3.1 Target Group

The Master of Science (MSc) in Business Economics is a graduate programme that attracts national and international students from various academic backgrounds who are interested in gaining advanced knowledge and skills in the field of business and economics. Students from different backgrounds may apply to the programme, specifically graduates from business majors such as business administration, economics, finance, accounting, or management. Graduates with a bachelor's degree in economics who want to specialise further in business-related applications of economic theory may choose to pursue this programme. The MSc in Business Economics may also target professionals working in finance-related roles, such as financial analysts, investment bankers, or portfolio managers, who seek to strengthen their quantitative and analytical skills. Additionally, professionals from diverse fields who wish to transition into business or economics-oriented roles and meet the entry requirements are encouraged to apply.

3.2 Entry Requirements

Applicants to the MSc in Business Economics programme should have:

• A Bachelor's degree or post-graduate degree in economics, business, administration, management, or a related field
• Minimum 180 ECTS previously acquired at a Higher Education institution
• For students who do not have a prior bachelor's level equivalent qualification in a marketing subject, a GPA score of 2.2 (or equivalent) will be required
• Proof of C1 level of English
• Applicants will also have the opportunity to apply for the programme based on Ascencia Malta's RPL process

Candidates will be asked to present their previously obtained qualifications and their transcripts (if any).

The Master of Science (MSc) in Business Economics will prepare students for the following occupations:

• Financial Analyst
• Business Analyst
• Management Consultant
• Economist
• Operations Analyst
• Research Associate (Economics)
• Data Analyst

5.1 Knowledge and Understanding

The learner will be able to:

• Master macro and microeconomics theories, including concepts such as supply and demand, market structures, consumer behaviour, production, inflation, employment, monetary policy, and fiscal policy.
• Master economic theories and models to analyse real-world business problems. Learn to evaluate economic policies, assess the economic impact of business decisions, and make data-driven recommendations to support managerial and strategic decision-making.
• Master strong quantitative skills and the ability to apply statistical and econometric methods to analyse economic data, conduct forecasting, estimate economic models, and assess the impact of economic variables on business outcomes.
• Master how economic principles can inform strategic decision-making in business settings. Learn to evaluate competitive environments, conduct industry analysis, identify market opportunities, and formulate effective business strategies.
• Master principles of financial management, including topics such as financial statement analysis, capital budgeting, risk management, cost of capital, and financial decision-making in the context of firms and investment projects.
• Acquire research skills, including the ability to design and conduct empirical research, collect and analyse data, and critically evaluate economic literature. Also develop skills in academic writing and presenting research findings.
• Master ethical issues in business and economics, as well as an understanding of sustainable business practices. The social and environmental implications of economic decisions will be considered and strategies for responsible and sustainable business management explored.
• Identify public policies and master the ability to understand and assess the impact of public policy on industry and society.

5.2 Skills

The learner will be able to:

• Skilfully apply economic principles to analyze and interpret economic phenomena and their impact on business decision-making. Apply economic theory and analysis to specific business areas such as marketing, finance, operations, and international business. Understand how economic factors influence business decisions, market behavior, pricing strategies, and consumer demand.
• Skilfully apply quantitative methods, statistical techniques, and econometric models to analyze economic data. Use statistical software to conduct data analysis, interpret results, and draw meaningful conclusions.
• Masterfully practice the principles of strategic management and develop the ability to assess the competitive landscape, identify business opportunities, and formulate effective business strategies. Analyze industry dynamics, market trends, and competitive forces to make informed strategic decisions.
• Skilfully apply financial analysis techniques to evaluate investment opportunities, assess financial performance, and make sound financial decisions. Understand the principles of corporate finance, capital budgeting, risk management, and financial planning.
• Demonstrate proficiency in Public Policy Analysis in investigating the theoretical principles and practical expertise involved in policy analysis.
• Demonstrate proficiency in conducting independent research, including formulating research questions, designing research studies, collecting and analyzing data, and drawing conclusions based on empirical evidence. Develop critical thinking and research evaluation skills.
• Meticulously communicate complex economic concepts and research findings to both specialized and non-specialized audiences. Present information and ideas in a clear, concise, and persuasive manner through written reports, presentations, and discussions.
• Masterfully recognize and address ethical issues and social responsibility considerations in business and economic decision-making. Understand the ethical implications of economic policies, corporate practices, and societal impact.
• Adopt a global mindset and understand the implications of globalization on business and economic dynamics. Analyze international trade, financial markets, and cross-cultural issues in a business context.
• Champion professionalism, teamwork, and leadership skills. Adapt to changing business environments, work effectively in diverse teams, and continuously update knowledge and skills in response to emerging economic trends.

8.1 General Pedagogical Methods

• Ascencia Malta employs a variety of pedagogical methods to cater for different learning styles. Although the majority of the lessons will be taught via face-to-face lectures, other methods are also included such as practical-based learning, field trips, seminars, tutorials and workshops.
• Lectures at Ascencia Malta are balanced between theory and practice. Students will be exposed to the theoretical underpinnings of the topic they are following, and will also be provided with real workplace examples or case study scenarios whereby students need to engage with the material in class and provide suitable comments to the group. The aim is to ensure that all theoretical material is understood and connected to real-life examples that are carried out in practice. The goal is to ensure that after completing each module, the student has acquired workplace skills.
• Continuous assessments are a part of Ascencia Malta's programmes as they help the students gauge their level of understanding of the topic, and discuss this with their lecturers. In addition, students are given timely and detailed feedback on continuous assessments which they are welcome to discuss with their lecturers to ensure that the student knows what their areas of development are in the topic and can work on them accordingly.
• Guest lectures are also a part of Ascencia Malta's pedagogical approach in order to ensure that students can connect what they are learning to contemporary businesses, to engage with industry professionals on their topics and to develop their professional network.
• Collaborative learning is built into the fabric of each class, whereby small numbers facilitate in-class exercises, simulations, role-plays for the learning experience to be enriched. Ascencia Malta's staff and students are from all over the globe, presenting a rich and international view of the topics that they are engaging with.
• The presence of supervised tutorials in each module also ensures that students are given guidance and direction on the expectations of them throughout their module and programme, that they understand their coursework, and that they are given space and time to review any concepts or theories that they feel they have not yet grasped fully in regular classes.

8.2 General Assessment Methods

Ascencia Malta has included a variety of assessment methods that will allow learners with different learning styles and abilities to complete the programme successfully. Students will have to prepare individual and team reports and presentations, apart from written and multiple-choice examinations. In addition, they will have to prepare a thesis and submit assignments.

8.3 Grading and Progression

• For each module, students are required to achieve the minimum pass mark. Students who fail the module have an opportunity to resit. Should the student fail a second time, they will need to repeat the complete module.
• The grading system uses the following grades: A (80–100%) for work displaying exceptional quality; B (70–79%) for work displaying comprehensive and critical understanding; C (55–69%) for work displaying substantial understanding; D (50–54%) for work displaying fair but below average quality; P for pass/fail assessments; F (0–49%) for unsatisfactory or failing work; I for temporary incomplete grades; and W for approved withdrawals.

Postgraduate Certificate in Business Economics

MQF/EQF Level: 7 | ECTS: 30

Duration: Full-time 6 months and/or Part-time 12 months

To receive this award, the student must successfully complete the following modules:

• Policy Analysis (4 ECTS)
• Advanced Quantitative Techniques for Business Research 1 (6 ECTS)
• Advanced Quantitative Techniques for Business Research 2 (6 ECTS)
• Advanced Microeconomics (7 ECTS)
• Advanced Macroeconomics (7 ECTS)

Postgraduate Diploma in Business Economics

MQF/EQF Level: 7 | ECTS: 60

Duration: Full-time 12 months and/or Part-time 24 months

To receive this award, the student must successfully complete the following modules:

• Strategic Leadership (5 ECTS)
• Managerial Accounting and Financial Analysis (7 ECTS)
• Ethics and ESG Frameworks (7 ECTS)
• International Business Transactions (5 ECTS)
• Global Business Strategy (10 ECTS)
• Public Speaking and Presentation Skills (6 ECTS)
• Plus all Postgraduate Certificate modules (30 ECTS)