Who is this course for? 

The MSc in Health Economics is designed for motivated individuals who want to make a real impact on healthcare systems- whether through shaping policy, improving access, or driving more efficient resource use. 

It is ideally suited to: 

• Graduates with a background in economics, public health, statistics, health sciences, medicine, pharmacy, or social sciences who want to build expertise in economic evaluation and health policy decision-making.
• Professionals working in the pharmaceutical, medical device, or healthcare sectors who are seeking to expand their analytical skills and career opportunities - particularly in roles related to health technology assessment, pricing and reimbursement, or regulatory affairs.
• Clinicians and healthcare professionals interested in understanding the economic forces behind health service delivery and contributing to smarter, more sustainable care solutions.
• Policy analysts, researchers, and civil servants who want to deepen their understanding of global health challenges, system financing, and decision-making under resource constraints. 

If you're curious, analytical, and passionate about making evidence-based change in the health sector, this course will equip you with the critical tools and real-world experience to do just that. A flexible full-time and part-time structure ensures you can balance your learning with your lifestyle or career. 

What will I study?  

The MSc in Health Economics offers both full-time (1 year) and part-time (2 years) study options, providing flexibility for recent graduates and working professionals alike. 

In this programme, you’ll develop a deep understanding of how economics can be used to improve healthcare systems and inform better policy and decision-making. Whether you’re studying full-time or part-time, you’ll begin by building a strong foundation in core areas such as economics of health and healthcare, health economic evaluation, and healthcare systems. 

As the course progresses, you’ll delve into key analytical tools - including decision-analytic modelling, health technology assessment, preference elicitation, and econometrics. These skills are highly valued by employers in the public and private sectors. 

The curriculum combines compulsory and optional modules, giving you space to explore your interests in areas like public economics, ageing policy, and behavioural economics. You’ll also benefit from practical, skills-based learning delivered through lectures, seminars, and case-based workshops led by leading academics and practitioners. 

To complete the programme, you will undertake either a minor dissertation or an applied placement project during the summer months (or in the second year for part-time learners). This capstone element allows you to apply your learning in a real-world or research setting, preparing you for impactful careers or future doctoral study. 

To complete the programme, you will undertake either a minor dissertation or an applied placement project during the summer months (or in the second year for part-time learners). This capstone element allows you to apply your learning in a real-world or research setting, preparing you for impactful careers or future doctoral study. 

Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).
Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.

• Connect with industry from day one 
  Engage with guest speakers and partner organisations including HIQA, NCPE, Novartis and Janssen.
• 1:1 weekly mentoring from industry experts
  Get insider knowledge and career-ready skills through weekly mentoring focused on business writing, interviews, and sector insights.
• Choose your final project pathway
  Tailor your experience with a choice between a traditional dissertation or a summer placement in a health organisation, consultancy, or pharma company.
• Gain practical skills employers value
  Master tools like cost-effectiveness analysis, preference elicitation, and health technology assessment.
• Taught by world-leading experts
  Learn from academics and guest lecturers who shape real health policy and publish cutting-edge research.
• Recognition of Excellence:
  Student achievements are recognized through a bursary prize for best student performance, sponsored by Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine Ireland.

Graduates of the MSc in Health Economics are in high demand across the health and life sciences sectors -both in Ireland and internationally, thanks to their ability to apply economic reasoning and analytical skills to real-world health challenges. 

With a strong focus on real-world application, practical training, and employer engagement, this programme opens up a wide range of exciting career paths in the public, private, and non-profit sectors. 

Where do our graduates work? 

Our alumni have secured roles in: 

• Pharmaceutical and medical device companies such as Novartis, Janssen Sciences, AbbVie, and GSK.
• Health economics consultancies including IQVIA, OPEN Health, and Axia Economics.
• Public sector and regulatory bodies such as the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA), the National Centre for Pharmacoeconomics (NCPE), the HSE, and the Department of Health.
• Research centres, think tanks, and NGOs with a focus on global health, social policy, or sustainable development. 

What roles will I be qualified for? 

Graduates of this programme are typically eligible for roles such as: 

• Health Economist
• Market Access Analyst
• Health Technology Assessor
• Outcomes Research Analyst
• Reimbursement Policy Specialist
• Healthcare Data Analyst
• Economic Evaluation Consultant
• Research Associate or Policy Analyst in health-related fields 

These roles span across healthcare innovation, policy development, pricing and reimbursement strategy, and regulatory decision-making. 

What does a career in health economics look like? 

Graduates may begin their careers in research or analytical support roles, progressing to senior economist or consultancy positions. Some move into leadership roles in pharmaceutical pricing and access, government strategy, or international health policy. Others pursue doctoral research and academic careers in economics, public health, or global development. 

With global concern around ageing populations, rising healthcare costs, and sustainability of health systems, there is growing demand for professionals who can analyse value for money and support evidence-informed decisions. 

In-demand skills you’ll develop 

This programme equips you with the practical tools employers are seeking, including: 

• Cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analysis
• Economic modelling and simulation
• Econometrics and statistical analysis
• Preference elicitation techniques
• Health policy evaluation and critical thinking
• Real-world data interpretation 

These technical and analytical skills are complemented by your ability to communicate evidence clearly and influence decision-making - both essential in today’s data-driven health landscape. 

A launchpad for further study 

The MSc in Health Economics also serves as an excellent foundation for doctoral research. Many of our graduates have progressed to PhD programmes in Ireland and internationally in economics, health policy, public health, and related disciplines. 

Whether your ambition is to influence national health strategy, advise on global funding decisions, or conduct world-class research, this programme prepares you to lead with impact. 

The MSc in Health Economics offers students the opportunity to complete a supervised summer work placement during Semester 3 (May–August) as an alternative to the minor dissertation. This placement is optional, credit-bearing, and available to all students, although access to specific roles may be competitive and subject to an application and interview process. 

Students are required to complete between 240-300 hours over 8 to 12 weeks, depending on the host organisation’s project scope. 

Placement Partners and Locations 

We work closely with a wide range of respected industry and public sector partners. Recent placements have been hosted by: 

• Pharmaceutical companies - Novartis, Janssen Sciences Ireland, AbbVie
• Consultancies - IQVIA, OPEN Health, Axis Economics
• Public and regulatory bodies - HIQA, HSE, Department of Health, NCPE 

Placements may take place in Galway, elsewhere in Ireland, or in some cases, remotely. International students should note that relocation may be required depending on placement location. 

Roles and Responsibilities 

Placement roles vary by host but typically involve: 

• Economic evaluations and cost-effectiveness analysis
• Data modelling, statistical analysis, and report writing
• Support for health technology assessments
• Research into market access and pricing strategies
• Policy development and review 

Students are supervised by both a workplace mentor and an academic advisor, ensuring academic alignment and personal development. 

Is it paid? 

Most placements are paid, though this is not guaranteed. Regardless of payment, the professional experience significantly enhances students’ employability and often leads to job offers after graduation. 

Pathways to Employment 

Many students report that their placement experience directly led to full-time employment following graduation - either with their host organisation or in a similar role. Examples include progression into roles such as: 

• Health Economist
• Market Access Analyst
• Outcomes Research Associate
• Reimbursement Strategy Consultant
• Policy Advisor in public health or regulation 

Student Story 

"After working as a pharmacist, I was keen to understand how healthcare decisions were made. The placement let me translate theory into practice and connect with professionals who later helped launch my career in pharma." 
- Aisling Murphy, MSc Graduate, now Associate Director at Novartis 

• Luke McGrath 
• Féidhlim McGowan
• Ronan Mahon
• Sharon Walsh 
• Paddy Gillespie
• Ronan Mahon
• Kieran Walsh

How will I learn?

The MSc in Health Economics blends academic rigour with practical, hands-on learning to prepare students for impactful careers in health policy, industry, and research. The programme is designed to give students a deep understanding of economic theory and its application in real-world healthcare settings. 

You will learn through a dynamic mix of: 

• Interactive lectures delivered by academic experts and industry practitioners
• Workshops and seminars focused on real-world case studies and applied problem-solving
• Group projects and policy simulations that reflect professional working environments
• Individual assignments that build critical thinking, analytical, and writing skills   

Students also benefit from professional skills training, and guest lectures from leading voices in health economics and global health policy. 

The programme supports both full-time and part-time students, with timetables structured to allow for flexible engagement. While timetables may vary year to year, you can typically expect between 12-16 contact hours per week in the full-time mode, with additional hours for readings, assignments, and group work. 

You will have access to industry-standard software, real-world datasets, and online learning tools to support your coursework and independent study. 

How Will I Be Assessed? 

Assessment is continuous and designed to reflect the professional tasks you’ll undertake in a health economics career. You will be assessed through a mix of: 

1. Continuous Assessment 
   Regular coursework including essays, presentations, literature reviews, and in-class tests. These assignments focus on analytical reasoning, economic modelling, and applied problem-solving. Typically 30–60% of the overall module grade.
2. Written Examinations
   Traditional exams take place at the end of Semester 1 (December) and Semester 2 (May). These assess your understanding of theory, concepts, and quantitative techniques. Weightings vary by module.
3. Project Work
   Many modules include real-world case-based projects or data assignments. You’ll apply econometric techniques, evaluate healthcare interventions, or simulate policy decisions using current tools and methods.
4. Final Capstone
   In Semester 3, you will complete either:
   1. A minor dissertation, or
   2. An applied placement project with academic supervision 

This extended project represents a major portion of your final grade and allows you to demonstrate independent research, applied analysis, and subject mastery. 

Ongoing feedback and academic support is a core feature of the programme. 

Course queries: 
E: economics@universityofgalway.ie 

Programme Director(s):  

Dr Ronan Mahon   
Lecturer Above the Bar in the Discipline of Economics 
J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics 
College of Business, Public Policy and Law 

Member of the National Screening Advisory Committee of Ireland  
Member of the Health Economics Association of Ireland Executive Committee 

E: ronan.mahon@universityofgalway.ie 
T: 091 493394 

Graduates of the MSc in Health Economics will develop a robust set of transferable skills that are highly valued across a range of sectors, including business, policy, analytics, and research. Students will be able to: 

• Analyse complex data and apply statistical and econometric tools to support decision-making
• Communicate technical information effectively to both specialist and non-specialist audiences, in writing and presentations
• Solve real-world problems using economic logic, evidence-based reasoning, and scenario analysis
• Conduct independent research and manage large-scale projects from design through to completion
• Work collaboratively in teams and engage with stakeholders in multidisciplinary settings
• Use industry-standard software and tools for data analysis, economic modelling, and reporting
• Reflect critically on policy contexts, ethical implications, and global health challenges
• Demonstrate leadership potential through initiative, self-direction, and professional adaptability 

These transferable skills empower graduates to succeed in dynamic roles - not only within health economics but also across consulting, data analytics, public policy, and further academic study

Minimum Entry Requirements

Normally a H2.1 degree (NFQ Level 8 or equivalent) with Economics. However, candidates with a significantly high H2.2 honours degree and who have achieved a 2.1 average in relevant Economics modules in a business degree, will also be considered. Applications for the full-time and part-time programmes are particularly welcomed from people working in the pharmaceutical or medical device sectors and from people working in the health policy or health care system sectors. Suitable applicants without a background in Economics will be offered an opportunity to take an online preparatory course before being accepted on the programme. 

Academic entry requirements standardised per country are available here.  

English Language Entry Requirements

IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent, if applicable. 

More information on English language test equivalency are available here.  

Supporting Documents

You will be required to provide supporting documentation as part of your application. You can check here what supporting documents are required for this course.   

You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Please review the entry requirements set out in the section above.  

You will be required to upload supporting documentation to your application electronically. See the section above on entry requirements for further information on the supporting documentation required for this course.  

Closing Dates 

For this programme, there is no specific closing date for receipt of applications. Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis and course quotes will be reviewed continuously throughout the application cycle.  

Notes 

• You will need an active email account to use the website and you'll be guided through the system, step by step, until you complete the online form.
• Browse the FAQ's section for further guidance.  

Fees for Academic Year 2025/2026

Course Type	Year	EU Tuition	Student Contribution	Non-EU Tuition	Levy	Total Fee	Total EU Fee	Total Non-EU Fee
Masters Full Time	1	€8,500		€20,000	€140		€8,640	€20,140
Masters Part Time	1	€4,250			€105		€4,355

For 25/26 entrants, where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 3.4% per annum for continuing years fees.

Postgraduate students in receipt of a SUSI grant – please note an F4 grant is where SUSI will pay €4,000 towards your tuition (2025/26).  You will be liable for the remainder of the total fee.  A P1 grant is where SUSI will pay tuition up to a maximum of €6,270. SUSI will not cover the student levy of €140.

Note to non-EU students: learn about the 24-month Stayback Visa here. 

Additional Costs:  

Uniforms
Includes college business suit, restaurant uniform, chef uniform, kitchen knives and kitchen safety shoes. (€676.40 for 2023/2024)  

Equipment and Fieldtrips
Some modules incorporate practical laboratories and for these, you may be required to purchase basic safety items such as a laboratory coat or goggles. Other modules may require a kit of components to be purchased.  

Fieldtrips 
There are some minor travel costs attached to participating in mandatory fieldtrips. The School endeavours to cover costs as much as possible and keep the contributions from students as low as possible.  

Postgraduate Excellence Scholarships 

This scholarship is valued at €1,500 for EU students applying for full-time taught master's postgraduate courses. You will be eligible if: 

• You have been accepted to a full-time taught master's course at University of Galway,
• You have attained a first class honours (or equivalent) in a Level 8 primary degree.  

An application for the scholarship scheme is required (separate to the application for a place on the programme). The application portal for 2025 is now open and available here. Applications will close on the 30th September 2025. Full details available here.  

Global Scholarships
University of Galway offers a range of merit-based scholarships to students from a number of countries outside of the EU. Visit here for schemes currently available.  

Business Postgraduate Merit Scholarships - J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics 

At J.E. Cairnes School of Business and Economics, we are committed to attracting top students from around the world. Our Merit Scholarships provide up to 50% tuition fee coverage across our Taught Master's programmes for high-achieving students. 

Key Highlights: 

• No application required – All eligible candidates are automatically considered.
• Eligibility: Achieve a H1 (or international equivalent) in your primary degree.
• Competitive selection process – Scholarships are awarded based on merit. 

How to Qualify: 

• Accept your offer on a Taught Master's programme.
• Pay the required deposit to secure your place. 

Application Process 

Students applying for full time postgraduate programmes from outside of the European Union (EU), You can apply online to the University of Galway application portal here.  

Our application portal opens on the 1st October each year for entry the following September.   

Further Information 

Please visit the postgraduate admissions webpage for further information on closing dates, documentation requirements, application fees and the application process.