Higher Diploma (Economic Science)

J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics

Course description
Why choose this course?

The Higher Diploma in Economic Science is an intensive and challenging two-semester taught programme in core economic theory and methods, with a variety of specialist options. It is mainly intended for those aiming for entry to a Masters degree, but who have not yet studied economics in sufficient depth for direct entry, and is attractive to those with scientific and engineering backgrounds, as well as humanities, business, and social sciences graduates.

Entry requirements

An honours primary degree either with some economics modules or modules of a quantitative/mathematical/statistical nature.

Duration: Two semesters

Next start date: September 2013

Average intake: 25 (20 E.U. citizens; 5 non-E.U. citizens)

Closing date:

Please refer to the offer rounds/closing date webpage.

Mode of study: Taught

Students in the Higher Diploma in Economic Science take one of two streams, depending on the level of economics they have previously encountered. Both streams include courses in microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, as well as statistical/econometric or mathematical methods in economics. Students also have a choice from a wide range of elective modules, including history of economic thought, the economics of money and banking/financial economics, the economics of health, environmental economics, Irish economic history, public economics, and development economics. In this way, students can build on core foundations and develop specialist interests, in many cases aligned with their intended area of focus within economics.

Applications are made online via The Postgraduate Applications Centre (PAC). Relevant PAC application code(s) above.

Assessment is typically by way of a combination of end of Semester written examinations and continuous assessment components especially by way of term papers and project work.

Students work on a supervised research paper in economics over two semesters (ending in May), providing a further opportunity to focus on areas of particular interest aligned with their career ambitions.

Dr. Aidan Kane
T +353 91 492 530
E aidan.kane@nuigalway.ie
www.cairnes.nuigalway.ie/postgrad/