Economics

Economics at the University of Trier offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in the principles, theories, and applications of economic analysis. The program is designed to provide a solid foundation in both microeconomics and macroeconomics, enabling students to understand the functioning of markets, the behavior of economic agents, and the overall economic environment. Students will explore key topics such as economic theory, quantitative methods, fiscal and monetary policy, international economics, and development economics. The curriculum emphasizes analytical skills, critical thinking, and real-world applicability, preparing graduates for diverse careers in business, finance, public policy, research, and academia. Throughout the program, students have opportunities to engage in empirical research, work on projects, and participate in internships to gain practical experience. The university's focus on interdisciplinary learning and international perspective ensures students are well-equipped to understand complex global economic issues. The program also encourages the development of soft skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving, which are highly valued in the job market. By the end of their studies, students will have acquired a deep understanding of economic mechanisms and policy debates, enabling them to analyze and interpret economic data critically. The Economics program at the University of Trier aims to foster academically strong and socially responsible graduates who can contribute meaningfully to economic analysis and decision-making processes in various sectors. Graduates will be prepared for further academic pursuits or to enter the workforce with a robust skill set suitable for a dynamic and interconnected global economy.

Educational organisation

The Master's programme MSc Economics is a two-year full-time programme. All students attend the same courses in the first semester (Advanced Microeconomics, Advanced Macroeconomics, and Econometrics). Beginning in the second semester, students can specialise in one of the following six fields:

• European Political Economy
• European Labour Markets and Innovation
• European Finance
• Empirical Analysis
• European Economic Integration (for double degree students)
• European Social Security and Health Systems (some of the courses in this specialisation are only offered in German).

From the the second semester onwards, students can also attend courses in other departments. In the fourth semester, students complete the programme with their Master's thesis. The Master's degree will be awarded based on the credit points acquired and the results of the Master's thesis.

For an overview of the modules of each semester and detailed course descriptions, please visit http://www.msc-econ.uni-trier.de.

Study abroad unit(s)

Students can spend their second year of studies at the University of Warsaw or the University of Bergamo and obtain a double degree.

Forms of assessment

Written and oral exams, seminar presentations and papers, thesis

Course objectives

The Master's programme MSc Economics is designed for students in economics who are interested in an interdisciplinary approach to analysing economic phenomena and have a special interest in the European context.
Having acquired advanced methodological skills in economic theory and econometrics, students will be well prepared for jobs in the public and the private sectors. Successful alumni will also be qualified to enter a national or international PhD programme.

Language requirements

Applicants have to prove their language proficiency in English by means of one of the following tests, which should have been taken within the last three years:

• TOEFL (TOEFL-code: 9208): Internet-based: at least 80 points, computer based: at least 215 points, paper based: at least 550 points
• Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English
• IELTS with at least 6.0 points
• UNIcert III
• C1 certificate for CEF
• Certificate of a degree in an English-speaking Bachelor's programme (or equivalent) in an English- or German-speaking country

Academic requirements

Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in Economics, Social Sciences, or a field that provides a sufficient background in economics.
For detailed information, see: https://www.uni-trier.de/index.php?id=56616&L=2.

Enrolment fees

Trier University does not charge tuition fees. Students only have to pay a social fee ("Semesterbeitrag") of 250 EUR for the first and 240 EUR from the second to the fourth semester. The fee includes a semester ticket covering public transport in Trier and the region of Trier. Moreover, this fee acts as a contribution that benefits Trier Student Services (Studierendenwerk Trier) and the Student Union. It also enables students to buy meals at reduced prices at the university's canteens.

Costs of living

Students should expect expenses of approx. 670-750 EUR per month. For instance, housing costs vary between approx. 200-250 EUR (basic dorm room) and 380 EUR (single apartment). A meal in the student cafeteria costs approx. 2.60-5 EUR.

Job opportunities

Trier University provides career services in cooperation with the German Federal Employment Agency (Bundesagentur für Arbeit): http://www.career-service.uni-trier.de. Located on campus, the career service called Jobpassage is designed to support students and graduates in all career-related matters such as internships, full- and part-time jobs, and future career opportunities.

Arrival support

The International Office at Trier University (Akademisches Auslandsamt) offers a three-and-a-half week orientation programme before the start of the semester. It has four key components: providing German instruction on four different levels, completing important administrative formalities, hosting various information events, and offering a supplementary social and cultural programme.
Detailed information concerning the preparation of your stay in Trier can be found on the website http://www.uni-trier.de/index.php?id=43907&L=2.

Services and support for international students

The Department of Economics offers intensive academic support for international students in our Master's programmes. Due to our long-time cooperation with the DAAD, our advisers know the problems foreign students may face when studying abroad and how these problems can be solved. Moreover, international students are assigned a mentor from the group of professors.

In addition, international students will receive comprehensive support from the International Office (Akademisches Auslandsamt). The International Office provides information on administrative and practical issues and offers individual counselling. Practical language training during the whole semester is offered free of charge by the Department of German as a Foreign Language.

In cooperation with the student union's International Centre, we offer a broad range of social and cultural activities such as day trips, language exchange programmes, or a host family programme.

Further information:
International Students' Adviser of the Economics department:

• contact: Maxim Makhlis: msc.economics@uni-trier.de
• website: http://www.wiwi-stip.uni-trier.de

International Office:

• contact: aaa@uni-trier.de
• website: http://www.uni-trier.de/index.php?id=3&L=2

Accommodation

Accommodation is available in student halls of residence through the Student Services Office (Studierendenwerk Trier: http://www.studiwerk.de) or on the private market (e.g., http://www.hunderttausend.de). Housing costs vary between approx. 200-250 EUR (basic dorm room) and 380 EUR (single apartment).