MSc in Public Administration - Economics and Governance

Leiden University

The Economics & Governance specialisation of the Master in Public Administration teaches you to formulate problem-solving approaches to concrete policy issues found at the intersection between economics and public administration. This specialisation is a unique joint offering of the Department of Economics and the Institute of Public Administration.

What does this master programme entail?

The E&G specialisation aims to develop professionals who are able to analyse and address policy problems broadly, and in the field of social policy and market regulation specifically. The focal point is on welfare states and markets. You learn about the role of government in creating, facilitating and controlling markets. You also examine the status of the current welfare state, such as the pension system, social security, labour markets, and income distribution in society; and the challenges the welfare state currently faces. You are provided a strong multidisciplinary preparation for a professional career in areas such as socio-economic policy- making or market regulation. The combination of applied economics and public governance forms a solid base for policy-makers, consultants and future leaders.

Why Leiden University?

Solving societal problems often requires a solid multidisciplinary preparation. The Economics and Governance specialisation, offered by the Department of Economics and the Institute of Public Administration, combines insights from both disciplines.

Five reasons to choose Economics and Governance at Leiden University

• The E&G specialisation is offered by the Department of Economics and the renowned Institute of Public Administration – a unique multidisciplinary approach.
• You study in The Hague, a hub of international governance organisations – an ideal environment.
• You study in the light-filled new Wijnhaven Building just minutes from The Hague Central.
• You benefit from the strong academic orientation of this programme.
• You benefit from the distinctive approach of the Leiden MPA, in which governance is examined from a multi-level perspective.

Specialisation courses

Courses

• Regulation & Governance
• Welfare State Economics
• Markets and Competition Policy (Elective)
• Political Economy in International Perspective

Career prospects

You will learn to produce solutions to current issues found where economics and public administration meet. You will analyse the ways in which social-economic policy and regulatory governance can be improved, and how to realise those improvements in the recalcitrant administrative playing field, in which you will be confronted with politics and differing interests. You will combine theoretical knowledge with academic and professional skills, in doing so, preparing yourself for a career as a policy advisor, policy analyst or consultant.

Skills after graduation

As a graduate of the Economics & Governance specialisation you are provided with strong multidisciplinary preparation for a professional Career in such areas as social- economic policy making or market regulation; you have a unique cross- disciplinary understanding that combines the insights of Public Administration and Economic. During your study you learn to utilise analyses and practical experience to create problem-solving responses to issues such as the labour market, pensions, income inequality - the areas where economics and public administration meet.