This English-taught Master of Science is designed to train students to apply rigorous theoretical and empirical economic tools to real-world business and public policy challenges. The programme combines advanced core modules in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics with a wide range of elective courses, culminating in a policy- or research-oriented seminar that prepares you for the Master’s thesis. Graduates receive a legally accredited Master’s degree in International Economic Policy and are prepared for careers in the public sector, private industry or academia.
You can tailor your studies by choosing electives in major policy fields (for example public finance, labour, monetary, international or competition economics), theoretical areas (such as behavioural economics, game theory and contract theory), research methods (including microeconometrics, computational and experimental economics) or economic journalism. The programme has a strong international focus: instruction is in English, students are encouraged to spend an exchange semester at a partner university (credits are accredited), and there is an optional double-degree pathway that includes two semesters at the University of Ghent (Belgium) or the University of Verona (Italy). Completing the double-degree route awards both the Würzburg MSc in International Economic Policy and a Master’s in Economics from Ghent or Verona.
This two-year Master’s programme comprises 120 ECTS and can be started in October (winter semester) or April (summer semester). Application deadlines are 15 July for the winter intake and 15 January for the summer intake. All programme requirements can be completed in English, and the curriculum is designed to give students both a strong core training in economics and flexibility to pursue policy-relevant or research-oriented interests.
Most courses are worth 5 ECTS and are typically scheduled for about four contact hours per week, with roughly half of that time devoted to exercises and problem sets to build practical, quantitative skills. The study plan is divided into three main areas: a narrowly defined core (4 courses = 20 ECTS), a core-elective area (8 courses = 40 ECTS), and a broad elective area (4 courses = 20 ECTS) that includes economics and business offerings, project seminars, and options at partner universities. The programme concludes with a seminar—either policy-oriented or research-oriented (10 ECTS)—and a supervised Master’s thesis (30 ECTS).
The curriculum encourages a progressive learning path: start with foundational core modules, move to more specialized core-electives, then explore broader electives and applied project work, and finally consolidate knowledge in the seminar and thesis. Students receive close supervision from economics researchers when preparing their Master’s thesis. Graduates will leave with rigorous analytical and quantitative training, experience applying economic theory to contemporary policy questions, and the ability to design and carry out independent research or policy projects.
Key requirements and structure at a glance
Applicants must hold a completed Bachelor's degree (typically 180 ECTS credits) with an overall grade of 2.5 or better. Accepted qualifications include degrees from the University of Würzburg, other German or foreign universities, or equivalent German/foreign credentials (for example, a state examination).
The Bachelor's must be in economics and demonstrate coverage of core competencies across economics, management and methodological/quantitative subjects. Specific credit requirements in related modules are set out below; these refer to ECTS credit points as used in the European higher-education system.
Winter Semester (International)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (International)
15 January 2027
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 July 2026
Summer Semester (EU/EEA)
15 January 2027
Graduates are prepared for roles in the public sector (e.g. ministries, central banks, international organisations), the private sector (consulting firms, financial institutions, industry), and research institutions. The programme’s emphasis on empirical methods and economic policy also provides a solid foundation for doctoral studies.
Typical early-career positions include policy analyst, economic consultant, research assistant, data/economics analyst or roles in international organisations. The double-degree and exchange options can strengthen international employability and networks.