best economics phd programs in europe

Department of Economics

Phd programme in economics.

The PhD programme in Economics at Stockholm University is broadly considered one of the very best in Europe. The US-style programme is fully international in its orientation, and the vast majority of students enter the global economics job market.

Life as a PhD student at Stockholm University:

The PhD programme in Economics at Stockholm University is organised by the Department of Economics, in cooperation with the Institute for International Economic Studies, and the Swedish Institute for Social Research.

Stockholm University and Stockholm School of Economics collaborate by offering common courses for PhD students in economics and finance.

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Programme structure

You will study mathematics, microeconomics, econometrics, and macroeconomics, in total 60 out of 105 credits. All courses in year 1 are compulsory.

Year 2 and 3

You will take the remaining 45 credits during year 2 and 3. In addition to full sequences in development, labour, macroeconomics, and political economics, there are courses in finance, behavioural economics, trade, industrial organisation, etc., along with various methods-oriented courses.

There are also individual courses in public economics and international economics, as well as field-specific courses, where you formulate and carry out entirely new research projects. Historically, these projects have turned into many dissertation chapters, as well as top-tier publications.

Course details PhD programme

Thesis work and defence

The work on the thesis starts during year 2. Usually, you write a thesis consisting of a number of separate articles. The qualitative requirement is that each article should be publishable, but not necessarily published, in a refereed international journal.

The match between a graduate student and an advising team typically occurs sometime during the second or third year; the sooner students start considering possible advisors, the better.

When the thesis is ready and in print, it is publicly discussed and defended. The discussant must be an expert in the relevant field. The thesis defence is given a pass or fail grade. The decision of this grade is made by a committee consisting of three members. The discussant as well as the composition of the committee follows the guidelines of Stockholm University. The main supervisor proposes the discussant and the committee and the decision is made by the Faculty of Social Sciences at Stockholm University.

Collaborations

Stockholm doctoral course programme in economics, econometrics and finance.

The joint undertaking by Stockholm University and Stockholm School of Economics in offering common courses is called the Stockholm doctoral course programme in Economics, Econometrics and Finance (SDPE). This means that students at Stockholm University and Stockholm School of Economics have access to the same courses. Uppsala University is also part of the broader PhD course programme.

The PhD programme is also a part of ENTER

Center for monetary policy and financial stability

The Center for monetary policy and financial stability (CeMoF) is a collaboration between the Department of Economics, Stockholm Business School, and the Institute for International Economics Studies.

CeMoF's mission is to promote research and learning in the areas of monetary policy and financial stability. Affiliated PhD students are awarded a certificate from CeMoF.

Visit CeMoF for more information

Meet our PhD students

Students starting in 2023.

In September 2023 we had 16 new students. Here you will meet some of them:

Meet our new PhD students

Students starting previous years

Meet Thore Petersen, sharing his experience as a first-year student:

Meet Patrizia Massner, a third-year student:

Meet Ulrika Arhsjö, in her final year of the programme:

The graduate students' council

The official channel of communication between the graduate students and the department as well as other bodies of relevance.

Information and contact

Job placement for prior classes

Our graduates successfully continue to top job placements, in academia, governments, trade and industry, finance and banking. Find more here:

• How to apply

Application opens in October and closes on 31 January every year.

How to apply to the PhD programme in Economics

If you have any questions about the programme, please email:

[email protected]

• Visiting address

Södra huset A, room A763

Last updated: February 8, 2024

Source: Department of Economics

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Doctoral Programme in Economics

Following the tradition of the national doctoral programme in economics launched in 1990, DPE promotes doctoral education by providing a deepening structure of courses in core areas of economics. 

The Programme's fresh doctors are well placed in international academic institutions, central banks, research institutes, government organizations, and in private sector.

Want to know more? Visit our profile & activities page to learn more about the key research areas and activities in the programme.

Master's Degree in Economics and Finance: PhD Track Program

Applications for the 2024-2025 edition are now closed

Please contact our Admissions Team if you have any questions.

Program Director

Davide Debortoli

PhD, Universitat Pompeu Fabra

ICREA-UPF, CREI and BSE

See all faculty below

The PhD track of the Master's Degree in Economics and Finance is the first year of the PhD program at Universitat Pompeu Fabra

Launched in 1993 and currently organized jointly by the UPF Department of Economics and Business and BSE, the  UPF PhD Program  attracts students of exceptional talent and provides a strong foundation, a stimulating environment, and worldwide placement in the most prestigious institutions, research centers, and universities. 

The PhD Track Program is Year 1 of the UPF PhD. Upon completion of the PhD Track Program, graduates are awarded the BSE Master's Degree in Economics and Finance and proceed to Year 2 of the PhD (detailed in the schedule below).

Study with accomplished research faculty

Courses in the PhD Track Program are designed and taught by  BSE Affiliated Professors  at the UPF Department of Economics and Business and the Center for Research on International Economics (CREI) , two of Europe's top research groups.

Among them are recipients of ERC Grants and other competitive international funding, authors of publications in top journals, and fellows of the Econometric Society and NBER, to name just a few of their accomplishments. They will be your teachers, your mentors, your thesis supervisors, and down the road, your colleagues.

Additional entry requirements for this program

Because this is a PhD-track program, applicants must: 

• Submit a GRE score to be considered for admission. (GRE is not required to apply to other BSE Master's programs.)
• Complete 4 years of university study before starting this program.

Program schedule: 

Upf phd program structure.

• Year 1: Compulsory core courses in Econometrics, Microeconomics and Macroeconomics (BSE PhD Track Program)
• Year 2: Coursework that prepares students to conduct research (UPF Master of Research - MRes)
• Years 3-5: Research and PhD dissertation This stage typically lasts 4 years, but shorter and longer intervals are not uncommon.

Year 1: BSE PhD Track Program (Master's Degree in Economics and Finance)

COURSEWORK IN MACRO, MICRO, AND ECONOMETRICS

The course offer displayed is for next year's edition. Course offer is subject to change.

Course list for current students

Master project

The master project is a required component of all BSE Master's programs. Working individually or in groups, students use the tools and knowledge they've acquired during the entire year to explore a topic of their choice. A professor supervises throughout the project.

Examples of master projects from previous cohorts:

Topics Related to Economics and Mental Health

Estimating causal effects in the absence of treatment observability, migration shocks and occupational downgrading: evidence from venezuelan migrants in chile, import price inflation following the 2021 suez canal blockage: (for)ever given or transitory.

After successful completion of Year 1, students are awarded the Master's Degree in Economics and Finance by BSE and Universitat Pompeu Fabra.

Year 2: UPF Master of Research in Economics, Finance and Management (MRes)

COURSEWORK THAT PREPARES STUDENTS TO CONDUCT RESEARCH

A variety of specialized elective courses taught by faculty of the UPF Department of Economics and Business and CREI will present students with cutting-edge research, help them find topics for their own research, and put them in contact with potential thesis directors.

Visit the UPF Department of Economics and Business to see a list of MRes courses

The department's broad workshops and seminar series complement the coursework with exposure to the latest research presented by renowned speakers from the best institutions around the world.

Upon successful completion of Year 2, students are awarded the Master of Research in Economics, Finance and Management (MRes) by Universitat Pompeu Fabra.

Years 3-5: UPF PhD in Economics, Finance, and Management

RESEARCH AND PHD DISSERTATION

Students conduct research under the guidance of the faculty of the UPF Department of Economics and Business and CREI. This stage typically lasts four years, but shorter and longer intervals are not uncommon.

After successful defense of the thesis, students are awarded the PhD in Economics, Finance and Management by Universitat Pompeu Fabra.

Degrees awarded

Both the BSE Master's Degree and the UPF Master of Research have been recognized by the Catalan and Spanish Education authorities within the framework of the Bologna Process (in Spanish, “Master Universitario o Master Oficial”).

The UPF PhD has been recognized by the Catalan and Spanish Education authorities (in Spanish, “Programa Oficial de Doctorado”).

Quality indicators for the BSE Master's Degree

UPF PhD Faculty

The teaching faculty for Year 1 are listed below. A full list of UPF Department of Economics and Business faculty members for all 5 years of the PhD program is available on the department website.

View a list of faculty for all 5 years of the PhD

Geert Mesters

PhD, VU University Amsterdam and Tinbergen Institute

UPF and BSE

Elisa Giannone

PhD, University of Chicago

CREI and BSE

Jaume Ventura

PhD, Harvard University

CREI, UPF, and BSE

Larbi Alaoui

PhD, University of Pennsylvania

Christian Brownlees

PhD, University of Florence

Isaac Baley

PhD, New York University

Edouard Schaal

PhD, Princeton University

CREI, UPF and BSE

Antonio Penta

ICREA-UPF and BSE

Katerina Petrova

PhD, Queen Mary University London

UPF and BSE - on leave

Jordi Galí

PhD, Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Priit Jeenas

Alexander Frug

PhD, Tel Aviv University

PhD Track Student Profile 2023-24

21 students from 10 countries (90% international)

Most represented countries this year: 

• Spain and India (2 students each)

Most common undergraduate backgrounds:

• Economics and Finance

Build your career and your network

In addition to a track record of strong placements, both the BSE Master's program and the UPF PhD program offer access to a close-knit community of colleagues, mentors, and friends for life.

UPF PhD placement examples

Past graduates of the UPF PhD program have obtained tenure-track positions in:

United States Chicago, Duke, NYU, Stanford, UC San Diego

Europe Bocconi, Bonn, Carlos III, Cemfi, ESADE, IESE, IIES-Stockholm University, LSE, Mannheim, Nova de Lisboa, Oxford, Tilburg, UCL, Warwick, Zurich

Latin America ESPOL, ITAM, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú, Universidad de Los Andes

Asia Singapore Management University, Shanghai University of Finance and Economics, Zhejiang University

Some UPF PhD graduates choose employment with organizations and companies such as:

Central Banks Banca d’Italia, Bank of England, Federal Reserve Board, Bank of Canada, Deutsche Bundesbank, European Central Bank, etc.

International Organizations International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank

Economic Consulting Firms NERA, Deloitte, JP Morgan

See all UPF PhD placements by year (UPF website)

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• Study in Europe /

PhD in Economics in Europe

• Updated on  
• Jan 4, 2024

Are you considering pursuing a PhD in Economics in Europe? Then you’re in the right place! Europe is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities that offer doctoral programs in economics. The Doctoral Programme in Economics (DPE) at the University of Helsinki is one such program that promotes doctoral education in economics by providing courses and seminars based on a program launched in 1990. Similarly, there are many such universities across the continent offering doctoral programs in Economics at affordable fees. Read on to know more about pursuing an Doctorate in Economics in Europe!

This Blog Includes:

Phd in economics in europe: overview, phd in economics: the course, why choose europe for phd, top universities for phd in economics in europe, phd within the framework of the european higher education area, cost of phd in economics in europe, careers and scope.

A PhD , also known as a Doctor of Philosophy degree, is a doctorate awarded by a university to an academic who has completed all required qualifications and is now considered a doctor in his or her academic field. Those who study economics first learn the distinctions between microeconomics and macroeconomics. Microeconomics is concerned with the behaviour and interactions of individual markets, such as households and firms. On the other hand, macroeconomics is focused on the state of the economy as a whole. Over 4,000 higher education institutions are located in Europe, ranging from world-class research organizations to small, teaching-focused universities. Europe, which expands from the Arctic Circle to the African coast, is not unlike other continents.

• A PhD in Economics typically includes coursework in both macroeconomics and microeconomics. However, if you want to teach or conduct formal research in economic subjects, this is a useful degree. Once the proposal is approved and the oral exam is passed, the final years of enrollment are devoted to dissertation research, writing, and defence.
• The major opportunity in the field of Economics is that it is primarily involved in research. A PhD degree should be pursued only if a person has a strong interest in research-oriented work. PhDs are typically pursued by individuals involved in the academic field. This may lead to a better understanding of the specific field or subject.
• After completing the PhD in Economics course, students will be able to understand a wide range of theoretical debates in economics and business, analyse economic problems, and evaluate the implications for economic policy and business planning and strategy.
• Most economist jobs require a master’s degree or a PhD in Economics. For advancement to higher-level positions, an advanced degree is sometimes required.

Also Read: Find the Best PhD in Europe to Study

Europe is a popular destination for postgraduate study. There are numerous reasons why people choose to pursue their master’s or PhD programme in Europe, not the least of which is Europe’s excellent reputation in terms of high educational standards, as well as the general way of life, vast amounts of choices and options, and cultural diversity. Here are some of the main reasons why you should pursue your PhD in Economics in Europe:

• Great Experience

Many students choose to pursue a postgraduate degree in Europe because of the overall experience it can provide. The ability to get cheap trains and flights to visit a variety of countries within Europe during a free weekend or the Christmas or Easter holidays is one of the benefits. If you live and study at a university in Europe, the rest of the continent is right on your doorstep, waiting to be explored.

• Quality of Education

Europe’s university quality is extremely high, with some of the world’s top-ranked institutions such as University College London, the University of Cambridge, and the University of Oxford in the United Kingdom. These universities, along with many others in Europe, are all held in high regard around the world and demonstrate Europe’s ability to provide an exceptional standard of teaching for postgraduate students.

• Budget Friendly

Pursuing a master’s degree or PhD programme in Europe can also be financially advantageous because tuition fees can be much lower than those in other countries such as America. Postgraduate course fees in Europe typically range from €5,000 (INR 4,10 Lakh) to €25,000 (INR 20.5 Lakh), depending on the university’s status and the course topic. Most postgraduate courses for international students cost €15,000 (INR 12.3 Lakh), which is significantly less than those in the United States.

• Possibilities for employment

Studying in a European city is advantageous for your future career because their student populations are large and diverse. This gives the postgraduate student a broader life experience while also providing excellent networking opportunities. Potential employers are well aware of the high quality of higher education institutions in Europe, which can undoubtedly help you along your chosen career path. Your chosen European university is likely to impress potential employers, which can help you advance your career.

According to the most recent international rankings, the following are the best economics schools for PhD in Economics in Europe:

• London School of Economics and Political Sciences (LSE), UK
• University of Oxford, UK
• University of Cambridge, UK
• University College London (UCL), UK
• Bocconi University, Italy
• University of Warwick, UK
• Tilburg University, Netherlands
• University of Zurich, Switzerland
• London Business School, UK
• ETH Zurich, Switzerland

EHEA is a network of 48 countries that use the same university degree system. It consists of all 28 EU members (including the United Kingdom) as well as other countries from Europe and Eurasia.

The Bologna Process, which was signed in 1999 at the University of Bologna (Europe’s oldest university), is followed by all EHEA members. This divides academic degrees into three categories:

• Bachelor’s degrees are first-cycle degrees that typically take 3 years to complete. 
• Master’s degrees are second-cycle degrees that typically last 2 years.
• Doctorates (such as PhDs) are third-cycle degrees that typically take three to four years to complete.

Academic degrees obtained in one EHEA country are automatically recognised in others. This makes studying abroad in different parts of Europe or working in another European country with your doctorate much easier.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, a PhD in Economics in Europe costs an average of $19,314 (INR 15.9 Lakh) per year. This amount represents the average graduate tuition charged by both public and private institutions between the years 2018 and 2019. Tuition fees vary by school, and private universities are frequently more expensive than public universities.

Also Read: PhD in Germany

A PhD in Economics in Europe will provide you with career stability and financial security. Career opportunities in economics are excellent, as employment in these fields is expected to grow faster than the national average. Continue reading for a list of some of the best PhD in Economics jobs for graduates, as well as an overview of their annual salaries. According to PayScale, the average salary for someone with a PhD in Economics is $110,000 (INR 90.66 Lakh) per year. This value varies depending on your career path, the company you work for, and even the industry in which you work.

A PhD in Economics in Europe is well worth the investment. Obtaining a PhD in economics is an excellent way to gain valuable skills for the econ job market, improve your overall communication, and ensure financial security and stability throughout your career.

Economics PhD graduates have the option of conducting research and teaching in prestigious institutions, prestigious government positions, or ongoing work at some of the highest-paying private institutions.

Relevant Reads:

Many universities depend on outside funding to establish PhD positions. External funding is frequently provided in the form of research grants for specific research projects. The European Commission and national scientific research councils are two common funding sources.

In general, a PhD in Europe takes at least four years to complete, though there are three- and five-year programmes, as well as part-time options.

In Europe, the average monthly minimum salary for a PhD student is €2,600. It is important to note that this figure includes all disciplines, not just science and engineering.

Consider an economics PhD if you want to work in research, are good at math (i.e., quant GRE score above 165), and have a demonstrated interest in economics research.

To help you shortlist colleges/universities in Europe or any other country, please contact Leverage Edu . You can also call us at 1800 57 2000 for a free 30-minute counselling session.

Vidisha Dewan

Graduated with English as a major, I’m a writing enthusiast. Writing helps me blend my passion and profession to achieve creative satisfaction. I am an opinionated person, but always open to change. Try to keep my work surroundings creative and fun, with a space for constructive feedback.

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Counting the Pennies

10 most affordable countries in europe to do your economics phd.

Read a summary or generate practice questions using the INOMICS AI tool

Are you interested in doing a PhD in economics but worried about the cost? It's a real concern for many, and can dramatically affect your decision-making process. If you live in the United Kingdom, you could end up with around fifty thousand pounds worth of debt at the end of your three years. In the United States, you could have even more. The stress of having this weigh over you - not only while you're studying, but also afterwards while you search for a job and during your first years in employment, can be massive. 

Fortunately, the UK and the US aren't the only two places in the world with colleges and universities great for studying economics. Particularly in many European countries, higher education hasn't yet been turned into a corporate business to the same extent, meaning not only can you find cheap PhD programs - some are completely free. But paying less (or even nothing) doesn't translate into a lesser experience. On the contrary, many of the countries on this list can make legitimate claims to housing some of the most prestigious higher learning institutions in the world.

Studying abroad has other advantages during your years to complete the program, too. These include learning a new language, getting to know a new culture, meeting people you wouldn't normally, and more generally forcing yourself out of your comfort zone. These things can be somewhat scary, but are often incredibly rewarding. 

So without trying to convince you any further to move to another country, read on for our list of the top ten places to look for an affordable PhD in Europe (in no particular order). If you plan to start your PhD application soon, download our free guide " How to successfully apply to a PhD in Economics ".

Germany's positive academic reputation is known worldwide, and the country has a rich, impressive higher education system. Most universities in Germany have very low or no tuition fees, and there are large numbers of government grants available for PhD students, such as those provided by the DAAD or the Excellence Initiative.

Living costs vary between areas, but rent control means that housing is relatively affordable in many parts of Germany, although costs have been increasing in recent years. There are often plenty of courses available in various fields in English; aside from that, learning German, while a tough language, can be an extremely rewarding experience. This author can testify.

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Browse PhD programs in Germany

The cost of tuition fees for PhD students in Denmark is also low: usually around DKK 3,600 (US$500) per year, making it an extremely affordable option for studying. The quality of life is very high there, with a beautiful countryside and a strong culture of environmental awareness.

Rent and food can be expensive in large cities like Copenhagen, which must be taken into consideration. However, if you enjoy Denmark and want to stay longer, fear not – jobs pay equivalently well there.

Browse PhD programs in Denmark

France is known for its world-leading technical colleges like l’Ecole Polytechnique, where tuition fees are typically very low for PhD students at just €400 (US$440) per year. Paris can be an eye-wateringly expensive city to live in, but other cities like Lyon or Toulouse are more affordable and also have exceptionally good universities. It may be a little harder to find courses in English at French universities, but they definitely exist, even for economics.

Browse PhD programs in France

If you can handle the cold, you might consider studying in Helsinki, Finland, which has two world-leading universities. It is far more affordable to live there than in other Scandinavian capital cities, so if you want a taste of Scandinavian life without the hefty price tag then this might be for you.

Generally, Finnish universities offer a lot of courses in English. Helpfully, this means that you won't have to learn the local language, which is renowned for being extremely difficult. Even so, it might be worth giving it a try!

Browse PhD programs in Finland

Free tuition for all doctoral students – welcome to Sweden. There are also scholarships available from the Swedish government to cover living expenses of PhD students who come from other countries to study in Sweden.

With a high quality of life and well-regarded universities for economics, Sweden is both highly affordable and highly attractive for studying. But bear in mind that the cost of living, especially in cities, can be high.

Browse PhD programs in Sweden

Brussels is a bustling and highly cosmopolitan city best known as a center of political activity, but it also has a number of reputable educational institutions. PhD students in economics, politics or international relations in particular will find this a highly stimulating environment. The cost of living in Belgium is generally lower than other European countries and tuition fees are in the mid-range.

Browse PhD programs in Belgium

Affordable in terms of both tuition fees and living costs, Hungary is a rising power in the European academic world. Academic scholarships for international students are common, making it a popular choice with students from around the world. The city of Budapest is known for being one of the most interesting and culturally intriguing cities in Europe, and it has universities like the Corvinus University of Budapest which offers programs in English.

Bear in mind that Hungarian is a notoriously difficult language to learn, and the political situation in the country has become less and less inviting over recent years, something important to consider when moving abroad.

Browse PhD programs in Hungary

Who could resist the chance to spend a few years in Italy, eating what surely everyone agrees is the best cuisine in the world? (According to the Italians, at least). As well as delicious food and a relaxed, casual way of life, Italy offers good technical universities as well as institutions which specialize in economics, the arts, history, and architecture.

Accommodation costs vary considerably even within a city, meaning that there are usually options available for students on a budget. Tuition fees are low and it's increasingly common to find international students at Italian universities.

Browse PhD programs in Italy

Another Scandinavian country which offers very low tuition fees is Norway. Tuition is generally free for all students, including international students, at all educational levels. Students only have to pay a small administrative fee of $50-$100 per semester, and the universities are of high quality.

However, the costs of living in Norway can be very high, with the cost of basic staples among the most expensive in Europe. On the plus side, Norwegian is arguably one of the easiest languages for English speakers to learn once you've got past the difficult pronunciation. Unfortunately, Norwegians often speak such good English, you may never have a chance to practice.

Browse PhD programs in Norway

A beautiful country with famous architecture and sunny weather, Spain is another option for an affordable PhD program. It is also especially notable for being more accessible to the many native Spanish speakers in the world than many of the other countries on this list.

The cost of living is lower than countries such as Norway or Sweden, although Spanish universities will often charge a modest tuition fee. This fee is higher for international students than for EU residents (somewhere in the range of €2,000 to €4,000, depending on the program). But, this is still very affordable compared to similar options in the US or UK.

Browse PhD programs in Spain

Until early 2022, Ukraine was on this list. However, due to the tragic invasion that began in late February 2022, students are unable to study safely there for now. We stand in solidarity with Ukraine and all of the people affected by needless violence; you can find ways to assist with humanitarian efforts by reading our Solidarity with Ukraine post.

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Best Universities for Econometrics and Mathematical Economics in Europe

Updated: February 29, 2024

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Below is a list of best universities in Europe ranked based on their research performance in Econometrics and Mathematical Economics. A graph of 13.5M citations received by 609K academic papers made by 832 universities in Europe was used to calculate publications' ratings, which then were adjusted for release dates and added to final scores.

We don't distinguish between undergraduate and graduate programs nor do we adjust for current majors offered. You can find information about granted degrees on a university page but always double-check with the university website.

1. University of Oxford

For Econometrics and Mathematical Economics

2. London School of Economics and Political Science

3. University of Cambridge

4. University College London

5. University of Amsterdam

6. University of Copenhagen

7. Erasmus University Rotterdam

8. Tilburg University

9. Imperial College London

10. Catholic University of Leuven

11. Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich

12. University of Warwick

13. University of Bristol

14. University of Manchester

15. Aarhus University

16. University of Zurich

17. Catholic University of Louvain

18. University of Groningen

19. University of Bonn

20. University of Edinburgh

21. University of Nottingham

22. Maastricht University

23. University of York

24. University of Vienna

25. University of Southampton

26. University of Oslo

27. University of Sheffield

28. Delft University of Technology

29. Free University Amsterdam

30. Pierre and Marie Curie University

31. University of Essex

32. University of Bologna

33. Sapienza University of Rome

34. University of Liverpool

35. Uppsala University

36. Utrecht University

37. University of Padua

38. Lancaster University

39. University of Glasgow

40. Carlos III University, Madrid

41. Pompeu Fabra University

42. Lund University

43. Federal Institute of Technology Lausanne

44. University of Leeds

45. London Business School

46. Bocconi University

47. University of Munich

48. Free University of Brussels

49. Stockholm University

50. University of Helsinki

51. Humboldt University of Berlin

52. Paris Dauphine University

53. University of Lisbon

54. University of Mannheim

55. Queen Mary University of London

56. Radboud University

57. University of Leicester

58. University of Reading

59. Goethe University of Frankfurt am Main

60. Ghent University

61. University of Birmingham

62. University of Hamburg

63. University of Sussex

64. Newcastle University

65. Autonomous University of Barcelona

66. University of Cologne

67. Stockholm School of Economics

68. University of Paris 1 Pantheon-Sorbonne

69. Polytechnic School

70. Vienna University of Economics and Business

71. University of Lausanne

72. Athens University of Economics and Business

73. Technical University of Munich

74. Charles University

75. University of Milan

76. University of Bielefeld

77. Heidelberg University - Germany

78. King's College London

79. University of St. Gallen

80. University of Montpellier

81. University of East Anglia

82. University of Granada

83. University of Barcelona

84. Leiden University

85. City, University of London

86. Kiel University

87. Cardiff University

88. University of Gottingen

89. University of Bath

90. University of Gothenburg

91. University of Exeter

92. University of Geneva

93. University College Dublin

94. TU Dortmund University

95. University of Freiburg

96. University of Twente

97. University of Strathclyde

98. Birkbeck, University of London

99. University of London

100. Polytechnic University of Milan

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20 Best Economics Universities in Europe

In this article, we would be taking you through some of the best Economics universities in Europe that award bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees.

Are you interested in the field of Economics? Do you want to study in Europe ? If your answer is yes, we have some of the best and most affordable universities in Europe just for you.

The old continent of Europe provides a wide range of English-taught university options to students, with low or even no tuition rates, and excellent travel opportunities.

Before we dive into our list of best universities, we would like you to know why we recommend Europe as a study destination.

Table of Contents

Why study Economics in Europe?

Some of the reasons to study Economics in Europe are given below

It Boosts your CV/Resume

Are you looking for a way to boost your resume or CV? It is impossible to go wrong by studying economics in Europe.

With some of the best economics universities in the world, any employer that sees that you studied in Europe would certainly hire you right away.

Quality Education

Europe has some of the world’s best universities. Cross-border agreements have aided in the development of a vibrant international academic community.

Studying economics in Europe will provide you with some of the broadest and most effective abilities in the area, from research to practical application.

Economic Hub

Cities in the United Kingdom, France, Spain, the Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Austria, Norway, Denmark, Sweden, and Belgium are international centers of business, culture, history, and the arts.

As an economics student in Europe, you will not only have access to these amazing cities, but you will also have the opportunity to gain an understanding of how some of the world’s most important economic centers work.

What are the 20 Best Economics Universities in Europe?

Below are the 20 best economics universities in Europe

• Oxford University
• The London School of Economics and Political Science
• University of Cambridge
• Luigi Bocconi Universita Commerciale
• University of London
• The University of Warwick
• University of London Business School
• The Stockholm School of Economics
• University of Copenhagen
• Erasmus University Rotterdam
• Universitat Pompeu Fabra
• University of Amsterdam
• Nottingham University
• University of Sussex
• Autonomous University of Barcelona
• Vienna University of Economics and Business
• Tilburg University
• University of Bristol
• Aarhus University
• Nova School of Business and Economics .

The 20 best Economics Universities in Europe

#1. oxford university.

Country: UK

Oxford’s Department of Economics is one of Europe’s leading research institutions and home to some of the world’s most prominent academic economists.

The primary goal of economics at Oxford is to understand how consumers, businesses, and governments make decisions that affect how resources are allocated.

Furthermore, the department is committed to providing students with the requisite knowledge by the time they graduate through excellence in undergraduate teaching.

#2. The London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

LSE is a world-class center for social science teaching and research, particularly in economics.

The University is well-known throughout the world for providing excellent economics education.

LSE Economics focuses on microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, which are all key foundations for learning about economics.

#3. University of Cambridge

Cambridge University economics degree offers both academic and practical economics. Students studying economics, at this university, apply concepts and techniques from a variety of disciplines such as history, sociology, mathematics, and statistics.

As a result, graduates from this university are exceptionally well prepared for a wide range of occupations and further education.

#4. Luigi Bocconi Universita Commerciale

Country: Italy

Bocconi University, also known as Universita Commerciale Luigi Bocconi, is a private university in Milan, Italy.

Bocconi University offers undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate economics programs.

The university is ranked among the top ten best business schools in Europe in the 2013 Financial Times European Business School Rankings.

It is also among the top 25 finest universities in the world in the subjects of Economics, Econometrics, Accounting, and Finance.

#5. University of London

The Economics department at the University of London has a good international reputation in major areas of economics education.

It was the only economics department in the UK to achieve an excellent grade-point average of 3.78 (out of 4) in the 2014 REF, with 79% of all output measures assessed at the highest level.

Students should not be concerned about their religion, sexual orientation, political beliefs, or anything else influencing their entrance to this university.

#6. The University of Warwick

The University of Warwick is a public research university in Coventry, England. The Department of Economics at the University of Warwick was founded in 1965 and has since established itself as one of the greatest economics departments in the UK and Europe.

This university currently has about 1200 undergraduate students and 330 postgraduate students, with half of the students coming from the United Kingdom or the European Union and the other half from other countries.

#7. University of London Business School

The University of London Business School (LBS) is a business school within the University of London. It is situated in the heart of London, England.

LBS’s economics department excels in academic research. They teach economic theory, industrial economics, strategic business behavior, the global macro economy, and European economic integration among other things.

#8. The Stockholm School of Economics

Country: Sweden

Stockholm University is a public, research-oriented university in Stockholm, Sweden. The university was founded in 1878 and is the oldest and largest in Sweden.

It offers bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, doctoral programs, and postgraduate research programs in Economics & Business Administration.

The Stockholm School of Economics has been ranked as one of Europe’s top ten business schools by Forbes Magazine for nine years running between 2011–2016.

#9. University of Copenhagen

Country: Denmark

The Department of Economics at this university is known for high-level international research, research-based education, and a contribution to international and Danish economic policy debates.

Their economics study program draws talented young individuals who receive one of the greatest economics educations in Europe and subsequently contribute to the community or pursue research.

#10. Erasmus University Rotterdam

Country: Netherlands

Erasmus University Rotterdam is a well-known public university in the Dutch city of Rotterdam.

Erasmus University’s School of Economics and Rotterdam School of Business are among the best economics and management schools in Europe and the globe.

In 2007, Erasmus University Rotterdam was rated one of Europe’s top 10 business schools by the Financial Times.

#11. Universitat Pompeu Fabra

Country: Spain

This university’s School of Economics and Business is the first and only faculty in Spain to receive the Certificate for Quality in Internationalization from a consortium of fourteen European accreditation agencies.

Their students demonstrate a high degree of academic achievement.

As a result, the Department of Economics and Business is well-known for setting international standards.

More than 67% of their courses are taught in English. Their bachelor’s degree program in International Business Economics, which is taught exclusively in English, is also noteworthy.

#12. University of Amsterdam

The University of Amsterdam is the largest university in the Netherlands and one of Europe’s oldest. It was founded in 1632. It has more than 120,000 students enrolled across its campuses.

The UvA offers undergraduate and post-graduate degrees in Economics through its Faculty of Law & Economics.

It offers students an opportunity to take advantage of research at a number of institutes. One such institute is the Amsterdam School of Economics (ASE).

#13. Nottingham University

The School of Economics combines teaching excellence and innovation with a global reputation for high-quality research.

Their courses combine all of the fundamental analytical and quantitative techniques required of modern economists.

They are ranked 5th in the UK for economics and econometrics in the Research Excellence Framework, and they are ranked in the Top 50 worldwide for economics departments in the Tilburg University Economics Ranking and the IDEAS RePEc ranking.

#14. University of Sussex

The Department of Economics is an important part of the University of Sussex Business School and has an international reputation for excellent teaching and applied research, particularly in the areas of development, energy, poverty, labor, and trade.

This dynamic department brings together some of the brightest and best early-career economists with a solid core of senior academics. Their knowledge and skills span a wide range of subjects and techniques, with particular strengths in applied policy analysis, economic theory, and applied research techniques.

#15. Autonomous University of Barcelona

The Autonomous University of Barcelona is one of the best economics universities in Europe.

It offers bachelor’s degrees in Economics, Finance, and Banking, Master’s programs in Economics, and PhDs in Economics.

UAB also has several research centers that study subjects such as economic development and public policy.

It is ranked 14th place among European universities according to QS World University Rankings 2019.

#16. Vienna University of Economics and Business

Country: Austria

Vienna University of Economics and Business is one of the most prestigious universities of economics and business in Europe.

The university was founded in 1874, making it one of the oldest institutions for higher education in this field.

The main focus here is on teaching students how to apply economic principles to real-world problems.

Students get hands-on experience through internships at companies or organizations such as McKinsey & Company or Deutsche Bank that hire graduates from this school as well as other top business schools around Europe.

#17. Tilburg University

Tilburg University is a public research university located in Tilburg, the Netherlands.

It was established on the 1st January 2003 as a merger of the former Tilburg University College, the former Technical University of Delft, and the former Fontys University of Applied Sciences.

This school’s Bachelor’s and Master’s programs in economics are ranked first in the Netherlands.

#18. University of Bristol

This School of Economics is renowned for its high-quality teaching and research and is one of the leading economics departments in the UK.

In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework, they were ranked among the top economic departments in the United Kingdom (REF).

The school of Economics at this university is ranked top 5 in the UK for “world-leading” impact in Economics and Econometrics, as well as the top 5 in the UK for Economics and Econometrics research output (REF 2021).

They provide undergraduate and graduate economics programs.

#19. Aarhus University

The Department of Economics and Business Economics is part of Aarhus BSS, one of Aarhus University’s five faculties. For its business-related activities, Aarhus BSS holds the prestigious accreditations AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS.

The faculty teaches and conducts research in the fields of microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, finance and accounting, and operations research.

The department’s research and degree programs have a strong international focus.

The department also offers a wide range of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs in economics and business economics.

#20. Nova School of Business and Economics 

Country: Portugal

Nova School of Business and Economics is a private university located in Lisbon, Portugal. Nova SBE is a non-profit institution of higher education that was founded in 1971.

It has been ranked as one of the best economics universities in Europe by QS World University Rankings 2019 and also by Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2018.

The school’s core mission is to provide students with an opportunity to acquire skills that will enable them to enter into positions where they can make an impact on society while developing their personal growth through knowledge acquisition and experience development opportunities within business or economics fields such as business administration, finance & accounting, marketing management, international business management, strategy & innovation management etc.

Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Economics Universities in Europe

Which country is best to study economics in europe.

When it comes to Europe, the United Kingdom is the best place to study economics. This country is well-known for its universities, which offer well-designed economics programs and consistently rank high in global rankings.

Which is better MBA or MSc in economics?

MBA programs are more general, whereas master's programs in economics and finance are more specific. A master's degree in finance or economics typically necessitates a stronger mathematical foundation. MBAs may earn higher average pay depending on the job.

Do economists get paid well?

Economist salaries are affected by a variety of criteria, including degree, experience level, job type, and geographical region. The highest-paying economist positions are typically proportionate to the number of years of experience and degree of responsibility. Some annual wages range from $26,000 to $216,000 USD.

Is Germany good for economics students?

Germany is a great choice for overseas students interested in studying economics or business because of its robust economy and booming corporate sector. Students from all around the world are drawn to Germany by its highly ranked colleges, lack of tuition fees, and low cost of living.

Is a Masters in economics worth it?

Yes, for many students, a master's degree in economics is worthwhile. Masters programs in economics may teach you how to identify financial trends and analyze financial data at an advanced level. This might assist you in becoming a valuable member of a business.

Is an economics Ph.D. worth it?

An economics Ph.D. is one of the most appealing graduate programs: if you complete it, you will have a great chance of securing an influential research position in academia or policy. Academic economics, in particular, is one of the finest methods to undertake and promote global priorities research, which is one of our priority routes.

How many years is a Ph.D. in economics?

The 'typical' length of a Ph.D. program in economics is 5 years. Some students complete their thesis in less time, while others take more.

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2024 Best Grad Schools Rankings Coming April 9

The next edition of the U.S. News graduate schools rankings will once again focus on outcomes.

2024 Best Grad Schools Rankings Coming

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New rankings of business, education, engineering, law, medical and nursing programs will be unveiled on April 9 as part of the 2024 edition of Best Graduate Schools . The rankings and data for these disciplines are derived from survey data that schools reported to U.S. News in fall 2023 and early 2024, in some cases combined with third party-sourced information. Detailed methodologies will be published in the ranking methodologies section of usnews.com.

For the first time since 2020, the website will also include new rankings of graduate programs in audiology, clinical psychology, occupational therapy, physical therapy, pharmacy, nurse midwifery and speech-language pathology. Additionally, social work will be ranked for the first time since 2022, and nurse anesthesia for the first time since 2016.

Finally, U.S. News will again update its annual rankings of graduate programs in public affairs, public health schools and programs, and computer science. These rankings, along with all the other health program rankings to be ranked in 2024, are calculated from qualitative ratings on academic quality submitted by top officials at these schools.

U.S. News has again worked with the Robert Graham Center, a division of the American Academy of Family Physicians, as the data provider to produce four exclusive stand-alone medical school rankings based on the following: the proportion of a medical school's graduates practicing primary care; the proportion of a medical school's graduates practicing direct patient care in medically underserved areas; the proportion of a medical school's graduates practicing direct patient care in rural areas; and the proportion of a medical school's fall 2023 enrollment, as reported to U.S. News, who are underrepresented minorities. That last ranking, referred to as the Most Diverse Medical Schools, takes into account Black, Hispanic, Native American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander enrollment.

Disciplines that were most recently updated in earlier editions will remain on usnews.com.

The rankings should not be used as the sole basis for deciding to attend one graduate program or school over another. Prospective students should consider other factors as well, like a school's course offerings, department culture, total cost to obtain the degree , networking after graduation, advising or mentoring programs, location and campus life .

Prospective students seeking such information, along with the full rankings, should access the subscription-based U.S. News Graduate School Compass . The full rankings include those in specialized areas, in fields like marketing, educational curriculum and instruction, chemical engineering, internal medicine and nursing administration. The full law school rankings and data will be free to all users.

The statistical data that schools report to U.S. News appears in each school's profile in U.S. News's directory. The data can be used to compare factors such as application requirements; acceptance rates; entering class scores on the GRE, LSAT, MCAT and GMAT; student body characteristics; financial aid and graduate indebtedness; bar passage rates; the amount of research conducted at medical schools; and career-related information for graduates of law and business programs, such as starting salaries and job attainment success after graduation.

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About Morse Code: Inside the College Rankings

Robert Morse is chief data strategist for U.S. News & World Report and has worked at the company since 1976. He develops the methodologies and surveys for the Best Colleges and Best Graduate Schools annual rankings, keeping an eye on higher-education trends to make sure the rankings offer prospective students the best analysis available. Morse Code provides deeper insights into the methodologies and is a forum for commentary and analysis of college, grad and other rankings.

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