MSc (Health Economics)

University of Galway

The MSc in Health Economics is a taught Masters programme which introduces the student to the theoretical principles and practical techniques of economic analysis which are applied to inform health policy and health care decision-making within the evolving global context of technological development, population ageing, rising healthcare costs and changing patient preferences and expectations.In particular, the programme seeks to equip students with the tools to examine individual behaviours with respect to health and health care, to explore alternative systems of health care finance and delivery, and to apply economic evaluation, preference elicitation and econometric techniques to inform health care resource allocation.The programme consists of a mix of modules, which are delivered through a series of lectures, practical workshops, tutorials, and seminars from academic and industry experts, in addition to a supervised minor dissertation or applied placement project, which are generally completed over the course of a summer placement at an appropriate host organisation.A large number of our graduates have found employment in leading pharmaceutical companies and in health economics and market access consulting companies. Other graduates are pursuing careers in the public sector, working in the government, the health service, regulatory agencies or public health agencies. The programme is also a very useful springboard for a career in research. Several graduates have completed a PhD following the MSc and are working in academic and research organizations.Career OpportunitiesGraduates with a MSc in Health Economics qualification are in high demand nationally and internationally. Recently graduated students from the University of Galway have embarked on careers in areas such as the pharmaceutical and medical device industry sector, research consultancy, and the voluntary and public sectors. Other graduates have pursued further education at PhD level at University of Galway or other national and international institutions.