MA Quantitative Economics

The Master’s programme in Quantitative Economics at the University of Tartu is an English-taught, full-time programme designed to provide students with strong preparation in contemporary economic theory and econometric analysis. The programme develops the analytical skills needed to analyse and forecast economic processes and prepares graduates for careers in finance, banking, government and policy, business, consulting, technology, research, and academia.

The programme has a nominal duration of two years and is based in Tartu, Estonia. Students study in an international academic environment and are taught by specialists in their respective fields. From the 2024/25 academic year, students have the option to complete both years in Tartu at the University of Tartu Delta Centre, a modern study and innovation centre bringing together students, researchers, and innovators in computer science, business and economics, mathematics, and statistics. Alternatively, students can spend their second year at Ghent University in Belgium and receive two diplomas.

Academic Focus

The programme focuses on contemporary economic theory, econometrics, statistics, and data-oriented analytical methods. Students develop the ability to work with quantitative economic information and transform data into meaningful insights. This combination of economics, statistics, econometrics, and data science provides preparation for data-focused analytical positions across different sectors.

The programme also provides a strong foundation for students who wish to continue to doctoral studies in economics or pursue an academic career.

Study Environment and Industry Cooperation

Students benefit from an international study environment and opportunities to connect academic learning with real-world applications. Cooperation with the Bank of Estonia provides access to expert lecturers from the bank as well as internship opportunities.

An internship is incorporated into the studies, allowing students to gain practical experience in environments such as banks, policy organisations, and companies. The programme also highlights partnerships with organisations including the Bank of Estonia and Swedbank, providing opportunities for students to gain insight into professional practice.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of Quantitative Economics can pursue analytical and data-focused careers in a wide range of sectors. Career opportunities include:

• Finance and banking: Graduates can work with banks and fintech companies, analysing data, predicting risks, and supporting financial decision-making. Examples mentioned include Swedbank, Bigbank, Luminor, and Wise.
• Government and public policy: Graduates can work with central banks, think tanks, and policy organisations, contributing to economic policy and decision-making. Organisations mentioned include PMCG and Praxis.
• Business and consulting: The programme prepares graduates to use data and economic analysis for business strategy and problem-solving. Alumni have joined companies including Google, Bolt, and Finnair.
• Research and academia: The programme can serve as preparation for doctoral studies and academic careers, with some graduates continuing their studies at other universities and pursuing research careers.

The University of Tartu states that approximately 80% of alumni work in Estonia, while others use their skills internationally. Graduates are particularly suited to data-focused analytical roles because of their training in statistics, econometrics, and data science.

According to the source, graduates of Quantitative Economics earned an average of €3,385 in 2023, based on information from the Republic of Estonia, Ministry of Education and Research.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification, which must be obtained by the end of July. Country-specific document requirements apply.

Applicants must also have completed specific prior studies, including:

• 9 ECTS in mathematics
• 6 ECTS in probability and mathematical statistics

Qualification documents are accepted in English or Estonian.

All applicants must comply with the University of Tartu’s English language requirements. The source states that only specified English-language tests and exemption categories are accepted.

Tuition and Application Fee

The tuition fee is €4,800 per year. Four admitted students will receive a 100% tuition-fee reduction for their first semester.

Applicants who are not citizens of the EU, EEA, or Switzerland must pre-pay half of the first semester’s tuition fee after receiving an admission offer.

The application fee is €100, payable once, and is non-refundable.

Study Start

The programme’s listed study start date is 31 August 2026. The source currently states that the application period has ended.

Overall, the Master’s programme in Quantitative Economics combines economic theory with quantitative and econometric analysis, practical internship opportunities, and an international study environment. It is designed for students seeking analytical careers in finance, policy, business, consulting, technology, research, or further doctoral study.