The Master of Advanced Studies in Economics is an advanced master's programme for students with an adequate background in economics and a keen interest in recent analytical developments in the field.  The programme prepares you for pursuing a PhD in economics, or for a research career in (inter)national institutions, universities and business. The Master of Advanced Studies in Economics offers you a deeper knowledge in specific areas of application, and familiarizes you with current research practices in economics.

The programme curriculum features a selection of advanced courses from different fields within economics. The programme aims to help you find a promising research topic and develop your own research for your master’s thesis. Each year, the programme brings together about 15-20 students from all corners of the globe, which results in a very stimulating and international atmosphere.

An ideal way to kick start your career!

We actively encourage you to invest in practical experiences as a valuable addition to your educational programme.

Advantages:

• Gain relevant experience in an interesting environment

• Explore the labour market and work life

• Put theory from your programme into practice

• Gain and develop new skills

During your studies you can take part in both intra-curricular and extra-curricular internships. The perfect way to gain insights into your future career and to add relevant working experience to your cv. It is in many cases the first step to your first full time job. Intra-curricular internships are part of your programme and can be accredited.

Basic admission requirements:

• Students with a KU Leuven master's degree in Economics awarded with distinction (cum laude) by the Faculty of Economics and Business of KU Leuven, Campus Leuven, have immediate access to the programme.

• Students who do not have distinction can apply for admission. The faculty decides on the admissibility.

• Other applicants should hold a diploma with above-average academic performance, from either of the following programmes:    

  • another university master's degree in Economics comparable to the master's degree in Economics of KU Leuven, Campus Leuven

  • a university master's degree in Business Economics or Business Engineering awarded by the Faculty of Economics and Business at KU Leuven, Campus Leuven or equivalent;

  • a university master's degree with a solid background in mathematics and statistics (for example, a university master's degree obtained at the Faculty of Engineering or at the Faculty of Bioscience engineering) and with a strong interest in economics.