Health Economics

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.

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.

1 year full-time,

2 years part-time.

Next start date September 2026

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.