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Master's programme

Master of Science in Economics University of Hamburg

Duration
4 semesters
Language of instruction
English
Tuition fees
No tuition fees
Next application deadline
31 March 2027 (winter semester)
Language level required
English: C1
German: None

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Programme overview

Quick facts

Duration
4 semesters
Full-time / part-time
Full-time
Intake
Winter semester
Joint degree / double degree programme
Yes
A Diploma supplement will be issued
Yes
Combined Master's degree / PhD programme
No

Language of instruction

English

All courses are held in English.

Programme description

Today's economists face globally competitive and increasingly complex environments. Universität Hamburg's "Master of Science in Economics" (MSc) programme responds effectively to these developments. It provides thorough and rigorous training in modern economic theories and techniques. It attaches great importance to quantitative skills and emphasises state-of-the-art methods of empirical research. It encourages applied work and relates it to policy. The acquired tools and research skills prepare students for real-world economic situations and challenges. The programme is taught completely in English. It provides sound training in best practice methods of mainstream economics. Opportunities for optional in-depth studies in areas of personal interest initiate a gradual transition to independent research.

The programme is designed for careers in higher education, research, or consultancy on both national and international levels.

Programme structure

The regular two-year version of the programme is structured as follows:

  1. Three research-oriented core modules in the first semester (Advanced Microeconomics, Advanced Macroeconomics and Advanced Econometrics)
    For students of the two-year version, each of these modules includes two interactive lectures: the main lectures on microeconomics, macroeconomics or econometrics and accompanying lectures which re-view and extend methodological knowledge from the undergraduate education.
  2. Ten elective modules in theoretical and applied economics in the second and third semester, respectively
    Likely options are Business Cycle Theory, Economic Growth, Forecasting, International Economics, DSGE Modelling, Financial Economics, Real Option Theory, Public Choice, Political Economy, Public Finance, Game Theory, History of Economic Thought.
  3. Research training through a Master's thesis in the fourth semester

The abbreviated one-year version is open to students who have achieved above-average performance in their first degree and have acquired the knowledge and skills of all accompanying lectures of the compulsory modules. Part-time study is also possible.

Mode of study

  • Fully on-site

International elements in the curriculum

The curriculum of this study programme includes international elements that support global perspectives and cross-cultural learning:

  • Projects with partners in Germany and abroad
  • International guest lecturers
  • Integrated/optional study abroad unit(s)

    In cooperation with the Department of Economics at the University of Essex, the MSc Economic programme at Universität Hamburg offers a double degree option for Master's students. Students interested in an internationally orientated course of studies will be given the opportunity of spending one year each in Germany and the UK in order to obtain a Master’s degree from both universities.

    Students may spend their second semester in the “Scottish Graduate Programme in Economics” (SGPE) at the University of Edinburgh. This programme combines the research and teaching expertise of eight established Scottish universities. Up to five elective modules in areas such as Environmental Economics, Financial Economics, Economics of Transition, Development Economics, Industrial Economics, Labour Economics, etc. can be studied.

Integrated internships

No

Application and admission

Application period(s)

Winter semester

Applicants from Applications begin Application deadline
All countries
15 February 2027
31 March 2027

Academic admissions requirements

For information on admission requirements, please visit the "How to apply" section on our website, where you will find details, for example, on the required first degree, subject focus, and English proficiency.

Language requirements

Please check all requirements directly with the respective higher education institution.

German language requirements

German: None

English language requirements

English: C1

This programme does not require proof of proficiency. Please be aware that you should at least meet the above-mentioned level to successfully participate in the programme.

How to apply?

Website

Please check this website.

Click here

Costs and funding

Tuition fees per semester

No tuition fees

Semester contribution

A semester contribution is charged per semester. The fee includes a semester ticket for public transportation in the greater Hamburg area. Further information can be found at https://www.uni-hamburg.de/en/campuscenter/studienorganisation/studienverlauf/beitraege-gebuehren/semesterbeitrag.html.

Cost of living

Without additional costs for further insurances, private vehicles, etc., you ought to expect the following expenses:

  • housing: approx. 400 to 700 EUR per month
  • living expenses: approx. 500 to 700 EUR per month

Part-time employment

Are you looking for a part-time job? Stellenwerk, Hamburg's cross-university job platform posts attractive job and internship advertisements every day.

Part-time work, an internship, or self-employment—the Counselling Centre for Social & International Affairs (BeSI) advises you on all aspects of social security.

Students from countries outside the EU, the EEA, and Switzerland are subject to special regulations for part-time work when studying. Contact the Counselling Centre for more information.

There are several job opportunities at Universität Hamburg. Many are offered exclusively to students. Check out departmental bulletin boards, websites, Stellenwerk, or ask directly in your department.

Scholarships and financing information

For information on funding options and scholarships, please visit the Campus Centre's website.

Living & services

Support for international students

  • Welcome event

The Department of International Affairs offers comprehensive international student support. In addition to professional advising and counselling during all stages of the course of study, there is close cooperation with other advisory and counselling services at Universität Hamburg. International students will thus receive the necessary support and advice at any point during their studies.

Accommodation

Are you searching for an apartment or a room? Although affordable housing in Hamburg is rare, please do not despair. Patience and luck will help you find suitable accommodation.

Start looking for accommodation as soon as you can. For more information on how to find accommodation, please visit: Finding accommodation in Hamburg.

For more information on how to find accommodation and how to plan your first steps in Hamburg, please see: https://www.uni-hamburg.de/piasta/beratung/doc/willkommen.pdf.

Contact

Main contact

Faculty of Business, Economics and Social Sciences Department of Economics

Address
Von-Melle-Park 5, 20146 Hamburg
Email
E-mail

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Always know what comes next

Study Guide gives you a personal to-do list tailored to your background, qualifications and interests, so you always know what to do next.