MSc Economic Policy with Placement Year
London
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
SOAS University of London, a prestigious institution located in the heart of London, is renowned for its unique focus on the languages, cultures, and societies of Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. It is one of the few universities in the world offering such specialized programs, blending traditional academic rigor with global awareness. The MSc Economic Policy with Placement Year is one of SOAS's highly regarded programs, designed for students who aim to develop a strong foundation in economic theory and its application to policy issues in a global context. This program offers a practical edge with its optional placement year, enabling students to gain hands-on experience in leading economic organizations, government bodies, or international institutions.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the MSc Economic Policy with Placement Year is comprehensive and dynamic, covering key areas in economic theory, quantitative analysis, and policy formulation. Students are exposed to modules such as Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics, Development Economics, and International Trade. Additionally, the program offers specialized modules that delve into the economic policies of developing and emerging markets, enabling students to understand economic challenges in different global regions. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of how economic policies are shaped and implemented. The placement year is a distinctive feature of this program, offering students the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world economic settings. This experiential learning component enhances the students' employability and provides them with invaluable insights into the practical workings of economic policy.
Research Focus: SOAS is globally recognized for its research expertise in areas such as development economics, international trade, and public policy. The university is home to scholars who specialize in the economic challenges faced by developing nations and the policies required to address them. The research focus of the MSc Economic Policy program is aimed at providing students with an understanding of the complexities of economic policymaking in diverse geopolitical contexts. Key research themes include economic development, financial markets, globalization, and sustainable economic growth. SOAS fosters a research-driven environment where students can engage with leading academics and contribute to ongoing research projects. The university’s emphasis on interdisciplinary research allows students to explore economic policy through the lenses of politics, history, and culture, providing a nuanced understanding of global economic issues.
Industry Engagement: The MSc Economic Policy with Placement Year program offers students numerous opportunities for industry engagement. SOAS has strong links with a range of international organizations, including NGOs, government agencies, think tanks, and private sector firms. The placement year allows students to work within these organizations, gaining practical experience in shaping and implementing economic policy. Moreover, SOAS has a robust careers service that supports students in securing placement opportunities, providing them with advice, training, and networking events to enhance their employability. The university also hosts a number of guest lectures, seminars, and workshops led by industry experts, offering students the chance to engage directly with thought leaders and practitioners in the field of economic policy.
Global Perspective: A key feature of SOAS University is its global perspective, which permeates every aspect of the MSc Economic Policy program. Students are encouraged to critically analyze economic policies from an international viewpoint, exploring the interconnectedness of global markets, the impact of international financial institutions, and the role of policy in addressing global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. With its diverse student body and faculty from around the world, SOAS fosters an environment of cross-cultural exchange, allowing students to gain a truly global understanding of economic policy. The university’s emphasis on global issues ensures that students graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to work in international organizations, policy think tanks, or governmental bodies addressing complex global economic problems.
Location
London
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25320
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 95.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
SOAS University of London offers a variety of scholarships to support international students pursuing postgraduate studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence and provide financial assistance to students from diverse backgrounds.
SOAS International Scholarships: SOAS University of London offers a range of scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships aim to support students from various regions and backgrounds who are looking to study at the institution. Scholarships vary by program and are awarded based on merit or financial need.
Postgraduate Scholarships: SOAS provides several postgraduate scholarships for international students, including the prestigious SOAS Postgraduate Scholarships. These are awarded based on academic merit and cover partial or full tuition fees. Some specific awards are dedicated to students from particular regions, such as Africa, Asia, or the Middle East, to encourage diverse participation in postgraduate programs.
Regional Scholarships: SOAS University of London provides scholarships for students from specific regions, including the Commonwealth, Africa, Asia, and Latin America. These scholarships are aimed at increasing access to higher education for students from regions with traditionally lower rates of study abroad participation. Some of the notable scholarships include the SOAS Africa Scholarship and the SOAS South Asia Scholarship.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Certain scholarships are tailored to international students from specific countries. For example, SOAS offers scholarships for students from countries like India, China, Nigeria, and others. These scholarships typically cover a portion of tuition fees and may also include additional benefits like travel allowances or accommodation assistance.
External Funding Opportunities: In addition to the internal scholarships offered by SOAS, international students are encouraged to explore external funding sources. The UK government, private organizations, and international agencies often provide scholarships and grants for students pursuing studies in the UK. SOAS offers guidance and resources to help students find external funding options and apply for them.
SOAS Excellence Awards: The SOAS Excellence Awards are designed to support exceptionally talented international students. These awards are often given to those students who have demonstrated outstanding academic potential in their field of study. The Excellence Awards provide significant financial assistance and are available to both undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Graduates of the MSc Economic Policy with Placement Year at SOAS University of London are well-positioned to pursue a variety of career paths in economics, policy analysis, and development. The program’s combination of rigorous academic training and practical experience gained through the placement year ensures that students are equipped to tackle real-world economic challenges.
Economic Policy Analyst: Graduates can work as economic policy analysts in government agencies, think tanks, international organizations, or private sector firms. As policy analysts, they will be responsible for conducting economic research, analyzing data, and advising on the development of policies related to economic growth, social welfare, trade, and more.
Development Economist: Many MSc Economic Policy graduates choose to pursue careers as development economists, working in organizations that focus on economic development, poverty reduction, and social equity. Development economists design and evaluate policies aimed at improving the living standards in developing countries, addressing issues such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
International Development Specialist: With the global perspective embedded in the program, graduates are well-equipped to work in international development, providing policy solutions that address issues such as climate change, conflict resolution, and inequality. They may work for international organizations such as the United Nations, World Bank, or regional development agencies.
Economic Consultant: Economic consultants provide expert advice to government agencies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations. With the skills developed during their MSc, graduates can assess economic trends, conduct cost-benefit analysis, and offer recommendations for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of economic policies and programs.
Financial Analyst: For those interested in the financial sector, graduates of the MSc Economic Policy program may pursue roles as financial analysts, where they analyze data and economic trends to guide investment decisions. Financial analysts often work for banks, investment firms, or financial advisory companies.
Policy Advisor or Policy Officer: Graduates can work as policy advisors or officers for government departments, NGOs, or international agencies, helping to shape economic policies that affect national and global markets. This role requires a deep understanding of economics, as well as the ability to interpret economic data and translate it into actionable policy recommendations.
Researcher in Economics and Policy: Many graduates of the MSc Economic Policy program choose to continue their studies or work as researchers in economic policy. These roles involve collecting and analyzing data, publishing findings, and contributing to the development of new economic theories and policy recommendations.
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Manager: CSR managers work within corporations to develop and implement policies that promote ethical business practices, sustainability, and social responsibility. Graduates with a focus on economic policy can work in CSR roles, contributing to the creation of business strategies that align with social and environmental goals.
Public Affairs Specialist: Public affairs specialists work for government agencies, corporations, or NGOs, managing communications and strategies related to economic policies and issues. They may be responsible for crafting public messaging, media relations, and lobbying efforts on behalf of an organization’s policy interests.
