MSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics (EME)
The decision to study a master’s degree was not a difficult one. My undergraduate studies in operational research and econometrics fomented my curiosity in the very origin and justification of the econometric techniques and microeconomic subjects I encountered. With the MSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics (EME) at LSE, I have found a programme that is clearly specialised into these topics and belongs to the very best MSc level programmes in the field of economics in the world.
The studies have not disappointed me. While the teaching’s technical rigour is initially a challenge and certainly does require considerably more effort than most undergraduate degrees, it soon pays off. On the one hand, previously obscure arguments in asymptotic theory and microeconomics suddenly become clear. On the other hand, the in-depth mathematical framework provides me with a knowledge that exceeds the skills of many applied researchers, which proves the advanced degree of this programme.
Students come from all over the world, with backgrounds in fields like economics, mathematics, physics or computer sciences. Due to its clear specialisation, the programme is rather small. This means that the overall mood is very nice and collaborative, we often work in groups to understand all topics and solve assignments together. While my typical day during term-time is filled with activities like solving exercises, finding background material for topics that even Google has no clue about, discussing lecture and further research topics with faculty and applying for PhD or job positions, we also have a lot of social activities.
Many students intend to continue their academic career by pursuing a PhD and thus following suit leading academics who have previously been EME students, e.g. Daron Acemoglu. Other students like me are applying for private sector finance and consultancy positions. Thanks to the MSc EME, we have acquired the analytical skills and ability to describe the world in a very precise yet comprehensible way, what will make us excel in our future positions.