Economics

The MSc in Economics at the Barcelona Graduate School of Economics is a rigorous, research-oriented program designed to prepare students for analytical careers in academia, policy-making, and the private sector. This comprehensive curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, equipping students with advanced quantitative and analytical skills essential for understanding complex economic issues. Throughout the program, students engage in a variety of rigorous coursework covering microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, as well as specialized electives that allow for tailored expertise in areas such as development economics, finance, environmental economics, and international trade. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, mathematical modeling, and empirical research capabilities, enabling graduates to conduct independent research or contribute effectively to economic analysis in various contexts.

Students benefit from the dynamic academic environment fostered by the Barcelona Graduate School of Economics, which hosts world-renowned faculty involved in cutting-edge economic research. The program also offers abundant opportunities for collaboration, seminars, and workshops, promoting a vibrant intellectual community. Beyond coursework, students have access to a wide range of resources including rich datasets, advanced statistical software, and research centers dedicated to contemporary economic issues. The MSc in Economics prepares graduates for doctoral studies or careers in policymaking, economic consulting, financial institutions, and international organizations. The program’s international orientation, rigorous methodology, and close engagement with real-world economic problems ensure graduates are well-equipped to tackle global economic challenges and contribute meaningfully to their fields.

Skills Acquired

• Solid command of analytical and quantitative Economics
• Knowledge of a wide range of specializations in different fields of economics
• Competence in both theoretical and empirical approaches, from foundation to application and policy
• Expert subject knowledge in writing and discussion of graduate-level economics
• Facility with tools necessary to successfully pursue a top PhD in economics

Addressed to

• Graduate students in economics, mathematics, or engineering
• Aspiring PhD students looking for a rigorous master program in economics
• Junior analysts or professionals from the workforce looking for a postgraduate degree with advanced tools in quantitative economics

Prospective Employers

• Banking and Financial Institutions
• Governmental and International Agencies
• Consulting and Research Organizations
• Automotive, Energy, and Internet Industries, among others

Entry criteria

At the Barcelona GSE we look for excellence and talent. Key elements of a strong application are a high GPA, a sound statement of purpose and a standout reference letter. Strong knowledge in economics and good quantitative skills are also recommended.

The entry criteria for applicants are:

• An Undergraduate/bachelor/grado/laurea, or equivalent degree from an accredited college or university (for Bologna degrees, a minimum of 180 ECTS are required).
• A typical applicant would hold a University Diploma in Economics, Finance, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics or Business Administration. See our Student Profile for more detailed information.
• An advanced level of English language skills: TOEFL 90-100 and IELTS 6.5
• GRE exam is mandatory for the Master in Data Science and Master in Economics

Note that the fulfillment of the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission. Candidates will also be evaluated on the following admission criteria:

• Outstanding academic record
• Quantitative skills
• Reference letters

Entry criteria

At the Barcelona GSE we look for excellence and talent. Key elements of a strong application are a high GPA, a sound statement of purpose and a standout reference letter. Strong knowledge in economics and good quantitative skills are also recommended.

The entry criteria for applicants are:

• An Undergraduate/bachelor/grado/laurea, or equivalent degree from an accredited college or university (for Bologna degrees, a minimum of 180 ECTS are required).
• A typical applicant would hold a University Diploma in Economics, Finance, Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics or Business Administration. See our Student Profile for more detailed information.
• An advanced level of English language skills: TOEFL 90 and IELTS 6.5
• GRE exam is mandatory for the Data Science Program and highly recommended for those applicants to the Economics Program who want to be considered for the UPF PhD program (GPEFM).

Note that the fulfillment of the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission. Candidates will also be evaluated on the following admission criteria:

• Outstanding academic record
• Quantitative skills
• Reference letters

The Barcelona GSE is able to offer tuition waivers and fully-funded scholarships based on academic merit.

The financial aid that is available to students includes:

• Fully funded scholarships

• Waivers for 100%, 75%, 50% and 25% of tuition fees

• Teaching assistantships

Financial aid will only be awarded to candidates that have an outstanding academic record. All candidates will automatically be considered for any available financial aid when they submit a completed application for a master program. 

While applications are open every year until June 25, preference in funding will be given to candidates who apply before January 15. 

In the Class of 2016, 34% of students were awarded with scholarships or tuition waivers.

Master degree awarded

Upon successful completion of the program, students will receive a Master Degree in Economics and Finance awarded by the Universitat Pompeu Fabra (UPF).

All Barcelona GSE master degrees have been recognized by the Catalan and Spanish Education authorities within the framework of the Bologna Process (in Spanish, “Master Universitario o Master Oficial”).