The global economy is becoming increasingly reliant on data, which makes it important for fields such as economics to align its focus to thorough quantitative and technical training in line with STEM pedagogies. This thus creates the need for a scientifically rigorous economics curriculum that emphasizes mathematical techniques, analytical reasoning, and the development of theoretical and empirical economic models.
In response, the Master of Science (MSc.) in Economics programme at Strathmore University is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in economic theory and empirical methods that rely on mathematical analysis. The programme also equips them with the critical thinking and analytical skills necessary to address complex economic challenges. Graduates will be well prepared to make valuable contributions in policy institutions, multilateral organisations, research institutes, academia, financial institutions, and the private sector. By applying rigorous economic principles to real-world problems, they are prepared to operate effectively in a globalised and data-driven world.
Master of Science in Economics
Program Structure
The MSc. in Economics programme covers 17 course units, followed by a Thesis. Our curriculum unites Stata, Python, MATLAB, Julia, and R into a single computational powerhouse, transforming theoretical economic models into powerful tools for real-world data analysis and policy application. The course units are grounded in microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistics, and econometrics, building rigorous analytical capability while equipping students with the quantitative tools required to analyse data, inform economic policy, and drive strategic decision-making. The programme is further enriched by an international academic module, offering students global exposure, engagement with leading institutions, and insights into economic practice.
Program Outcomes
At the end of the programme, the students should be able to:
- Acquire economic theory and skills necessary for application within economic fields.
- Develop in the areas of statistical and econometric methods and be able to carry out statistical and econometric analyses.
- Interpret and explain results in empirical analyses.
- Formulate a solution to a given economic problem by using a combination of economic theory, statistical and econometric methods.
- Contribute to policy making in economic matters using evidence-based research.
- Conduct independent and objective research in the field of economics.
- Read and evaluate academic literature in economics and critique the quality of arguments in relation to specific economic issues.
- Demonstrate the skills necessary to independently discuss complex economic problems in clear language.
- Generalise and solve economic problems either independently or with peer groups, or with a supervisor as the situation requires.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the MSc. in Economics are well prepared for careers in economic analysis, policy advisory, and research across the public, private, and international sectors. Graduates can work as economists in government ministries and agencies, think tanks, multilateral organisations, NGOs, research institutions, and private companies. In these roles, they can contribute to policy formulation, macroeconomic modelling, and economic development strategies.
This master’s programme also prepares graduates for roles in institutions such as central banks, national treasuries and regulatory authorities where they can focus on inflation analysis, financial stability, economic forecasting and public finance. In addition, opportunities exist in sectors such as pensions, insurance, health, agriculture, manufacturing and telecommunications where economic analysis supports informed decision making.
Within the financial sector, graduates are well suited for careers in management consulting, investment banking, quantitative risk management and securities trading, leveraging their expertise in econometrics and data analysis. Moreover, the MSc. in Economics provides a solid foundation for graduates wishing to pursue a PhD in Economics or related disciplines, preparing them for advanced careers in academia, policy institutions and industry.
Entry Requirements
1. The following are eligible for admission into the Master of Science (MSc.) in Economics programme:
a) An Honours Degree in Economics: A First Class or Upper Second-Class Honours degree in Business Science (specifically Financial Economics, Actuarial Science, or Financial Engineering) or a quantitative-based Economics degree from a recognised institution.
b) An Honours Degree in Quantitative Sciences: A First Class or Upper Second-Class Honours degree in a highly quantitative field, including Engineering (all branches), Physics, Data Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Quantitative Biology, or Computational Science.
c) Equivalent Qualifications: Any other related degree deemed equivalent to the above by the Academic Council of Strathmore University Business Science.
2. All applicants will also be required to attend and pass an oral interview, as well as the SIMS Mathematics Graduate Entrance Examination (GEE).
Interview requirements
The Oral Interview and Graduate Entrance Examination (GEE) are held on Wednesdays and Fridays at 2:00pm. Below are some of the requirements you need to prepare:
a) Originals and Certified copies of K.C.S.E (or its equivalent), Undergraduate degree certificate and transcript of records (TOR) in English, giving full details of subjects studied and grades/marks obtained.
b) Two (2) completed Reference Forms from former undergraduate/graduate professors and/or employer particularly qualified to attest to the applicant’s qualification for graduate study.
c) Dully filled graduate studies application form.
NB: Reference forms and a Graduate Studies Application form can be downloaded from our website.
d) An updated Curriculum Vitae/Resume.
e) Current passport size photos.
f) Provide a copy of National Identity Card (ID) or copy of Passport.
g) KES 2,500 interview fee payable on the interview day.
