Economics and Finance MSc

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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Accreditation

Leeds University Business School has triple accreditation from the three leading bodies AACSB, AMBA and EQUIS.

Course details

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.

For more information and a full list of typical modules available on this course, please read Economics and Finance MSc in the course catalogue

Year 1 compulsory modules

Year 1 optional modules (selection of typical options shown below)

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 Economics and Finance (6 weeks) and Language for Business: Economics and Finance (10 weeks).

We also offer online pre-sessionals alongside our on-campus pre-sessionals. Find out more about our six week online pre-sessional.

You can also study pre-sessionals for longer periods – read about our postgraduate pre-sessional English courses.

How to apply

Application deadlines

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible.

International applicants: Thursday 26 June 2025

UK applicants: Friday 15 August 2025

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 2025

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: £32,750 (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

We’re offering up to 50 Business School Excellence Scholarships to UK and International students starting one of our Masters courses in 2025. These scholarships offer a 50% fee reduction and will be awarded to particularly deserving applicants who demonstrate excellent academic, professional and personal achievements.

You do not have to submit a separate application for our Excellence Scholarships - you will be automatically considered when your course application is reviewed.

International Excellence Scholarships (International applicants)

Masters Excellence Scholarships (UK applicants)

Read more about Masters Funding and Scholarships

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