Heriot Watt University UK United Kingdom

MA Economics and Finance

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 Finance at Heriot Watt University UK is designed for ambitious students eager to understand and influence the complex dynamics of global markets. You will explore core economic theories and financial principles, developing the analytical and quantitative skills essential for navigating challenges in business, policy, and investment. This postgraduate degree is ideal for those seeking to deepen their expertise in econometrics, financial markets, and economic policy, preparing you for impactful careers in a field driven by data and strategic decision-making.

This full-time, on-campus Masters programme is studied over one year, offering a rigorous curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. You will engage with subjects ranging from financial derivatives and corporate finance to advanced economic policy and econometrics, often through case studies and real-world problem-solving. You will develop your research capabilities, culminating in a dissertation where you can investigate a topic of personal interest. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for roles in finance, banking, economic consulting, and public policy analysis.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MA in Economics and Finance program provides a comprehensive education in economic theory, quantitative methods, and financial principles. Students will explore fundamental concepts in economics and finance, develop advanced analytical skills, and engage with specialized topics through a range of compulsory and optional modules. The curriculum progresses from introductory business and economic concepts to advanced economic policy, econometrics, and various aspects of corporate finance and financial markets.

1 Year 1

Management in a Global Context Compulsory
Introduction to Accounting and Finance Compulsory
Introduction to Marketing Compulsory
Academic Skills Compulsory
Discovering Business Compulsory
The Economy Compulsory
Becoming a Professional Compulsory

2 Year 2

Intermediate Economics 1: Theory and Techniques Compulsory
Fundamentals of Finance Compulsory
Quantitative Methods 1 Compulsory
Statistical Techniques Compulsory
Intermediate Economics 2 Compulsory
Financial Markets Theory Compulsory

3 Year 3

Advanced Economics 1 Compulsory
Introductory Econometrics Compulsory
Mergers and Acquisitions Optional
Management Accounting Techniques and Decisions Optional
Advanced Economics 2 Compulsory
Econometrics Project Compulsory
Managing Corporate Value Optional
Financial Derivatives Optional
Corporate Financial Theory Optional
Taxation (Tax Law) Optional

4 Year 4

Advanced Economic Policy 1 Compulsory
Economics Dissertation 1 Optional
International Trade Optional
Topics in World Economic History 1 Optional
Introduction to Public Choice and Welfare Economics Optional
A short history of economic thought over 2,500 years Optional
The Contemporary Workforce Optional
Employment Relations Optional
Management Dissertation 1 Optional
Global Business Analysis 1: International Markets and Strategy Optional
International Entrepreneurship Optional
Leisure Marketing Optional
Managing Business Performance Optional
Retail Marketing Optional
Accounting and Finance Dissertation 1 Optional
Agency Theory and Corporate Governance Optional
Accounting Theory Optional
Managerial Accounting: Decision Making Optional
Risk Management and Derivatives Optional
Advanced Economic Policy 2 Compulsory
Economics Dissertation 2 Optional
Development Economics 2 Optional
Economics of the European Union Optional
Econometric Methods Optional
Diversity Management Optional
Digital Marketing Optional
Global Business Analysis 2: Global Trends and Risks Optional
Management Dissertation 2 Optional
Changing Trends in Employment Optional
Marketing Sustainability Optional
Marketing and Management of SMEs Optional
Team Performance Dynamics Optional
Professional and Critical Theory Optional
Contemporary Issues in Finance Optional
Accounting and Finance Dissertation 2 Optional
Macro Analysis and Policy Optional
Corporate Reporting Optional
International Accounting Optional
Equity Markets and Fund Management Optional
Banking Optional
Advanced Valuation of Financial Markets 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

Brokerage & Trading & SecuritiesIndustry 4.0 & Digital ManufacturingLean Manufacturing & Process ImprovementNuclear EnergyPower Generation & UtilitiesPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalRefining & PetrochemicalsRenewable Energy (Solar & Wind)Supply Chain & ProcurementWealth Management & Financial Advisory

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Deloitte

EY

Lloyds Banking Group

NatWest Group

SLB

Shell

Why Study MA Economics and Finance 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 Finance 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.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, a TOEFL overall score of 79 or an IELTS overall score of 6.0 is needed. Other standardized tests like PTE also have specific score requirements.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as analysts, finance managers, policy advisors, financial consultants, or marketers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This joint degree combines economics and finance with a flexible structure to tailor your studies. You'll learn from respected economists and have access to the Bloomberg Finance Lab for practical skills.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The next intake for the MA Economics and Finance program is in September. Make sure to apply before the deadline to secure your spot.
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