Course Overview
Course summary
Our Economics MSc is taught in the heart of London, placing you at the centre of one of the world’s leading hubs for finance, policy and global business. Studying at our Marylebone campus, you will benefit from access to two dedicated Bloomberg Financial Markets Labs and complete the Bloomberg Market Concepts certificate as part of the course.
What makes this MSc particularly distinctive is that, alongside rigorous training in economic analysis, you will explore how digital transformation, big data, and platform-based markets are reshaping economic systems and policy decisions. The course equips you to engage with some of the most pressing and rapidly evolving issues we face.
Through a dedicated Professional Development for Economists module, you will build your professional identity and prepare for key recruitment cycles in economics-related professions. You will also strengthen your data visualisation skills in R and Stata, equipping you to present economic insights confidently in professional settings.
The course is taught by an academic team of active researchers who also bring extensive professional experience from UK government departments and major international organisations. This ensures that your studies go beyond textbook economics, connecting theory directly to the real challenges.
Teaching is supported by authentic, applied forms of assessment that emphasise real-world problem-solving, offering a clear shift away from conventional exam-based testing and preparing you to use economics in the workplace.
Top reasons to study with us
- Learn to visualise and interpret real-world economic data using our two state-of-the-art Bloomberg Financial Market Suites.
- Complete the Bloomberg Market Concepts certificate as part of your MSc.
- Gain hands-on training in industry-standard tools, including R and Stata, widely used in economics and related careers.
- Study in central London, with teaching shaped by research and experience from government and global organisations.
- Learn through authentic, applied assessments rather than traditional exams.
- Explore future-focused economics, including digital markets, big data, platforms and technological change.
- Strengthen your professional identity through a dedicated module focused on careers, networking and data visualisation skills.
- Economics at Westminster is shaped by research with real-world impact, influencing policy and professional practice in the UK and internationally.
Course structure
Teaching combines lectures, seminars, workshops and hands-on lab sessions, including training in our Bloomberg Financial Markets Suites. You’ll work with real-world, real-time datasets, develop applied skills in R and Stata, and explore cutting-edge themes such as digital markets, platform economics, and big data. A dedicated Professional Development for Economists module builds networking, communication and career confidence, while your learning culminates in an independent Economics Project applying advanced analysis to real economic issues.
Core modules
In an increasingly digitised world, economists must navigate and interpret vast volumes of data and understand the evolving structures of digital markets. This module examines the convergence of digital technologies, economic theory and data science. You will examine platform-based business models, pricing strategies, and consumer behaviour in online marketplaces. The module also introduces key tools and principles of big data analytics, showing how digital innovation is transforming economic systems and shaping strategic decision-making.
20 credits
This module develops your practical understanding of the core econometric methods used in modern economics. You will study key techniques such as the Classical Linear Regression Model, Ordinary Least Squares, and maximum likelihood estimation, alongside hypothesis testing and structural break analysis. The module also addresses major econometric challenges including multicollinearity, autocorrelation and heteroscedasticity. You will gain experience with time series methods, forecasting and volatility modelling, supported by hands-on training in essential econometrics software.
20 credits
The Economics Project is the culmination of your MSc learning, allowing you to investigate an economic question of your choice in depth. Building on the proposal developed in the Research Methods module, you will design and conduct an independent piece of postgraduate research, typically involving an empirical component. With guidance from your supervisor, you will apply advanced quantitative or data-modelling techniques and produce a professionally relevant research report. The project also includes a structured reflective element, enabling you to evaluate your development as an economist and researcher.
20 credits
This module examines the international macroeconomic environment and the functioning of global financial markets. You will explore the role of financial institutions, foreign exchange and interest rate markets, and key instruments such as derivatives and hedging strategies used to manage risk. The module also covers capital flows, foreign direct investment, portfolio diversification and major contemporary issues including sovereign debt and financial crises. You will develop the analytical tools needed to understand investment decisions and global financial instability.
20 credits
Trade is a central driver of economic growth in an interconnected global economy. This module provides an in-depth understanding of international trade theory, current policy debates, and the real-world impact of trade agreements and supply chains. You will examine globalisation in goods and services trade, analyse real-world data, and explore how regional and multilateral arrangements shape trade outcomes. By the end of the module, you will be able to critically evaluate trade policy formulation and contemporary trade challenges.
20 credits
This module introduces the key theories and empirical evidence that underpin modern macroeconomics. You will explore foundational concepts in growth, inflation, unemployment and monetary and fiscal policy, developing the analytical framework needed to evaluate contemporary macroeconomic challenges. The module connects theory to policy debates, equipping you to understand how macroeconomic decisions shape economic performance in complex and uncertain environments.
20 credits
This module applies microeconomic theory to the analysis of real-world public policy problems. You will examine models of individual choice, production and market behaviour, and explore how these frameworks inform policy evaluation. The module also investigates market failure, institutional design and the role of competition policy across different countries. Throughout, you will develop critical tools for understanding how micro-level incentives shape economic outcomes.
20 credits
This dedicated module equips you with the technical and professional skills needed for a successful career in economics. You will gain hands-on experience in data visualisation and economic evidence communication, including training in our Bloomberg Financial Markets Suites. The module also provides a focused introduction to applied visualisation techniques using R and Stata. Alongside technical training, you will develop your professional identity through CV and LinkedIn support, networking strategies, and preparation for key recruitment pathways in economics-related careers.
20 credits
Research Methods provides the foundation for your independent MSc project and for advanced postgraduate study. You will develop competence in research design, qualitative and quantitative methods, and the practical application of mixed-method approaches. The module covers data collection, analysis techniques and the presentation of findings, supporting you in formulating strong research questions and producing a robust project proposal for the Economics Project module.
20 credits
For more details on course structure, modules, teaching and assessment Download the programme specification (PDF).
To request an accessible version please email [email protected]
Get your copy of the University of Westminster prospectus and browse the range of courses on offer.
Contact us for general course enquiries:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 EXT 65511
(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
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(Mon–Fri, 10am–4pm GMT)
Open evenings
Join us at an open evening online or on campus. Get a feel for student life at the University of Westminster and talk to course leaders and our support teams.
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Careers
As an economics postgraduate, you can look forward to excellent career prospects. Our students have gone on to successful careers in government and consultancy as economic analysts, regulatory economists and market analysts.
The strong international focus of the course provides an excellent opportunity to develop the knowledge and skills to pursue a career in multinational companies or international organisations. Many graduates return to their countries of origin and are employed in developing international business opportunities or government institutions, while other graduates develop their careers with international charities or other non-governmental organisations. Several of our recent graduates have also found that the course opened up opportunities for PhD study.
Careers support
You’ll have access to the University’s careers resources during your studies and for up to three years after you graduate, through Zone29.
Job-ready skills
Gain experience in interview and presentation scenarios, helping you build confidence and stand out in job applications and the workplace.
Develop your CQ
Develop your cultural intelligence – or ‘CQ’ – studying alongside students and staff representing more than 100 nationalities.
Industry links
Based in central London, Westminster Business School is closely connected to the city’s finance, policy and business communities. Our Strategic Advisory Board brings together senior industry leaders and thought partners, helping ensure teaching and research remain aligned with real-world employer needs and emerging economic trends. Course staff maintain strong professional links through consultancy and applied policy work, bringing current industry insight directly into the classroom.
Graduate employers
Graduates from the Business School have found employment at organisations including:
- Deloitte
- European Commission
- International Monetary Fund
- KPMG UK
- The UK Government Economic Service
Job roles
This course will prepare you for roles in a variety of areas, including;
Consultant
Economist (in the private and public sectors)
Economic advisor/analyst
Policy Advisor
Researcher
Accelerate your career at Zone29
Zone29 is our new home of careers and enterprise.
Our doors are set to open in spring 2026, but game-changing opportunities are available now, such as:
- jobs and placements
- tailored career advice and industry mentoring
- careers events led by industry experts
- help with developing your own business or freelance career
- enhancing your career planning through the Westminster Award
Course Leader
Dr Karen Jackson
Reader
Dr Karen Jackson is a Reader in Economics and College Director of International Development at Westminster Business School. Her research focuses on international trade, finance and development, supported by extensive policy experience with the UK Department for International Development and organisations such as ODI Global and the Commonwealth Secretariat. She has published widely, submitted evidence to the UK Parliament’s International Trade Committee, and is quoted in national media, including the Daily Telegraph and iPaper.
London is a living economics laboratory: our MSc equips you with advanced analytical skills for digital transformation and the work-ready skills employers value.
Course Team
Research Groups
Economics at Westminster is shaped by research with real-world impact, influencing policy and professional practice in the UK and internationally. In REF2021, Westminster Business School was recognised for the strength of its research environment: the majority of its research was classified as world-leading or internationally excellent, and its research impact was ranked 2nd out of 108 submissions in Business and Management.
Students benefit from engagement with our active research communities, including the Global Economic Policy Group (GEPG). GEPG is an international partnership between the University of Westminster, Fern Universität in Hagen (Germany), and Shandong University (China), promoting collaborative research in international economics. The group hosts regular workshops and seminars featuring leading scholars from institutions such as the Kiel Institute for the World Economy, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, and the University of Zurich.
Find out more about our research groups related to this course:
Why study this course?
Work with real economic data
Use industry-standard software and datasets to analyse, interpret and present economic evidence confidently.
Future-focused digital economics
Explore platforms, big data and digital markets shaping the modern economy.
Career-ready economist skills
Tackle real-world economic challenges, from market behaviour to policy, with practical, career-ready skills.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2).
We do not specify a required degree subject with cohorts ranging across the degree disciplines. The primary requirement is the aptitude and motivation to engage with subject areas that are new. Allied to an appreciation that some subject areas may require greater engagement than others in order to successfully complete the course.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each component.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for application
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2).
A relevant degree, which would be a single Honours or a major in Economics, or a quantitative discipline with a minor in Economics, or a more general first degree with significant study of economics and quantitative methods. Non-graduates with extensive work experience in the economics or closely-related profession will also be considered.
If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each component.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what to include with your application
- deadlines for application and enrolment
More information
University preparation courses
Our partner college, Kaplan International College London, offers Pre-Master’s courses that may help you gain a place on a postgraduate degree at Westminster.
To find out more, visit University preparation courses.
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2).
We do not specify a required degree subject with cohorts ranging across the degree disciplines. The primary requirement is the aptitude and motivation to engage with subject areas that are new. Allied to an appreciation that some subject areas may require greater engagement than others in order to successfully complete the course.
If your first language is not English, you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each component.
Recognition of prior learning and experience
If you have previously studied at university level, or have equivalent work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your course at Westminster. For more information, visit our Recognition of Prior Learning page.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what you need to apply
- deadlines for application
A minimum of a lower second class honours degree (2:2).
A relevant degree, which would be a single Honours or a major in Economics, or a quantitative discipline with a minor in Economics, or a more general first degree with significant study of economics and quantitative methods. Non-graduates with extensive work experience in the economics or closely-related profession will also be considered.
If your first language is not English you should have an IELTS 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each component.
Application process
Visit our How to apply page for more information on:
- the application process
- what to include with your application
- deadlines for application and enrolment
More information
University preparation courses
Our partner college, Kaplan International College London, offers Pre-Master’s courses that may help you gain a place on a postgraduate degree at Westminster.
To find out more, visit University preparation courses.
Learn new skills
Advanced economic analysis
Build advanced analytical and quantitative skills to interpret data and solve complex economic problems.
Data and econometrics skills
Analyse real-world datasets using industry-standard statistical and econometric software.
Applied policy and digital insight
Connect economic theory to real-world policy and the economics of digital change.
Fees and Funding
UK tuition fee: £12,900 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
All compulsory field trips that are a required part of your programme are funded by the department. For optional field trips, students are asked to contribute approximately 20% toward the overall cost and pay a non-refundable deposit to secure a place. These optional trips are subsidised by the department to help make them as accessible as possible.
Full details of any expected costs, including the amount of any deposit, what it covers, and the total expected cost of participation, will be provided to you in advance, before you are asked to confirm your place or make any financial commitment. We aim to keep these costs as low as reasonably possible.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
International tuition fee: £15,000 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
All compulsory field trips that are a required part of your programme are funded by the department. For optional field trips, students are asked to contribute approximately 20% toward the overall cost and pay a non-refundable deposit to secure a place. These optional trips are subsidised by the department to help make them as accessible as possible.
Full details of any expected costs, including the amount of any deposit, what it covers, and the total expected cost of participation, will be provided to you in advance, before you are asked to confirm your place or make any financial commitment. We aim to keep these costs as low as reasonably possible.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
UK tuition fee: £12,900 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There is a range of funding available that may help you fund your studies, including Student Finance England (SFE).
Find out more about postgraduate student funding options.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
All compulsory field trips that are a required part of your programme are funded by the department. For optional field trips, students are asked to contribute approximately 20% toward the overall cost and pay a non-refundable deposit to secure a place. These optional trips are subsidised by the department to help make them as accessible as possible.
Full details of any expected costs, including the amount of any deposit, what it covers, and the total expected cost of participation, will be provided to you in advance, before you are asked to confirm your place or make any financial commitment. We aim to keep these costs as low as reasonably possible.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
International tuition fee: £15,000 (Price per academic year)
When you have enrolled with us, your annual tuition fees will remain the same throughout your studies with us. We do not increase your tuition fees each year.
Find out how we set our tuition fees.
Paying your fees
If you don't wish to pay the whole amount of your fees at once, you may be able to pay by instalments. This opportunity is available if you have a personal tuition fee liability of £2,000 or more and if you are self-funded or funded by the Student Loans Company.
Find out more about paying your fees.
Alumni discount
This course is eligible for an alumni discount. Find out if you are eligible and how to apply by visiting our Alumni discounts page.
Funding
There are a number of funding schemes available to help you fund your studies with us.
Find out more about funding for international students.
Scholarships
The University is dedicated to supporting ambitious and outstanding students and we offer a variety of scholarships to eligible postgraduate students.
Find out if you qualify for one of our scholarships.
Additional costs
See what you may need to pay for separately and what your tuition fees cover.
All compulsory field trips that are a required part of your programme are funded by the department. For optional field trips, students are asked to contribute approximately 20% toward the overall cost and pay a non-refundable deposit to secure a place. These optional trips are subsidised by the department to help make them as accessible as possible.
Full details of any expected costs, including the amount of any deposit, what it covers, and the total expected cost of participation, will be provided to you in advance, before you are asked to confirm your place or make any financial commitment. We aim to keep these costs as low as reasonably possible.
The University of Westminster also offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to support students with their studies and related costs. For full and up-to-date information, please refer to the Student Finance page.
We Are Westminster Blog
Read our blog to get an insight into student life and studying at the University of Westminster.
Teaching and Assessment
How you’ll be taught
Teaching methods across all our postgraduate courses focus on active student learning through lectures, seminars, workshops, problem-based and blended learning, and where appropriate practical application. Learning typically falls into two broad categories:
- Scheduled hours: examples include lectures, seminars, practical classes, workshops, supervised time in a studio
- Independent study: non-scheduled time in which students are expected to study independently. This may include preparation for scheduled sessions, dissertation/final project research, follow-up work, wider reading or practice, completion of assessment tasks, or revision
How you’ll be assessed
Our postgraduate courses include a variety of assessments, which typically fall into three broad categories:
- Written exams: end of semester exams
- Practical: examples include presentations, podcasts, blogs
- Coursework: examples include essays, in-class tests, portfolios, dissertation
Facilities
The Learning Platform
Lecture theatres
Library
Bloomberg Financial Market Suite
Meeting spaces
Cafe
Supporting you
Our Student Hub is where you’ll find out about the services and support we offer, helping you get the best out of your time with us.
- Study support – workshops, 1-2-1 support and online resources to help improve your academic and research skills
- Personal tutors – support you in fulfilling your academic and personal potential
- Student advice team – provide specialist advice on a range of issues including funding, benefits and visas
- Extra-curricular activities – volunteering opportunities, sports and fitness activities, student events and more
Course Location
Our Marylebone Campus has benefitted from a multi-million-pound refurbishment resulting in new workshops, digital studios and development of the Marylebone Library. The campus is home to Westminster Business School and our award-winning Architecture, Planning and Tourism courses. For more details, visit our Marylebone Campus page.
This course is based at Marylebone, though some teaching may take place at our other central London campuses.
Westminster Business School
Based in the heart of London’s business, financial, political and media services, Westminster Business School has excellent industry links and a strong commitment to social enterprise.
Our courses are accredited by professional bodies, including the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB), Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM), Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Our practical teaching relates learning to the real world, developing graduates who are ready to respond to contemporary business challenges.
CHANGES TO OUR COURSES
All content on our course pages is accurate at time of publication.
Where significant or material changes have been made, applicants will be informed of these in line with Competition and Markets Authority guidance.
Contact us
Call our dedicated team on:
+44 (0)20 7911 5000 ext 65511
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
Opening hours (GMT): 10am–4pm Monday to Friday
More information
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