How to Pursue a Master's in Economics Without a Degree in the Field

Many students have the interest and ambition to pursue a career in economics, but they may find themselves without a formal degree in the subject. This article will explore the possibilities and steps you can take to enter a master's program in economics even if you don't have a background in the field.

Overview of the Possibilities

It is indeed possible to pursue a master's degree in economics without a formal degree in the field. Many universities offer programs that accept students from diverse academic backgrounds, particularly if you have taken relevant coursework in mathematics, statistics, or related fields. This article will guide you through the process of preparing for and applying to such a program.

Steps to Prepare

1. Research Programs

Start by researching master's programs in economics that explicitly state they accept students from diverse academic backgrounds. Some programs will have prerequisites that you can complete before admission. For example, the University of Cambridge and the London School of Economics (LSE) often welcome students from various disciplines who have taken specific coursework in related fields such as mathematics, statistics, and economics.

2. Take Prerequisite Courses

If you don’t already have a background in economics, consider taking foundational courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and statistics. These courses will help you build the necessary background to succeed in a master's program. Columbia University, for instance, offers an intensive summer program for students who wish to prepare for their master's studies in economics.

3. Highlight Relevant Skills

Emphasize any quantitative skills or analytical experience you have in your application. Coursework in mathematics, statistics, or related fields can be beneficial. For example, if you have experience in data analysis, econometrics, or business analytics, make sure to highlight these skills. Stanford University’s economics department looks for students with strong quantitative skills and a good understanding of mathematical concepts.

4. Obtain Strong Letters of Recommendation

Get strong letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak to your analytical abilities, potential for success in graduate studies, and overall suitability for a master's program in economics. These letters can be particularly influential in gaining admission to competitive programs. The University of Chicago Booth School of Business emphasizes the importance of letters of recommendation in the admissions process.

5. Write a Compelling Statement of Purpose

Write a compelling statement of purpose that explains your interest in economics and how your background has prepared you for this field. Be clear about your goals and explain why you are pursuing a master's degree in economics. Carnegie Mellon University’s Tepper School of Business requires a detailed statement of purpose as part of the application process.

Country-Specific Considerations

The requirements and opportunities for non-degree students to pursue a master's in economics can vary significantly depending on your country. Here are some examples of how this process works in the UK:

UK Example

In the UK, non-quantitative MA programs in economics tend to accept graduates with undergraduate degrees from any discipline, provided the degrees are at high enough grades, such as a 2:2 minimum. For more quantitative economics degrees, such as MSc, MRes, MPhil, or MEcon, you typically need an economics undergraduate degree or equivalent with a higher grade, such as a 2:1 or above. Some universities may also require a GRE or GMAT score.

Other examples include:

University of Cambridge: Accepts students from various disciplines with relevant coursework in mathematics and statistics. London School of Economics (LSE): Requires a minimum 2:2 degree in a quantitative subject but may accept students with complementary skills and a strong statement of purpose. University of Glasgow: Offers a pathway for students who do not have a degree in economics but have strong quantitative skills.

Alternative Options

If you do not meet the prerequisites or requirements for a master's program, consider participating in bridge programs or obtaining a postgraduate diploma in economics. These programs can help you transition into a master's program. The University of Leeds, for example, offers a Postgraduate Diploma in Economics, which covers key economic modules and prepares you for further study.

Alternatively, some universities may accept a postgraduate economics diploma instead of a formal undergraduate degree in economics. This option can be beneficial if you have strong quantitative skills and a clear interest in economics.

Conclusion

With the right preparation and strategy, you can navigate the path to a master's degree in economics even without a formal degree in the field. By researching programs, taking prerequisite courses, highlighting relevant skills, obtaining strong recommendations, and crafting a compelling statement of purpose, you can strengthen your application and increase your chances of acceptance.