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Postgraduate Study

The MPhil in Economic Research runs from early October to the end of July, with a preparatory course during September. The course provides a solid foundation for those who wish to apply for the PhD. It involves a thorough study of the core areas of economics and the requirement to explore one area in detail to begin the process of choosing a research topic, for those who wish to pursue further study. However, please note that it is not necessary to have a detailed proposal for PhD research at the time of applying.

Learning outcomes

On completion of the MPhil degree students should have:

  • acquired advanced technical training in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics;

  • 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; and

  • acquired sufficient knowledge and understanding of advanced economics to proceed to a research degree.


Continuing

All PhD applications are judged on their own merits and against standard admissions criteria, which include achieving an average mark of at least 70% or above in the coursework element (as a minimum) of the MPhil Economic Research. Please note that successful completion of the MPhil does not necessarily guarantee acceptance onto the PhD programme.


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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