MSc in Applied Economics

MSc in Applied Economics

Applications for the 2024/25 intake open on 1st October 2023 and will close on 31st of August 2024.  For information on fees and how to apply, please click here.

This course provides high quality training in economics with a focus on applications to real world problems. The course is ideal preparation for a career as a professional economist working on applying economics to policy issues or business situations. In addition to studying core modules in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, students can pick from a wide range of field modules. In the summer term, students do either a supervised research thesis or an internship. Students can switch after the first term to our MSc in Quantitative Economics, which focuses on applying advanced mathematical and statistical methods to economics.

This programme features small group teaching from leading economists and a supportive environment. Masters students are an integral part of our School community, attending research seminars and receiving a wide range of supports to help them prepare for their research thesis or internship. 

UCD School of Economics is Ireland’s leading economics department. Our staff are experts with international reputations in a wide range of topics such as macroeconomics, econometrics, applied microeconomics, behavioural economics, health economics, international trade, and economic history. School members play a significant role in debating economic policy issues and in contributing to the formulation of economic policy. Students get to know our staff via participation in small classes and seminars and through direct supervision.

• For scholarships/fee waivers please check here.

Course content and structure

In the first trimester, you will take the following 5 credit modules:
Core modules

• Maths and Stats (ECON42620)
• Microeconomics (ECON41840)
• Macroeconomics (ECON42550)
• Econometrics (ECON41820)
• Research & Career Skills 1 (ECON42020)

Choice of one from

• Behavioural Economics (ECON42560) – 5 credits
• Development Economics (ECON42600) – 5 credits
• Environmental Economics (ENVP40230) – 5 credits
• European Competition Law (LAW40360) – 10 credits

In your second trimester, you take: 
Core module

• Research & Career Skills 2 (ECON42300) – 5 credits

Choice of five from the following 5 credit modules:

• Advanced Macroeconomics (ECON41620)
• Advanced Microeconomics (ECON41810)
• Advanced Econometrics: Micro (ECON42700)
• Advanced Econometrics: Time Series (ECON42710)
• Causal Inference & Policy Evaluation (ECON42720)
• Aviation Economics (ECON42610)
• Health and Welfare Economics (ECON42190)
• Energy Economics and Policy (ECON42360)
• Economics of Competition Policy (ECON42580)
• Behavioural Economics: Policy Applications (ECON42570)
• Decision Theory (ECON42630)
• Global Economic History (ECON42730)
• Banking & Financial Stability (ECON42740)

Students that have taken LAW40360 in trimester 1, have a choice of four modules in trimester 2.
In your third trimester (Summer), you will do either a supervised research thesis (ECON40090) or
a 12 week Internship (ECON42200) – 30 credits.

Part-time schedule details

Career Opportunities

Many graduates of our masters programmes have gone on to complete PhDs in economics and pursue successful careers as academic or research economists.  Many others have moved directly to employment in central banks, think-tanks, government departments, regulatory agencies, financial sector institutions and consultancy firms.

Entry Requirements

• A primary degree with at least an upper second class honours or international equivalent in Economics or in a degree in which Economics is a major component.
• An upper second class honours in a Higher Diploma in Economics or in the MSc Qualifier.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.

Graduate profile

The MSc in Applied Economics at University College Dublin uniquely provides a comprehensive view while critically focussing on areas of economics. The economics department at UCD is an internationally recognised centre of brilliance. The MSc offers a wide range of courses than many other MScs I considered. Studying microeconomics and macroeconomics at an advanced level provided me with a holistic understanding of international organizations and allowed for an in-depth analysis of their economic and financial activities. Moreover, studying econometrics gave me the background I needed for my future role as an Analyst. There were many intriguing option modules available for students which ensured that each student could focus on their specific areas of interest. Lastly, the added benefit of being able to choose to pursue an internship or a dissertation for the third semester was an appealing factor. The faculty at UCD are extremely supportive and experienced. The atmosphere is charged with diverse perspectives and nationalities. Having completed this programme, I have been able to use my theoretical knowledge and implement it in the real world. I am currently working in the Decision Science department for one of the leading banks in Ireland. Altogether, I would recommend this course to anyone interested in expanding their knowledge in the field of economics.

MSc in Applied Economics   Applications for 2023/24 are open here until August 31, 2023.

Programme Coordinator Dr Oana Peia