Study information

Programme Specification for the 2019/0 academic year

MSc Behavioural Economics and Finance

1. Programme Details

Programme nameMSc Behavioural Economics and Finance Programme codePTS1SBESBE29
Study mode(s)Full Time
Academic year2019/0
Campus(es)Streatham (Exeter)
NQF Level of the Final Award7 (Masters)

2. Description of the Programme

This programme builds on the same rigorous training in techniques of economic and econometric analysis present in the general MSc Economics, and provides students with a thorough grounding in theories which depart from the rationality paradigm present in mainstream neo-classical economics, as well as the experimental economics methodology from which these theories derive empirical support. It provides students with a theoretical and empirical toolkit to reinterpret and research economic and finance-related phenomena through the lens of behavioural economics.

The MSc Behavioural Economics and Finance programme shares the core Microeconomics and Quantitative Research Techniques I without general MSc Economics. In addition to these two modules, students must take Experimental Methods, a course on the methodology of Experimental Economics, and Topics in Experimental and Behavioural Economics and a module on Game Theory. Furthermore, the compulsory dissertation is specifically related to the specialist area, Experimental Economics Project and Dissertation.

Like all postgraduate economics programmes in the School, our MSc Economics and Experimental Economics is accredited by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC). For UK and EU students, this means you can apply to the ESRC for funding assistance with both tuition fees and living expenses if you are intending to progress to a PhD.

3. Educational Aims of the Programme

  • To provide an education for students intended to give students competence in their chosen discipline and to encourage them to develop their intellectual capabilities within an institution that is committed to the advancement of research, scholarship and learning, and to the dissemination of knowledge
  • To equip students with a range of methodological skills applied to behavioural and experimental economics and appropriate specialised knowledge.
  • To provide a rigorous training, in a supportive environment, in the techniques of economic and econometric analysis, with an emphasis on experimental methods, as an aide to understanding contemporary economic issues.
  • To inform this education by research, and national and international economic development, where appropriate.
  • To provide training in subject-specific skills, preparing students for employment or further study.
  • To introduce students to the role of experiments in the study of economics, and to explore the different research techniques the subject requires.

4. Programme Structure

5. Programme Modules

The following tables describe the programme and constituent modules. Constituent modules may be updated, deleted or replaced as a consequence of the annual programme review of this programme.

http://business-school.exeter.ac.uk/programmes/postgraduate/economics/msc_ex/programmestructure/

 

http://business-school.exeter.ac.uk/programmes/postgraduate/modules/

Stage 1


Compulsory Modules

CodeModule Credits Non-condonable?
BEEM101 Microeconomics 15No
BEEM103 Optimization Techniques for Economists 15No
BEEM127 Experimental Methods 15No
BEEM011 Applied Econometrics 1 15No
BEEM012 Applied Econometrics 2 15No
BEEM125 Experimental and Behavioural Economics 15No
BEEM126 Behavioural Choice and Financial Decision Making 15No
BEEM118 Experimental Economics Project and Dissertation 60No
BEEM015 Industrial Economics and Strategy 15No

6. Programme Outcomes Linked to Teaching, Learning and Assessment Methods

Intended Learning Outcomes
A: Specialised Subject Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:

1. a core knowledge in modern economics
2. specialized knowledge on recent developments in experimental and behavioural economics and finance
3. core knowledge in economics, econometrics, financial economics and experimental economics
4. the ability to apply advanced economic concepts to real-world situations
5. the ability to plan, run and evaluate economic experiments

ILO 1 is delivered through all compulsory modules.

ILO 2 is delivered through all compulsory modules.

ILO 3 is addressed particularly by BEEM101, and BEEM102 and BEEM125.

ILO 4 is delivered primarily through BEEM126 and BEEM125, though most modules will use real world examples as illustrations.

ILO 5 is taught through BEEM127, with applications discussed in BEEM125 and BEEM126, and ultimately through the completion of the project for BEEM118.

1-3.  Core modules are assessed through a combination of final examinations, coursework assignments, problem sheets, presentations and essays.

4.  Final examination and problem based coursework.

5.  Presentation and essay leading ultimately to the dissertation.

Intended Learning Outcomes
B: Academic Discipline Core Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:

6. the ability to synthesise data from a range of sources
7. expertise across a wide range of research methods and statistical techniques, such that they are equipped to carry out good quality empirical and experimental research
8. the ability to analyse and evaluate quantitative problems
9. the ability to use a number of statistical and econometric packages
10. the ability to conduct experimental research

ILO 6 is addressed through all compulsory modules.

ILO 7 is chiefly covered through BEEM102, BEEM127, BEEM112, and BEMM103.

Core academic skills are assessed by

  • Written examination (all core modules)
  • Assignments (BEEM102)
  • Project (BEEM118)

Intended Learning Outcomes
C: Personal/Transferable/Employment Skills and Knowledge

Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs)
On successfully completing this programme you will be able to:
Intended Learning Outcomes (ILOs) will be...
...accommodated and facilitated by the following learning and teaching activities (in/out of class):...and evidenced by the following assessment methods:

11. A global outlook: Our graduates are engaged and prepared for the demands of global business and society.
12. A critical thinker: Our graduates have a commercial awareness that enables them to critically analyse, conceptualise and evaluate the challenges facing business.
13. A collaborative mind-set: Our graduates are enterprising and motivated individuals who are able to actively collaborate and effectively communicate within a range of diverse settings.
14. An ethical ethos: Our graduates understand the social, financial and environmental factors that can impact on corporate sustainability and are able to make decisions openly and responsibly.
15. Technological and digital literacy: Our graduates are able to use technologies to source, process and communicate information.

11. BEEM101 Microeconomics’ basic theory is applicable in every country, the examples used in this module can be applied in any firm.

     BEEM103 Optimization Techniques for Economists module is built upon microeconomics which is relevant across countries as it is based on mathematical models.

     BEEM127 In Experimental Methods, content covered contain economics experiments which have entered the mainstream of empirical social science and are a tools applicable anywhere in the world.

      BEEM102 Quantitative Research Techniques 1 assesses students in logical attitude toward the solution of problems, demonstrating specialised knowledge of theoretical aspects of econometrics, and in-depth understanding of theoretical aspects of important topics in econometrics.

     BEEM125 Experimental and Behavioural Economics contains microeconomics which is relevant across countries as it is based on mathematical models.

     BEEM126 Behavioural Choice and Financial Decision Making contains knowledge of behavioural economics which is not specific to one country or culture.

      BEEM121 Game Theory and Industrial Organisation contains mathematical context relevant in any country.

12. BEEM101 In Microeconomics students are required to apply economic reasoning to decision problems, critically discuss the adequacy of the models, and engage in deductive and inductive reasoning.

      BEEM103 Optimization Techniques for Economists equips students with logical thinking, numeracy and writing skills, as well as an understanding and theoretical knowledge of economic issues.

     BEEM127 Experimental Methods requires students to demonstrate an in-depth understanding of statistical techniques, evaluate how economic theories are developed and tested, and engage in critical thought and reasoned discussion.

      BEEM102 Quantitative Research Techniques 1 assesses students in logical attitude toward the solution of problems, demonstrating specialised knowledge of theoretical aspects of econometrics, and in-depth understanding of theoretical aspects of important topics in econometrics

     BEEM125 Experimental and Behavioural Economics’ learning expectations are for students to engage in critical thought and reasoned discussion, understand different theories of behaviour, discuss and evaluate the development and testing of economic theories, and understand the development of new theories for new empirical evidence.

     BEEM126 Behavioural Choice and Financial Decision Making requires students to synthesise and critically evaluate models of rational choice and behavioural models, critically evaluate economic theories’ development and testing, and engage in critical thought and reasoned discussion

      BEEM121 Game Theory and Industrial Organisation equips students with the analytical skills to understand theoretical developments in game theory, extended skills in mathematical and quantitative techniques, the ability to construct and interpret theoretical models that employ game theoretic tools.

     BEEM118 Experimental Economics Project and Dissertation requires student to evaluate critically existing ideas and to perceive areas of weakness or areas which may be usefully analysed, demonstrate enhanced problem-solving abilities, and assemble and synthesise a complex body of relevant, existing research.

13. BEEM127 Experimental Methods requires students to produce high quality work, whether in a group or individually, in written form.

      BEEM125 Experimental and Behavioural Economics encourages students to produce high quality work, whether in a group or individually, and engage in critical through and reasoned discussion.

      BEEM126 In Behavioural Choice and Financial Decision Making, students produce high quality work, whether in a group or individually, in written form. 

14.

15.

11. BEEM101 – three Examinations

     BEEM103 – Exam, two In-class Tests (ILO 3)

      BEEM127 – Assignment, Presentation, and Exam

      BEEM125 – Exam

      BEEM126 – Paper Presentation and Assignment Presentation

      BEEM121 – Problem-based Coursework and Exam (ILO 3)

12.  BEEM101 – three Examinations (ILO 1-9, 11-12)

      BEEM103 – Exam, two In-class Tests (ILO 1-9)

      BEEM127 – Assignment, Presentation, and Exam (ILO 1-5)

      BEEM102 – Written Examination (ILO 1-5)

      BEEM125 – Exam (ILO 1-10)

      BEEM126 – Paper presentation and Assignment Presentation (ILO1-7)

      BEEM121 – Problem-based Coursework and Exam (ILO 1-5)

      BEEM118 – Summary of Concept and Dissertation (ILO 1-12)

13. BEEM127 – Formative assessment only (ILO 6)

      BEEM125 – Exam (ILO 7, 10)

      BEEM126 – Paper presentation and Assignment Presentation (ILO 7)

14.

15. 

7. Programme Regulations

Classification

Full details of assessment regulations for all taught programmes can be found in the TQA Manual, specifically in the Credit and Qualifications Framework, and the Assessment, Progression and Awarding: Taught Programmes Handbook. Additional information, including Generic Marking Criteria, can be found in the Learning and Teaching Support Handbook.

8. College Support for Students and Students' Learning

9. University Support for Students and Students' Learning

Please refer to the University Academic Policy and Standards guidelines regarding support for students and students' learning.

10. Admissions Criteria

Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the Undergraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.

Postgraduate applicants must satisfy the Postgraduate Admissions Policy of the University of Exeter.

Specific requirements required to enrol on this programme are available at the respective Undergraduate or Postgraduate Study Site webpages.

11. Regulation of Assessment and Academic Standards

Each academic programme in the University is subject to an agreed College assessment and marking strategy, underpinned by institution-wide assessment procedures.

The security of assessment and academic standards is further supported through the appointment of External Examiners for each programme. External Examiners have access to draft papers, course work and examination scripts. They are required to attend the Board of Examiners and to provide an annual report. Annual External Examiner reports are monitored at both College and University level. Their responsibilities are described in the University's code of practice. See the University's TQA Manual for details.

(http://as.exeter.ac.uk/support/admin/staff/qualityassuranceandmonitoring/tqamanual/fullcontents/)

12. Indicators of Quality and Standards

The programme is not subject to accreditation and/ or review by professional and statutory regulatory bodies (PSRBs).

13. Methods for Evaluating and Improving Quality and Standards

The University and its constituent Colleges review the quality and standard of teaching and learning in all taught programmes against a range of criteria through the procedures outlined in the Teaching Quality Assurance (TQA) Manual Quality Review Framework.

14. Awarding Institution

University of Exeter

15. Lead College / Teaching Institution

University of Exeter Business School (UEBS)

16. Partner College / Institution

Partner College(s)

Not applicable to this programme

Partner Institution

Not applicable to this programme.

17. Programme Accredited / Validated by

0

18. Final Award

MSc Behavioural Economics and Finance

19. UCAS Code

Not applicable to this programme.

20. NQF Level of Final Award

7 (Masters)

21. Credit

CATS credits

180

ECTS credits

90

22. QAA Subject Benchmarking Group

23. Dates

Origin Date Date of last revision

26/07/2017