University of Siena

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced theory and applied methods across core areas of modern economics. Teaching typically covers microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, applied and theoretical econometrics, and policy-focused fields such as public economics, international economics and development economics. The course balances compulsory core modules with electives so you can focus on areas such as financial economics, industrial organisation, labour economics, or environmental economics.

• Core modules: Advanced Microeconomics, Advanced Macroeconomics, Applied Econometrics and Research Methods.
• Applied/policy modules: Public Economics, International Trade and Finance, Development Economics, European Economic Policy.
• Quantitative and specialised options: Time Series and Forecasting, Financial Economics, Industrial Organisation, Game Theory, Labour Economics.
• Practical training: Data analysis workshops, computing for economists (e.g. STATA/R/Python), and applied project work.
• Dissertation: A supervised research thesis or applied project completed in the final year, often linked to faculty research or an external internship partner.

The programme is structured over two academic years with taught modules in the first year and a combination of electives, applied work and dissertation research in the second year. Assessment is typically by a mix of written exams, coursework, empirical projects and the final thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised first-cycle degree (bachelor’s or equivalent) in economics, business, mathematics, statistics or another quantitatively oriented discipline. A solid grounding in calculus, linear algebra, probability and basic econometrics is normally required.

• Academic transcripts: A transcript showing relevant quantitative coursework.
• Supporting documents: Curriculum vitae, a personal statement or motivation letter, and at least one academic reference.
• Language requirements: Proof of proficiency in the language of instruction is required for applicants whose prior education was not in that language; accepted tests and minimum scores follow university guidance.
• Additional checks: In some cases applicants may be asked to take an admission or qualifying assessment or to complete specified bridging modules if their background is judged insufficiently quantitative.

International applicants should ensure their qualifications are officially recognised and include any required documentation for enrolment and visa procedures as described by the university.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Master’s in Economics go on to a wide range of careers where analytical and quantitative skills are central. Common career paths include:

• Economic analyst or policy advisor in government ministries, central banks and international organisations.
• Researcher or analyst roles in think-tanks, research institutes and academic PhD programmes.
• Positions in banking, financial services, asset management and risk analysis.
• Consulting roles (economic consulting, management consulting) and data analytics positions in the private sector.
• Roles in NGOs or international development agencies focusing on program evaluation and policy design.

The programme’s emphasis on econometrics and applied projects also prepares students for doctoral study in economics and related fields.

Why study at University of Siena

The University of Siena is one of Italy’s historic universities with a strong academic tradition and an active research community in economics. The department offers small cohort sizes that enable close supervision for coursework and dissertation work, and faculty who publish in international journals.

• Research-led teaching: You benefit from staff engaged in empirical and theoretical research across macroeconomics, microeconomics and applied fields.
• Practical opportunities: The programme provides applied training in econometric software and access to seminar series and workshops that connect students with scholars and practitioners.
• Local and regional links: Siena’s location offers opportunities for internships and collaborations with regional public institutions, financial organisations and consultancy firms.
• Student support: The university provides administrative and career services, language courses and support for international students to adapt to academic and professional life in Italy.

Prospective students should consult the University of Siena’s official programme pages for up-to-date information on language of instruction, application procedures and detailed module lists.