Program Overview

Graduate Diploma Economics

The University of Essex offers a Graduate Diploma in Economics, a full-time, nine-month course designed for individuals whose first degree is in a subject other than economics or whose economics training does not provide sufficient technical experience for direct entry into the MSc courses.

Overview

The Graduate Diploma in Economics is based in the Department of Economics and is located at the Colchester Campus. The course starts in October and has a duration of 9 months. The diploma provides students with the essentials of micro- and macroeconomics, allowing them to explore topics that interest them the most, such as international trade, health, mathematical methods, or theories of monopolies.

Entry Requirements

• A 2:2 degree in any discipline, with at least one module in subjects like Accounting, Economics, Business, Finance, Management, Maths, or Statistics.
• Applicants with any other 2:2 degree or above and one year's relevant work experience after graduating may also be considered.
• International and EU students must have qualifications accepted by the University, and English language requirements include an IELTS 6.0 overall with a minimum score of 5.5 in all components.

Structure

The course structure includes:

• Macroeconomics (Intermediate): A 30-credit module that teaches tools for macroeconomic analysis and their application to macro-policy issues.
• Microeconomics (Intermediate): A 30-credit module that covers the fundamental concepts and methods in microeconomics.
• Optional Modules: Students can choose from a list of optional modules offered by the department, allowing for specialization or breadth of understanding across several topics.

Teaching and Assessment

• Postgraduate students typically attend a two-hour lecture and a one-hour class or lab for each module per week.
• Core components can be combined with optional modules.
• Assessment includes a final examination and a coursework component, such as a term paper or a midterm test.

Fees and Funding

• Home/UK fee: Ł7,277
• International fee: Ł15,758
• Scholarships, bursaries, or discounts may be available to help with the cost of the course.

What's Next

After completing the Graduate Diploma, students may proceed to an MSc course if they obtain a Merit or Distinction. The University also offers support for further study, employment, or other opportunities.

Related Courses

• MRes Economics
• MA Economics
• MSc Economics

Research Areas

The Department of Economics has particular strengths in:

• Game theory and strategic interactions
• Theoretical and applied econometrics
• Labour economics

The University of Essex is ranked 4th in the UK for research power in economics and econometrics, with a stream of publications in high-profile academic journals.