The elite MSc (cand.oecon.) degree in Advanced Economics and Finance is an analytically based programme with a focus on theoretical relationships and empirical applications. The programme is one of only twelve elite programmes approved by Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation, which started in 2009 in all areas of science.

The programme builds on the students’ solid quantitative competences in economics, finance and statistics. Students learn to work independently with economic and/or financial problems and, thus, obtain qualifications to work as specialised analysts particularly in financial institutions, but also in the business community in general - wherever strong, quantitative financial and economic skills are needed.

Quantitative economics and finance requires that the ability for abstract and logical thinking is trained systematically. The teaching method is, therefore, very much "old school", which means that the students are given a series of exercises, where they have to calculate financial or economic problems. Furthermore, it is a prerequisite for the students’ understanding that they are able to work their way through the textbooks. The lectures support this process. Compared to the teaching that regular MSc students in finance and economics receive, the academic elite programme will entail far more exercises and lectures. Moreover, this level requires that the students, who are already at a bachelor’s level, have specialised in (hardcore) economics and finance, and that they have followed the necessary mathematical, statistical, and econometric tool courses. This does not apply to the classical undergraduate business economics programmes.

The elite MSc (cand.oecon.) degree is obtained after two years of full-time study. The yearly workload is equivalent to a full-time student’s and corresponds to a working load of 60 ECTS (European Credit Transfer System). The workload comprises scheduled teaching, preparation, written assignments, other activities relating to teaching and study as well as preparation of and participation in examinations.

Upon successful completion of the programme, the candidate may be entitled cand.oecon. (candidatus/candidata oeconomices) in Danish or, in English, Master of Science in Advanced Economics and Finance.