UNIVERSITY OF BRADFORD
Faculty of Social Sciences
Division of Economics
Programme Title: European MSc in Economics
Awarding and teaching
institution:
University of Bradford
Final award and interim
award(s):
European MSc;
Postgraduate Diploma;
Postgraduate Certificate.
[Framework for Higher Education Qualifications
level 7]
Programme title:
Economics
Programme approved /
accredited by:
N/A
Duration:
1 year full-time
UCAS code
N/A
Relevant subject benchmark
statement(s):
N/A
FHEQ Level
7
Date produced:
March 2012
Last updated :
July 2015
© University of Bradford
1
Introduction
The Division of Economics provides a range of programmes at undergraduate and
postgraduate levels, the latter both taught and by research. Building on over 40
years of experience of delivering undergraduate and postgraduate training in
economics, the Division is part of the Faculty of Social Sciences (FSS). Teaching
and learning activities are delivered by research active staff whose areas of
expertise in applied microeconomics, international economics and monetary
economics are reflected in the range and content of modules available to students at
Master level. In line with the University’s mission of ‘Making Knowledge Work’ the
Division’s programmes at all levels have a strong applied, real-world focus and seek
to provide students with transferable as well as subject-specific skills. For more
information see http://www.bradford.ac.uk
The European MSc in Economics provides training in advanced economics and its
applications. You will study at the University of Bradford and at one of our European
partner universities. By combining taught modules in the UK and at one of our
European partner institutions you will gain important additional skills of studying and
living in another European Union member state as well as access to a wide range of
modules. This will give you a broader experience of economics and will provide an
excellent foundation for a career in a European or international company or
organisation. Tuition will be in English. The first semester will provide you with a
grounding in advanced economic principles and tools of analysis. In semester two
you will study modules in applied economics with one of our European partner
institutions. The final stage is the completion of a dissertation focusing on a topic you
have chosen in agreement with your supervisor within economics and which draws
on your previous taught modules. This is a major piece of independent study,
however it is supported by an allocated specialist supervisor and preceded by study
and research skills workshops for all students.
At the University of Bradford, we emphasise the applied aspects of study to
understand the world around us, with a focus on the impact of economic forces and
the role of policy in shaping change.
The skills that you will develop on this programme are in high demand from
employers. Your additional experiences in Europe will add to this marking you out as
a highly employable individual.
Programme Aims
The programme is intended to:
A1
A2
A3
Develop your skills to enable you evaluate economic theory and policy.
Develop your learning and communication skills.
Develop your personal and transferable skills in research and planning.
A4
Equip you with a critical understanding of topics in applied economics.
A5
Provide you with the experience of teaching and learning in another EU
member state.
Critically analyse current and emerging research and practice.
A6
© University of Bradford
2
A7
A8
Critically appraise the nature of evidence in economics.
Formulate and independently investigate a complex research question, and
communicate your findings in a suitable way at an advanced level.
Programme Learning Outcomes
When you have successfully completed level 7 of the programme you will be able to:
Postgraduate Certificate
LO1. Critically evaluate advanced theoretical concepts in economics.
LO2. Critically appraise policy in relation to economics.
LO3. Evaluate complex information on a range of issues related to economics.
LO4. Use initiative in self-directed learning and construct written argument.
Postgraduate Diploma
LO5. Critically reflect on advanced theoretical concepts in applied economics or
economic policy.
LO6. Critically evaluate practice or policy-based interventions.
LO7. Synthesise complex information gathered from a range of sources.
LO8. Apply originality and creative problem solving in dealing with complex issues.
MSc
LO9. Demonstrate a detailed and critical knowledge of current research and
scholarship in a specialist area of economics.
LO10. Identify appropriate research designs and methods for specific purposes and
applications.
LO11. Identify gaps and inconsistencies in the evidence that guides policy and
practice.
LO12. Apply critical reasoning to the existing evidence.
Curriculum
The curriculum is designed in three distinct stages, each comprising 60 credits. The
first semester provides a grounding in higher-level economics and a sound base
from which to progress to the later stages of the programme. Students will cover
advanced economic analysis in the core areas of micro- and macroeconomics,
alongside study of appropriate analytical skills to prepare for semester 2 and the
dissertation. Completion of these modules will complete the Postgraduate Certificate
stage of the programme.
The second semester is studied abroad at one of the Division’s partner institutions.
The range of modules available will depend on availability at the partner, however in
© University of Bradford
3
all cases you will be asked to select modules in applied areas of economics in order
that the requirements of learning outcomes of the PG Diploma stage are met. In
consultation with the partner universities, the Division will define a list of approved
modules from which you will select. All tuition at the partner institution will be in
English. The final element is the 60-credit dissertation, completed between May and
September with support from an allocated supervisor from among the Economics
Division academic staff.
Postgraduate Certificate [Level 7]
Module
Code
Module Title
Type
Credits
Level
Study
period
SE-7001D Macroeconomic Theory and
Policy
Core
20
7
1
SE-7002D Microeconomic Theory and
Policy
Core
20
7
1
SE-7003D Econometrics and Applied
Research
Core
20
7
1
Postgraduate Diploma [Level 7]
You are to study the equivalent of 60 credits from the European partner institution,
drawing from a Divisionally-approved list of modules in applied economics delivered
by the partner university and selected to meet the learning outcomes for the Diploma
stage.
Masters [level 7]
Module
Code
SE-7007Z
Module Title
Dissertation in Economics
Type
Core
Credits
60
Level
7
Study
period
DISS
The curriculum may change, subject to the University's programme approval,
monitoring and review procedures.
Teaching and Assessment Strategies
Teaching and learning activities are focused on lectures and group-based session
for taught modules. During the dissertation writing stage (following semester 2),
individual supervisors provide specialist guidance. Hence, as the programme
progresses, the main learning method gradually becomes more individualised and
student-centred. Group-based seminars will employ a variety of formats, providing
you with the opportunity to experience hands-on computing, case study or data
analysis, group work, class discussion and debate and presentations. The precise
range for any particular student will depend on the precise range of options chosen.
Please see the appendix for further details.
To ensure the systematic development of knowledge of key subjects, modules are
assessed by a variety of assessments in addition to formal examinations, including
© University of Bradford
4
essays and projects. In seminars and workshops, students will engage in group work
and presentations and will receive formative feedback from lecturers and peersupport from fellow students. During the dissertation phase, you undertake
independent research with supervisor support which include a number of one-to-one
meetings to discuss progress and research plans.
Assessment Regulations
This Programme conforms to the standard University Assessment Regulations for
Postgraduate Programmes which are available at the following link:
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/aqpo/ordinances-and-regulations/
Admission Requirements
The University welcomes applications from all potential students regardless of their
previous academic experience; offers are made following detailed consideration of
each individual application. Most important in the decision to offer a place is our
assessment of a candidate’s potential to benefit from their studies and of their ability
to succeed on this particular programme.
Entrance requirements for each
programme will vary but consideration of your application will be based on a
combination of your formal academic qualifications and other relevant experience.
If you have prior certificated learning or professional experience which may be
equivalent to parts of this programme, the University has procedures to evaluate this
learning in order to provide you with exemptions from specified modules contained
within the curriculum. Please talk to us if you do not fit the standard pattern of entry
qualifications.
We are continually reviewing and developing our practices and policies to make the
University more inclusive, but if you are disabled we may need to make some
adjustments to make sure that you are not disadvantaged. We would advise you to
contact the programme leader before you apply to discuss these.
Learning Resources
The JB Priestley Library on the city campus and our specialist library in the Faculty
of Management and Law provide a wide range of printed and electronic resources to
support your studies. We offer quiet study space if you want to work on your own,
and group study areas for the times when you need to discuss work with fellow
students. Subject librarians for each Faculty provide training sessions and individual
guidance in finding the information you need for your assignment, and will help you
organise your references properly.
Student PC clusters can be found in both our libraries and elsewhere on the campus.
Many of these are open 24/7. You can also use the University's wireless network to
access the internet from your own laptop. Most of our journals are available online
(both on and off campus), and you can also access your University email account,
personal information and programme-related materials this way.
Staff are on hand during the daytime to help you if you get stuck, and there is a 24/7
IT helpline available.
© University of Bradford
5
Significant electronic resources are available including journal access to international
journals and access to specialist economic and financial data services through the
University’s electronic subscriptions system, in order to support your research
throughout the programme
Student Support and Guidance
Programme Team
Support for you personally and in your programme of study, will be provided both by
the University and the Programme Team. You will be allocated a personal tutor who
is someone with whom you will be able to talk about any academic or personal
concerns. The Faculty will ensure that there is someone available with whom you
feel comfortable to help and support you. You will be provided with a comprehensive
series of handbooks that you can consult on a range of learning issues and your
programme tutors will be available to consult on subject specific queries.
Students’ Union
We value the feedback provided by students and collaborate with the Students’
Union, through a system of student representatives and formal staff student liaison
committees, so that any issues you wish to raise are addressed rapidly.
The Students’ Union provide professional academic representation and advice. The
Students’ Union and the University of Bradford work in partnership to provide
confidential counselling and welfare services where you can get help with any aspect
of your personal or academic life. Student Financial and Information Services (part
of the Hub) will provide you with information about a diverse range of issues such as
council tax, personal safety and tourist information. International Students can
access a range of additional advice and support services through the Students’
Union.
Employability and Career Development
The University is committed to helping students develop and enhance their
employability profile, commitment towards a career pathway(s) and to implementing
a career plan.
Professional career guidance and development support is available throughout your
time as a student and as a graduate from Career Development Services. The
support available from Career Development Services includes a wide range of
information resources, one to one appointments, a weekly workshop programme, a
mentoring programme, graduate recruitment and careers fairs, plus information and
help to you find part time work, summer work placements, internship programmes
and graduate/postgraduate entry vacancies. In addition, some students will receive
seminars and workshops delivered by Career Development Services as part of their
programme of study. All students are encouraged to access Career Development
Services at an early stage during their studies and to use the extensive resources
available on their web site www.careers.brad.ac.uk.
Career Development Services annually undertakes a survey of all postgraduates to
find out their destination six months after graduation. The survey gathers data on the
employment and further study routes graduates have entered and a range of other
© University of Bradford
6
information including job roles, name and location of employers, salary details etc.
The survey findings for each programme of study are presented on the programme
information pages on the University website and via Career Development Services’
website www.careers.brad.ac.uk
The specific provision on this programme is through a series of sessions with invited
speakers on different areas of professional practice, research and policy in finance
and economics throughout the year, as well as sessions with employers from both
finance and also government discussing the activities of financial and economic
analysts in a range of professional roles. The Division benefits from good relations
with government employers of economists, as well as its location close to the major
financial centres in Manchester and Leeds, each of which has employment in a
range of industries that recruit graduate economists.
Academic Skills Advice Service
For postgraduate students on taught programmes who are looking to improve their
marks during their time at university, study skills and maths advice is available to all
regardless of degree discipline. Students can access a programme of interactive
workshops and clinics which is delivered throughout the year. This is in addition to
our extremely popular face-to-face guidance from our advisers, who also offer a wide
range of online and paper based materials for self-study.
http://www.bradford.ac.uk/academic-skills
Disability
Disabled students will find a supportive environment at Bradford where we are
committed to ensuring that all aspects of student life are accessible to
everyone. The Disability Service can help by providing support, advice and
equipment to help you get the most out of your time at Bradford. It is a place where
you can discuss any concerns you may have about adjustments that you may need,
whether these relate to study, personal care or other issues. For more information
contact the Disability Service by phoning: 01274 233739 or via email:
disabilities@bradford.ac.uk
University policies and initiatives
Ecoversity
Ecoversity is a strategic project of the University which aims to embed the principles
of sustainable development into our decision-making, learning and teaching,
research activities campus operations and lives of our staff and students. We do not
claim to be a beacon for sustainable development but we aspire to become a leading
University in this area. The facilities we create for teaching and learning, including
teaching spaces, laboratories, IT labs and social spaces, will increasingly reflect our
commitments to sustainable development. Staff and student participation in this
initiative is crucial to its success and its inclusion in the programme specification is a
clear signal that it is at the forefront of our thinking in programme development,
delivery,
monitoring
and
review.
For
more
details
see
www.bradford.ac.uk/ecoversity/
© University of Bradford
7
Further Information
For further information, please check the University prospectus or contact
Admissions.
The Admissions Office
The University of Bradford
Richmond Road
Bradford, BD7 1DP
UK
+44 (0)1274 233054
http://www.brad.ac.uk/courses/
Postgraduate Admissions Office
Faculty of Social Sciences
Pemberton Building
The University of Bradford
Richmond Road
Bradford, BD7 1DP
UK
+44 (0)1274 233081
http://www.brad.ac.uk/economics
The contents of this programme specification may change, subject to the University's
regulations and programme approval, enhancement and review procedures.
© University of Bradford
8
Appendices: European MSc Economics
1. Programme Learning Outcomes
Code
Title
Type LO1 LO2 LO3 LO4 LO5 LO6 LO7 LO8 LO9 LO10 LO11 LO12
SE-7001D
Macroeconomic Theory and Policy
Core
A
A
A
A
S
S
SE-7002D
Microeconomic Theory and Policy
Core
A
A
A
A
S
S
Econometrics and Applied
Core
A
A
A
A
S
S
A
A
SE-7003D
Research
Modules at Partner
Agreed modules from those
Institutions
available at Partner Institutions
SE-7007Z
Dissertation in Economics
Core
Core
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
A
Notes
A = this outcome is formally assessed in the module
S = this outcome is explicitly supported in the learning and teaching but is not formally assessed
© University of Bradford
1
2. Teaching map
Code
Title
Type
1
2
SE-7001D
Macroeconomic Theory and Policy
Core
X
X
SE-7002D
Microeconomic Theory and Policy
Core
X
X
SE-7003D
Econometrics and Applied Research
Core
X
X
Modules at
Partner Institutions
Agreed modules from those available at
Partner Institutions
Core
X
X
SE-7007Z
Dissertation in Economics
Core
3
4
X
X
X
5
X
Teaching and Learning Methods
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Lectures
Seminars
Library / Computer Sessions
Workshops
Supervision / Tutorials
© University of Bradford
2
3. Assessment map
Code
Title
Type
1
SE-7001D
Macroeconomic Theory
and Policy
Core
X
SE-7002D
Microeconomic Theory and
Policy
Core
X
SE-7003D
Econometrics and Applied
Research
Core
Modules at Partner
Institutions
Agreed modules from
those available at Partner
Institutions
Core
X
SE-7007Z
Dissertation in Economics
Core
X
2
3
4
5
6
7
X
X
X
X
X
X
Methods of Assessment
1.
Coursework / Essay / Research article ass.
2.
Exam
3.
MCQ Exam / Class test
4.
Report / CV
5.
Presentation
6.
Data Task
7.
Dissertation
© University of Bradford
3