Heriot Watt University UK United Kingdom

MA Economics and Business Management

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The MA Economics and Business Management at Heriot-Watt University UK is a joint degree designed for ambitious students aiming for dynamic careers in the global business arena. You will develop a sophisticated understanding of economic principles and management strategies, equipping you to analyse complex market dynamics and make informed business decisions. This programme is ideal if you seek to build a robust foundation in both quantitative analysis and strategic thinking, preparing you for a wide range of professional roles. You will learn from respected academics whose research directly informs the curriculum, ensuring your studies remain relevant and impactful.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate degree is studied over four years, providing a comprehensive journey through economic theory, financial analysis, and organisational management. You will engage with core subjects like econometrics and strategic management, alongside optional modules allowing you to specialise in areas such as finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship. Through projects, case studies, and potentially a dissertation, you will hone your analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills. You will graduate prepared for diverse career paths in banking, finance, consulting, policy analysis, and general management.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive study of economic principles and business management strategies across four years. Students will explore core economic theories, analytical techniques, and financial concepts, alongside essential management functions such as accounting, marketing, and organizational behavior. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics, including econometrics, strategic management, and specialized areas within economics and finance, culminating in a dissertation or project work.

1 Year 1

The Economy Compulsory
Critical Academic Skills Compulsory
Introduction to Accounting Compulsory
Management in a Global Context Compulsory
Introduction to Economic and Financial Analysis Compulsory
Introductory Finance Compulsory
Sustainable Business Compulsory
Becoming a Professional Compulsory

2 Year 2

Intermediate Economics 1: Theory and Techniques Compulsory
Introduction to Data Analysis and Probability Compulsory
Fundamentals of Marketing Optional
Human Resource Management Optional
Social and Environmental Accounting Optional
Fundamentals of Finance Optional
Intermediate Economics 2 Compulsory
Statistical Techniques Compulsory
Contemporary Economic Policy and Institutions Optional
Financial Markets Theory Optional
Financial Accounting Optional
Management Accounting in Organisations Optional
Organisational Behaviour Optional
Enterprise: Concepts and Issues Optional
Operations Management Optional

3 Year 3

Advanced Economics 1 Compulsory
Introductory Econometrics Compulsory
Introduction to Public Choice and Welfare Economics Optional
Introduction to Commercial Law Optional
Leading in Organisations Optional
Project Management Optional
Mergers and Acquisitions Optional
Intermediate Financial Accounting Optional
Games and Behaviour Compulsory
Econometrics Project Compulsory
Strategic Management Compulsory
Contextualising the World Economy Optional
Applied Financial Modelling in Python Optional
Managing Corporate Value Optional
Innovation Management Optional
Marketing and Consumer Law Optional

4 Year 4

Advanced Economic Policy 1 Compulsory
International Entrepreneurship Compulsory
Economics Dissertation 1 Optional
Environmental and Natural Resource Economics Optional
Empirical Industrial Organisation Optional
Managing Business Performance Optional
Agency Theory and Corporate Governance Optional
Managerial Accounting: Decision Making Optional
Risk Management and Derivatives Applications Optional
Advanced Economic Policy 2 Compulsory
Sustainable Change Management Compulsory
Economics Dissertation 2 Optional
Development Economics Optional
Labour Economics Optional
Marketing Sustainability Optional
Contemporary Issues in Finance Optional
Banking Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

14% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,605.00 USD 28,645.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,645.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,645.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 28,645.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 110,541.00 USD 114,580.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 503.00 - USD 2,667.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on Edinburgh Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accounting & AuditingBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesEnergy Trading & MarketsHealth, Safety & Environment (HSE)Hydropower & Alternative RenewablesPower Generation & UtilitiesProduction & Operations ManagementTax & Legal ComplianceWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Deloitte

EY

Lloyds Banking Group

NatWest Group

SLB

Shell

Why Study MA Economics and Business Management at Heriot Watt University UK

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Heriot Watt University UK in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MA Economics and Business Management at Heriot Watt University UK

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks, without needing a separate work permit. However, part-time students cannot work.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can achieve specific scores in TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE tests. For example, in TOEFL, you need an overall score of 79, with minimum scores in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as analysts, managers, marketers, and finance professionals.

What will I actually study in this course?

This joint degree prepares you for a career in business by focusing on essential skills in economics and management. It offers a flexible structure that allows you to tailor your studies to your career interests.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MA Economics and Business Management program at Heriot-Watt University has an intake in September each year. Be sure to apply in advance to secure your place.
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