Economics MA Advice

[rgranzier]

I will be graduating from my American undergrad program in 2016 with a dual degree in math and econ and am interested in getting my masters afterward, but I have a few questions.

 

1. I don't want to pursue a phd after my masters since I have no interest in research or academia, how should this effect my choice in masters program?

 

2. Would Europe be the best place to look for masters programs? I am a dual citizen of the US and The Netherlands, if that helps.

 

3. What type of Economics program would make me the most competitive when I enter the job market? I am interested in macroeconomics, international economics, game theory, and many other facets of economics so I am not sure what to emphasize with my choice in masters program.

 

I would really appreciate any help and information. Thank you!

[jlojohn]

In my opinion:

 

1_pick a master according to brand name, links with industry and its geographical position (i.e. go for a school in the city or country where you want to work) rather than according to research strengths, funding offers or PhD placements rankings.

 

2_a 1 year MSc from a top British Uni would be shorter and look as good as an MA from an American uni.

 

3_depends what sector. A classic MSc Economics (UCL, LSE or Cambridge) or MSc International Economics (e.g. Nottingham Uni) would be what is usually necessary to go into macroeconomic consultancy. According to economist positions such as in the GES, game theory is rarely used, if you were to be genuinely interested in the latter you may want to either stay in academia or look to do an MSc in Behavioural Economics (Warwick, Nottingham or Essex).

 

Overall I'd go for a classic MSc Economics where you get to do roughly 25% macro, 25% micro, 25% econometrics and then you specialise a bit more on optional modules and dissertation on what you like most.