MA Financial Economics

Why choose this course?

This MA will enable you to have a sound understanding of the functions, institutions and instruments of finance, and to know how and why financial systems differ. Taking a pluralist theoretical approach, the MA provides an in-depth study of how finance affects the broader economy, and how the behaviour of firms, households and governments are adapting as the financial sector evolves through processes of innovation and growth. Drawing at all times on empirical data - from flow of funds at the macro level down to balance sheet analysis at the micro level of the firm - you will develop the key analytical skills necessary for carrying out research in contemporary issues in financial economics. This course offers a good preparation for work in a range of public and private institutions that require a real knowledge of finance and its effect on the broader, contemporary economy. The microeconomic skills you'll develop can be used in roles that undertake company valuation such as private banks or pension funds. The macro focus lends itself to risk management in financial institutions, or in domestic and international regulatory agencies, as well as any organisation looking at the link between finance and development such as development banks. Like all economics postgraduates, you will be very well placed to gain roles in the Government Economic Service, in economic consultancy or policy positions in think-tanks and non-governmental organisations, but you will have an additional edge with your critical knowledge of finance.

What you will study

You will study core aspects of macro- and microeconomic theories, taking a pluralist approach, and develop an understanding of the long-term historical and conceptual context of contemporary issues and debates. Consequently, you will master a range of economic analysis, key analytical skills and empirical background necessary to participate in discussions on financial economic issues. You will work individually with a member of staff to choose a topic for your dissertation, research this topic and write up your conclusions. Your topic will be a contemporary issue relating to financial economics. You will work on your dissertation with a member of the Economics department who specialises in and pursues research in the field of financial economics.

Teaching and assessment

Assessment typically comprises exams (eg test or exam), practical (eg presentations, performance) and coursework (eg essays, reports, self-assessment, portfolios, dissertation).