Economics - Applied Economics

This course provides high quality training in economics with a focus on applications to real world problems. The course is ideal preparation for a career as a professional economist working on applying economics to policy issues or business situations. In addition to studying core modules in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, students can pick from a wide range of field modules. Students also have the option of completing a two-term specialisation in one of Behavioural Economics, Law and Economics of Competition, Environmental and Energy Economics or Development Economics and Trade. In the summer term, students do either a supervised research thesis or an internship. Students can switch after the first term to our MSc in Quantitative Economics, which focuses on applying advanced mathematical and statistical methods to economics.



This programme features small group teaching from leading economists and a supportive environment. Masters students are an integral part of our School community, attending research seminars and receiving a wide range of supports to help them prepare for their research thesis or internship.



UCD School of Economics is Ireland’s leading economics department. Our staff are experts with international reputations in a wide range of topics such as macroeconomics, econometrics, applied microeconomics, behavioural economics, health economics, international trade, and economic history. School members play a significant role in debating economic policy issues and in contributing to the formulation of economic policy. Students get to know our staff via participation in small classes and seminars and through direct supervision.

Stage 1 - Core

EconometricsECON41820

MicroeconomicsECON41840

Research & Career Skills 1ECON42020

Research & Career Skills 2ECON42300

MacroeconomicsECON42550

Maths & StatsECON42620



Stage 1 - Option

Thesis ECON40090

Advanced Macroeconomics ECON41620

Research & Career Skills II ECON41660

Advanced Microeconomics ECON41810

Advanced Econometrics ECON41850

International Trade ECON42140

Health and Welfare Economics ECON42190

Economics Internship ECON42200

Research and Professional Development ECON42300

Energy Economics and Policy ECON42360

Behavioural Economics ECON42560

Behavioural E'mics:Policy App ECON42570

Economics of CompetitionPolicy ECON42580

Development Economics ECON42600

Aviation Economics ECON42610

Decision Theory ECON42630

Economics of Innovation ECON42670

Environmental Economics ENVP40230

Advanced Issues in European Competition Law LAW40360

A primary degree with at least an upper second class honours or international equivalent in Economics or in a degree in which Economics is a major component.



An upper second class honours in a Higher Diploma in Economics or in the MSc Qualifier.



Applicants whose first language is not English must also demonstrate English language proficiency of IELTS 6.5 (no band less than 6.0 in each element), or equivalent.



Students meeting the programme’s academic entry requirements but not the English language requirements, may enter the programme upon successful completion of UCD’s Pre-Sessional or International Pre-Master’s Pathway programmes. Please see the following link for further information http://www.ucd.ie/alc/programmes/pathways/



These are the minimum entry requirements – additional criteria may be requested for some programmes.

How to apply?

The following entry routes are available:



MSc in Applied Economics FT (W369)

Duration 1 Years Attend Full Time Deadline Rolling*



MSc in Applied Economics PT (W370)

Duration 2 Years Attend Part Time Deadline Rolling*



* Courses will remain open until such time as all places have been filled, therefore early application is advised

W369: 1 Years Full Time

W370: 2 Years Part Time

MODE OF DELIVERY: Face-to-Face

NEXT INTAKE: 2024/2025 September.

Careers & Employability

Many graduates of our masters programmes have gone on to complete PhDs in economics and pursue successful careers as academic or research economists. Many others have moved directly to employment in central banks, think-tanks, government departments, regulatory agencies, financial sector institutions and consultancy firms.