At a glance
21 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
€0k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
The MPhil in Economics at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive two-year program designed for students seeking rigorous training in economic theory, applied economics, and econometric methods. This program is comparable in intensity to the initial two years of a PhD in Economics in the US, providing a robust foundation for those aspiring to doctoral research or a career as a professional economist in either government or the private sector. It is particularly recommended for students who have not previously undertaken graduate-level work in economics. The course structure is flexible, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific academic or career goals, including advanced research or skill development for professional roles.
Curriculum
The MPhil in Economics is structured over two years, beginning with a preparatory mathematics course. The first year focuses on core economic principles, while the second year allows for specialisation through option modules and culminates in a required thesis.
- Year 1
- Mathematical Methods (Preparatory)
- Microeconomics (Core/Advanced)
- Macroeconomics (Core/Advanced)
- Econometrics (Core/Advanced)
- Empirical Research Methods (Option)
- Further Mathematics Methods (Option)
- Year 2
- Thesis
- Advanced Macroeconomics (Option)
- Advanced Microeconomics (Option)
- Advanced Econometrics (Option)
- Empirical Research Methods (Option)
- Behavioural Economics (Option)
- Development Economics (Option)
- Economic History (Option)
- Financial Economics (Option)
- International Trade (Option)
- Labour Economics (Option)
- Public Economics (Option)
Careers
Graduates of the MPhil in Economics program pursue diverse career paths, with many advancing to doctoral studies and others entering professional roles in economics. The rigorous training prepares students for demanding positions in various sectors.
- Professional Economist (Government)
- Professional Economist (Private Sector)
Frequently asked questions
- What is the duration of the MPhil in Economics program?
- The MPhil in Economics is a two-year program. It begins with a preparatory mathematics course, followed by core economic principles in the first year and specialisation through option modules and a thesis in the second year.
- What are the estimated living costs for international students?
- Estimated living costs for a single graduate student in Oxford range from £17,100 to £24,420 per year for 12 months in 2025-26. This estimate includes food, accommodation, personal items, social activities, and study costs.
- When can I apply for the MPhil in Economics?
- Applications for the MPhil in Economics for entry in 2026-27 are closed. You can register to receive email updates for when applications open for entry in 2027-28. The University's January application deadline is for scholarship consideration.
- What are the English language requirements for this program?
- A higher level of English proficiency is required for this course, as specified by the University's English Language Requirement.
- What are the career prospects after completing the MPhil in Economics?
- Graduates often pursue doctoral studies or enter professional roles as economists in government or the private sector. Some may also become ODI Fellows.
- Are there any scholarships available for this program?
- The New College Graduate Awards are available and offer generous college awards. To be considered, you must specify New College as your first-choice college in your application by the University's January application deadline.
Entry requirements
University's English Language RequirementHigher level required
Admission to the advanced level core courses is available for future DPhil students with extensive prior economics training. Students who apply for the MPhil + DPhil in Economics and are unsuccessful for the combined program will automatically be considered for the MPhil in Economics without needing a new application or fee.
Fees
Tuition (international)Information on international tuition fees is not provided on the source page.
Tuition (home)Information on home/domestic tuition fees is not provided on the source page.
LivingEstimated living costs for a single graduate student in Oxford range from £17,100 to £24,420 per year (for 12 months) in 2025-26. This includes food, accommodation (including bills), personal items, social activities, study costs, and other miscellaneous expenses. These are estimates and actual costs may vary based on individual lifestyle.
Additional costs for international students may include student visa fees and the immigration health surcharge, which must be paid upfront for the entire duration of the course.
How to apply
1. Check Course Availability and DeadlinesApplications for the MPhil in Economics for entry in 2026-27 are currently closed. You can register to receive email updates for when applications open for entry in 2027-28.
2. Prepare Your ApplicationGather all required documents as specified in the University's Application Guide. This typically includes academic transcripts, references, and a personal statement. Ensure you meet the English language requirements (Higher level for this course).
3. Submit Your Application OnlineApplications are made through the University's online graduate admissions portal. If applying for the MPhil + DPhil in Economics, your application will automatically be considered for the MPhil if unsuccessful for the combined program.
4. Consider College Preference (for scholarships)If you wish to be considered for New College Graduate Awards, you must specify New College as your first-choice college in your application.
Scholarships
New College Graduate AwardsGenerous college awards
Frequently asked questions
What is the duration of the MPhil in Economics program?
+
The MPhil in Economics is a two-year program. It begins with a preparatory mathematics course, followed by core economic principles in the first year and specialisation through option modules and a thesis in the second year.
What are the estimated living costs for international students?
+
Estimated living costs for a single graduate student in Oxford range from £17,100 to £24,420 per year for 12 months in 2025-26. This estimate includes food, accommodation, personal items, social activities, and study costs.
When can I apply for the MPhil in Economics?
+
Applications for the MPhil in Economics for entry in 2026-27 are closed. You can register to receive email updates for when applications open for entry in 2027-28. The University's January application deadline is for scholarship consideration.
What are the English language requirements for this program?
+
A higher level of English proficiency is required for this course, as specified by the University's English Language Requirement.
What are the career prospects after completing the MPhil in Economics?
+
Graduates often pursue doctoral studies or enter professional roles as economists in government or the private sector. Some may also become ODI Fellows.
Are there any scholarships available for this program?
+
The New College Graduate Awards are available and offer generous college awards. To be considered, you must specify New College as your first-choice college in your application by the University's January application deadline.