Master of Science in Economics | Hamad Bin Khalifa University

Master of Science in Economics

Concentrations in Data Analytics and Sustainability

The Master of Science in Economics is a two-year program uniquely designed to combine economics, data analytics, and sustainability, making it the first of its kind in Qatar. Tailored to the evolving demands of the job market, this innovative graduate program equips students with advanced technical skills and practical knowledge essential for thriving in a data-driven digital economy. It aligns seamlessly with priority economic clusters outlined in Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy (NDS3).

 

Program Mission

The mission of the MSc in Economics is to educate visionary economists proficient in economic theory, big data analytics, and sustainability analysis. Graduates will be capable of contributing to the rapidly evolving economic landscape.

Language

English

Program Duration

2 Years

Certification

Masters

The interdisciplinary, research-intensive curriculum not only provides a robust foundation in modern economic theories but also immerses students in cutting-edge big data and sustainability analytics tools, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Analytics.

The program offers two concentrations: Data Analytics, to prepare economists for the global demand for big data expertise, and Sustainability, to empower graduates to create solutions that benefit the economy, the planet, and people, aligning with Qatar's Third National Development Strategy.

Graduates will be equipped to:

  • understand and utilize contemporary economic theories to make informed decisions and recommend policies.
  • master big data and sustainability analytics tools essential for digital and sustainable economies.
  • assess and address sustainability challenges such as climate change, food security, resource management, social inequality, and stakeholder welfare.
  • independently conduct robust economic research, critically analyze literature, interpret empirical data, and propose actionable economic solutions.

Graduates will be adept at managing extensive financial and sustainability datasets and applying their insights to resolve real-world economic challenges across microeconomic, sectoral, and macroeconomic landscapes. This positions graduates as highly sought-after candidates across various sectors, including:

  • government and public sectors
  • multilateral organizations
  • private corporations
  • financial institutions
  • academic and research institutes
  • non-profit organizations

A 36-credit program taught over two years in English that includes:

  • Core courses: Microeconomics, Macro and Monetary Economics, Applied Econometrics, and Research Methods.
  • Field courses: Specialized economics courses aligned with Qatar’s NDS3 priority clusters.
  • Concentration courses: A choice between Data Analytics or Sustainability concentrations, each featuring three tailored courses.
  • Thesis/Project: A choice between a 9-credit thesis or a 6-credit applied project with an additional elective course.

Applicants seeking admission to the Master of Science in Economics should have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as business management, economics, e-commerce, entrepreneurship, or finance, with a strong academic record (minimum 3.0 GPA out of 4.0) from a recognized institution. Holders of bachelor’s degrees in mathematics, statistics, engineering, or computer science may be considered, but they may be required to take additional courses.

Program Master of Science in Economics
Total Program Tuition Fees QAR 72,000
Tuition Fees per Credit Hour QAR 2,000
Total Program Credit Hours 36
Program Duration 2 years

Application

Applicants can create their profile and apply using this link

 

Academic transcripts

Official electronic copies of transcripts should be submitted as part of the online application. Final transcripts and graduation statements are required for all previous university studies. All transcripts submitted should include an explanation of the grading system. For those who have not completed their current studies, transcripts must include results from the last completed semester of coursework. Transcripts in languages other than English or Arabic must be accompanied with an official translation. Applicants who are admitted to the program based on copies of or incomplete transcripts will be required to provide original transcripts upon enrollment in order to register for courses.

 

Standardized test results

Official copies (where required) must be sent directly to HBKU. Please refer to the institutional codes below:

  • TOEFL: 4981
  • IELTS: No code required. Students should ask the IELTS center where they tested to send the IELTS TRF to Hamad Bin Khalifa University

Applicants should also submit copies of their test scores with the online application.

 

Letters of recommendation

Applicants should submit two letters of recommendation, one of which must be from an academic referee.

 

Personal statement of interest

The personal statement should introduce the applicant to the Admissions Committee. Topics that may be discussed include personal or professional goals and personal, academic, or career history.

The Committee looks beyond test scores and grade point averages in making selection decisions. The personal statement gives the Committee a means to consider a variety of factors in assessing applicants.

 

Resume/Curriculum Vitae

Applicants are required to submit a copy of their current resume or curriculum vitae as part of the online application.

 

Identification document

Applicants are required to submit an electronic copy of their passport as part of the online application. Nationals and residents of Qatar should also submit their valid Qatari ID.

 

Application fee

Non-refundable application fee (QAR 250)

 

Tuition and Student Funding

HBKU provides a limited number of tuition waivers on a competitive basis.

 

Inquiries

For further information, please contact the Economics Program Lead, Dr. Omneya Abdelsalam, at oabdelsalam@hbku.edu.qa.