Corvinus University of Budapest

What you'll study

The programme focuses on the economic analysis of family behaviour and public interventions that shape human development across the life course. Core topics typically include microeconomic theory for policy analysis, applied econometrics and causal inference methods, public finance and welfare economics, and the economics of household decision‑making.

• Family economics and demography – household formation, fertility choices, intra‑household allocation, migration and population change.
• Public policies for children, families and ageing – family benefits, parental leave, childcare provision, pensions, long‑term care and intergenerational transfers.
• Policy evaluation and programme design – impact evaluation methods (experimental and quasi‑experimental), cost–benefit and cost–effectiveness analysis, monitoring and implementation challenges.
• Applied quantitative methods – advanced econometrics, panel data, discrete choice models, and use of administrative and survey data sources.
• Complementary social science modules – sociology of the family, gender and labour market dynamics, behavioural economics and ethics in policy making.

The structure usually combines taught modules with seminars and applied workshops, a practicum or internship option with public or non‑profit organisations, and a research thesis or capstone project that applies quantitative techniques to a policy question.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor’s degree in economics, public policy, social sciences, demography, statistics or a related field. Strong quantitative training at undergraduate level (microeconomics, econometrics, mathematics) is advantageous.

• Official transcripts demonstrating prior academic performance;
• A curriculum vitae outlining relevant academic or professional experience;
• A motivation letter explaining interest in family and human development policy and intended career direction;
• Letters of recommendation, typically one or two academic or professional referees;
• Proof of English language proficiency if your previous degree was not taught in English (standard tests such as IELTS or TOEFL are commonly accepted).

Some applicants may be asked to provide samples of quantitative coursework or to attend an interview. Specific admissions criteria and any required supporting documents are set by the university and should be checked on the programme’s official page.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for policy‑facing and analytical roles that require expertise in family policy, social protection and human development. Typical career paths include:

• Policy analyst or advisor in central government ministries (social affairs, labour, family, finance) and local authorities;
• Researcher or evaluator in national research institutes, statistical offices and university research centres;
• Programme officer, analyst or evaluator in international organisations and development agencies (e.g. UN agencies, World Bank, regional organisations) and European institutions;
• Analyst or consultant in think tanks, NGOs and policy consultancies working on social policy, gender and demographic change;
• Data‑driven roles in foundations, advocacy organisations and service providers focused on children, families and ageing populations.

The programme’s quantitative emphasis also provides a foundation for doctoral study in economics, demography or public policy.

Why study at Corvinus University of Budapest

Corvinus has a strong regional and international reputation in economics, public policy and social sciences, with faculty who publish on demographic change, social protection and labour market issues. The university’s location in Budapest gives excellent access to Central and Eastern European policy debates, comparative data sources and institutions.

• Interdisciplinary teaching that integrates economic techniques with demographic and sociological perspectives.
• Opportunities for applied research and internships through links with government agencies, research centres and international organisations based in the region.
• A diverse, international student body and teaching delivered in English, facilitating comparative perspectives on family policy and human development.

Prospective students should consult Corvinus University’s official programme pages for the most current information on course offerings, application procedures and support services.