MSc in Economics and Strategy in Emerging Markets

Multi-disciplinary approach

Taking advantage of the business opportunities and addressing the economic challenges that are posed by emerging markets requires a comprehensive and multi-disciplinary approach. In this program, you will examine relevant issues primarily from the perspectives of (macroeconomics, development economics, economic history, trade) and business (strategic management, finance, supply chain management), with insights from political science and governance.

This multi-disciplinary approach will help you develop a thorough understanding of complex issues such as:

• the economic role of emerging markets in the global economy
• international macroeconomics and business strategies in emerging economies
• socio-economic development in emerging markets
• the impact of governance on economic development
• how the development of emerging markets affects other economic actors (eg. MNEs, workers) and economies

You’ll learn what drives the high growth in these markets, how they are evolving, where the next business opportunities will be, and how to make responsible management and policy decisions in these rapidly changing and sometimes fragile economies.

Skills for a successful career

In addition to a broad knowledge base, you will also develop skills that will help you succeed in a wide range of professional environments. You will receive practical training in skills such as:

• using empirical research skills and research methodology to analyze economic phenomena
• utilizing specific software and data analysis tools
• formulating business and policy strategies and writing policy briefs
• giving oral presentations
• effectively collaborating with people from various national, ethnic, religious, and cultural backgrounds

Collaboration with United Nations University

This program is offered by Maastricht University's School of Business and Economics (SBE), in collaboration with the United Nations University (UNU-MERIT). The instructors from UNU-MERIT have extensive experience working on issues related to emerging markets, including:

• innovation and innovation systems
• sustainable development
• economic growth and structural change
• policy evaluation (carrying out research for UNIDO, UNICEF, or the World Bank)

Amazing education opportunities

Premium honors program

Premium gives you that extra edge by offering real-world experience during your studies. As part of a team of students, you’ll build the experience and skills employers are looking for. Work on a real-world assignment for a company, NGO, or educational institution. Create a personal development plan. Participate in intensive individual coaching, masterclasses, and workshops.

Internships

Internships give you practical experience that enhances your studies and increases your employability. Many graduates often end up working at the organization where they intern. SBE encourages master’s students to do an extracurricular, 8-26 week internship. The SBE Internship Office has an extensive database of internship opportunities and is on hand for guidance and counseling.

Combine thesis & internship

Rather than face a trade-off between finishing their studies and doing an internship, SBE students have the option of combining the two. During the Thesis-Internship Programme (TIP), your thesis will be written on a topic relevant to a company or organization during a part-time internship. This gives your thesis focus and applicability and gives you practical work experience.

Courses & curriculum 2022 - 2023

The program is structured around two semesters. During the first semester, you will:

• take a number of core courses that cover the general theoretical and empirical aspects related to emerging markets
• conduct a major policy project on a topic of your choice
• develop professional skills as part of the core courses and in specialized skills training
• take a course on a language from an emerging economy

In the second semester, you will choose more targeted elective courses and write your thesis. The thesis, as well as the project of your individual papers, will give you the opportunity to develop more specific, region-based expertise.

Curriculum

• EBC4244 International Macroeconomics and Finance for Emerging Markets
• EBC4233 Empirical Methods in Economics
• EBP4004 Policy in Emerging Markets
• EBS4036 Professional Development in Emerging Markets
• EBC4247 Socio-Economic Development in Emerging Markets
• EBC4246 Strategic Management in Emerging Markets
• EBS4037 Writing a Master's Thesis
• Elective
• Elective
• Master's Thesis or Thesis Internship Programme

Rankings & recognition

• Financial Times lauded SBE in best practice examples of sustainability, ethics, and social purpose in teaching and education methods
• UM is the sixth-best Young University in the world
• Triple Crown accreditation - School of Business and Economics

Your future

There is an increasing demand for professionals who are knowledgeable about emerging markets and who are able to foster relationships between stakeholders in developed and emerging economies. The program’s dual focus on economics and business will give you a broad knowledge base. This, combined with the skills you develop, will make you well qualified to work in a wide range of professional environments and positions.

Career prospects

This master’s program prepares you for career opportunities at organizations such as:

• multinational companies
• governmental agencies
• policymaking institutes
• research institutes

You’ll also be qualified to pursue many different positions within those organizations, including:

• executive functions
• consultant
• analyst
• policymaker

Your experience with formulating and analyzing data-driven research questions will also be valuable if you choose to pursue a Ph.D.