Applied Economics

This two-year, English-taught Master of Science prepares you for work in the international economic arena by combining rigorous theory with hands‑on empirical analysis. The programme trains you to independently evaluate and interpret data, derive policy-relevant recommendations from sound theoretical foundations, and tackle real‑world problems affecting the global economy. Its curriculum blends theoretical, institutional and empirical approaches so you can address contemporary economic issues with both breadth and depth.

You will study econometric, quantitative and experimental methods used to identify causal relationships and to answer concrete economic questions. Small class sizes and an international student body create an environment for close interaction, peer learning and sustained feedback. Emphasis is placed on assessing the validity and relevance of empirical studies, critically interpreting results, and choosing and applying the appropriate methods to draw well‑founded conclusions.

The programme’s high level of internationalisation helps you adopt a global perspective on economic action and equips you to formulate and communicate substantiated recommendations to diverse audiences. It also serves as a springboard for building human capital, professional networks and international experience—assets that are particularly valuable for careers in business, consulting or public policy.

Key facts and features

• Degree: Master of Science (M.Sc.)
• Duration: 2 years (full-time)
• Language of instruction: English
• Academic focus: theoretical, institutional and empirical economic analysis with real‑world and global emphasis
• Methodological training: econometric, quantitative and experimental methods; causal inference
• Learning outcomes: independent data analysis, critical evaluation of empirical research, formulation of policy recommendations
• Cohort experience: small classes with an international student body
• Typical career directions: business, consulting, politics/public policy

For specific entry requirements, application deadlines and document checklists, please consult the university’s official admissions pages.

Program structure

This two-year (four-semester) full-time Master's programme totals 120 ECTS and combines compulsory coursework, electives, seminars and a Master's thesis. The taught component is organised to build from core theoretical and statistical foundations toward advanced quantitative and policy-oriented topics, while seminars and the thesis develop research and communication skills.

Key modules & learning outcomes

• Compulsory area: four core courses (40 ECTS). The first two introduce fundamental economic concepts and the statistical techniques used to analyse economic data. The remaining two focus on the global economy and economic policy or provide advanced quantitative methods for empirical economic analysis.
• Electives: three elective courses (30 ECTS) allow specialisation. Example elective topics include economic integration, economics of innovation, environmental economics, public economics, capital market theory, service management, incentives and accounting, mathematics and microeconometrics.
• Seminars: three seminars (30 ECTS) are thematically linked to compulsory or elective courses and provide a forum for discussing current economic topics and presenting scientific papers.
• Master’s thesis: an independent research project worth 20 ECTS that requires in-depth analysis of a chosen economic topic and demonstrates the student’s empirical, analytical and academic writing abilities.

Learning outcomes include solid grounding in economic theory, advanced quantitative and empirical analysis skills, the ability to critically evaluate policy and global economic issues, and experience in oral and written scientific presentation.

Practical outcomes & contacts

Graduates are prepared for roles such as analysts in insurance companies, banks, large firms, or international organisations, as well as careers in consulting, policy work or academic and research settings. For further programme details, see: https://www.wiwi.uni-wuppertal.de/en/study/master-programmes/msc-applied-economics/. For academic questions: international@wiwi.uni-wuppertal.de. For general/admissions questions: intsek@uni-wuppertal.de.

Requirements at a glance

• Total credits: 120 ECTS
• Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters (full-time)
• Compulsory courses: 4 core courses = 40 ECTS
• Electives: 3 courses = 30 ECTS (wide range of topics available)
• Seminars: 3 seminars = 30 ECTS (presentation and discussion of scientific papers)
• Master’s thesis: 20 ECTS (independent research and thesis writing)

Graduates are prepared for roles as economic analysts, policy advisors, consultants, and researchers in banks, insurance companies, larger corporations, international organisations and government institutions. The programme’s quantitative and empirical training also suits positions in data analysis, applied econometrics, and economic consulting.

The degree also provides a solid foundation for further academic work (PhD) or specialised professional tracks in public economics, market analysis, financial institutions, and international organisations, supported by networking and international exchange opportunities offered by the programme.