Contact hours and independent study
The MSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics programme consists of formal teaching in lectures, seminars, formative coursework, marked assignments and computer assignments covering basic programming skills. Hours vary according to courses and you can view indicative details in the Calendar within the Teaching section of each course guide.
Additionally, each week, students are assigned problem sets which focus on key elements of the lectures and promote creativity and critical thinking by going beyond the material explicitly discussed in the lectures. The problem sets will be discussed in class by the class teachers.
Given the high level of academic performance expected from students, a significant amount of independent study and preparation is required to get the most out of the programme. You will manage the majority of your study time yourself, by engaging in activities such as reading, note-taking, thinking and research.
Teaching methods
LSE is internationally recognised for its teaching and research and therefore employs a rich variety of teaching staff with a range of experience and status. Courses may be taught by individual members of faculty, such as lecturers, senior lecturers, readers, associate professors and professors. Many departments now also employ guest teachers and visiting members of staff, graduate teaching assistants, and LSE teaching fellows, most of whom are doctoral research students. You can view indicative details for the teacher responsible for each course in the relevant course guide.
Assessment
All taught courses are required to include formative coursework which is unassessed. It is designed to help prepare you for summative assessment which counts towards the course mark and to the degree award. LSE uses a range of formative assessment, such as essays, problem sets, case studies, reports, quizzes, mock exams and many others.
Summative assessment may be conducted during the course and/or by final examination at the end of the course. You have the advantage of being assessed both after the end of the first term (Lent Term Week 0 January exams) and after the end of the second term (Summer Term main exam period).
An indication of the formative coursework and summative assessment for each course can be found in the relevant course guide.
Academic support
There are many opportunities to extend your learning outside the classroom and complement your academic studies at LSE. LSE LIFE is the School’s centre for academic, personal and professional development. Some of the services on offer include: guidance and hands-on practice of the key skills you will need to do well at LSE: effective reading, academic writing and critical thinking; workshops related to how to adapt to new or difficult situations, including development of skills for leadership, study/work/life balance and preparing for the world of work; and advice and practice on working in study groups and on cross-cultural communication and teamwork.
LSE is committed to enabling all students to achieve their full potential and the School’s Disability and Wellbeing Service provides a free, confidential service to all LSE students and is a first point of contact for all disabled students.