Economics (MSc)

The Master of Science in Economics (MSE) is a modern, internationally oriented Master‘s degree program that provides students with a profound knowledge in economics. It is aimed to students with a strong interest in economics seeking a first-rate education preparing them for a variety of career paths, ranging from management positions in firms and other organisations to academics.

The language of instruction of all core subjects and a large variety of electives is English. As a result, the MSE can be studied fully in English, and the student body is very international. German skills are welcome, but not required for completion.

A core feature of the program is that small classes and seminars enable a face-to-face exchange with professors and researchers. Upon arrival, students get quickly integrated into the academic community at the department through close interaction with professors and their research teams. A mentoring program connects students with junior scientists, and students can apply to paid jobs as research assistants.

The department encourages and supports students who want to study abroad for up to two semesters at one of our partner universities. The program also supports students who want to collect up to five credits via an internship at one of our selected partner institutions, including several research institutes located all over Germany.

Applicants should have an academic degree (with above-average grades) in economics, mathematics, social sciences, engineering or related disciplines. A selection committee decides on suitability for admission by considering the following criteria: First, applicants are evaluated with respect to their academic performance (Bachelor's degree) as well as their qualifications, knowledge and skills in the field of economics (quantity and quality of modules with economic and quantitative content). Second, further accomplishments and qualifications (e.g. internships, language skills and international experience) are taken into account. Candidates whose qualifications cannot be clearly established will be invited to an interview to assess their field-specific aptitude.

The required documents for application include:

• Curriculum vitae (table format)
• University entrance qualification (e.g. Abitur)
• University degree and average grade (for candidates who have not completed their Bachelor studies at the time of application a minimum of 135 ECTS are required)
• Evidence of sufficient English proficiency equivalent to at least level B2 of the CEFR
• A letter of application in English

You can find more information regarding the admission and application procedure here.

The MSE is a two-year program split into four teaching terms (semesters). For graduation, students are required to earn a total of 120 ECTS. The first (fall) semester comprises a total of six compulsory courses, covering the basic fields of economics. In the second and third semester, students choose electives from a very broad range of subjects. By choosing appropriate electives, students can complete different fields of specialization. On the list are Labor Economics, Macroeconomics and Finance, Public Economics, Energy Markets, and Health Economics. In the fourth semester, students write their master’s thesis under close supervision of one of the department’s lecturers.

For an overview of the modules in each specialisation field and more detailed information on the structure of the MSE, visit our website.