Behavioural and Economic Science (Economics) (MSc)

at University of Warwick

This course emphasises both theoretical foundations and real-world application in core and advanced areas of behavioural economics, and the cognitive science of judgement and decision making. It is for you if you intend to work in a business environment (e.g. consumer-led industries and the financial sector), and if you are concerned with public policy and its implementation.

It also provides an excellent foundation if you are intending to undertake further postgraduate research. A 20,000-word written project report provides an opportunity to explore your own interests across these fields of study.

The Economics variant of the course is designed for students with a first degree in Economics. A Science track variant of the course is offered by the Department of PsychologyLink opens in a new window and is available if you have a first degree in Science.

You will be automatically enrolled on a pre-sessional Mathematics and Statistics programme to equip you with the relevant methodological skills you need to succeed on the course.

 

Core modules

The following basic structure applies to MSc Behavioural and Economic Science (Economics Track):

An online Pre-sessional Mathematics and Statistics course for the first two weeks. You will need a computer with good internet access to allow for this period of online study.

• Microeconomics A

or

• Microeconomics B

These Term One modules will develop your understanding of advanced microeconomic analysis, with a more applied version (A) or a more technical/theoretically orientated version (B). As a guide, we expect students opting for the B version to have obtained the equivalent of a First class mark (70%) in their undergraduate studies, though we will consider a request to take a B variant even if that prerequisite is not met.

• Quantitative Methods: Econometrics A

or

• Quantitative Methods: Econometrics B

Both modules are taught in Term One. Econometrics A covers fundamental econometrics research skills and Econometrics B will supplement the development of these key and fundamental professional skills by looking at more advanced topics.

• Issues in Psychological Science
• Methods and Analysis in Behavioural Science
• Behavioural and Economic Science Project
• Five optional modules

Students need to have previously completed undergraduate courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics/economic statistics at an intermediate level. The MSc Behavioural and Economic Science (Economics Track) is a quantitative degree and students will need to be competent in several areas of mathematics. All students attend a short pre-sessional mathematics and statisticsLink opens in a new window course before the term starts.

Core and optional core modules

• Microeconomics A or Microeconomics B
• Quantitative Methods: Econometrics A or Quantitative Methods: Econometrics B
• Issues in Psychological Science
• Methods and Analysis in Behavioural Science
• Behavioural and Economic Science Project

Optional modules
Optional modules can vary from year to year. Example optional modules may include:

• Experimental Economics
• Behavioural Economics
• Psychological Modules of Choice
• Behavioural Change: Nudging and Persuasion
• Neuroeconomics
• Bayesian Approaches to Behavioural Science
• Principles of Cognition
• Behavioural Ethics
• Behavioural Finance
   

Minimum requirements

2:i undergraduate degree (or equivalent) specialising mainly in economics. This means you should have achieved a good standard in undergraduate courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics/economic statistics at an intermediate level.

We also expect a good standard achieved in mathematics taken at undergraduate level.

English language requirements

• Band A
• Overall score 6.5 and none below 6.0 is required.
   

The University carries out an initial fee status assessment based on information provided in the application and according to the guidance published by UKCISA. Students are classified as either Home or Overseas Fee status and this can determine the tuition fee and eligibility of certain scholarships and financial support.

If you receive an offer, your fee status will be stated with the tuition fee information, however we are awaiting guidance from the UK government regarding fee status for EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals and their family members living in the UK for academic year 2021/22 onwards. We are not able to confirm the fee status for these students until the relevant eligibility criteria have been confirmed. Once we have received further information from the UK government, we will provide you with an update on your fee status and let you know if any additional information is required. If you believe your fee status has been incorrectly classified you can complete a fee status assessment questionnaire (follow the instructions in your offer) and provide the required documentation for this to be reassessed.

 

Graduates from our Master’s courses have gone on to work for employers including:

• Bank of America
• Bank of China
• China Merchants Bank
• Citibank
• Deloitte
• EY
• European Central Bank
• Frontier Economics
• HM Treasury
• HSBC
• IMF
• KPMG
• World Trade Organisation

They have pursued roles such as:

• Economists
• Analysts
• Consultants
• Researchers
• Business and financial project management professionals
• Chartered and certified accountants
• Actuaries
• Statisticians
• Quality assurance and regulatory professionals

Our department has a dedicated professionally qualified Senior Careers Consultant offering impartial advice and guidance together with workshops and events throughout the year. Previous examples of workshops and events include:

• Careers in Economics Webinar Series
• Careers in Economics Event
• Investment Banking Uncovered
• Warwick careers fairs throughout the year
• Mock Assessment Centre workshops
• Manage Your Digital Identity and Use LinkedIn Effectively