Program Overview

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Are you fascinated by both economic and political processes behind public policy decision-making? Do you wish to develop a critical understanding of government processes and their results? Would you like to combine your interests in economics and politics? In our MA Economics with Public Policy, you’ll build an in-depth understanding of the key areas of economics and all aspects of public policy through studying topics such as: the foundations of public policy, microeconomics and econometrics methods and evaluating public policy. You’ll also have the option to explore topics in public policy related to core economics issues, such as policy surrounding financial markets. Through studying MA Economics and Public Policy, you’ll be equipped with an indispensable skillset in critical thinking, communication and argument development and analytics, which are highly sought after by employers today. You will work with experts from within our Department of Economics. We are 4th in UK for research power in economics and econometrics (Times Higher Education research power measure, Research Excellence Framework 2021). In addition to our Department of Government, who are 6th in UK for research power in politics and international studies (Times Higher Education research power measure, Research Excellence Framework 2021). Why we're great.

• We connect our research with our teaching so what you learn about is relevant today.
• Benefit from academic expertise from both the Department of Economics and Department of Government.
• We are 4th in UK for research power in economics and econometrics (Times Higher Education research power measure, Research Excellence Framework 2021).

Our expert staff

You’ll learn from and contribute to world-leading research in our Department of Economics and Department of Government. Our economic researchers are at the forefront of their field and have even received MBEs, with students coming from across the globe to study, research or work with us, whilst the Department of Government boasts some of the biggest names in their field of work, giving you unparalleled access to some of the best minds in politics.

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Specialist facilities

Take advantage of our wide range of learning resources to assist you in your studies:

• Extensive software for quantitative analysis is available in all computer labs across the university
• Work with researchers to learn how to conduct experiments from start to finish, as a lab assistant in ESSEXLab, our state-of-the-art social science experimental lab
• Access a variety of economics databases and multiple copies of textbooks and e-books in the Albert Sloman Library

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Your future

After completing your masters, you may wish to extend your knowledge with a research degree – many Essex graduates decide to stay here for further study. Alternatively, our MA Economics with Public Policy will help you develop key employability skills which will make you attractive within both public and private sector roles, including analytical awareness, critical thinking, research and communication skills. Our recent Master’s level Economics graduates have gone on to work for a range of high-profile organisations like the Bank of England and the International Monetary Fund. We also work with the university’s Student Development Team to help you find out about further work experience, internships, placements, and voluntary opportunities.