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Amsterdam School of Economics Amsterdam School of Economics
Master
Compare programme
International Finance and Trade (Economics)

The study programme

The study programme of the International Finance and Trade track applies a relatively macroeconomic approach to the international economy as well as economic development. The courses in the track examine the nature and effects of financial relations between countries such as the drivers of international flows of capital including foreign direct investment. Various advanced topics in international trade will be covered such as the environmental impact of international trade and the determinants of trade policy. The various courses of this track also address the specific challenges that – from a macroeconomic angle – developing countries face.

The programme

International Finance and Trade is one of the tracks of the Master's Economics. During your Master's you will follow 3 general courses and 3 track-specific courses. You will finish with a thesis. 

COURSES SEM 1 SEM 2 SEMESTER 1 SEMESTER 2 EC
  • Macroeconomics
    5

    In this course you will learn about modern macroeconomic models. You will learn how to use these models to explain and evaluate recent events and policy interventions. For example, the effect of uncertainty on savings, welfare and investment, the causes and nature of unemployment and inflation and the role of monetary and fiscal authorities.

  • Microeconomics and Game Theory
    5

    In this course you will learn to understand the workings and limitations of the market. You will learn how to analyse consumer and producer behaviour and how to use basic game theory. The central question is: what can markets do and when do they fail? What determines the outcome, and how does that depend on market structure?

  • Applied Econometrics
    5

    In this course you will learn about regression analysis. In applied economics this is a powerful tool to analyse empirical relationships. You will learn how to interpret estimation and testing results and build a satisfactory empirical model. You will follow lectures and take part in lab sessions to acquire practical econometric skills by making computer exercises.

  • International Economic Cooperation
    5

    In this course you will study international cooperation against the background of economic globalisation. You will look at economic organisations such as the IMF, World Bank and the World Trade Organisation and regional economic integration attempts such as the EU and ASEAN. How do they deal with major current challenges, such as preventing local and global financial crises, limiting moral hazard and the stability of the European integration process?

  • International Finance
    5

    In this course you will study advanced topics in international financial and monetary relations. Such as modern exchange rate theories and policies, recent currency crises (and ways to prevent them) and international capital mobility.

  • International Trade Theory and Policy
    5

    This course brings you a thorough analysis of the modern theory concerning international trade and movements towards regional trade integration. You will receive a quick refresher of the major classical and neoclassical trade theories, insights on trade policy and a survey of the present state of the world economy.

  • Choose 2 of 3 electives
    10

    Choose from Economic Growth, Natural Resource Economics, and Public Finance and Fiscal Policy.

  • Research Seminar
    5
  • Thesis
    15

    The academic programme culminates in a thesis, which allows you to engage with state-of-the-art data analysis and statistical techniques. The Master’s thesis is the final requirement for your graduation. It is your chance to dive deep into a topic in your field of choice (track) that you are enthusiastic about, and allows you to do an independent research project. A professor of your track will supervise and support you in writing your thesis.

Compulsory course
Elective
Specialisation
Send me the clickable course schedule + programme summary Check more detailed information about the specific courses in the course catalogue

Honours programme

If you are a student of the Master's Economics and you have a record of academic excellence, a critical mind and an enthusiasm for applied research, then our Economics Honours programme is a great opportunity for you.

More about the Honours programme
Experience the study
Real-life case: learn about today's debates

How does fast economic growth in China affect international trade relations? What are the driving forces of international capital flows? What impact does globalisation have on income inequality? Learn all about today’s debates and formulate your own positions, based on literature as well as research. 

This Master's perfectly blends my two passions: economics and policy analysis. It's a challenging programme, that teaches you hard and soft skills. Anouk Roethof Read about Anouk's experiences with this Master's
Frequently asked questions
  • When do I need to select a specialisation track?

    A specialisation track must be chosen when applying for the Master’s programme. However, track modifications are still possible until late October. The criteria for all tracks are identical and do not impact the likelihood of being accepted into the programme.

  • How many students are accepted into the programme?

    Our Master’s programme admits around 25 students per specialisation track. If you meet the entry requirements, you will always be accepted; this Master’s does not have a numerus fixus.

  • What are the weekly contact hours?

    Most courses have one 2-hour lecture and one 2-hour tutorial per week. Some courses also offer a Q&A or self-study clips. Generally, students take 3 courses at a time, so count on about 12-15 contact hours per week.

  • Will all lectures be held in person, or will there be options for online attendance?

    Only the 3 courses (microeconomics & game theory, macroeconomics, and applied econometrics) at the beginning of the year use (online) clips. In addition to clips, these 3 courses offer weekly on-campus tutorials and Q&As. All other courses are fully taught on campus, so in person. Some courses even have mandatory participation, especially for tutorials.

  • Is attendance compulsory for lectures, tutorials, and other sessions?

    Attendance usually is not compulsory for lectures, but commonly for tutorials and other sessions. Students greatly benefit from being present and engaging in discussions with both the instructor and their fellow classmates.

  • What is the typical method of assessment for most courses?

    Most courses have a combination of a written on-site exam and additional assessment methods, including oral presentations, developing research proposals, conducting experiments, and writing up results. The written on-site exam often makes up most of the grade. Finally, some courses require attendance, which is reflected by presence and activity in tutorials and online assignments.