DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS
Our MA program in Economics is a rigorous, research-oriented degree designed for students who want to prepare for a career as a research economist or for doctoral studies. The program puts a strong emphasis on advanced micro- and macroeconomic theory as well as econometric methods. It is intentionally small, ensuring close interaction with faculty and peers.
Students undertake a substantial research thesis under the direct supervision of a professor. This intensive training provides an excellent foundation for a PhD, while also equipping graduates with the analytical skills needed for research-driven careers in academia, policy institutions, and beyond. The program is intended mostly, but not exclusively, for outstanding undergraduates already working with faculty members.
The program is designed to be completed in three terms, including the Summer term.
Courses
The course component of the program consists of a core part, in which students can focus on two of the three fields of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. It is complemented by a choice from the more specialized graduate-level field courses offered by the Department. Courses are advanced, and the program focuses on preparing students for PhD studies.
The program requires successful completion of the following courses with a grade in each of at least a B- (65%), for a total of 18 credits:
Core courses: Two sets of courses (6 credits per set) out of the following three:
- ECON 662 Econometrics 1 and ECON 663 Econometrics 2
- ECON 709 Microeconomic Theory 1 and ECON 711 Microeconomic Theory 2
- ECON 712 Macroeconomic Theory 1 and ECON 713 Macroeconomic Theory 2
Field courses: 6 credits at the 500 level or higher, as determined by the student's area of study and in consultation with the Graduate Program Director. The Department currently (academic year 2025-26) offers field courses in Development Economics, Labour Economics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics and Applied Microeconomics, as well as a course Machine Learning. This set of courses may change in the future.
MA thesis
Program completion requires submission of an MA thesis within 12 months of entry into the program. Students should begin to plan the M.A. thesis early in the academic year. To support success, all MA students will be closely supervised by a thesis advisor throughout the program.
Formally, the thesis accounts for 27 credits, for the courses Econ 650, 651 and 652 (Research 1, 2 and 3) and Econ 670, 671 and 672 (Thesis 1, 2 and 3).
Admissions requirements
Admission to the program is highly selective, with requirements that go well beyond the University’s minimum standards of a 3.0 CGPA at the Bachelor’s level and proof of English proficiency. Successful applicants typically demonstrate exceptional academic performance in economics and mathematics, as well as strong potential for advanced research. In addition, applicants must secure the support of a prospective advisor at the time of application to ensure a strong foundation for their thesis work from the outset.
Funding
Some funding for exceptional applicants is available. In addition, students may have opportunities to work as research and/or teaching assistants.
Fast tracking procedures
An additional attraction of the MA program is the possibility to directly transfer from the Master’s to the Doctoral Program without completing the full requirements for the Master’s degree. Upon recommendation from the Department, students with a strong academic record (CGPA of 3.5 or higher) and strong evidence that they are capable of successfully completing appropriate research for the Doctoral level may apply for this transfer after a minimum of 2 terms in the Master's program. If approved for fast-tracking, the student will enter the doctoral program at the PhD2 level.
Course failures
A student who fails (receives a grade less than 65%) one graduate course may be asked to withdraw from the M.A. program. The Department may allow the student to write a supplemental examination, re-take the course or, if the course is not a core course, substitute the failed course with another course. A student who fails two or more courses in the graduate program must withdraw from the M.A. program.