If students hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet the entry requirements for a master’s, a Pre-Master’s can help them gain a place on a postgraduate degree. For progression to the 1st year of a postgraduate degree at the University of Essex. Course length is determined mainly by students' English language level (UKVI IELTS score).

Students on all course lengths take a set of common or similar modules to gain a solid base of skills for university. If their course is longer than 2 terms, students will take additional modules designed to improve one or more of their English language level, academic skills, and basic knowledge of particular subjects.

Master of Science - International Economics

The University of Essex MSc International Economics gives students a critical awareness of the integration of theory, data, and analysis in relation to international economics. Students are equipped with the skills for a career in international organisations engaged in business and finance, or in government and non-governmental organisations concerned with global development and international trade.

The modules provide students with an overview of the causes and effects of globalisation in the world economy with applications to issues such as foreign direct investment.

Students investigate topics such as: • trade theory in different economic settings with different market structures • patterns of trade and trade policies such as tariff and quotas, • preferential trade agreements • macroeconomic adjustment and exchange rates.

Essex is top 5 in the UK for research, with over 90% rated as “world-leading” or “internationally excellent”. Much of this world-class research is related to policy, and they have particular strengths in the areas of: game theory and strategic interactions, theoretical and applied econometrics, and economic policy. The quality of their work is reflected in their stream of publications in high-profile academic journals, including American Economic Review, Econometrica, and Review of Economic Studies.

After completing the masters, students may wish to extend their knowledge with a research degree –many Essex graduates decide to stay for further study. Alternatively, the course also prepares students for employment; recent surveys have shown that higher degree graduates are more likely to obtain jobs at professional or managerial level.

In this course students gain key employability skills including statistical analysis, mathematical techniques, research skills and a good understanding of the international system. Recent graduates of MSc International Economics have found employment as a consultant for the World Bank and as a climate change economist for HM Treasury.

More generally, graduates find employment in roles such as business and financial analysts, management consultants, government officials, and economists for banks and other financial organisations.