MSc A and B Pathways
MSc A and B Pathways
One of the unique features of our MSc programmes is the way we've structured its academic content so that it provides distinctive pathways for each optional core module: pathway A and pathway B.
This gives you an opportunity to choose the most appropriate modules based on your professional needs and your individual career aspirations:
Pathway A - for those interested in building a strong foundation in core areas of economics - microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics - and applying economic theories in a wide variety of economic careers.
Pathway B - For those planning to pursue MRes-PhD study in the future, or aiming for careers that require more advanced technical skills in macroeconomics, microeconomics, and/or econometrics.
More information on the pathways, skills and careers can be found in the information below
What is the difference between A and B pathways?
You can mix A and B level modules based on your background, interests, and goals. For example, if you have a strong interest in microeconomics, you might take Microeconomics B together with Macroeconomics A and Econometrics A. Another example is if you are very interested in monetary policy and you aim to work in a central bank or in an institution such as IMF, you may take Macroeconomics B and Econometrics B together with Microeconomics A. Many students, however, choose all three at the same level (all A or all B).
The key difference between the A and B variants lies in the level of technical depth.Ultimately, your module choice should reflect your academic preparation, your comfort with technical material, and your career aspirations.
Pathway A
- Focuses on applied understanding.
- Ideal for students who may have a more limited technical background or who are more interested in practical applications.
- For example, if your exposure to econometrics has been introductory, or if your goal is to apply econometric tools in a professional setting rather than explore the theoretical underpinnings, Econometrics A may be more appropriate
Pathway B
- Mathematically and theoretically challenging.
- Suitable for students who have a strong quantitative background and considering research-orientated paths such as MRes or PhD.
- For example, if you have previously studied intermediate econometrics, and are thinking of pursuing an MRes/PhD, then Econometrics B would be a better fit. It delves deeper into the theoretical foundations and technical aspects of econometric methods.
Macroeconomics A
Learning Outcomes
To have a thorough understanding of the theoretical foundations of macroeconomic analysis.
To develop a thorough understanding of how macroeconomic models can be used in policymaking and help explain empirical evidence.
To develop a thorough and critical understanding of growth and modern macroeconomics.
Career Aspirations
- World Trade Organisation
- Governments
- Research institutions and think tanks
- Central banks
- Policy-oriented careers:
- Monetary Policy Analyst
- Fiscal Policy Advisor
- Development Economist, International Economist
Macroeconomics B
Learning Outcomes
To have a rigorous understanding of the theoretical foundations of macroeconomic analysis,
To demonstrate a rigorous understanding of how modern macroeconomic models relate to policy and empirical evidence.
To demonstrate a rigorous and critical understanding of growth and modern macroeconomics.
Career Aspirations
- Research positions in industry (e.g. research analysts) as well as central banks.
- Example of careers:
- Macroeconomist (Research)
- Economic Forecaster
- Sovereign Risk Analyst
Microeconomics A
Learning Outcomes
To have a thorough understanding of the theoretical foundations of microeconomics analysis.
To demonstrate a thorough understanding of empirical applications of microeconomic theory.
To demonstrate a thorough understanding of microeconomic concepts relating to game theory, information economics and choice under uncertainty.
Career Aspirations
- World Trade Organisation
- Governments
- Research institutions
- Think tanks and regulator
- Example of careers:
- Regulatory Economist
- Competition Economist/Antitrust Analyst
- Health Economist
- Environmental Economist
Microeconomics B
Learning Outcomes
To demonstrate a rigorous understanding of the mathematical foundations of microeconomic analysis.
To demonstrate a rigorous understanding of applications of microeconomic theory.
To demonstrate a rigorous understanding of microeconomic concepts in the areas of game theory, information economics and choice under uncertainty.
Career Aspirations
- For roles inside regulators (e.g. in the UK: Competition Market Authority, Office of Gas and Electricity Markets ).
- Careers in economics consultancies like
- Deloitte
- The Boston Consulting Group
- PwC
- FTI Consulting
- NERA
- Example of careers requiring advanced technical skills:
- Industrial Organisation Specialist
- Labour Market Analyst
- Pricing Strategist
Quantitative Methods: Econometrics A
Learning Outcomes
To equip students with the necessary skills required for research.
To demonstrate an understanding of fundamental concepts in mathematics and statistics relevant to the other core modules and to be able to apply these concepts to economics.
To demonstrate a deep understanding of material needed for empirical quantitative analysis.
To demonstrate a full knowledge of the theory and practice of modern econometrics, particularly applied econometrics.
To demonstrate the development of the habit of thought, knowledge and understanding to be able to carry out good quality applied econometric research with confidence and authority.
To develop the critical insight to appraise econometric results obtained by other researchers.
Career Aspirations
- Policy-oriented careers:
- Policy Evaluation Specialists
- Impact Assessment Consultants
Quantitative Methods: Econometrics B
Learning Outcomes
To demonstrate an understanding of fundamental concepts in maths and statistics relevant to the other core modules and be able to apply these concepts to economics.
To demonstrate a deep understanding of material needed for empirical quantitative analysis.
To demonstrate a full knowledge of the theory and practice of modern econometrics, particularly applied econometrics.
To produce high quality empirical econometric analysis.
To interpret critically empirical results, including a vast array of diagnostic and test statistics often reported, and to come to a balanced view concerning the weight of the empirical evidence presented.
Career Aspirations
- Careers requiring advanced technical skills:
- Econometrician
- Quantitative Analyst
- Data Scientist (Economics Focus)
- Financial Risk Modeler
- Institutions dealing with statistics, for example:
- International Statistical Institute
- UN
- IMF
- OEC
- Eurostat
I took Microeconomics A and Macroeconomics B. The Macro B track, particularly the part focused on Real Business Cycle theory, was a major turning point for me. It really ignited my interest in macroeconomic and monetary policy analysis using structural models. That exposure is what ultimately inspired the direction of my dissertation, where I’m developed a DSGE model.
I found the flexibility of the pathway system valuable, as it allowed me to strengthen my micro foundations while taking the more advanced macro modelling route, well aligned with my research and professional interests.
Taher Fahmi, MSc Economics 2025