Learning Outcomes

Master of Science in European Economic Studies

Master of Science in European Economic Studies

Programme-Specific Learning Outcomes

Approved by the Academic Council on 23 October 2025

Introduction

The ECO program offers Advanced Master’s-level education in European economic integration. It builds on students’ prior academic training in economics and/or business engineering and is designed to prepare them for careers as analysts, consultants and economists in international and European organisations, national authorities, the banking and financial sectors, and economic consulting firms. It also offers the opportunity to pursue doctoral studies at leading universities.

Emphasis is placed on a solid understanding of European economic policies and quantitative methods, equipping students to develop pragmatic, evidence-based solutions. The aim of the ECO program is to train students to acquire methodological expertise in economics, econometrics-statistics or applied-mathematics to understand and analyze current practical economic questions related to the EU, put their analyses in wider contexts but also explain and communicate their analyses to a wide range of audiences.

The intended learning outcomes centre on three pillars:
1. knowledge of European integration and economic policies;
2. analytical and methodological skills in economics and econometrics, and;
3. professional competences such as critical thinking and effective communication.

The targeted learning outcomes of the programme are fully harmonized with the quality features of the Flemish Qualification Framework.

Upon completion of the programme, students should have attained the below Learning Outcomes.

General

  • 1.1
    Master and apply in-depth, specialised knowledge of the European integration process, both in its economic and institutional dimensions.
  • 1.2
    Critically assess the functioning of the European Single Market and its interaction with the global economy, using appropriate analytical tools.
  • 1.3
    Adopt a systemic and critical perspective on key challenges in European and global economic policy.
  • 1.4
    Develop the professional skills required for careers involving EU-related issues.

Knowledge

  • 2.1
    Possess advanced, specialised knowledge of European economics, the integration process, and EU institutional structures.
  • 2.2
    Understand the interaction of EU, national, and international bodies (e.g. World Trade Organization, International Monetary Fund, Bank for International Settlements, etc.) in shaping European economic policy and regulation.
  • 2.3
    Master the theoretical foundations of the Single Market and apply economic theories to explain integration dynamics.
  • 2.4
    Have a critical awareness of the methodological challenges and frontiers of knowledge in applied economics, econometrics, and policy analysis.

Skills

  • 3.1
    Identify, analyse, and evaluate key economic issues within the EU, employing advanced quantitative and econometric techniques (e.g. time series analysis, forecasting, impact assessment).
  • 3.2
    Formulate well-reasoned positions in debates and negotiations, drawing on robust evidence and analysis.
  • 3.3
    Apply scientific and methodological rigour in independent research: framing research questions, reviewing literature, selecting and applying appropriate theoretical and empirical frameworks, and interpreting data.
  • 3.4
    Communicate complex economic and policy issues clearly and effectively to specialist and non-specialist audiences, both orally and in writing, using structured and well-argued outputs (e.g. reports, memos, briefings, presentations).

Competences

  • 4.1
    Demonstrate autonomy and responsibility in designing and contributing to European economic policies and strategies, either within institutions (e.g. European Commission, ECB), national administrations, or organisations engaged in advocacy.
  • 4.2
    Contribute to strategic planning and decision-making in companies and institutions operating within the EU regulatory framework.
  • 4.3
    Engage critically with their own work and with broader debates in European economic policy, reflecting on assumptions, limitations, and implications.
  • 4.4
    Integrate theoretical knowledge with professional practice, bridging academic analysis and the realities of European policymaking.
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