Economics and Finance MSc
Year of entry 2026
- Start date
- September 2026
- Delivery type
- On campus
- Duration
- 12 Months (Full time)
- Entry requirements
- A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) with a background in economics, finance or accounting and a strong grounding in quantitative subjects.
Full entry requirements - English language requirements
- IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component
- UK fees
- £15,750 (Total)
- International fees
- £32,000 (Total)
- Contact
- masters@lubs.leeds.ac.uk
Course overview
This course provides an opportunity to combine an understanding of sophisticated economic theory and advanced financial analysis.
You’ll study micro and macroeconomics and the methodology of econometric research, while exploring corporate finance and the financial economics tools commonly used in financial services, quantitative investment analysis and research.
You’ll take an open-minded approach to economic problems, studying current mainstream theory and applied techniques alongside a range of alternative critical perspectives.
Developed and delivered by highly qualified staff with research and consultancy expertise, this course will equip you to meet the growing demand for economics that has global impact, real-world application and the power to influence change.
Course Highlights
- Approach the study of economics in a highly interdisciplinary way, understanding global challenges by drawing on expertise from one of the major hubs of heterodox economics research in the UK.
- You’ll have access to world-leading research and expertise through the Applied Institute for Research in Economics, hosted here at the University.
- Learn advanced finance concepts from leading academic and practitioners in the Business School’s Accounting and Finance department, and gain access to the knowledge of our specialist research units, including the Centre for Advanced Study in Finance, the International Banking Institute, and the Credit Management Research Centre.
- Benefit from our pluralist approach, helping you gain broad insight into different theoretical perspectives, preparing you for a wide variety of graduate opportunities.
- Take part in debates in both mainstream and non-mainstream economics.
- Choose from innovative optional modules which explore major policy issues through the economics lens.
- On all Masters courses at Leeds University Business School you’ll have an opportunity to apply for a place on a week-long international study tour which will include company visits, guest lectures and networking events, as well as an opportunity to visit local places of interest. Previous study tours have included visits to Berlin, Frankfurt, Milan and Zurich.
Find out more about studying your Masters at Leeds University Business School.
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Guaranteed work experience
While studying at Leeds, you’ll have the chance to work with a business and gain consultancy experience as part of a 2-week virtual Global Industry Programme.
As well as giving you the opportunity to build key industry connections, you’ll also develop invaluable professional and practical skills that are highly valued by employers.
Accreditation
Accreditation
Course details and modules
Throughout the year, you’ll study a set of core modules that develop your understanding of economics and finance.
As well as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics and how it is applied to real-life problems, you’ll also develop your understanding of foundational theories of corporate finance.
This knowledge base will support your specialist learning when you choose from a range of optional modules. You could explore different areas of economics and finance, such as financial derivatives and money, monetary policy and the global financial crisis.
These different elements of your learning will give you in-depth knowledge of specific topics alongside your broader grounding in economics and finance. You’ll also sharpen your research skills and gain an awareness of different methodologies.
These aspects will come together in your dissertation – an independent research project on a topic of your choice. You’ll undertake this over a period of three months with the support of an academic supervisor.
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.
Year 1 compulsory modules
| Module Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Corporate Finance | 15 |
| Macroeconomics | 15 |
| Microeconomics | 15 |
| Applied Econometrics | 15 |
| Econometrics | 15 |
| Economics Dissertation | 60 |
Year 1 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)
| Module Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Financial Derivatives | 15 |
| Distributional Analysis in Economic Development | 15 |
| Behavioural Economics | 15 |
| Money, Monetary Policy and the Global Financial Crisis | 15 |
| Economics of Wellbeing | 15 |
| International Business Finance | 15 |
Learning and teaching
You’ll be taught using a range of methods including lectures, tutorials, seminars and workshops. The rest of your time will be spent in independent learning, which allows you to develop your skills in research and analysis.
Our Virtual Learning Environment will help to support your studies: it’s a central place where you can find all the information and resources for the school, your programme and modules.
On this course, you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
Assessment methods emphasise not just knowledge, but essential skills development too. This may include formal exams, group projects, reports, computer simulation exercises, essays and written assignments, group and individual presentations and reflective logs.
This diversity enables you to develop a broad range of skills as preparation for professional life.
Applying
Entry requirements
A bachelor degree with a 2:1 (hons) with a background in economics, finance or accounting. A strong grounding in quantitative subjects with high grades is essential.
International qualifications
We accept a range of international equivalent qualifications.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
International students who do not meet the English language requirements for this programme may be able to study our postgraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
This pre-sessional course is designed with a progression route to your degree programme and you’ll learn academic English in the context of your subject area. To find out more, read Language for Business (6 weeks) and Language for Business (10 weeks).
We also offer online pre-sessionals alongside our on-campus pre-sessionals. Find out more about our six week online pre-sessional and our 10 week online pre-sessional.
You can also study pre-sessionals for longer periods – read about our postgraduate pre-sessional English courses.
How to apply
Documents and information you’ll need
- a copy of your degree certificate and transcript, or a partial transcript if you’re still studying
- contact details for two academic references
- a personal statement
- an up-to-date CV
- your approved English Language test* (if applicable)
- a letter of sponsorship, if you need one.
* Applicants who have not yet completed an approved English language test may apply for a Masters course prior to taking a test.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Admissions policy
University of Leeds Admissions Policy 2026
This course is taught by
Leeds University Business School
Contact us
Postgraduate Admissions Office
Email: masters@lubs.leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:
Fees
UK: £15,750 (Total)
International: £32,000 (Total)
Read more about paying fees and charges.
For fees information for international taught postgraduate students, read Masters fees.
Additional cost information
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.
Scholarships and financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There may be help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more at Masters funding overview.
Scholarships are also available to help fund your Masters. Find out more and check your eligibility below:
Career opportunities
From day one, we encourage you to think beyond your time at Leeds and reflect on a meaningful career.
This course will provide you with the essential knowledge and skills to pursue a career in finance and economics and certifies your abilities for prospective employers.
You’ll develop specific financial, mathematical, data analysis and research skills, while also enhancing your communication, critical thinking, and creative problem-solving skills. Our graduates are well positioned to use their knowledge and experience to tackle key global challenges within a range of careers.
Graduates of our MSc Economics and Finance have careers worldwide as advisers, researchers and quantitative analysts in economic and financial institutions, consultancy and public service. Our MSc also provides a sound basis for you to go on to a research degree.
Careers support
Career support and professional development activities are built into your course from day one. Professional skills sessions are delivered by high-profile professional economists who support your employability and skills development. There are also opportunities to engage with external subject experts, allowing you to build your networks and meet potential employers.
You’ll also benefit from the University’s Careers Service, where you can access range of support to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions, even after you graduate.
Read more about our careers and professional development support.
Work placements
As a Masters student at Leeds, you’ll have the unique opportunity to gain real-world industry experience with our Global Industry Programme.
You’ll develop key professional skills and gain invaluable insight into working in your chosen field, helping to solve a real business problem from a live company brief.
This experience will enhance your CV, helping you to stand out in the competitive graduate jobs market and improving your chances of securing the career you want.
Benefits of the Global Industry Programme:
- Fully online and designed to fit around your studies.
- Opportunities to make professional networks in areas such as digital marketing, business growth, sustainability and artificial intelligence.
- Build consultancy experience with a UK or international organisation.
- Gain invaluable insight into working as a consultant on a time-limited brief.
- Work as part of a team across disciplines to tackle real business needs.
- Advance your experience and hands-on skills by putting the course teachings into practice.
- Improve your employability prospects.