Updated Master's Programmes in Economics and Finance
Department of Economics at the School of Business, Economics and Law, University of Gothenburg, is modernising its postgraduate programmes. With a one-year Master's programme in Finance and a two-year Master's programme in Economics offering two tracks, students can choose from three options that combine strong academic foundations with skills in modern quantitative methods.
Rapid technological developments are changing the landscape of economics and finance, both in research and in the workplace. To meet evolving demands for skills and expertise, the department has reviewed and modernised its postgraduate programmes.
“We wanted to ensure that our master's programmes are as relevant as possible. Given the rapid pace of technological development, we recognised that our students generally need a stronger foundation in quantitative methods. Therefore, in addition to updating and modernising our econometrics courses, we are introducing entirely new courses in data science,” says Katarina Nordblom, Professor of Economics and Programme Director for the Master's Programme in Economics at the School of Business, Economics and Law.
Three Study Options
The department's updated programme portfolio offers three options to suit different interests and career goals:
- Master of Science programme in Finance, 60 credits: Designed to prepare for a career in the modern finance industry.
- Master of Science in Economics, general profile, 120 credits: Offers a solid foundation in economic theory together with advanced quantitative methods and data science.
- Master of Science in Economics, finance profile, 120 credits: Combines a strong foundation in economics with advanced training in finance.
Previously, the department offered two separate two-year programmes, one in Economics and one in Finance. The new structure allows the programmes to better meet students' different needs.
“We concluded that the main master's programme in Finance could better meet students' needs if it were shortened to one year. However, for students interested in finance who still wish to pursue a more rigorous academic programme, we offer a dedicated Finance track within the two-year programme, with a limited number of places,” says Katarina Nordblom.
Economic Theory and Data Analysis
The two-year Master's programme provides students with a strong foundation in economic theory and modern quantitative methods. The general Economics track includes several core courses in econometrics and data science, in addition to the courses in economic theory. The Finance track combines economic theory and methods with specialised courses in finance, which are taken alongside students enrolled in the one-year Master's programme in Finance.
The new programme structure also provides students with greater flexibility during their second year. By organising the core courses into the first year, it becomes easier for students to use their third semester to take elective courses, study abroad or undertake an internship. Students can study at one of the University's international partner universities or complete an internship at a company, public authority or organisation.
The programmes are taught in English in an international academic environment and prepare students for qualified positions in both the private and public sectors. The two-year Master's programme also provides a strong foundation for further studies at doctoral level.
Common Application Period
The School of Business, Economics and Law at the University of Gothenburg has also introduced a common application period for all applicants, regardless of nationality. For programmes starting in autumn 2027, applications opened for all students on 16 October 2026 and will close on 15 January 2027.