Sustainability Economics and Finance, MScEcon
Introduction
This programme provides students a broad but rigorous training in the field of Sustainability Economics and Finance through a combination of relevant economics and finance-related courses in the context of environment, energy, natural resources, sustainability policies, and carbon management.
Study Information
At a Glance
- Learning Mode
- On Campus Learning
- Degree Qualification
- MScEcon
- Duration
- 12 months or 24 months
- Study Mode
- Full Time or Part Time
- Start Month
- September
- Location of Study
- Aberdeen
The world faces complex and interconnected challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, pollution, and environmental degradation. These issues cannot be effectively addressed without a solid understanding of both economics/finance and environmental sustainability.
At the same time, there is a growing demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between economics/finance and sustainability. The MSc(Econ) Sustainability Economics and Finance contributes to filling this gap. It will prepare students to become professionals who can navigate the intricate intersection of these domains.
With Scotland being an unquestionable leader in the field of sustainability, and Aberdeen being ‘the energy capital of Europe’, there is no better place to learn about sustainability than the North-East of Scotland. The advantage of being based here also derives from the proximity to some of the most important and geographically varied landscapes in the whole UK.
The University of Aberdeen is a leader in teaching and research in the field of environmental and energy economics, and this programme builds on our considerable strengths in these areas. The Business School is home to the Aberdeen Centre for Research in Energy Economics and Finance (ACREEF), the Scottish Experimental Economics Laboratory (SEEL), and the Centre for Labour Market Research (CeLMR). There are especially strong links between the Economics Department and Health Economics Research Unit, one of the leading centres in health economics in Europe.
What You'll Study
- Semester 1
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Compulsory Courses
Environmental Economics (15 credit points) - This course explores the intricate relationship between the economy and the environment, focusing on how economic activities impact the environment, and how environmental policies can be developed to address environmental issues. Students will learn the fundamental principles of economics as they apply to environmental issues, integrating both theoretical concepts and practical applications to address contemporary environmental challenges.
- Economic Analysis (BU5033)
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15 Credit Points
The course will cover the main elements of Microeconomic Theory together with how this underpins the macro economy, covering consumer theory, how consumers choose under constraint of a budget, to generate demands. How this theory can be used to consider the welfare effects of price changes will be considered. The problem of production will be examined to understand the supply, and the demand and supply side will be drawn together to consider market structure. How the theory can be used to identify market supplies and demands from empirical data will be examined.
- Quantitative Methods (BU5025)
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15 Credit Points
This course develops a mathematical and statistical ‘toolbox’ for PGT students in the Business School. These tools will be useful in understanding and implementing research in business- and economics-related fields both during a student’s academic career as well as after graduation. The first part of the course covers basic mathematical models common across these fields. The second part of the course develops standard data analysis methods, including multivariate regression. The final part of the course examines shortcomings in the standard model and describes ways of overcoming those shortcomings.
- Investment and Real Options Analysis for Energy (BU505J)
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15 Credit Points
This course provides a comprehensive journey into the intricacies of financial decision-making. By blending theory with practical applications, you will develop the skills and insights needed to navigate the ever-evolving landscape of the energy industry. This course blends theory and hands-on Excel modelling to analyse investment choices in the energy sector. Empower your employability by developing practical skills and in depth understanding on financial choices under risk and uncertainty.
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD5006)
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This course, which is prescribed for all taught postgraduate students, is studied entirely online, is studied entirely online, takes approximately 2-3 hours to complete and can be taken in one sitting, or spread across the first 4 weeks of term.
Topics include University orientation overview, equality & diversity, MySkills, health, safety and cyber security, and academic integrity.
Successful completion of this course will be recorded on your Transcript as ‘Achieved’.
- Semester 2
-
Compulsory Courses
Sustainable Development (15 credit points) - "This course introduces key topics in sustainable development, focusing on urbanization, food systems, biodiversity, and pollution. Students learn to assess sustainability challenges and explore policies for inclusive, equitable development."
Climate Change Economics and Carbon Finance (15 credit points) - This course offers an extensive introduction to the economics of climate change and relevant policy responses which shape societies’ efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change. It explores how the toolkit from economics and finance can be utilised to assess and evaluate carbon management strategies in the realm of climate policy, both from a national and international perspective.
- Internationalisation (BU5579)
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15 Credit Points
International Business is a wide-ranging subject that includes economic, political, cultural and technological facets. The aim of this course is to provide an introduction to the complexities of international business management by examining how the global environment and our understanding of these affect management within an international context.
- Resource Rent and Energy Policy (BU555E)
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15 Credit Points
This course discusses the world petroleum market in the context of overall energy markets. The main features of the evolving petroleum market are analysed including examination of the Hotelling model and Hubbert curve. Oil price determination is discussed with detailed consideration of the special characteristics of the demand and supply curves in the industry. The role of OPEC in the market is examined, including discussion of the various models of OPEC behaviour and the determinants of its market power. The economics of climate change and the place of renewable energy in the wider energy market is discussed.
- Semester 3
-
Compulsory Courses
Dissertation in Sustainability Economics and Finance (60 credit points) - The dissertation provides an opportunity for a sustained period of independent study and research. It can take two forms: (i) an academic based dissertation, or (ii) an applied dissertation or practice-based consultancy project.
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We will endeavour to make all course options available. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page. In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips.
| Fee category | Cost |
|---|---|
| UK | |
| Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year | £15,700 |
| Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year | £15,700 |
| Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year (University of Aberdeen Graduates *) | £7,000 |
| Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year (University of Aberdeen Graduates *) | £7,000 |
| EU / International students | |
| Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year | £26,250 |
| Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year | £26,250 |
| Tuition Fees for 2025/26 Academic Year (Self-funded Students *) | £18,250 |
| Tuition Fees for 2026/27 Academic Year (Self-funded Students *) | £18,250 |
Funding Opportunities
Alumni Discount Scheme - we are pleased to offer a 20% discount for postgraduate tuition fees to all alumni who have an undergraduate degree from University of Aberdeen.
Please note that the Aberdeen Alumni Discount cannot be claimed in conjunction with any other scholarship award.
Scholarships
All eligible self-funded international Postgraduate Masters students starting in September 2025 will receive an £8,000 scholarship. Learn more about this Aberdeen Global Scholarship here.
To see our full range of scholarships, visit our Funding Database.
How You'll Study
Students will be assessed based on group reports, individual essays, and problem-solving based assessments.
Learning Methods
- Group Projects
- Individual Projects
- Lectures
- Research
- Seminars
- Tutorials
- Workshops
Why Study Sustainability Economics and Finance?
- The University of Aberdeen was ranked 18th in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2026).
- The University also ranked 14th in the UK and 84th globally in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2025. These rankings aim to capture universities’ impact on society based on their success in delivering the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
- Ranked 1st in the UK for Student Positivity in Business Studies (National Student Survey 2025) and 6th in the UK for Accounting and Finance (Guardian University Guide 2026).
- The University of Aberdeen was ranked 3rd in Scotland and 57th in the World for Sustainability in the QS Sustainability Rankings 2026.
- Societies across the globe require a profound transformation and transition towards sustainability. Economics and finance are pivotal in shaping this transformation.
- This programme is designed to equip students with the relevant knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complex sustainability-economics-finance interface. It enables students to gain expertise in analysing and designing economic strategies and solutions alongside a deep understanding of sustainability principles.
- With a community of over 130 nationalities at the University of Aberdeen, students are immersed in an environment that enables international discourse creating truly global exchanges, generating deep insights that spark innovative change.
Entry Requirements
Qualifications
The information below is provided as a guide only and does not guarantee entry to the University of Aberdeen.
Our minimum entry requirement for this programme is an undergraduate degree at UK Honours level (or a degree from a non-UK institution which is judged by the University to be of equivalent worth).
Please enter your country or territory to view relevant entry requirements.
Aberdeen Global Scholarship
Eligible self-funded Postgraduate Taught (PGT) students will receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship. Eligibility details and further information are available on our dedicated page.
Aberdeen Global ScholarshipEnglish Language Requirements
To study for a Postgraduate Taught degree at the University of Aberdeen it is essential that you can speak, understand, read, and write English fluently. The minimum requirements for this degree are as follows:
IELTS Academic:
OVERALL - 6.5 with: Listening - 5.5; Reading - 5.5; Speaking - 5.5; Writing - 6.0
TOEFL iBT:
OVERALL - 90 with: Listening - 17; Reading - 18; Speaking - 20; Writing - 21
PTE Academic:
OVERALL - 62 with: Listening - 59; Reading - 59; Speaking - 59; Writing - 59
Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced, C2 Proficiency:
OVERALL - 176 with: Listening - 162; Reading - 162; Speaking - 162; Writing - 169
Read more about specific English Language requirements here.
Document Requirements
You will be required to supply the following documentation with your application as proof you meet the entry requirements of this degree programme. If you have not yet completed your current programme of study, then you can still apply and you can provide your Degree Certificate at a later date.
- Degree Transcript
- a full transcript showing all the subjects you studied and the marks you have achieved in your degree(s) (original & official English translation)
Careers
The world faces complex and interconnected challenges such as climate change, resource depletion, pollution, and environmental degradation. These issues cannot be effectively addressed without a solid understanding of both economics/finance and environmental sustainability.
At the same time, there is a growing demand for professionals who can bridge the gap between economics/finance and sustainability. This programme contributes to filling this gap, preparing students to become professionals who can navigate the intricate intersection of these domains. On completion of this programme, students can be placed for work in governmental organisations, NGOs, as well as industry.
Career Opportunities
- Civil Servant
- Energy and Sustainability Adviser
- Environmental Adviser
- Environmental Data Coordinator
- Financial Manager
- Government Officer
- Sustainability Consultant
Accreditation
The Business School is EQUIS accredited, placing it among a select group of globally recognised institutions. Out of over 15,000 business schools worldwide, only around 200 schools across 45 countries have attained this distinction.
This degree holds accreditation from
Our Experts
You will be taught by and have access to a number of experts, many of whom are internationally renowned within their respective fields. These will include members of the Scottish Experimental Economics Laboratory (SEEL), the Centre for Labour Market Research (CeLMR), and the Aberdeen Centre for Research in Energy Economics and Finance (ACREEF)
- Programme Leader
- Takahiko Kiso
Information About Staff Changes
You will be taught by a range of experts including professors, lecturers, teaching fellows and postgraduate tutors. However, these may be subject to change - see our Student Terms and Conditions page.
Features
The University of Aberdeen, established in 1495, is Scotland’s third oldest and the UK’s fifth oldest University. The university’s ancient campus reflects its long-standing academic tradition, with historic buildings such as King's College, which dates back to the 15th century. This blend of ancient architecture and modern facilities creates a unique atmosphere where students can experience the best of both tradition and innovation.
Aberdeen City
Named Scotland's Safest University City (Unbroken Britain Survey, Provident Financial, 2018) and is in the top 10 in the UK for places to live and work (PricewaterhouseCoopers, 2018).
Affordability
Aberdeen has been named the top UK city for affordability (QS Best Student Cities 2026). In 2024, StuRents reported the average price of a student private rental property in the Granite City was just over £96 a week.
World-class facilities
We invest heavily in our facilities and learning resources, ensuring our students have access to everything they need to help them succeed in their studies - from the stunning Sir Duncan Rice Library, to Aberdeen Sport Village, and beyond.
Find out moreGet in Touch
Contact Details
- Address
-
Business School
University of Aberdeen
MacRobert Building
King Street
Aberdeen
AB24 3FX