University of Nottingham

What you'll study

This programme builds core skills in development economics, applied econometrics and public policy analysis. You will study advanced microeconomics and macroeconomics in the context of low- and middle-income countries, methods for causal inference and programme evaluation, and the economics of poverty, inequality and growth.

• Core topics: development microeconomics, macroeconomic policy and growth, applied econometrics and impact evaluation, and cost–benefit analysis for public projects.
• Optional/specialist topics: labour and migration in developing economies, agricultural and rural development, health and education economics, political economy and governance, and environmental or resource economics as they relate to development.
• Research project / dissertation: a substantial independent dissertation enables you to conduct original empirical or policy-relevant research under academic supervision, using micro or macro data and appropriate econometric techniques.
• Teaching and assessment: a mix of lectures, seminars, applied data workshops and one-to-one supervision. Assessment typically combines coursework, problem sets, data-based projects and the final dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a good undergraduate degree (typically an upper second-class honours degree or equivalent) in economics, econometrics, mathematics, statistics or a closely related quantitative discipline. Candidates should demonstrate solid quantitative skills, including competence in calculus, linear algebra and statistics or introductory econometrics.

Applicants with a lower second-class degree plus relevant work experience in a quantitative or policy role may be considered. All applicants whose first language is not English will need to provide evidence of English language proficiency in line with the university's requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates go on to careers in public policy, international development and research. Typical roles include policy analyst, impact evaluation specialist, economic consultant, research officer in governments or central banks, project economist for bilateral and multilateral development agencies, monitor and evaluation (M&E) consultant for NGOs, and analyst roles in think tanks and research institutes. Many alumni also use the MSc as preparation for doctoral study in development economics or related social sciences.

Why study at University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham offers a research-active environment with academic staff working on contemporary development challenges and applied econometric methods. The School provides access to training in statistical software, extensive library and data resources, and opportunities to engage with visiting researchers and policy practitioners. The programme’s emphasis on empirical methods and policy relevance prepares graduates to move straight into professional roles or to continue with further research training.