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Postgraduate Study

The Advanced Diploma in Economics is a nine-month taught course (from the last week in September to the end of June) for students whose first degree contains little or no economics.

The Advanced Diploma programme sets out to give a thorough grounding in the essentials of modern economics, with a strong emphasis on practical applications.  It is intended primarily as a conversion course: individuals already trained in another discipline should acquire the same basic skills, over the course of a single academic year, as would normally be gained by those studying for a three-year degree in economics.  As such it serves as a free-standing course for those who wish to have an overview of the subject as well as providing a suitable foundation for students who wish to apply for the Faculty's  MPhil in EconomicsMPhil in Economic Research, MPhil in Finance and Economics or MPhil in Economics and Data Science degrees.

Since modern economics makes frequent use of formal (mathematical and statistical) analysis, a good mathematical background is essential for applicants to the Diploma programme.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of the Advanced Diploma, students should have acquired an understanding of the core principles and techniques of analysis in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics and be equipped to proceed to a master's degree in economics.


Continuing

Continuation to the MPhil in Economics or the MPhil in Finance and Economics is conditional on obtaining an average of at least 65% in the Diploma examinations.

Continuation to the MPhil in Economics and Data Science is conditional on obtaining an average of at least 68% in the Diploma examinations.

Continuation to the MPhil in Economic Research is conditional on obtaining an average of at least 70% in the Diploma examinations.


Open Days

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the beginning of November. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the Postgraduate Open Day page for more details.

See further the Postgraduate Admissions Events pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

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Key Information


9 months full-time

Study Mode : Taught

Advanced Diploma

Faculty of Economics

Course - related enquiries

Application - related enquiries

Course on Department Website

Dates and deadlines:

Michaelmas 2025

Applications open
Sept. 4, 2024
Application deadline
Dec. 3, 2024
Course Starts
Oct. 1, 2025

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 3, 2024
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 16, 2024

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2025, Lent 2026 and Easter 2026.


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