Why should I study a master’s in local economic development?

The MSc programme equips students with the analytical tools needed to assess local economic conditions, identify key growth sectors, and develop policies that promote sustainable and inclusive development.   

Urban economies, for example, may focus on fostering innovation ecosystems and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI), while rural regions might emphasise agricultural modernisation and infrastructure development.  

By learning from the latest academic research and real-world applications, students gain the expertise needed to formulate policies that align with the specific needs and potential of different localities.   

At LSE, MSc Local Economic Development students choose from a selection of courses, enabling you to tailor your academic experience towards your interests. Course options include: 

• Inclusive growth; a module looking at how economic development can be inclusive and ensure shared prosperity 
• Economics of local and regional development; a module looking at the key drivers of economic performance at a local and regional level with particular focus on the regional policies of the European Union 
• The economics of urbanisation in developing countries; in which you’ll learn about why and how countries urbanise and how systems of cities develop over time. 

This range of courses ensures you can graduate with the skills to work in any local economic environment, whether that’s in the developing world or a more Westernised economy. 

Graduates from LSE have gone on to work for the World Bank, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), KMPG, as well as a range of NGOs and consultancy firms, think tanks, and governments around the world. Many also go into academia to take up research positions or study for a PhD. 

Economic growth alone is not sufficient; it must be inclusive to ensure that its benefits are widely shared. Inequality, poverty, and social exclusion remain pressing issues in many regions, requiring targeted interventions to create equitable opportunities.  

Studying inclusive growth means you learn about the importance of inclusive growth strategies, focusing on policies that support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), workforce development, and social infrastructure.   

Students explore different policy tools for fostering inclusive growth and learn how to design policies that prioritise equity and social mobility. This means graduates of the LSE MSc programme can contribute to building more resilient and just local economies.   

The MSc Local Economic Development is aligned with industry standards and best practices. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for careers in economic development agencies, government institutions, international organisations, consultancy firms and research institutions.   

With the increasing complexity of the global economic landscape, there is a growing demand for professionals who can navigate local economic challenges with a deep understanding of global trends.  

By pursuing this master’s degree, students gain the specialised knowledge and practical skills needed to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond.