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.

For full details on the structure of the course, click here

• 1. Articulate, apply and extend the main models of microeconomics and macroeconomics across different fields and subfields of economics;
• 2. Undertake an econometric approach to model economic phenomena, estimate the resulting models, and interpret the estimated parameters;
• 3. Demonstrate mastery of the issues, theories and latest advances in at least one of the sub-fields of economics;
• 4. Analyse data with a high degree of skill using standard statistical, econometric and simulation techniques and software;
• 5. Interpret and communicate economic issues to specialist and wider non-specialist audiences including decision makers, NGOs, practitioners, and the media;
• 6. Investigate the relationship between theory and practice and identify limitations; test theories by using published and bespoke data sets;
• 7. Demonstrate ability to conduct independent and original basic and applied research in economics;
• 8. Articulate socio-economic policy recommendations based on sound scientific reasoning; and
• 9. Have the capacity to engage in life-long learning.

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.

If you are not a UCD student and have not applied previously, you must register before using the system for the first time. You'll find step-by-step instructions on how to apply in our instructions for applicants [pdf] and video tutorial.

If you have already registered you can return to the secure system using the login details you registered with. If you are a current or previous UCD student, please use your UCD student number (the system will pre-populate your personal details and you will not be requested to send transcripts).

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