The Master's program in Public Economics at Freie Universität Berlin, offered by the School of Business and Economics (Economics WE 2), delves into the economic disciplines of public finance, economic policy, and macroeconomics. It aims to equip students with theoretical and empirical competencies for analyzing economic policies from an academic standpoint.
Students will develop an in-depth understanding of theoretical models and econometrics, and establish a research profile through courses in economic theory, empirical economics, or economic policy analysis. The program also offers opportunities to gain competencies in business and law, as well as interdisciplinary skills and institutional knowledge. A three-month internship provides practical insights into the work of economists and facilitates networking for future career prospects.
The program consists of required modules (36 credit points), required electives, application-oriented modules, and a master's thesis. Required modules build on existing knowledge of theoretical and empirical methods, focusing on research in public finance. Electives allow students to create an individual research profile in economic theory, empirical economics, or economic policy analysis. Application-oriented modules include a full-time internship or a research project. The program culminates in a master's thesis and a colloquium.
Graduates receive a Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree. The program is designed to provide students with the tools necessary to work in the field of public economics, including important legal topics and communication skills for conveying research findings.
One advantage of the department is its close cooperation with central institutes at Freie Universität, allowing students to attend economics courses at the Institute for East European Studies, Institute for Latin American Studies, and the John F. Kennedy Institute for North American Studies. The department also collaborates with the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW Berlin), providing students with opportunities to learn from researchers and gain insights into current research.
