Economics and Finance

The highlights

• Develop advanced expertise in economics and finance
• Build strong quantitative, econometrics, and data analysis skills
• Gain practical experience through applied projects and real-world assessment
• Analyse global financial markets, policy, and economic systems
• Explore sustainable finance and responsible economic decision-making
• Prepare for careers in banking, investment, consulting, and policy
• Complete an independent dissertation on a finance or economics topic

Understand financial markets and economic systems in a global context

The MSc Economics and Finance is a postgraduate degree designed to develop advanced expertise in economic theory, financial markets, and quantitative analysis. It aims to prepare you for careers in banking, investment, consultancy, and government by combining rigorous economic foundations with practical financial applications.

In an era of global economic volatility, financial innovation, and evolving regulatory landscapes, organisations increasingly require professionals who can interpret complex data, evaluate risk, and inform strategic decision-making. Financial systems and economies are shaped by global markets, policy interventions, technological change, and environmental challenges.

This MSc programme equips you with the analytical, quantitative, and professional skills needed to succeed in the fast-paced world of economics and finance, enabling you to respond effectively to global financial and economic challenges.

Develop the skills to analyse markets, data, and policy

This postgraduate degree in economics and finance provides a strong multidisciplinary foundation across economic theory, financial practice, and data analysis.

You will develop your understanding of the economic, financial, political, regulatory, environmental, and technological forces shaping global markets. Alongside this, you will build advanced quantitative and analytical skills, enabling you to interpret data, assess risk, and support effective decision-making.

A strong emphasis is placed on responsible and sustainable practice. The curriculum is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and designed to develop key sustainability competencies, preparing you to contribute to the development of fair, resilient, and sustainable financial systems.

By the end of the programme, you will be able to:

• Apply economic theory to real-world financial challenges
• Analyse financial markets and macroeconomic trends
• Use econometrics and data analysis tools effectively
• Evaluate policy decisions and their economic impact
• Make informed, responsible financial and strategic decisions

You will study a combination of core economics, finance, and quantitative modules.

Please note that our modules are subject to change - we review the content of our courses regularly, making changes where necessary to improve your experience and graduate prospects.

You will be part of the Derby International Business School and will have access to all the resources and specialised on-campus facilities offered by our dedicated Cavendish Building, inaugurated in September 2025. You will be taught in a modern, well-equipped and comfortable environment which includes the grand Ashby lecture theatre, the interactive and engaging Harvard-style Garfield Weston lecture theatre and our many welcoming study spaces and meeting rooms. As an economics and finance student, you will be able to take full advantage of our dedicated LSEG trading floor / financial markets lab and develop skills across multiple specialist software packages (STATA, SPSS, and others).

The MSc Economics and Finance programme combines academic rigour with practical application to enhance your career readiness. Teaching is designed to integrate theoretical knowledge with real-world financial and economic analysis.

You will engage with a range of learning methods, including:

• Lectures and interactive seminars
• Group research and presentations
• Case studies and applied financial analysis
• Independent study and guided research

Throughout your studies, you will develop key transferable skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication. You will also build strong digital capabilities through the use of data analysis software, online learning platforms, and specialist quantitative tools.

How you are assessed

Assessment is designed to reflect real-world financial and economic tasks. You will be assessed through a combination of exams, coursework, and practical assignments, including:

• Live briefs
• Computer-based and online tests
• Reflective statements
• Group work and analysis
• Practical activities
• Case studies
• Reports and essays

Graduates of this MSc in Economics and Finance develop strong expertise in economic analysis, financial decision-making, and quantitative methods. You will be able to interpret complex datasets, evaluate financial risks, analyse policy impacts, and communicate insights effectively to a range of stakeholders.

These skills are highly valued across the global economy and financial sector. The degree is particularly relevant for those pursuing careers in:

• Banking and financial services
• Investment and asset management
• Financial and economic consultancy
• Government and central banking institutions
• International organisations and NGOs
• Research and data analysis roles

By understanding the interaction between economic theory and financial practice, you will be well equipped to operate in complex, fast-changing environments and contribute to strategic decision-making at organisational and policy levels.

Applicants should hold a bachelor’s degree (minimum 2:2 Honours or international equivalent) in a relevant subject such as Economics, Finance, Mathematics, or Business.

Your degree should include a minimum of 120 credits in modules on:

• Microeconomics and macroeconomics, and
• Quantitative subjects such as mathematics, statistics, or econometrics (desirable)

Applicants with a lower classification in a relevant discipline may be considered if they can demonstrate relevant professional qualifications or experience supported by an employer reference, strong motivation, and the ability to succeed at postgraduate level. Where appropriate, interviews may be conducted by the programme leader.

If English is not your first language, you will also need IELTS 6.5 with 5.5 in each skills area.

Please note fees normally increase in line with inflation and the University's strategic approach to fees, which is reviewed on an annual basis. The total fee you pay may therefore increase after one year of study.

* UK full-time fees paid within one academic year are rounded down to the nearest £50 if applicable

About postgraduate awards

Please note at postgraduate level, you'll need to gain the following number of credits in total to obtain the respective awards. If you have any questions please contact us.

This means you will gain 180 credits in total to complete the full MA or MSc.

Funding your studies

Find out more about fees, postgraduate loans and support you may be entitled to.

Find out about funding your studiesFind out about funding your studies

Alumni discount for Derby graduates

We offer a discount on postgraduate course fees for all Derby alumni.

Find out about the Alumni discountFind out about the Alumni discount

Additional information about your studies

Teaching hours

Like most universities, we operate extended teaching hours at the University of Derby, so contact time with your lecturers and tutors could be anytime between 9am and 9pm. Your timetable will usually be available on the website 24 hours after enrolment on to your course.