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Postgraduate Study

The course aims to expand the knowledge of a diverse set of students who already have good undergraduate degrees in economics or related fields with the tools of data science to handle and interpret large quantities of data.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the MPhil degree students should have:

  • acquired advanced high quality training of the essential data sciences skills;
  • acquired skills in data retrieval, manipulation, programming and methods of machine learning and econometrics;
  • acquired the theoretical underpinning of the motivation of modelling decisions and the interpretation of data pattern;
  • acquired, through optional papers, some knowledge of work at the frontiers of the subject in particular areas;
  • begun to acquire independent research skills and experience of putting them into practice;
  • acquired experience and guidance in formulating a realistic research topic and prepared written work to a strict timetable;
  • acquired sufficient knowledge and understanding of advanced economics and data science through hands-on work to proceed to a career as a professional economist in industry, government, or public institutions.

Continuing

Students who wish to continue to a PhD would need to meet standard admissions criteria and apply in the usual way. However, please note that this course is primarily intended for students who wish to obtain a master’s qualification before leaving academic economics. It is not designed as a direct pathway to a PhD programme and has a strong industry focus. In exceptional circumstances, students may be permitted to progress to a PhD, subject to academic performance and the approval of the relevant department.


Open Days

The University hosts and attends fairs and events throughout the year, in the UK and across the world. We also offer online events to help you explore your options.

Discover Cambridge: Master’s and PhD study webinars

Practical, step-by-step information about preparing a strong application for postgraduate study. Find out more on the Discover Cambridge webpage.

Virtual Postgraduate Open Days

The November Open Days focus on subject and course information. Webinar recordings are available until May.

Events for international students

Join us for Q&A webinars, funding webinars or get in touch with our regional managers. Find out more about events for international students.

For more information about all upcoming events visit our events pages.

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Key Information


Michaelmas 2027
Applications open
Sep. 9, 2026
Application deadline
Feb. 2, 2027
Course starts
Oct. 1, 2027
Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.
Funding Deadlines
Course Funding Deadline
Dec. 8, 2026
Gates Cambridge US round only
Oct. 14, 2026

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2027, Lent 2028 and Easter 2028.

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