Financial Economics The University of Manchester

Overview

Embarking on a master's degree in Financial Economics at The University of Manchester places you in a prestigious institution recognised as one of the top 10 universities in the UK and among the top 40 globally for Economics and Econometrics, according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025. This programme not only provides rigorous training in essential economic principles but also offers a robust introduction to the key theories and techniques utilised in finance.

Why Financial Economics at The University of Manchester?

Students will gain the necessary skills to pursue careers as portfolio managers, risk management consultants, or financial analysts. The course is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to tailor your studies according to your interests through a diverse selection of optional course units. The University boasts a leading centre for economics, having been home to four Nobel Prize winners, which enhances the learning experience with insights from world-renowned experts.

Moreover, the MSc Financial Economics programme provides a seamless transition to PhD study through the fully-funded 1+3 pathway available via the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) North West Social Sciences Doctoral Training Partnership (NWSSDTP). Graduates will find themselves well-positioned in the job market, as The University of Manchester is consistently one of the most sought-after institutions by leading employers, as highlighted in the High Fliers Graduate Market Report 2024.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

The tuition fees for the MSc Financial Economics programme for the academic year beginning September 2026 are as follows:

• UK students: £15,000 per annum
• International students: £32,000 per annum

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The MSc Financial Economics consists of a well-structured curriculum that includes a mix of mandatory and optional course units. The mandatory units provide a solid foundation, while the optional units allow for specialisation. Below is a brief overview of the course units:

• Financial Economics I
• Macroeconomic Theory
• Econometric Methods
• Mathematical Methods in Economic Analysis
• Financial Economics II
• Optional units such as Financial Econometrics, Applied Macroeconometrics, and Global Economic History

The programme culminates in a dissertation, which is a vital component of the course, allowing students to conduct in-depth research in their area of interest.

Careers with Financial Economics

Graduates of the MSc Financial Economics programme are well-equipped to enter a variety of sectors. The University of Manchester is highly regarded by top employers, providing students with excellent career prospects. Alumni have secured positions in prestigious organisations such as the UK Civil Service, the Bank of England, and major financial firms including Goldman Sachs and HSBC. Additionally, many graduates choose to further their studies through PhD programmes, continuing their research in economics and related fields.