policy analyst, or strategy consultant.
Develop applied econometrics skills through extensive use of STATA, an industry-standard software for data analysis, economic modelling, and the forecast of economic variables and build expertise in coding and the effective communication of statistical findings. You'll also analyse behavioural economics, examining heuristics, biases and deviations from rationality and how techniques such as ‘nudging’ can encourage sustainable choices. Advanced micro and macroeconomic theory is explored, from decision-making, fiscal sustainability and monetary policy to examining the impact of new challenges such as AI, climate change and financial innovation.
Central to this programme is a strong focus on advancing your professional development and providing practical industry engagement opportunities, strategically enhancing your employability. You’ll connect with experienced professionals, gain insights into the latest trends in your chosen field and have the opportunity to work directly with an organisation to develop solutions for a current business issue, gaining valuable real-world skills.
Our programme provides the flexibility to align your studies to your career aspirations through a core Professional Project. You can choose to undertake a research project, consultancy project, or a strategic business proposal.
Sustainability, ethics and responsible business practices are embedded throughout and by completing Keele Business School’s Sustainability Passport you’ll demonstrate your ability to incorporate sustainability practices in a professional context.
Located in an innovation park that fosters collaboration between academia and industry, Keele’s campus offers a supportive learning environment designed to prepare you to excel in the dynamic world of global business.
Related courses
Postgraduate Study with Keele Business School
Course structure
If you choose the 'with Placement' route, you will complete a 6-12 month placement module after the taught element of your programme.
Modules
The module details given below are indicative, they are intended to provide you with an idea of the range of subjects that are taught to our current students. The modules that will be available for you to study in future years are prone to change as we regularly review our teaching to ensure that it is up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods, as well as student voice. The information presented is therefore not intended to be construed and/or relied upon as a definitive list of the modules available in any given year.
Compulsory modules
Consultancy Project
In the Business Consultancy Project, you will build foundational skills and gain practical experience by working directly with a real organisation to develop solutions to real-world challenges. You will learn to engage with businesses, frame organisational issues, and apply creativity and innovation. This module develops core skills in collaboration, communication, and problem-solving, preparing you for the Professional Project and Placement. It provides a strong foundation for success in other areas of the programme.
Professional Development and Industry
Insights This module helps you explore the industry you want to work in, including its structure, recruitment practices, and key trends. You will assess your own skills and experiences, identifying how you align with the industry’s needs and expectations. Through active learning, reflective activities, and guest speaker insights, you will develop practical knowledge and career planning skills. The module supports your progression into the Business Consultancy Project, Professional Project, and Placement, preparing you for future opportunities.
Advanced Economic Models and Applications
This module will provide you an excellent grounding into theories and models of micro and macroeconomics and their respective applications at postgraduate level. Microeconomic topics will include modern extensions of decision-making by individuals and firms, efficiency and choice under uncertainty. In macroeconomics you will see challenges such as debt management and fiscal sustainability, monetary policy and determinants of long-term sustainable growth. Macroeconomic implications of new challenges such as AI, climate change, or credit and financial engineering are also addressed. The module focuses on empirical and policy applications of the topics discussed.
Applied Econometrics
This module focuses on the practical application of econometrics, a crucial skill in business, policymaking, and academia. You will spend most of your time in computer labs using STATA, an industry-standard software, to analyse data and make forecasts. You will learn to apply advanced modelling techniques to real-world data, assess the causal impact of policy changes, and forecast economic variables. The module develops key employability skills, including coding and communicating statistical analysis to inform decision-making effectively.
Behavioural Economics and Finance
This module explores recent developments in Behavioural Economics to provide insights into behaviour in economics, finance, and business. It examines heuristics, biases, and deviations from rationality, with examples of their impact on decision-making. The module reviews debates on market efficiency and explores topics such as forecastability, the media's influence on attitudes, and the use of 'nudging' to promote sustainable behaviour. Additionally, it analyses the role of narratives in shaping economic and financial outcomes.
Professional Project
In the Professional Project, you will undertake an independent piece of work that builds on academic and practical skills developed throughout the programme. You can choose from three routes: a research project, a consultancy project, or a strategic business proposal, aligned to your career aspirations. We will support you in preparing for your chosen path with essential research or consultancy skills. The module culminates in a detailed write-up and reflective analysis, showcasing your expertise and professional growth.
Optional modules
Fundamentals of Data Analytics
This module introduces non-specialists to the core concepts and tools of data analytics. You will explore fundamental techniques for collecting, analysing, and interpreting data to make informed decisions. Topics include data visualisation, basic statistical methods, and an overview of popular software tools. Through practical exercises, you will gain confidence in handling data and applying analytical insights across various contexts, equipping you with valuable skills for data-informed decision-making in diverse professional settings.
Game Theory, Negotiation and Conflict Resolution
This module focuses on the principles and practices of negotiation, game theory, and conflict resolution. You will explore topics such as bargaining strategies, applied game theory, credibility, collusion, and resolving disputes in diverse contexts, including international settings. Emphasis is placed on understanding negotiation dynamics, managing conflict, and building effective agreements. Through practical exercises, you will develop skills in constrained optimisation, strategic interaction, and crafting solutions that balance competing interests, preparing you to navigate complex negotiation scenarios effectively.
Leadership and Change Management
This module explores the key theories and practices of leadership and change management in modern organisations. You will examine leadership styles, strategies for leading teams, and approaches to managing change effectively. Topics include motivation, conflict resolution, and fostering an adaptable organisational culture. Through case studies and practical exercises, you will develop skills in influencing, guiding teams, and navigating complex organisational change, preparing you for leadership roles in dynamic, evolving environments.
Entrepreneurship
The module equips you with essential entrepreneurial skills and knowledge to identify, evaluate, and develop business opportunities. You will engage in practical assessments, including a business opportunity evaluation report, and a collaborative pitch presentation. The module emphasises critical analysis, entrepreneurial leadership, and ethical considerations in business. Through active participation and reflection, you will gain the confidence to launch and manage successful ventures, navigating the complexities of modern entrepreneurship.
PRME Champions
Keele Business School (KBS) has been selected for the 2024-2025 cohort of PRME Champions. Consisting of 47 businesses and management schools from around the world, The Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME) is an initiative of the United Nations Global Compact, focused on raising the bar for sustainable business education. More information about PRME Champions can be found here.
Entry requirements
The following section details our typical entry requirements for this course for a range of UK and international qualifications. If you don't see your qualifications listed, please contact us to find out if we can accept your qualifications.
Typical offer
Please ensure that you read the full entry requirements by selecting your qualifications from the dropdown menu below. This will include any subject specific, GCSE/Level 2 Maths, and English language requirements you may need.
Please select your country from the drop-down list below for the full entry requirement information
UK
2:2 degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Algeria
12/20 or Assez Bien degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Bahrain
Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.7/4.0 in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Bangladesh
60% in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject from a public university
or
CGPA 2.8 in a 4-year degree or 3-year degree with a 2-year Master's in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject from a private university
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
We don’t accept degrees from certain universities, please see our Bangladesh Country Page for more information
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Canada
70% or C or a GPA of 2.5 in a degree (Ordinary or Honours) in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
China
70% in a degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
65% in a degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject from a '211' university
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Egypt
Bachelor degree from a Public or Private University with 65%/CGPA = 2.7/Good degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Ghana
Second class degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Hong Kong
Bachelor's Honours degree with 2:2 or CGPA of 2.5 OR Bachelor Ordinary degree with a CGPA of 3.4 in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
India
55% or CGPA 6/10 in a degree of at least 3 years in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Kenya
Second class degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Kuwait
Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.75/4.0 or 3.5/5.0 in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nepal
60% / 2.4 in a 4-year Bachelor's degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
65% / CGPA 2.8 in a 3-year Bachelor's degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Nigeria
Second class degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Oman
Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.5/4.0 in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Pakistan
We accept a range of qualifications from Pakistan. Please visit our Pakistan Country Page for more information
or we will consider demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need an English language qualification (see below)
Qatar
Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.75/4.0 in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
South Africa
Second class division 2 / 60% in a Bachelor's degree with Honours in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
Second class division 1 / 70% in an Ordinary Bachelor's degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Sri Lanka
55% in a Special Bachelor's degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Turkey
A CGPA of 2.5/4.0 in a Bachelor degree (Lisans Diplomasi) in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
UAE
Bachelor's degree with a CGPA of 2.5/77%/B- in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Uganda
Second class degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
USA
Bachelor's degree with a minimum CGPA of 2.6 in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
Zimbabwe
Second class degree in a computer science, economics, engineering, maths, or science subject
or
demonstrated relevant professional qualifications or experience
You will also need: an English language qualification (see below)
English language requirements
All of our courses require an English language qualification or test. For most students, this requirement can be met with a 4 or C in GCSE English. Please see our English Language guidance pages for further details, including English language test information for international students. For those students who require an English language test, this course requires a test from Group B.
References
Normally, you will need to provide at least one academic reference to support your application unless you have been out of study longer than two years. If it has been more than two years since you last studied on a degree-level programme, you will normally need to provide an employment reference instead. For more information about Academic References, please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages.
Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose
Please see our Postgraduate how to apply web pages for guidance on what to include in your personal statement.
Recognition of Prior Learning
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is a process which enables applicants to receive recognition and formal credit for learning acquired in the past through formal study or work and life experiences.
RPL can also be requested for admission onto the start of a programme in lieu of the admission requirements. For more information, see our Recognition of Prior Learning web pages.
General information
The entry grades outlined in this section indicate the typical offer which would be made to candidates, along with any subject specific requirements. This is for general information only. Keele University reserves the right to vary offer conditions depending upon a candidate's application. For international students, find out how we work with approved agents as part of our admissions process.
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Funding
Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, our dedicated financial support team is here to help.
Please note, if your course offers a January start date, the January 2026 start date falls in the 2025/26 academic year. Please see the tuition fees archive for the 2025/26 fees.
Planning your funding
It's important to plan carefully for your funding before you start your course. Please be aware that not all postgraduate courses and not all students are eligible for the UK government postgraduate loans and, in some cases, you would be expected to source alternative funding yourself. If you need support researching your funding options, please contact our financial support team.
For continuing students, fees will increase annually by RPIX, with a maximum cap of 5% per year.
Additional costs
You may incur optional costs which can enhance your learning experience (e.g., fieldwork or specialist equipment). Details are outlined below. For general information, see the university's additional costs information.
- travel/subsistence for client visits or business engagement you choose to undertake
- discretionary project expenses (e.g. travel for interviews, data purchase)
- optional UK/international study visits (including travel, accommodation, insurance)
- optional professional memberships/certifications, competitions, conferences, printing, and any premium software or equipment you elect to use are also at your own cost.
Funding or subsidies may occasionally be offered but are not guaranteed and may change vary from year to year. The School may amend or withdraw optional activities if needed necessary.
Your career
Studying on this programme will give you outstanding training in economics providing you with an exceptional combination of transferable skills and economic knowledge you can take forward into a successful career in the field. You’ll be well placed to pursue careers in public and private sectors finance, banking, local authorities and NGOs upon successful completion, securing roles such as actuarial consultants, data analysts, specialist data consultants, research consultants, statistical forecasting and evaluation (ONS), stock market analysts. You could also progress to undertake further postgraduate studies at PhD level.
Placements
Giving you an opportunity to undertake a 6-12 month industry placement after the taught element of the course
This practical experience enhances employability, strengthens transferable skills, and demonstrates professional capability in the competitive jobs market. To apply for this programme with a Postgraduate Placement, start your application.
Whilst placements are competitive and therefore not guaranteed, our dedicated Placements and Projects Team will support you in finding a suitable opportunity, and will provide guidance throughout the process. We strongly encourage students to actively engage with these services as soon as possible to maximise the chances of securing a placement.
Tuition fees for students on the "with Placement" programme will be charged at 20% of the standard Home Undergraduate annual tuition fees for that year of study on placement.
To apply for this programme with a Postgraduate Placement, use the Apply Now button above.
For eligibility criteria, information on transferring onto the Postgraduate Placement route, fees and additional costs, visa information and support available, please see our dedicated Postgraduate Placements web page.
For key information about the programme, including the structure of modules, assessment methods and awards, please see the relevant programme specifications.
Teaching, learning and assessment
Teaching
Teaching on our Economics MSc combines interactive and applied learning methods to create a dynamic and engaging experience. You’ll benefit from interactive, in person lectures, small group tutorials, and web-based learning via the Keele Learning Environment (KLE). Independent study is encouraged, allowing you to explore your interests in greater depth, while reflective practice helps you evaluate and enhance your learning journey. Communication and teamwork skills are developed through peer-assisted learning and collaborative projects. Additionally, you’ll engage with real-world scenarios through live policy and business challenges, simulations and guest lectures, gaining valuable insights directly from industry professionals.
Assessment
You will be assessed using a wide variety of methods which reflect the breadth of the knowledge and skills you will have developed on the programme, including assignments, group assessments, literature reviews, portfolios, reports, and research paper proposals and summaries.
Keele Postgraduate Association (KPA)
A focal point for the social life and welfare needs of all postgraduate students during their time at Keele.
Keele Postgraduate Association (KPA) is a Students’ Union that specialises in representing the interests of postgraduate students. With a dedicated home at the KPA Clubhouse, a popular venue on campus for students, staff and residents alike – the KPA offers support, advice and a welcoming community for postgraduates.
Our expertise
You will be taught by academics who are experts in economics and who have specialist qualifications in economics or closely related areas. They have extensive teaching, research and work experience in their field and teaching on this programme is informed by research. Academics regularly present and publish academic papers at conferences and economic and financial journals.
Teaching Team:
Facilities
Launched in 2026, Keele Business School’s Postgraduate Hub at Home Farm provides a professional environment designed to enhance postgraduate success and employability. With modern teaching rooms, dedicated study areas and an MBA Business Suite, the hub supports advanced learning, collaboration and career development.
As a central base for the postgraduate community in Keele Business School, it strengthens links with local businesses, creating opportunities for real-world projects, professional engagement and progression into employment.
Supporting you
Throughout your studies, you’ll be fully supported and have access to a variety of resources. The programme begins with a comprehensive induction, designed to help you transition smoothly and confidently into your academic journey. An academic mentor will be assigned to you, offering guidance and advice on academic challenges and general support. You’ll also have regular opportunities to engage with the programme team to provide feedback on learning and teaching.
Additional support is available from our Student Experience and Support Team based within our Faculty, who work closely with teams across Keele ensuring you have easy access to comprehensive advice and support, including services for Disability Support and Inclusion, Student Financial Support, Counselling and Mental Health, Residence Life and Chaplaincy, and International Student Support.