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Economics at UEA
Find out more about studying Economics at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreMSc Behavioural Economics and Data Science
Key Details
- Attendance
- Full Time
- Award
- Degree of Master of Science
- Course Length
- 1 year
- Course Start Date
- September 2026
Other Start Dates
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Why you should choose us
Course Overview
How much weight do consumers give to online reviews when making purchases? Can data from donation websites be used to test theories of altruism? This dynamic MSc equips you with the tools to explore such questions—combining insights from behavioural economics with cutting-edge data science techniques.
Part of UEA’s Applied Training Programme, this MSc in Behavioural Economics and Data Science is designed for those without a background in economics who want to develop core economic skills alongside programming and data science. You’ll study microeconomics, macroeconomics, behavioural economics, econometrics, programming, and data science—delivered jointly by the School of Economics and the School of Computing Sciences.
Our vibrant teaching methods include lectures, workshops, presentations, IT lab sessions, and guest speakers. You’ll also benefit from pre-sessional training in calculus, statistics, and STATA, along with ongoing support in using online data sources. You’ll learn how to scrape, process, and analyse large datasets, forecast using web data, and test behavioural theories in real-world settings. Your learning journey culminates in an independent research dissertation—often blending behavioural theory with big data—guided by a dedicated academic supervisor. Plus, you’ll have the option to collaborate with external organisations, combining academic insight with invaluable real-world experience.
You’ll study in Norwich, a vibrant and historic city, and have access to UEA’s full range of extracurricular and career development opportunities. We host employer visits and career sessions to support your professional ambitions.
After graduation, your employment prospects will be strong, as this MSc prepares you for high-demand roles in the growing field of data science. It's especially suited to careers in government policy, behavioural research, banking, finance, healthcare, regulation, and management. It’s also an ideal stepping stone to PhD study.
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Study and Modules
Structure
The MSc Behavioural Economics and Data Science is a 12-month course, starting with the pre-sessional course in September.
You’ll receive rigorous training in the core areas of economics, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Beyond this, you’ll have the flexibility to tailor your degree by choosing from a wide range of specialist modules, allowing you to align your studies with your personal interests and career goals.
Later in the programme, you'll write your dissertation which will begin with a series of training lectures and workshops. These will help you choose a topic, access data, search literature, reference correctly, and analyse quantitative data. You’ll also benefit from additional dissertation workshops and dedicated support to help you produce high-quality, impactful research.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Important Information
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
UEA’s School of Economics is a vibrant, welcoming community driven by cutting-edge research and teaching excellence. With an international reputation for both theoretical and applied economics, our expertise spans behavioural economics, competition policy, environmental economics, corporate strategy, finance, and data science.
You’ll take taught modules over two semesters. Most modules include two hours of lectures and a weekly interactive workshop or lab session—where theory comes to life. These sessions give you the chance to apply what you’ve learned, ask questions, and engage directly with your tutors and peers in a collaborative setting.
In your programming and econometrics modules, you’ll gain practical experience in our dedicated computer labs. You’ll learn to code in Python and perform data analysis using STATA, a leading software package used by economists and analysts.
You'll also develop strong independent study skills, spending time on coursework assignments, preparing seminars, and engaging in wider reading. These abilities will be especially valuable when you undertake your dissertation.
Assessment
Assessment will take a variety of forms – including take-home assignments, seminar presentations, written tests, computer-based tests, and your dissertation.
You’ll regularly be given “formative” assessment tasks, which will help you prepare for formal assessments without affecting your final mark. For your formal assessments, you’ll receive clear, constructive feedback to support your academic growth and help you reach your full potential.
If you have additional needs, our Student Support Service is here to help.
Employability
After the Course
Upon completing your MSc in Behavioural Economics and Data Science, you’ll be well-prepared for a rewarding career in government or the private sector, particularly in organisations that specialise in behavioural economics. You’ll also be fully equipped to pursue roles as a data scientist.
Alternatively, you could apply your skills in sectors such as banking and finance, healthcare, regulation, human resources, or executive management. And if academia is your calling, this programme offers a strong foundation for PhD research and beyond.
Careers
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
- Government agencies
- Private Sector Consultancies
- Healthcare consultancies
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
Degree classification
Bachelors degree - 2.2
Degree Subject
Any subject acceptable.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
Degree classification
UK Bachelors degree - 2.2 or equivalent
Degree Subject
Any subject acceptable.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in each component).
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not meet the English language requirements for this course, our UEA International Study Centre offers a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the required English skills.
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- UEA International Study Centre
If you do not meet the academic requirements for this course, you may be able to study the International Pre-Masters programme offered by our partner UEA International Study Centre. This programme guarantees progression to selected Master's degrees if students achieve the appropriate grade. For more details, please click here:
International Pre-Masters in Business, Economics and Social Sciences
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all postgraduate applicants.
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Fees and Funding
Tuition fees for the Academic Year 2026/27 are:
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UK Students: £12,400
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International Students: £23,850
We estimate living expenses at £1,136 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here.
Scholarships and Bursaries
The University of East Anglia offers a range of Scholarships; please click the link for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of additional course-related costs.
How to Apply
How to apply
Applications for Postgraduate Taught programmes at the University of East Anglia should be made directly to the University.
To apply please use our online application form.
Further information
If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances prior to applying, please do contact us:
Postgraduate Admissions Office
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk
International candidates are also encouraged to access the International Students section of our website.