The Master's program in Economics at the School of Business and Economics (WE 2) of Freie Universität Berlin provides a solid foundation in economics, allowing students to pursue their interests. The program aims to equip students with advanced theoretical and empirical knowledge, key qualifications, and transferable skills for independent academic work, critical assessment of research findings, and responsible action.
Graduates will be able to produce research contributions in specific subject areas and develop solutions to complex problems in applied economics. The program cooperates closely with central institutes at Freie Universität, offering opportunities to attend economics courses at the Institute for East European Studies, the Institute for Latin American Studies, and the John F. Kennedy Institute for North American Studies. Additionally, there is collaboration with the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin), providing insights into current research.
The program consists of required modules (24 credit points), required electives (72 credit points), and a master's thesis (24 points). Required modules cover microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Required electives allow students to specialize in Economic Theory, Empirical Economics, or Economic Policy Analysis. Students complete two in-depth modules in at least one specialization and can attend lectures and seminars from topics modules or advanced modules. The master's thesis demonstrates the ability to conduct independent research using scientific methods.
Upon successful completion, students receive a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree.
Admission requirements include a higher education degree with at least 42 credit points in economics and 24 credit points in quantitative methods (including 6 in econometrics), totaling 78 credit points. Alternatively, a degree in mathematics or physics requires 15 credit points in economics and 50 in quantitative methods. Proof of English language skills (level B2 CEFR or higher) is required, as well as proof of German language skills (DSH certificate) for students with a first degree from outside Germany.
No tuition fees are charged, but administrative fees and a semester ticket for public transportation must be paid.