The curriculum is divided into compulsory modules (CM) and elective modules (EM). Together, they cover 120 ECTS over four semesters. The first semester focuses on rigorous, advanced training in the current methods used in the fields of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. In their second semester, students further hone their abilities with additional training in the methods of microeconomics and macroeconomics and choose a primary field of specialisation from microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics or public economics. Specialisation in a field of choice is an innovative feature of the research-focused MQE. With their examiner, students will decide on the specific topic in the field that is expected in the exam.
For the oral exam, in general, students will take one advanced course and one advanced seminar, while also exploring current research in the field as preparation. Additionally, students will receive targeted soft skills training in academic writing and verbal presentation, among other things. Students select a second field specialisation in their third semester. By concentrating in multiple fields, students obtain a deeper understanding of the many aspects of economics, enabling them to work on their personal or joint research project in the third semester. This allows for them to specialise in their field of interest, and subsequently to produce original research in their Master's theses in the fourth semester.