This two-year Master of Science is built to give you the analytical tools needed to understand and influence economic policy in a globalised world. The curriculum develops a solid foundation in economic theory, trains you in econometric methods, and emphasizes empirical analysis so you can tackle real-world and policy-relevant problems. Graduates are prepared for roles in public administration, government agencies, international organisations and multinational companies.
The programme has a clear international focus: most courses are taught in English to serve a diverse student body, while you can also choose elective modules from related degree programmes offered in German. Courses begin in the winter semester each October. Teaching is delivered by a Department of Economics faculty known for active national and international research engagement; they aim to combine a challenging academic environment with supportive supervision to help you make a meaningful professional contribution.
For detailed information about admission rules, application deadlines and required documents, please consult the programme website or contact the admissions office.
Key facts and application notes
This two-year, full-time master's is built around a 120-credit curriculum delivered over four semesters. The program combines a solid theoretical foundation with flexible elective coursework and a research-focused master's thesis. Core training is concentrated in four compulsory modules (30 ECTS) that develop essential economic theory and econometric tools, while the majority of study time (75 ECTS) is devoted to electives that allow you to tailor the degree to your interests. The program concludes with a 15 ECTS master's thesis that demonstrates your ability to conduct independent research.
Elective options are extensive: there are 23 distinct elective modules grouped into basic, specialization, and research categories. Several electives emphasize applied, policy-relevant topics, enabling direct engagement with real-world economic issues. The elective portfolio supports specialisation in areas such as development economics, international trade, labour market and social policy, public finance, and growth. Two electives explicitly cover topics from business administration, offering interdisciplinary breadth.
By the end of the program you will have: solid mastery of core economic theory and contemporary econometric techniques; the capacity to apply these methods to policy questions; specialised knowledge in chosen fields of economics; and independent research skills evidenced by your master's thesis. The structure is designed to balance rigorous analytical training with applied policy relevance and opportunities for focused scholarly work.
Program structure and requirements (concise)
You must have a completed Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) whose standard length was at least six semesters. This is the basic eligibility requirement for admission.
While a formal undergraduate background in economics is beneficial, it is not mandatory. Applicants without substantial economics coursework are still welcome to apply, provided they can demonstrate they possess the quantitative skills needed for a numerically oriented Master's programme.
If your economics training is limited, you will need to show that your mathematical and statistical preparation is strong enough to handle the programme’s quantitative components. Useful supporting documents can include transcripts showing relevant coursework and grades, certificates from quantitative courses, or other evidence of competence in areas such as calculus, linear algebra, probability, statistics, or econometrics. If you are unsure whether your degree or preparation meets the programme’s expectations, contact the admissions office for guidance.
Requirements (bullet points)
Winter Semester (International)
30 April 2026
Winter Semester (EU/EEA)
15 September 2026
Graduates are well positioned for analytical and advisory roles in public administration, government agencies, international organisations (e.g. OECD, UN agencies), policy consultancies, and multinational corporations where evidence-based economic analysis is valued. The programme’s emphasis on econometrics and empirical methods also prepares students for research roles and for pursuing further academic study such as a PhD in economics.
Because of its policy orientation and quantitative training, alumni may work as policy analysts, economic consultants, research analysts, or advisors in institutions focused on trade, development, labour markets, social policy and public finance. Internship experience and elective choices allow students to tailor their profile to specific sectors or further academic paths.