Why study this course?
The programme focus is to provide a self-contained, rigorous but relevant learning experience that prepares you either to start employment at a senior level in a wide variety of economics-related activities, or to pursue further research.
Highlights
- Learn the theoretical and empirical tools required to understand the increasingly complex and rapidly changing economy
- Experience a warm and friendly learning environment with small group teaching allowing a high level of student-teacher interaction
- Choose from supplementary lectures in mathematical and statistical methods available at the beginning of the course
Teaching
Traditional lectures, tutorials, seminars and computer lab work in small groups.
Assessment
Continuous assessment and end-of-semester exams.
Dissertation
A 15,000-word dissertation on a topic of your choice which is relevant and appropriate to the MSc.
Modules
The St Andrews degree structure is designed to be flexible. You study compulsory modules delivering core learning together with optional modules you choose from the list available that year.
You take three compulsory modules in the first semester. In your second semester, you will choose three modules from a selection of topics.
Each compulsory module typically comprises:
- 16 or 20 lecture contact hours
- 5 or 10 contact hours for seminars, workshops and tutorials
- intensive independent study
For more details, including weekly contact hours, teaching methods and assessment, please see the module catalogue. The modules are examples from previous academic years and may be subject to change before you start your course.
What it will lead to
Careers
There is a long-standing tradition of Economics graduates working in a wide variety of challenging and rewarding posts including:
- academia
- banking
- commerce
- diplomatic service
- economics
- finance
- government
- industry
- insurance
They work in the UK, Europe, and North America, and more frequently in locations such as China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan and Thailand.
We are committed to supporting your career aspirations, whatever stage your career is at. Our Careers Centre can help connect you to our extensive global alumni community for advice and mentoring, as well as offering career coaching, bespoke workshops, employer connections, experiences, and application support.
Our International Education and Lifelong Learning Institute can also support you with academic and professional skills development.
Further your education
Many graduates pursue PhDs at St Andrews or beyond. Funding includes ESRC awards and Business School studentships, offering RCUK-level stipends and fee waivers for home and EU students.
Go your own way
Our Entrepreneurship Centre offers training and start-up support for those looking to freelance as well as create their own business.
It has an active entrepreneurship community, giving you access to experienced and expert mentors and an investor network, as well as one-to-one advice to help you realise your commercial potential.
Why St Andrews?
Industry connections
The Masters Extra (MX) is a programme of events focused on careers and personal and professional development, designed specifically for taught Masters students in the University of St Andrews Business School. The series of talks, workshops, networking opportunities and activities includes guest lectures from entrepreneurs, experienced managers, and leading researchers.
Alumni
As a graduate of St Andrews, you become part of a prestigious and globally connected alumni community. This lifelong membership offers access to career services, networking opportunities, and exclusive resources. Engaging with the University's worldwide alumni network ensures you remain connected to St Andrews, no matter where your career takes you.
Ask a student
If you are interested in learning what it's like to be a student at St Andrews you can speak to one of our student ambassadors. They'll let you know about their top tips, best study spots, favourite traditions and more.
Entry requirements
- A 2.1 degree classification from a recognised UK university in Economics or a 2.1 joint Honours in Economics and another subject that includes substantial training in mathematics, statistics, microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics. If you studied your first degree outside the UK, see the international entry requirements.
- English language proficiency. See English language tests and qualifications.
The qualifications listed are indicative minimum requirements for entry. Some academic Schools will ask applicants to achieve significantly higher marks than the minimum. Obtaining the listed entry requirements will not guarantee you a place, as the University considers all aspects of every application including, where applicable, the writing sample, personal statement, and supporting documents.
Application requirements
- CV
- a detailed personal statement which includes an explanation of why you want to study the programme, why you want to enrol at St Andrews, and future career plans.
- an original signed academic reference
- academic transcripts and degree certificates
For more guidance, see supporting documents and references for postgraduate taught programmes.
English language proficiency
If English is not your first language, you may need to provide an English language test score to evidence your English language ability. See approved English language tests and scores for this course.
Fees and funding
- UK: £12,030
- Rest of the world: £25,900
Before we can begin processing your application, a payment of an application fee of £50 is required. In some instances, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. Details of this, along with information on our tuition fees, can be found on the postgraduate fees and funding page.
Scholarships and funding
We are committed to supporting you through your studies, regardless of your financial circumstances. You may be eligible for scholarships, discounts or other support:
Contact us
Start your journey
Legal notices
Admission to the University of St Andrews is governed by our Admissions policy
Information about all programmes from previous years of entry can be found in the course archive.
Curriculum development
As a research intensive institution, the University ensures that its teaching references the research interests of its staff, which may change from time to time. As a result, programmes are regularly reviewed with the aim of enhancing students' learning experience. Our approach to course revision is described online.
Tuition fees
The University will clarify compulsory fees and charges it requires any student to pay at the time of offer. The offer will also clarify conditions for any variation of fees. The University’s approach to fee setting is described online.
Page last updated: 12 March 2025
