Master's Programme M.Sc. Economics

Within the M.Sc. Economics programme, students choose one track of specialization. The compulsory modules and the course structure vary slightly between each track in order to strengthen the skills in the respective area of focus.

After completing the programme, the chosen track is certified on the diploma. 

The Master of Science program is designed to ensure that students understand the implications of their subject well, are able to make appropriate use of sophisticated academic methods and findings, and are capable of independent economic research in accordance with academic principles. The programme follows a modular system that takes 4 semesters to complete, including sitting for exams and the completion of a thesis. First semester compulsory submodules vary depending on the track students aim to achieve.

In the second and third semesters, students are expected to choose from a range of economic and interdisciplinary elective modules and seminars to complement their research. The electives from the economics modules can be chosen from the abovementioned areas of focus.

In the third semester, students have the opportunity to apply for a study stint abroad, including the ERASMUS programme, the EU-exchange programme to promote greater mobility and cooperation between partner universities. Credits obtained from the partner universities are transferable towards the Master’s degree.
The fourth semester is reserved for the completion of the Master’s thesis.

Completion of the Master’s programme requires a total of 120 ECTS credit points, out of which 32 credits come from compulsory modules, 58 credits from elective modules and 30 credits from the Master’s thesis. Graduates will be conferred the degree “Master of Science” (M.Sc.).

The admission statutes include the following criteria:

1. The prospective student has to have a first university degree in a study program in Economics or with at least 40 % in Economics with a minimum of six semesters. Students of natural sciences (mathematics, physics, informatics or statistics) have to have a minor in Economics with at least 35 ECTS. If the degree is not completed at the date of admission, it is sufficient to apply with an official transcript of records issued by the examination office stating the current grade point average. If the prospective student will be accepted, the official degree certificate has to be shown by the time of enrollment.
2. The grade point average of the first academic degree has to be at least 2.7 or better, on a German grading system from 1.0 (highest grade) to 4.0 (lowest passing grade, 5.0 not passed). Applicants with a lower grade point average than 2.7 won’t be accepted. There is no such thing as waiting semesters. Academic awards or internships won’t be considered. The grade point average of the first official degree is the only considered criteria.
3. Proof of certain knowledge of English language skills. 
   The proof can be made by handing in one of the following different types of documents:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) with at least 570 paper-based or 230 computer-based or 90 internet-based TOEFL-Test Points
• International English Language Test System (IELTS) with a results of 6,5 or better
• Cambridge Certificate in Advanced English (CAE)
• the language certificate for English of the „Zentrales Sprachlabor“ of Heidelberg University with at least „good“
• A full study program taught in English or a written bachelor thesis in English can be used as an equivalent.
• if you have completed your university-entrance degree in an English speaking country, this is also sufficient.

The documents have to be issued no longer than 4 years ago. German language skills do not have to be proven.