Our master programme

Master in International economics

A PATHWAY TO A CAREER IN INTERNATIONAL ECONOMICS


Our Master Programme aim to develop advanced analytical skills and apply them to economic policy questions. The Master’s programme focuses on conducting rigorous economic analysis. This educational approach ensures that students grasp theoretical concepts deeply, are well equipped with state-of-the-art analytical tools, and appreciate the practical policy implications of their analyses, preparing them for immediate engagement in policy-oriented research.

This mission is achieved through a set of 6 foundational compulsory courses which provide students with a rigorous training in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics and 5-7 courses centred on specific facets of economic research with a robust emphasis on policy. The goal is to equip students with the skills necessary for applying advanced economic analysis to real-world policy challenges. Students can choose their courses by following one of the four tracks offered by the department (International Finance and Macroeconomics, International Trade, Development Economics, Sustainable Finance and Development) or design a path that fits their own interests and preferences.

While our focus is on practical policy applications rather than purely academic preparation, our graduates pursuing academic careers have also achieved notable success. Located in an international hub with access to myriad policy organisations, we offer unique opportunities for students to engage directly with international policy-making. Our department maintains strong ties with major international bodies such as the Asian Development Bank, the Bank for International Settlements, the European Central Bank, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the International Monetary Fund, the Inter-American Development Bank, and the World Bank. These connections not only facilitate job placements and internships for our graduates but also enrich our educational environment. Furthermore, our extensive global alumni network, enhanced by faculty collaborations with policy institutions, provides invaluable support and opportunities for our students.

Curriculum 24-25

 

The teaching programme
 

The Master programme is organised into four specialisations – International Finance, Development, Finance and Development, and International Trade. Regardless of your specialisation, you will in the first three semesters take the six core classes (two semesters of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics) and write your Master’s thesis in the fourth semester. A math refresher course (affectionately known as the "math bootcamp") is taken before the beginning of the first semester. The specialisation-specific courses are generally taken from the second semester on you select electives offered by the department as well as some courses offered by other department (law, history, political science, anthropology and sociology) and partner institutions (e.g. the University of Geneva or Lausanne). There is also a possibility of doing the third semester on exchange at one of our partner institutions. Download the Flyer for details.

FAQs
Master in International Economics

Frequently asked questions about the programme