MEcon Economics at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

The Master of Economics (MEcon) is an integrated four-year programme combining undergraduate breadth with postgraduate depth, leading to a single award. It provides training in modern economic theory, econometrics, data science and programming, culminating in a research project applying academic knowledge to real-world questions. Economics at Queen's is ranked 8th in the UK for graduate prospects (Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026).

Department: Queen's Business School | Duration: 4 years full-time | Intake: September 2027 | Study mode: full-time (integrated) | Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Years 1-2 build foundations in economic theory, mathematics and data analysis. Year 3 offers specialisation through optional modules such as labour economics, environmental economics, international economics and economic history. Year 4 applies these skills at postgraduate level to real-world and policy-focused problems.

Career pathways

Graduates are prepared for roles across government, central banking, policy analysis, industry, finance, consultancy and academia.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A-level: ABB plus GCSE Mathematics grade A/7 (no specific A-level subjects required). A maximum of one BTEC/OCR Single Award or AQA Extended Certificate counts within the portfolio (Distinction* equated to A, Distinction to B). BTEC Extended Diploma: D*DD plus GCSE Mathematics A/7. International Baccalaureate: 33 points including 6,5,5 at Higher Level (if Mathematics is not at Higher Level, Standard Level grade 6 or GCSE Mathematics A/7). Access Course: average of 70% plus GCSE Mathematics A/7 or equivalent. Graduate entry: minimum 2:1 honours degree plus GCSE Mathematics A/7. GCSE English Language grade C/4 or equivalent is required. Offers are made in grades rather than UCAS tariff points and GCSE performance is taken into account (offers are generally made to applicants with at least six GCSEs at grade B/6). Irish Leaving Certificate: H3H3H3H3H3H3/H2H3H3H3H3 (Ordinary Level O2 in Mathematics if not offered at Higher Level). HNC: 2 Distinctions and remainder Merits (Stage 1 entry). International applicants need IELTS 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component or an equivalent qualification.

Domestic applicants: GBP 4,985 a year (2026/27). NI/ROI residency, full-time undergraduate tuition; 2026/27 rate Source

International applicants: GBP 24,600 a year. Also applies to EU Other; academic year not stated for this figure Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 4 years full-time

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