University of Essex

MSc Financial and Business Economics

University of Essex

Course overview

The MSc Financial and Business Economics programme at the University of Essex is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in economic principles at the core of finance and business decision-making. It also helps them develop an awareness of how these principles are applied in the corporate world.

The MSc Finance and Business Economics programme at the University of Essex focuses on financial markets and institutions, equipping students with analytical skills to explore emerging market trends, banking systems and monetary policies. Students will have the opportunity to study and work alongside prominent economists and researchers who will guide them through the complexities of the global financial market.

Through this course,  students have the opportunity to study abroad at one of the university's partner institutions and achieve a dual award, meaning they will receive two master's degrees in two years.

Entry requirements

Entry Requirements:

  • Applicants are required to submit a personal statement, a letter of recommendation or any relevant information regarding their academic background.

Grade Requirements: 

  • A 2:2 degree, or international equivalent, in any discipline which includes three relevant modules in econometrics (or maths or statistics), macroeconomics and microeconomics

  • The university will also consider applicants with any other 2:2 degree or above where there is at least one year's relevant work experience, after graduating, in the field of economics/banking.

English Proficiency: 

  • Non-native English speakers may need to demonstrate proficiency in the language, typically through an IELTS overall score of at least 6.0 with a minimum score of 5.5 in all components.

  • If you do not meet our IELTS requirements, then you may be able to complete a pre-sessional English pathway that enables you to start your course without retaking IELTS.

Scholarships

  • Alumni Loyalty Discount

    First Class or Distinction, 2.1 or Merit, 2.2 or successful completion of a Masters, Graduate or PG Diploma - 20%.

    Up to 20% of fees

  • Essex Futures BT– Masters Scholarship

    School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering (CSEE) is delighted to be offering up to six scholarship worth £5,500 each for 1 year full time.

    Up to £5,500

  • Global Talent Masters Scholarship

    You could be eligible for a scholarship worth £5,000, paid as a discount on your tuition fee.

    Up to £5,000

  • Hugh Brogan Bursary

    If you are applying to study a History MA degree, you could be eligible for one of four available cash bursaries worth £2,500.

    Up to £2,500

  • Postgraduate Masters (PGT) International Health Bursary

    The University is offering a bursary of £776 for Masters (PGT) international students.

    Up to £776

  • Postgraduate Premium Pathway Scholarship

    You could be eligible for a tuition fee discount of £6,500, for your first year of study at Essex.

    Up to £6,500

  • Sociology and Criminology - Fuller PGT Scholarship

    The Department of Sociology and Criminology is offering scholarships of £11,025 to support six postgraduate students to study within the department in 2026-2027.

    Up to £11,025

  • The Eleonore Koch Travel Fund

    The School of Philosophical, Historical & Interdisciplinary Studies is offering a bursary of up to £5,000.

  • The Essex MBA Dean's Award

    The school is able to offer fee discounts between 10% - 100% of tuition fee value.

  • The Ronald J. Hill Fund

    The department of Government is offering a bursary of £3,000 to assist one postgraduate student within the department of Government to assist with tuition fees or living costs.

    Up to £3,000

  • University of Sanctuary Scholarship

Career opportunities

Graduates of the MSc Finance and Business Economics degree can pursue careers in various roles, including 

  • Investment Banker

  • Policy Advisor

  • Economic Consultant

  • Portfolio Manager

  • Financial Analyst

  • Regulatory Economist

Cost of study

For international students enrolling in the MSc Finance and Business Economics programme at the University of Essex, the tuition fee for the 2025/2026 academic session is £23,500. Students should note that tuition fees will increase by up to 5% for each subsequent academic year of study. This is subject to review for each academic year.

Admission

Your Application

To apply for this course, you’ll need to go through UCAS. To find out more about this process, speak to one of our trained counsellors.

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