134 Economics Thesis Topics: Ideas for Outstanding Writing

economics masters research topics

Writing a thesis is not an easy task. For most of the students, it can be even intimidating, especially when you do not know where to start your research.

Here, we have provided an economics thesis topics list. After all, everyone knows that choosing the right idea is crucial when writing an academic paper. In economics, it can combine history, math, social studies, politics, and numerous other subjects. You should also have solid foundations and a sound factual basis for a thesis. Without these elements, you won’t be able to master your research paper.

The issue is:

It is not always clear what could be seen as an excellent economics thesis topic. Our experts can assist you with this challenge. This list contains some outstanding examples to get you started.

  • ⭐ Thesis in Economics
  • 🔥 Supreme Thesis Topics
  • 👍 Bachelor’s Thesis
  • 😲 Master’s Thesis

📊 Microeconomics

📈 macroeconomics.

  • 🤔 Developmental
  • 👨‍💼 Behavioral
  • 💼 Financial
  • 🌱 Agricultural
  • 🤝‍ Sociology
  • 📚 Ph.D. Topics
  • 📝 How to Pick a Topic

⭐ What Does a Thesis in Economics Look Like?

A good thesis in economics is a blend between an empirical paper and a theoretical one. One of the essential steps in choosing a topic in economics is to decide which one you will write.

You may write, research, analyze statistical data and other information. Or build and study a specific economic model.

Or why not both!

Here are some questions you can ask when deciding what topic to choose:

  • What has already been written on this topic?
  • What economic variables will my paper study?
  • Where should I look for the data?
  • What econometrics techniques should I use?
  • What type of model will I study?

The best way to understand what type of research you have to do is to write a thesis proposal. You will most probably be required to submit it anyway. Your thesis supervisor will examine your ideas, methods, list of secondary and primary sources. At some universities, the proposal will be graded.

Master’s thesis and Bachelor’s thesis have three main differences.

After you get the initial feedback, you will have a clear idea of what to adjust before writing your thesis. Only then, you’ll be able to start.

🔥 Supreme Economics Thesis Topics List

  • Fast fashion in India.
  • The UK housing prices.
  • Brexit and European trade.
  • Behavioral economics.
  • Healthcare macroeconomics.
  • COVID-19’s economic impact.
  • Global gender wage gap.
  • Commodity dependence in Africa.
  • International trade – developing countries.
  • Climate change and business development.

👍 Economics Bachelor’s Thesis Topics

At the U.S. Universities, an undergraduate thesis is very uncommon. However, it depends on the Department Policy.

The biggest challenge with the Bachelor’s Thesis in economics concerns its originality. Even though you are not required to conduct entirely unique research, you have to lack redundant ideas.

You can easily avoid making this mistake by simply choosing one of these topics. Also, consider visiting IvyPanda essays database. It’s a perfect palce to conduct a brainstorming session and come up with fresh ideas for a paper, as well as get tons of inspiration.

  • The impact of the oil industry on the economic development of Nigeria. The oil industry is vital for the economic development of Nigeria. In this thesis, students can discuss the notion of the resource curse. Analyze the reasons why general people are not benefiting from the oil industry. Why did it produce very little change in the social and economic growth of the country?
  • Sports Marketing and Advertising: the impact it has on the consumers.
  • Economic opportunities and challenges of investing in Kenya .
  • Economic Development in the Tourism Industry in Africa. Since the early 1990s, tourism significantly contributed to the economic growth of African countries. In this thesis, students can talk about the characteristics of the tourist sector in Africa. Or elaborate on specific countries and how their national development plans look like.
  • Globalization and its significance to business worldwide .
  • Economic risks connected to investing in Turkey .
  • The decline in employment rates as the biggest American economy challenge .
  • The economics of alcohol abuse problems. In this thesis, students can develop several essential issues. First, they can examine how poverty is connected to alcohol abuse. Second, they can see the link between alcohol consumption and productivity. To sum up, students can elaborate on the economic costs of alcohol abuse.
  • Causes and solutions for unemployment in Great Britain.
  • Parallel perspective on Global Economic Order: China and America. This thesis can bring a comparative analysis of the economies to a new level. China and The US are the world’s two largest economies. These two countries have a significant impact on the global economic order. So, looking at the set of institutions, policies, rules can be constructive.
  • The new international economic order after COVID-19
  • Financial stability of the banking sector in China.
  • New Electronic Payment Services in Russia.
  • The influence of culture on different entrepreneurial behaviors.
  • The impact of natural cultural practices on entrepreneurial activity.
  • The relationships between national culture and individual behavior.
  • The main reasons for salary inequalities in different parts of the U.S.

😲 Economics Master’s Thesis Topics

Student life can be fascinating, but it comes with its challenges. One of which is selecting your Master’s thesis topic.

Here is a list of topics for a Master’s thesis in economics. Are you pursuing MPhil in Economics and writing a thesis? Use the following ideas as an inspiration for that. They can also be helpful if you are working on a Master’s thesis in financial economics.

  • The impact of visual aid in teaching home economics.
  • The effect of income changes in consumer behaviors in America.
  • Forces behind socio-economic inequalities in the United States. This thesis can explore three critical factors for socio-economic differences in the United States. In the past 30 years, social disparities increased in the United States. Some of the main reasons are technology, trade, and institutions.
  • The relationships between economic growth and international development.
  • Technological innovations and their influence on green and environmental products.
  • The economics of non-solar renewable energy .

Renewable energy is beneficial for various economic reasons.

  • The economic consequences of terrorism . Terrorism not only takes away lives and destroys property but also widely affects the economy. It creates uncertainty in the market, increases insurance claims, slows down investment projects, and tourism. This thesis can address all of the ways in which terrorism can affect economies.
  • Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) implementation in the Oil and Gas Industry in Africa.
  • Use of incentives in behavioral economics.
  • Economic opportunities and challenges of sustainable communities .
  • Economics of nuclear power plants.
  • Aid and financial help for emerging markets. This topic is very versatile. Students can look at both the positive and the adverse effects that funding has on the development. There are plenty of excellent examples. Besides, some theories call international help a form of neocolonialism.
  • Multinational firms impact on economic growth in America .
  • The effect of natural disasters on economic development in Asia.
  • The influence of globalization on emerging markets and economic development.

📑 More Economics Thesis Topics: Theme

For some students, it makes more sense to center their search around a certain subject. Sometimes you have an econ area that interests you. You may have an idea about what you want to write, but you did not decide what it will be.

If that’s the case with you, then these economics thesis topics ideas are for you.

  • An analysis of the energy market in Russia.
  • The impact of game theory on economic development.
  • The connection between minimum wage and market equilibrium.
  • Gender differences in the labor market in the United States. This topic can shed light on gender differences in the labor market in the United States. In the past years, the overall inequality in labor in the markets decreased. However, there is still a lot of work that can be done.
  • Economic reasons that influence the prices of oil .
  • Relationship between the Lorenz curve and the Gini coefficient.
  • Challenges of small businesses in the market economy.
  • The changes in oil prices: causes and solutions . Universal economic principles do not always apply to the sale and purchase of the oil. The same happens with its cost. In the thesis, talk about what affects the prices. What are the solutions that can be implemented?
  • The economic analysis of the impact of immigration on the American economy.

Immigration has a little long-run effect on Americans’ wages.

  • Economic inequality as a result of globalization . Economic inequality becomes even more apparent on the global level. There is a common belief that globalization is the cause of that. Discuss what can be the solutions to these problems. This topic is vital to minimize the gap between the rich and the poor.
  • The economic explanation of political dishonesty .
  • Effect of Increasing Interest rates costs in Africa .
  • The connection between game theory and microeconomics.
  • Marketing uses in microeconomics.
  • Financial liability in human-made environmental disasters.
  • Banks and their role in the economy. Banks are crucial elements of any economy, and this topic covers why. You can explain how banks allow the goods and services to be exchanged. Talk about why banks are so essential for economic growth and stability.
  • Inflation in the US and ways to reduce its impact.
  • The connection between politics and economics.
  • Income Dynamics and demographic economics.
  • US Market Liquidity and macroeconomics.
  • Macroeconomics and self-correction of the economy .
  • The American economy, monetary policy, and monopolies .
  • The importance of control in macroeconomics. One of the central topics in macroeconomics is grouped around the issue of control. It is quite reasonable that control over money and resources should become a topic of discussion.
  • Analysis of Africa’s macroeconomics and its performance.
  • Economics of education in developing markets.
  • Problems and possible solutions for Japan macroeconomics .
  • Comparative analysis of British macroeconomics concerning the US .
  • Public policies and socio-economic disparities.
  • The world problems through macroeconomic analysis. Indeed, macroeconomics is very complicated. There are many influences, details, and intricacies in it. However, it allows economists to use this complex set of tools to examine the world’s leading problems today.

There are four main problems in macroeconomics.

  • The connection between employment interest and money.

🤔 Development Economics

  • Economics of development . This topic is very rich in content. First, explain what it is. Then pay particular attention to domestic and international policies that affect development, income distribution, and economic growth.
  • The relation between development and incentive for migration.
  • The impact of natural disasters on the economy and political stability of emerging markets.
  • The economic consequences of population growth in developing countries.
  • The role of industrialization in developing countries . The industrialization has been connected with the development. It promotes capital formation and catalyzes economic growth in emerging markets. In this thesis, you can talk about this correlation.
  • Latin American economic development.
  • Gender inequality and socio-economic development .
  • Problems of tax and taxation in connection with economic growth.
  • The economic impact of terrorism on developing markets.
  • Religious decline as a key to economic development. Not everyone knows, but a lot of research has been done in the past years on the topic. It argues that decreased religious activity is connected with increased economic growth. This topic is quite controversial. Students who decide to write about it should be extra careful and polite.

👨‍💼 Behavioral Economics

  • Risk Preferences in Rural South Africa.
  • Behavioral Economics and Finance .
  • Applied behavioral economics in marketing strategies. If you want to focus your attention on marketing, this topic is for you. Behavioral economics provides a peculiar lens to look at marketing strategies. It allows marketers to identify common behaviors and adapt their marketing strategies.
  • The impact of behavioral finance on investment decisions.
  • Behavioral Economics in Child Nutrition Programs in North Texas.
  • Guidelines for Behavioral Economics in Healthcare Sector.
  • Cognitive and behavioral theories in economics .
  • Cross-cultural consumer behavior and marketing communication. Consumers are not only affected by personal characteristics, but also by the culture they are living in. This topic focuses on the extent it should determine marketing strategy and communication.
  • Behavior implications of wealth and inequality.

The richest population holds a huge portion of the national income.

  • Optimism and pessimism for future behavior.

💼 Financial Economics

  • Financial Economics for Infrastructure and Fiscal Policy .
  • The use of the economic concept of human capital. Students can focus on the dichotomy between human and nonhuman capital. Many economists believe that human capital is the most crucial of all. Some approach this issue differently. Therefore, students should do their research and find where they stand on this issue.
  • The analysis of the global financial crisis of 2020s. Share your thoughts, predictions, ideas. Analyze the economic situation that affects almost everyone in the world. This thesis topic will be fresh and original. It can help to start a good and fruitful conversation.
  • The big data economic challenges for Volvo car.
  • The connection between finance, economics, and accounting.
  • Financial economics: Banks competition in the UK .
  • Risk-Taking by mutual funds as a response to incentives.
  • Managerial economics and financial accounting as a basis for business decisions.
  • Stock market overreaction.

🌱 Agricultural Economics

  • Agricultural economics and agribusiness.
  • The vulnerability of agricultural business in African countries.
  • Agricultural economics and environmental considerations of biofuels .
  • Farmer’s contribution to agricultural social capital.
  • Agricultural and resource economics. Agricultural and resource economics plays a huge role in development. They are subdivided into four main characteristics which in this topic, students can talk about: – mineral and energy resources; – soil resources, water resources; – biological resources. One or even all of them can be a focus of the thesis.
  • Water as an economic good in irrigated agriculture.
  • Agriculture in the economic development of Iran.
  • The US Agricultural Food Policy and Production .
  • Pesticides usage on agricultural products in California.

The region of greatest pesticide use was San Joaquin Valley.

  • An analysis of economic efficiency in agriculture. A lot of research has been done on the question of economic efficiency in agriculture. However, it does not mean there is no place for your study. You have to read a lot of secondary sources to see where your arguments can fit.

🤝‍Economic Sociology

  • Theory, approach, and method in economics sociology.
  • Economic sociology of capitalism. While economists believe in the positive effect capitalism has on the economy, the social effect is quite different. The “economic” part of the issue has been studied a lot. However, the sociology of it has been not. This thesis can be very intriguing to read.
  • Political Economy and Economic Sociology.
  • Gender and economic sociology .
  • Progress, sociology, and economics.
  • Data analysis in economics, sociology, environment .
  • Economic sociology as a way to understand the human mind.
  • Economic sociology of money.
  • Economics, sociology, and psychology of security.
  • Major principles of economic sociology. In the past decade, economic sociology became an increasingly popular field. Mainly due to it giving a new view on economics, human mind, and behavior. Besides, it explores relationships between politics, law, culture, and gender.

📚 The List of Ph.D. Topics in Economics

If you decide to go to grad school to do your Masters, you will likely end up getting a Ph.D. as well. So, with this plan in mind, think about a field that interests you enough during your Masters. Working with the same topic for both graduate degrees is easier and more effective.

This list of Ph.D. Topics in Economics can help you identify the areas you can work on.

  • Occupational injuries in Pakistan and its effect on the economy. Injuries are the leading cause of the global burden of disability. Globally, Pakistan was ranked 9th populated country with a large number of unskilled workers. In this dissertation, consider the link between occupational injuries and their effects on the economy.
  • The study of the Philippines’ economic development.

The Philippine economy is projected to continue on its expansionary path.

  • Financial derivatives and climate change .
  • Econometric Analysis of Financial Markets.
  • Islamic Banking and Financial Markets .
  • Health economics and policy in the UK.
  • Health insurance: rationale and economic justification. In this dissertation, students can find different ways to explain and justify health insurance. Starting to philosophical to purely economic grounds. In the past years, there was a lot of discussion regarding the healthcare system for all. What are some of the economic benefits of that?
  • Colombian economy, economic growth, and inequality.
  • Benefits of mergers and acquisitions in agribusiness.
  • Methods to measure financial risks when investing in Africa.
  • The significance of financial economics in understanding the relationship between a country’s GDP and NDP.
  • Network effects in cryptocurrency. Cryptocurrencies are not new anymore. However, it is still an original subject for a dissertation. Students can decide to choose several crypto coins and evaluate the importance of the network effect. This effect is particularly significant for Bitcoin. Explain why.
  • The comparison of the Chinese growth model with the American growth model.
  • An economic justification versus political expediency.
  • Pollution Externalities Role in Management Economics .

📝 How to Select an Economics Thesis Topic

As your academic journey is coming to an end, it’s time to pick the right topic for your thesis. The whole academic life you were preparing to undertake this challenge.

Here is the list of six points that will help you to select an economics thesis topic:

  • Make sure it is something you are genuinely interested in. It is incredibly challenging to write something engaging if you are not interested in the topic. So, choose wisely and chose what excites you.
  • Draw inspiration from the previous student’s projects. A great place to start is by looking at what the previous students wrote. You can find some fresh ideas and a general direction.
  • Ask your thesis advisor for his feedback. Most probably, your thesis advisor supervised many students before. They can be a great help too because they know how to assess papers. Before meeting with your professor, do some basic research, and understand what topic is about.
  • Be original, but not too much. You do not want to spend your time writing about a project that many people wrote about. Your readers will not be interested in reading it, but your professors as well. However, make sure you do not pick anything too obscure. It will leave you with no secondary sources.
  • Choose a narrow and specific topic. Not only will it allow you to be more original, but also to master a topic. When the issue is too broad, there is just too much information to cover in one thesis.
  • Go interdisciplinary. If you find yourself interested in history, philosophy, or any other related topic, it can help you write an exceptional thesis in economics. Most of your peers may work on pure economics. Then, the interdisciplinary approach can help you to stand out among them.

Some universities ask their students to focus on topics from one discipline.

Thank you for reading the article to the end! We hope this list of economics thesis topics ideas could help you to gather your thoughts and get inspired. Share it with those who may find it useful. Let us know what you think about it in the comment section below.

🔗 References

  • Economics Thesis Topics List: Seminars Only
  • How To Pick A Topic For Your Economics Research Project Or Master’s Thesis: INOMICS, The Site for Economists
  • What Do Theses and Dissertations Look Like: KU Writing Center, the University of Kansas
  • Writing Economics: Robert Neugeboren with Mireille Jacobson, University of Harvard
  • Economics Ph.D. Theses: Department of Economics, University of Sussex Business School, IDEAS_RePEc
  • World Economic Situation and Prospects 2018: United Nations
  • Undergraduate Honors Theses: Department of Economics, University of California, Berkeley
  • Economics Department Dissertations Collection: Economics Department, University of Massachusetts Amherst
  • Topics for Master Theses: Department of Economics, NHH, Norwegian School of Economics
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The dilemma I faced in getting Thesis proposal for my M Phil programme is taken away. Your article would be a useful guide to many more students.Thank you for your guidance.

Thanks for the feedback, John! Your opinion is very important for us!

I wants it for msc thesis

These are very helpful and concise research topics which I have spent days surfing the internet to get all this while. Thanks for making research life experience easier for me. Keep this good work up.

Thank you, Idris!

Glad to hear that! Thank you for your feedback, Idris!

Excellent research

For research

A very well written, clear and easy-to-read article. It was highly helpful. Thank you!

Thanks for your kind words! We look forward to seeing you again!

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130 Excellent Economics Research Topics To Consider

Table of Contents

Are you an economics student searching for good topics for your research paper? If yes, then keep on reading this blog. To make the topic selection process easier for you, here we have suggested a list of the best economics research topics on various areas associated with the subject. In addition to that, we have also presented a brief overview of economics research paper topic selection and writing.

Quickly explore the entire list and choose any ideal topic for composing your economics thesis or dissertation.

Economics Research Paper Topic Selection and Writing

Have your professor asked you to submit an economics research paper? If yes, then topic selection is the first step you should do. In case, your supervisors had not suggested any research ideas, make sure to choose a unique economics research topic that you are interested in. The topic you choose should be understandable for you and your readers, and it should also have a wide research scope with the necessary information for crafting a comprehensive research paper or essay.

After you have selected a research topic for your economics assignment, sketch an outline with the research ideas that you have gathered. Then, with the help of the essay outline you have prepared, draft the research paper in a well-structured manner by including the essential elements such as the introduction, body, and conclusion.

The introduction paragraph of your research paper should have a catchy opening sentence, brief background information on the topic, and a strong thesis statement addressing the purpose of your research paper. After the introduction, in the body paragraphs, you should include innovative topic sentences and explain your arguments with supporting evidence in a way to persuade your reader. Then, you should finally close your research paper with an engaging conclusion that contains a brief summary of the main points.

List of the Best Economics Research Paper Topics

You may think that it is easy to choose a research topic for your economics research paper. But actually, it is not. As economics is a complex and broad subject, choosing a perfect research topic from it is a daunting task.

If you are asked to write an economics research paper or essay, then you can prefer to choose a topic from economics research areas such as macroeconomics, microeconomics, behavioral economics, agricultural economics, development economics, financial economics, and so on.

Here, we have sorted different categories of economics topics and have recommended a list of excellent economics research topic ideas for you to consider. Go through the entire list and pick a topic that is ideal for writing academic papers as per your instructor’s requirements.

Economics Research Topics

Agricultural Economics Research Topics

  • Farmer’s contribution to agricultural social capital.
  • Agricultural economics and agribusiness.
  • An analysis of economic efficiency in agriculture.
  • Agricultural and resource economics.
  • Agricultural economics and environmental considerations of biofuels.
  • Analysis of food security and poverty status among households in Ehime Mbano
  • Role of bank loans and credit facility in financing Nigerian agriculture sector: a case study of Nigeria agricultural cooperative and rural development bank
  • Evaluation of the impact of micro-finance banks on the South African agriculture sector
  • How poultry farming is becoming a veritable tool for the economic empowerment of South Africa?
  • Critical analysis of the problems and prospects of agriculture financing in rural India

Behavioral Economics Research Paper Topics

  • What does the economy of trust mean?
  • How does the brain change when a person is striking a great deal?
  • The impact of economic stability on the social life of a person
  • The buying capacity and gender
  • How does race relate to economic power?
  • Big data and its implications for behavioral economics
  • The impact of behavioral finance on investment decisions.
  • Cognitive and behavioral theories in economics.
  • Behavior implications of wealth and inequality.
  • Using behavioral economics to help in reducing substance abuse

Development Economics Research Topics

  • The relation between development and incentive for migration.
  • The economic consequences of population growth in developing countries.
  • The determinants of high-performing institutions in emerging economies
  • The impact of globalization on income distribution in emerging economies
  • The problems of tax and taxation in connection with economic growth.
  • The economic impact of terrorism on developing markets.
  • Investigate the relationship between family planning, labor force, and income fluctuations.
  • The impact of natural disasters on the economy and political stability of emerging markets.
  • Budgeting and decision-making by low-income earners in emerging economics
  • The impact of multinational commodity trading through the development of economic perspective.
  • Compare and contrast the impact of demand-pull inflation and cost-push inflation on a country’s economy
  • Discuss the impact of multinational commodity trading through the perspective of development economics
  • Discuss the concepts of mercantilism, linear stages of growth model, economic nationalism, and structural-change theory
  • Investigate the relationship between unemployment and fluctuations in national income
  • Compare and contrast the economic patterns of villages across Papua New Guinea

Environmental Economics Research Paper Topics

  • Explain the energy markets’ economic potential.
  • How does global warming affect economic growth?
  • How technological advancement leads to economic growth
  • Evolution of economic institutions concerning climate change
  • Cost-benefit analysis of the regulation of the environment
  • The economic perspectives of the distribution of natural resources across boundaries
  • The relationship between financial subsidies and the generation of eco-friendly products
  • Detailed analysis of the European Union Emission Trading System
  • Why it’s important to analyze the economics of clean drinking water
  • How wildlife protection affects the economy

Read more: Outstanding Environmental Science Topics for You to Consider

Financial Economics Research Topics

  • Risk-taking by mutual funds as a response to incentives.
  • Financial economics for infrastructure and fiscal policy.
  • Managerial economics and financial accounting as a basis for business
  • The analysis of the global financial crisis of 2020
  • Stock market overreaction.

Health Economics Research Ideas

  • How do chronic diseases affect the workforce and the economy?
  • How can public hospitals optimize their revenue collection?
  • The economics of the pharmaceutical industry
  • How an unhealthy country translates into a poor country
  • Is the world’s hunger affected by economics?
  • How does perfect competition work in the pharmaceutical world?
  • How does an infectious disease outbreak affect the economy?
  • Is health insurance important?
  • How is the economy affected by a smoking ban?

Research Paper Topics on International Trade

  • What are the gains and losses of international trade for developing countries?
  • The importance of international trade in developing countries
  • The relationship between economic growth and international trade
  • The impact of Brexit on small and middle businesses in the UK
  • To what extent does a currency union affect trade?
  • The roles of exchange rate and exchange rate regime in the US export.
  • To what extent are the gains of less developed countries from trade liberalization exaggerated?
  • Foreign direct investment in the United States: Determinants and impact
  • The relationship between foreign direct investment and wages
  • The effects of the banana crisis on the Jamaican and British economies

Macroeconomics Research Topics

  • Global recession and factors that contribute to it.
  • The relationship between Internet connectivity and productivity in the workplace.
  • The relationship between economic growth and unemployment in your country.
  • Income Dynamics and demographic economics.
  • What should our government do to minimize the risks of future default?
  • The connection between politics and economics.
  • The world problems through macroeconomic analysis .
  • US Market Liquidity and Macroeconomics.
  • The structure, history, and activities of the World Bank.
  • Economics of education in developing markets.
  • Public policies and socio-economic disparities.
  • Banks and their role in the economy.
  • Problems and possible solutions for Japan macroeconomics.
  • State regulation of the economy in foreign countries: main models of regulation.
  • The effect of currency devaluation on small and medium firms
  • A comparison of the United States unemployment to the rest of the world
  • The relationship between common stock prices and inflation in your country.
  • Macroeconomics and self-correction of the economy.
  • Analysis of Africa’s macroeconomics and its performance.
  • The implications of Internet banking on bank profitability.

Read more: Best Macroeconomics Research Topics and Ideas for Students

Microeconomics Research Topics

  • Explain how competition influences the price.
  • Opportunity costs explained from a microeconomics perspective
  • Inflation sources and consequences explained
  • The impact of demonetization on small and medium businesses
  • The connection between the minimum wage and market equilibrium.
  • Perfect competition in microeconomics
  • Theories in microeconomics
  • The effect of labor force participation on the economy and budget
  • Economic inequality as a result of globalization.
  • Explain the balance between supply and demand in microeconomics
  • Dynamics of the Gini index as a reflection of the problem of inequality in income
  • Privatization of Public Enterprises and its implications on economic policy and development
  • How does the stock market work?
  • The impact of game theory on economic development.
  • The changes in oil prices: causes and solutions.
  • Marketing uses in microeconomics.
  • The economic explanation of political dishonesty.
  • How company mergers and dissolutions impact the economy
  • The role of tax collection agencies in microeconomics
  • Different microeconomic models and how they face the effect of industry conditions

A Few More Microeconomics Research Ideas

  • How exactly does Uber fit into the economy of trust?
  • How does a person’s brain alter when they hit a big deal?
  • missing practical human insights from big data and how this affects the economy.
  • explaining how supply and demand are balanced in microeconomics
  • Changes in economic institutions with regard to climate change
  • Effects of greenhouses on economic growth
  • Effects of climate change on economic growth
  • Analysis of the European Union Emission Trading System in great detail
  • Is resource management for waste scarce? A microeconomics explanation of opportunity costs
  • Effects of wildlife protection on the economy

Interesting Economics Research Topics

  • What role does entrepreneurship play in economic development?
  • How do automation and artificial intelligence affect the labor market?
  • Discuss the Economics of healthcare systems and policies in developing countries.
  • Explain the effects of trade agreements on income distribution.
  • How does foreign aid affect economic development?
  • Explain the impact of monetary policy on financial markets and inflation.
  • Discuss the effects of income inequality on social mobility.
  • How does tax reform impact business investment?
  • Explain the role of microfinance in alleviating poverty.
  • How does behavioral economics impact personal savings habits?

From the list of economics research topics recommended in this blog, choose any topic of your choice and craft a top-quality research paper or essay. It is not necessary that you need to use the suggested topic as it is, you can also modify the research topic and write your academic paper. In case, you are unsure how to select the right topic and write a persuasive economics research paper, get in touch with us immediately.

economics masters research topics

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Economics Dissertation Topics

Published by Alvin Nicolas at January 11th, 2023 , Revised On April 16, 2024

The field of economics has changed entirely in recent times. Today, the field holds an extremely important place in every economy, with individual choices, spending, borrowing, production, occupations, markets, trading, employment, and a lot more being predicted and planned by economists.

Today, economists view economics from a modern and slightly different perspective than traditional economics. Different approaches in economics include perspectives like anthropology, sociology, geography, and various institutions.

Studying economics involving these perspectives provides a clearer view of the issues and problems related to the modern economic world. In contrast, focusing on the traditional economic approaches while selecting a topic will result in vague outcomes according to modern economics.

The most difficult task with respect to economics dissertations involves the  collection of data . Mostly the data required by the researcher must be in quantitative form. However, once data is collected, the researcher can focus on performing the analysis.

There are a number of economic perspectives that can be studied in detail. As your final project, you will want to select the most recent and relevant economics topic for your dissertation.

To help you get started with brainstorming for economics topic ideas, we have developed a list of the latest topics that can be used for writing your economics dissertation.

These topics have been developed by PhD-qualified writers of our team , so you can trust to use these topics for drafting your dissertation.

You may also want to start your dissertation by requesting  a brief research proposal  from our writers on any of these topics, which includes an  introduction  to the problem,  research question , aim and objectives,  literature review  along with the proposed  methodology  of research to be conducted.  Let us know  if you need any help in getting started.

Check our  example dissertations to get an idea of  how to structure your dissertation .

You can review step by step guide on how to write your dissertation.

Check our  example dissertation to get an idea of  how to structure your dissertation .

2024 Economics Dissertation Topics

Topic 1: the influence of price and brand on consumer preference during an economic recession: a case of the clothing market in greece.

Research Aim: The research will aim to examine the impact of prices and brands on consumer buying behaviour during an economic recession in Greece’s clothing market. During an economic crisis, not all types of products suffer the same consequences. During a recession, people are more sensible in their buying decisions, and they frequently continue to choose known product brands that meet their demands. The study will look at the impact of the recession on consumer purchasing preferences, taking into account variations in spending on various apparel brands based on price.

Topic 2: The financial and non-financial support of the family members in the growth of a successful entrepreneurship

Research Aim: The research will aim to investigate the importance of financial and non-financial support of family members in the growth of successful entrepreneurship. Entrepreneurship is a driving force in economic growth, social transformation, and organizational change. Private businesses (entrepreneurship) not only support a state’s social and economic growth but it also develops intellectual competition and innovation. Family members who are involved in business ventures can influence individuals’ goals to start new businesses, and they can also be considered as a means of economic and motivational strength.

Topic 3: The impact of transaction cost on economic development

Research Aim: The research will aim to explore the impact of transaction cost on the economic development of a country. The study will try to find the impact by using different methods and analyses. This article will investigate the difficulties of economic growth as they relate to transaction costs and how the latter produce various sorts of market failures. The study also explores several major contributions to the field of economic development, including market failure and growth barriers. Alternative perspectives on the failure of government and the market-government duality will also be examined.

Topic 4: What effect does oil price fluctuation have on business activity in oil-importing and exporting states?

Research Aim: The research will aim to find the influence of oil rate fluctuation on businesses of oil-importing and exporting countries. Change has a significant influence on the production costs of oil-importing countries and changes in pricing levels changes. At the same time, oil price variations have a significant impact on energy export profits and government budget revenues in energy-exporting economies.

Topic 5: The impact of gender inequality on work productivity and economic growth: A case study on developing countries

Research Aim: The research will aim to find the impact of gender inequality on work productivity and economic growth in developing countries. Gender inequality is not solely a concern in developing countries. Males earn more than women in practically every society. Differences in health, education, and negotiating power within marriage, on the other hand, tend to be bigger in countries with low Per capita income. Gender inequality in the office contributes to females’ lower socio-economic standing. Furthermore, such gender inequality may be associated with human resource rules and human resource related decision-making.

Topic 6: Research to identify the impacts of Coronavirus on the economy

Research Aim: This study will focus on identifying the impacts of coronavirus on the global economy.

Topic 7: Research to study the impacts of Coronavirus on the real estate sector

Research Aim: This research aims at identifying the impacts of coronavirus on the real estate sector. Is real estate a better option for investment during COVID-19?

Topic 8: Research to study the impacts of Coronavirus on the stock market

Research Aim: This research aims at identifying the impacts of coronavirus on the stock market.

Topic 9: Research to identify the impacts of Coronavirus on banking and the future of banking after the pandemic

Research Aim: This research aims at identifying the impacts of coronavirus on banking and the future of banking after the pandemic. What are the predictions? What challenges may come across? How to overcome those challenges?

Dissertation Topics on Economics 2023

Topic 1: economic expansion in bioenergy: a case study.

Research Aim: This research aims to conduct a case study on the economic expansion in bioenergy

Topic 2: Factors responsible for job creation and job destruction in the UK

Research Aim: This research aims to identify the factors responsible for job creation and job destruction in the UK.

Topic 3: Impacts of wars on the economy of both nations

Research Aim: This research aims to address how do wars impact the economy of both nations?

Topic 4: The role of banks in the economy of a country

Research Aim:  This research aims to highlight the role of Banks in the economy of a country. Students can choose any country to conduct the study.

Topic 5: Is an unhealthy country considered an emerging country?

Research Aim:  This research will answer the question: Is an unhealthy country considered a poor country?

Dissertation Topics Related to Economic Geography

Economic geography studies human economic activities with respect to various conditions such as location, distribution, production, consumption, exchange of resources, etc. Thus, studying the availability of all these resources, their development, and utilization is the main subject matter of economic geography.

In addition to studying these resources and their relationship with human economic activities, economic geography also helps study the interaction of these resources and variables with respect to nature and economic activities.

Economic geography is studied within different regions and localities in order to assess various human economic activities. Here are some economic geography dissertation topics to help you explore this field.

Topic 1: Role of local ethics and culture in shaping entrepreneurial economic development in various businesses.

Research Aim: This study will talk about the role of culture and ethics in shaping economic entrepreneurial attitudes in different fields of business.

Topic 2: Diversity in entrepreneurial approaches brought up by emigrants in the economics of a place: A critical analysis

Research Aim: This research will discuss whether entrepreneurial approaches be exported when emigrants move to a new place.

Topic 3: Assessing factors involved in facilitating knowledge transfer in a specific locality or place

Research Aim: This research will understand the various factors that play a role in transferring knowledge from one place or locality to another.

Topic 4: Economic opportunities provided within local boundaries. A case study of any specific area

Research Aim: This study will talk about the economic opportunities provided by local boundaries. This dissertation can be customised according to an area/region of your choice.

Topic 5: To discuss the role of the “European regional policy” in shaping or modifying places in the UK

Research Aim: This study will talk about the role of European regional policy in shaping and modifying UK places.

Topic 6: Location of top IT firms in the UK, the role of location on economics linked to a particular firm

Research Aim: This study will assess the economic geography of top IT firms in the UK that are linked to different firms.

Topic 7: Causes of regional diversity. Analysis and comparison between the richest and poorest places of the UK

Research Aim: This will be a comparative study between the richest and poorest places in the UK based on regional diversity.

Topic 8: Economics and expansion in bioenergy: A Case Study

Research Aim: This study will talk about economics and expansion in bioenergy, and a specific case will be under analysis.

Topic 9: Economic modifications faced by emigrants, causes and impacts

Research Aim: This research will talk about the various economic modifications that emigrants have to face and will also assess its causes and impacts.

Topic 16: A critical analysis of diversity in entrepreneurial attitudes in rural and urban areas

Research Aim: This will be a critical study that will assess diversity in entrepreneurial attitudes in both rural and urban areas.

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ResearchProspect writers can send several custom topic ideas to your email address. Once you have chosen a topic that suits your needs and interests, you can order for our dissertation outline service which will include a brief introduction to the topic, research questions , literature review , methodology , expected results , and conclusion . The dissertation outline will enable you to review the quality of our work before placing the order for our full dissertation writing service!

Dissertation Topics on Microeconomics

This branch of economics deals with economic perspectives on an individual level. It takes into account the allocation of various resources that are limited in nature. Different theories of microeconomics can be applied to markets where different products are bought and sold out.

In order to complete your graduation program, you will have to select the right economics topic that not only interests you but is relevant in today’s world. The suggested topics for you to choose from are listed below:

Topic 1: Difference in consumer attitudes in the UK over the past 15 years – Critical analysis of customer behaviour trends.

Research Aim: This research will compare the consumer attitude in the UK over the past 15 years and will study the trends.

Topic 2: Understanding to what extent does the concept of oligopoly exists in markets of the UK – A critical analysis

Research Aim: This study will first talk about oligopoly, and will then build and critically discuss how this concept exists in the UK market.

Topic 3: Laws and their impact on British firms.

Research Aim: This study will talk about the various laws in the UK that have an impact on various industries as a whole.

Topic 4: “European regional policy” and its effects on British small and medium enterprises

Research Aim: This research will study the European regional policy and the impacts this has on SMEs in the UK.

Topic 5: To discuss specific traits of the UK innovation organisation

Research Aim:  This research will understand the various traits of UK organisations that innovate.

Topic 6: Study of the characteristics of the energy market in the UK – A microeconomic approach

Research Aim: This study will undertake a microeconomic approach in order to understand the characteristics of the energy market in the UK.

Topic 7: Common traits of the top internet technology firms in the US – Analysis of the approaches adopted by different successful technology firms

Research Aim: This research will talk about the various traits of leading internet firms in the US and will analyse their different approaches

Topic 8: How is the concept of “economic convergence” linked to salary levels in the United States? – A critical analysis

Research Aim: This study will critically discuss economic convergence and how it is linked to salary levels in the US.

Topic 9: A Discussion on the use and role of various “pricing models” in making investment decisions.

Research Aim: This research will analyze the various pricing models that companies use to make decisions with respect to their investment.

Topic 10: Analysing salary inequalities in the United States and the forces behind such inequalities? – A Critical analysis

Research Aim: This study will talk about an important issue, i.e., salary inequalities in the US, and will also discuss the various forces that drive such inequalities.

Dissertation Topics on Employment Economics

Employment is a very important aspect that is studied in economics. Employment is interconnected with other academic subjects as well and affects people’s finances, which further determines their type of relationship with their environment or society.

Moreover, with the passage of time, technological advancements in various fields have impacted the labor market, which directly influenced the employment rate.  Dissertation topics  related to the field of employment economics are listed as under:

Topic 1: Factors responsible for the job creation and job destruction in the United Kingdom

Research Aim: This research will talk about the different factors that are responsible for job creation and destruction in the United Kingdom.

Topic 2: Analysing to what extent the concept of self-employment prevails in the United Kingdom – Discuss the factors that determine it

Research Aim: This research will determine the extent to which the concept of self-employment prevails in the UK. Furthermore, the factors determining self-employment will also be explored.

Topic 3: Link between minimum wages and British employment. A critical analysis

Research Aim: This study will critically analyze the link between wages minimum wages and employment in Britain.

Topic 4: Understanding In what ways technological advancements have paved the way for a rise in British employment levels

Research Aim: This research will talk about the various ways through which technological advancements have helped increase employment in the British economy.

Topic 5: Exploring the value of labour in the United Kingdom– Skilled or unskilled labour? A Critical Analysis

Research Aim: This study will talk about the value of both types of labour, skilled and unskilled, in the UK. A critical analysis will be conducted as to which type of labour is more in demand in the economic system.

Topic 6: Analysing the levels and prevalence of self-employment in various parts of Europe. An Analysis of the United Kingdom

Research Aim: This research will discuss and analyse the levels and prevalence of self-employment in various parts across Europe. Special attention will be given to the UK in the study to understand the self-employment system.

Topic 7: In what ways does immigration affects British employment levels and productivity? Discuss

Research Aim: This research will talk about the various ways through which immigration affects British employment levels and productivity.

Topic 8: How can professional training impact British employment? Discuss

Research Aim: This study will talk about the impact of professional training on employment in the UK. The research will discuss if the impact was negative or positive.

Topic 9: Analysing the impact of gender inequality in employment on economic growth in the UK

Research Aim: This research will analyse the impact of gender inequality in employment on economic growth in the UK.

Topic 10: Economic productivity and Innovation – Are they both related? A study of the UK services industry

Research Aim: This research will help understand the relationship (if any) between economic productivity and innovation. The UK Services industry will be analyzed.

Dissertation Topics on Economic Sociology

This field refers to the study of sociological aspects from an economic perspective. Social networks are also one of the more important features in the economic world because they can contribute greatly to promoting a particular brand.

Different social gatherings are a source to highlight a particular industry, firm, and even a private setup. They can contribute greatly to building successful businesses. Following are some economic sociology dissertation topics for you to choose from:

Topic 1: Exploring Innovation Activities for the promotion of a particular firm/industry/brand

Research Aim: This research will talk about all the innovative activities that take place while promoting a brand or a company in an industry. This topic can be customised according to a brand/company of your choosing.

Topic 2: Understanding the role of families in funding a particular firm

Research Aim: This research will talk about the family funding of businesses, the whole process and how it takes place. You can choose an industry of your choice to base your dissertation on.

Topic 3: Can a blend of different cultures contribute to increasing the level of productivity? Evidence from a UK firm

Research Aim : This research will discuss how various cultures contribute to increasing productivity levels. A UK firm will be chosen for this research.

Topic 4: Social capital plays its role in the rural areas in the UK – A critical analysis

Research Aim: This research will talk about social capital and its role in the rural areas of the UK.

Topic 5: Youth as one of the biggest supports in the promotion of economic agents

Research Aim: This research will help understand the relationship (if any) between economic productivity and innovation. The UK services industry will be analysed.

Topic 6: Exploring the role of university networks in shaping entrepreneurial behaviours and actions

Research Aim: This study will help explore the role of university networks in shaping entrepreneurial actions and behaviours.

Topic 43: Role of social entrepreneurship in the United Kingdom

Research Aim: This study will talk about the role of social entrepreneurship in the UK and how it has emerged.

Topic 8: Diverse culture and productivity enhancement – How are the two related?

Research Aim: This study will talk about whether diverse culture has an impact on productivity enhancement in the UK or not.

Topic 9: Exploring the Impact of social networks on the success of Brands

Research Aim: This study will talk about the impact of social networks on the success of brands and how they impact businesses. You can choose a brand for this dissertation.

Topic 10: Understanding the ‘peer’ factor in setting up businesses

Research Aim: Setting up a business involves various factors, and an essential one is a support from peers. This research will explore this aspect of support when starting a business and the impact it has.

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Dissertation Topics on Institutional Economics

Institutional economics helps in understanding the role of institutions in shaping economic behaviour. Certain institutions promote certain values, beliefs and norms, and they impact the public in a certain way.

These institutions can affect the economics of a certain region and help shape economic life and behaviour. Institutional economics is still an emerging field. Following are some institutional economics dissertation topics that you can base your dissertation on.

Topic 1: Assessing the factors behind the power of a successful firm. How is it built?

Research Aim: This research will discuss the various factors that help companies build power in the industry and impact the economy.

Topic 2: Analysing the impact of cultural mix on the organisation of firms in the United Kingdom

Research Aim: This study will analyse the impact of diverse cultures on organisations in the UK.

Topic 3: Evaluating the role of bureaucracy in the productivity levels of the United Kingdom

Research Aim: This research will help in evaluating the role of bureaucracy on productivity levels in the UK.

Topic 4: Understanding various methods to ensure economic efficiency in the property markets of the United Kingdom

Research Aim: This study will understand the different ways through which economic efficiency is ensured in the UK property markets.

Topic 5: Impacts of transaction costs on economic development?

Research Aim: This research will evaluate how economic development is impacted by transaction costs.

Topic 6: Analysing the major forces operating behind the concept of control and ownership in the United Kingdom

Research Aim: This study will help analyse the major forces that control and own institutions in the UK and how they impact the economy.

Topic 7: Traits of British managers and investors. A Comparative analysis

Research Aim: This will be an interesting study as it will talk about the various traits of British managers and investors.

Topic 8: Role of educational aspects in entrepreneurship

Research Aim: This research will explore the role of education concerning entrepreneurship, i.e. how does education help build entrepreneurs, which in turn benefits the economy.

Topic 9: The concept of latent entrepreneurship – A comparison between the United Kingdom and Europe

Research Aim: This study will understand the concept of latent entrepreneurship by comparing the UK environment with that of Europe.

Topic 10: Is the profit of a firm dependent on its size? Evidence from the manufacturing firms in the UK

Research Aim: This research will help in understanding whether the profit of a company is dependent on the business’ size or not. The UK Manufacturing industry will be explored.

Dissertation Topics on Environmental Economics

Environment and economics share a unique and close relationship. The environment can affect economics in a good or bad way. There are various environmental economic issues that should be addressed. Following are some of the pressing issues pertaining to environmental economics that you can choose as your dissertation topic.

Topic 1: To what extent is the environment responsible for shaping business behaviours? A critical analysis

Research Aim: This research will talk about the extent to which the environment is responsible for building business behaviours.

Topic 2: Economics in relation to biodiversity and nature conservation. An evidence-based study

Research Aim: This research will discuss economics in relation to biodiversity and nature conservation.

Topic 3: Assessing the role of NGO’s and organizations to promote a healthy environment through fundraising programs

Research Aim: This research will help in assessing the role of NGOs and organisations in promoting healthy environments through various fundraising programs.

Topic 4: Willingness to pay for various recycling programs – A case study of the United Kingdom.

Research Aim : This research will help understand the different recycling programs by evaluating a UK-based case study.

Topic 5: Incentives regarding land and water management – A case study of the United Kingdom

Research Aim: This research will talk about various incentives relating to land and water management. A UK-based case study will be chosen.

Topic 6: Economic value of historical places: A critical analysis

Research Aim: This research will talk about the economic value of historical places and will present a critical analysis.

Topic 7: In which field is it cheapest to reduce or cut carbon emissions? Discuss.

Research Aim: This research will talk about the impacts of carbon emissions and will discuss in which field it will be cheapest to reduce or eliminate such emissions.

Topic 8: Ethanol production from an economic perspective. Discuss.

Research Aim: This research will help in exploring ethanol production with respect to economics.

Topic 9: Environmental improvements in regards to locational differences in communities Discuss in an economic approach

Research Aim: This research will present various environmental improvements with respect to locational differences in communities.

Topic 10: Climate change in relation to economics. Discuss

Research Aim: This research will talk about an important issue, i.e. climate change and the impact it has on economics.

Dissertation Topics on Regional Development

Economic growth can also be studied at a regional level. This field considers economic perspectives on a smaller level with a focus on trade between regions. Suggestions for dissertation topics in this field are listed as follows:

Topic 1: Evaluating the link between profit and regional development?

Research Aim: This research will evaluate the link between profit and regional development with respect to economics.

Topic 2: Assessing the “regional development policy” in the United Kingdom

Research Aim: This study will talk about the regional development policy in the UK.

Topic 3: Discussing the role of learning or knowledge gaining involved in regional development?

Research Aim: This research will explore the role of knowledge and learning that helps promote regional development.

Topic 4: Assessing the existence of location theories that contribute towards the development and understanding of regional development

Research Aim: This research will assess the existence of locational theories that help contribute towards the development and understanding of regional development.

Topic 5: Evaluating the role that technology plays in regional development? A UK case study

Research Aim: This research will evaluate the role that technology plays in promoting regional development.

Topic 6: Exploring entrepreneurship and its regional aspects in the United Kingdom

Research Aim: This research will help explore entrepreneurship and entrepreneurship network with respect to regional development in the UK.

Topic 7: Role of Institutional setups in regional development

Research Aim: This study will talk about the role of institutional setups in regional development.

Topic 8: Assessing the relationship between unemployment and entrepreneurship in the light of evidence from British relationship

Research Aim: This research will assess the relationship between unemployment and entrepreneurship in the UK.

Find 100s of dissertation topics for other research areas.

Topic 9: In what ways the UK and the European firms are different in terms of innovation – A critical analysis

Research Aim: This research will help in understanding the various ways in which the UK and European firms are different with respect to innovation.

Topic 10: Assessing the role of regional co-operation in developing sustainable advantage

Research Aim: This research will help in assessing the role of regional cooperation in developing sustainable advantage amongst regions

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Important Notes

As a student of economics looking to get good grades, it is essential to develop new ideas and experiment on existing economics theories – i.e., to add value and interest in your research topic.

The field of economics is vast and interrelated to so many other academic disciplines like civil engineering ,  construction ,  law , engineering management , healthcare , mental health , artificial intelligence , tourism , physiotherapy , sociology , management , marketing and nursing . That is why it is imperative to create a project management dissertation topic that is articular, sound, and actually solves a practical problem that may be rampant in the field.

We can’t stress how important it is to develop a logical research topic; it is the basis of your entire research. There are several significant downfalls to getting your topic wrong; your supervisor may not be interested in working on it, the topic has no academic creditability, the research may not make logical sense, there is a possibility that the study is not viable.

This impacts your time and efforts in  writing your dissertation  as you may end up in the cycle of rejection at the very initial stage of the dissertation. That is why we recommend reviewing existing research to develop a topic, taking advice from your supervisor, and even asking for help in this particular stage of your dissertation.

Keeping our advice in mind while developing a research topic will allow you to pick one of the best economics dissertation topics that not only fulfil your requirement of writing a research paper but also adds to the body of knowledge.

Therefore, it is recommended that when finalizing your dissertation topic, you read recently published literature to identify gaps in the research that you may help fill.

Remember- dissertation topics need to be unique, solve an identified problem, be logical, and can also be practically implemented. Take a look at some of our sample economics dissertation topics to get an idea for your own dissertation.

How to Structure your Economics Dissertation

A well-structured dissertation can help students to achieve a high overall academic grade.

  • A Title Page
  • Acknowledgments
  • Declaration
  • Abstract: A summary of the research completed
  • Table of Contents
  • Introduction : This chapter includes the project rationale, research background, key research aims and objectives, and the research problems to be addressed. An outline of the structure of a dissertation  can also be added to this chapter.
  • Literature Review :  This chapter presents relevant theories and frameworks by analysing published and unpublished literature available on the chosen research topic, in light of  research questions  to be addressed. The purpose is to highlight and discuss the relative weaknesses and strengths of the selected research area while identifying any research gaps. Break down of the topic, and key terms can have a positive impact on your dissertation and your tutor.
  • Methodology:  The  data collection  and  analysis  methods and techniques employed by the researcher are presented in the Methodology chapter which usually includes  research design, research philosophy, research limitations, code of conduct, ethical consideration, data collection methods, and  data analysis strategy .
  • Findings and Analysis:  Findings of the research are analysed in detail under the Findings and Analysis chapter. All key findings/results are outlined in this chapter without interpreting the data or drawing any conclusions. It can be useful to include  graphs ,  charts, and  tables in this chapter to identify meaningful trends and relationships.
  • Discussion  and  Conclusion: The researcher presents his interpretation of results in this chapter, and states whether the research hypothesis has been verified or not. An essential aspect of this section is to establish the link between the results and evidence from the literature. Recommendations with regards to implications of the findings and directions for the future may also be provided. Finally, a summary of the overall research, along with final judgments, opinions, and comments, must be included in the form of suggestions for improvement.
  • References:  Make sure to complete this in accordance with your University’s requirements
  • Bibliography
  • Appendices:  Any additional information, diagrams, graphs that were used to  complete the dissertation  but not part of the dissertation should be included in the Appendices chapter. Essentially, the purpose is to expand the information/data.

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How to find economics dissertation topics.

For economics dissertation topics:

  • Follow economic news and debates.
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  • Review economic theories and their applications.
  • Explore data-driven research opportunities.
  • Seek topics aligning with your passion and career aspirations.

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Economics Dissertation Topics

Economics is about making choices in the face of scarcity and uncertainty and ensuring that resource allocation is effectively and efficiently done. What was popularised by writers, researchers and philosophers such as Adam Smith in the 1770s, has become a field with significant relevance and importance in today’s society that is highly financialised and globalised. Dating back to medieval scholastics as well as literature published back in the 15th and 18th century, through the 19th century, the concerns of economics have largely focused on aspects such as choices of individuals, borrowing, money, consumption and production, occupations and employment, markets, trade, pricing of assets, taxes, and most recently human behaviour in relation to economic decisions.

There are multitudes of research studies, within the existing literature, that have been conducted in relation to the above concerns and many of these have resulted in a number of models that attempt to provide possible explanations to real world problems. As the world continues to evolve with the advent of technological advancements that have increased the pace of transformation and globalisation, new areas in economics have emerged as worthwhile research targets. The following are possible economics dissertation topics to choose from for your academic research project in economics:

Economic Geography Dissertation Topics

Economic sociology dissertation topics, institutional economics dissertation topics, microeconomics dissertation topics, macroeconomics dissertation topics, regional development dissertation topics.

  • Employment Economics Dissertation Topics

Financial Economics Dissertation Topics

This is the area in economics academic literature that is concerned with the role of geographic location and place with the economical outcomes. It focuses on describing and analyzing patterns and trends in human behavior and activity to gain understanding of the processes and drivers that shape and affect the economic and cultural landscapes. Within regions and localities, there are great dynamics that shape the nature and extent of economic activity. Below are some suggestions for economics dissertation topics on economic geography:

  • The impact of local and regional cultures on shaping entrepreneurial economic development.
  • Can entrepreneurial attitude be exported? The role of emigrants in introducing new entrepreneurial attitudes.
  • Differences of entrepreneurial behaviour in rural and urban areas.
  • Is there any relationship between mature industries dominating small towns and their local cultural factors?
  • The role of local culture in promoting regional innovation networks.
  • National, regional and local policies to support local clusters: opportunities.
  • How can policy support the creation of a local cluster?
  • Are networks affected by local proximity? Differences between co-localised and dispersed networks.
  • The likelihood impact of Brexit on policy outcomes that shape the local economy in UK cities.
  • A model for the development of information and communication technology incubators in the UK. Analysis of the concentration of Top 50 IT companies.
  • What is causing regional divergence? An analysis of the richest and poorest regions in the UK.
  • The economic geography of recession. Difference between regional and city economics in the UK.
  • Why are housing built in flood-prone coastal areas?
  • Understanding educational progression at the local level: A comparison of the North and South cities in the UK.
  • How COVID has contributed to house price volatility in various cities in the UK.
  • How the COVID lockdown has affected social life of big cities.
  • Will coronavirus cause a big city exodus?

Economic sociology refers to sociological aspects influencing the economic indicators and their relationship with social outcomes. It is the study of how the material conditions of life are produced and reproduced through social processes and broadly covers the sociology of markets and the sociology of consumptions. Possible economics dissertation topics in this area include:

  • The role of social networks in supporting innovation activities in mature industries.
  • The financial and non-financial support of family in the development of successful entrepreneurship.
  • The private network as the facilitator of the firm start-up.
  • Exploring the differences between trust and power in local productive systems.
  • Social contracts and peer-pressure as the source of traditional industry development in the UK.
  • Can cultural mix increase productivity in creative industries? Evidence from the UK.
  • The role of social and intellectual capital in rural places in the UK.
  • Is social capital a critical factor in the British creative industries?
  • How can universities take advantage of social networks to induce entrepreneurial action among their students?
  • The role and contribution of social entrepreneurship in the UK.
  • The economic impact of migration from different regions of the world to the UK. Comparative analysis between the EU and the non-EU migration.
  • Is the relationship between economic and social development linear?
  • The convergence of economic systems in the wake of globalisation and their implications on the social development across developed, emerging and developing national economies.

Institutional Economics relates to a variety of economics traditions that are concerned with social institutions which are linked to consumption, distribution and production of goods and services as well as the underlying corresponding social relations. In essence, Institutional Economics has a relatively broad inquiry scope and is considered to have relatively close ties with other disciplines such as anthropology, economic sociology, psychology, economic history, behavioural economics, behavioural finance, physical science, management and business studies, and nowadays neuro, cognitive and brain science. This implies that there are various dissertation topics that can fall under the Institutional Economics bracket; some of these include the following.

  • An assessment of the implications of Institutional Economics methodologies for the analysis of the property market.
  • A study of how the theoretical assumptions of the New Institutional Economics’ (NIE) micro analytical level influence a firm’s choice of governance structures.
  • How do habits and routines affect productivity? The case of (an industry).
  • How does the culture mix impact on the organisation of firms in the UK?
  • Resilience to economic shrinking in an emerging economy: the role of social capabilities.
  • Financial constraint, trust, and export performances: The case of UK SMEs.
  • Efficiency in the property market in the UK: An institutional perspective.
  • Transaction costs and economic development.
  • A resource-based theory analysis to firm co-operation.
  • How can transaction costs economics account for inter-firm collaboration?
  • Ownership and control in the UK: An institutional analysis.
  • Institutions and policies of economic freedom: different effects on income and growth.
  • How does job experience relate to entrepreneurship? Evidence from the UK.
  • Educational aspects of entrepreneurship. The role of formal school in promoting entrepreneurial capacities in the UK.
  • Latent entrepreneurship: the UK vs Europe.

Microeconomics has to do with supply and demand, and with the way they interact in various markets. It is andconcerned with how economic agents, that is, individual decision-makers (both consumers and producers) behave in different economic settings. The overarching goal of microeconomic research is to identify the incentives of various agents and trade-offs that they may face. To understand behaviour of individuals in terms of their economic decision-making, researchers build various models, use data and conduct experiments.

The following are the examples of dissertation topics on ‘Microeconomics’:

  • The evolution of household consumption in the UK over the last 10 years: Trends in consumer behaviour.
  • Are mergers and acquisitions related to productivity in UK firms?
  • Is the minimum wage still relevant in the UK economy?
  • Is the British retail sector becoming less oligopolistic? An analysis of the impact of new supermarkets.
  • Are British oligopolistic markets really oligopolistic?
  • Conditions for the existence of a knowledge firm.
  • Characteristics of the innovative organisation in the UK.
  • Are UK firms more innovative than their European counterparts?
  • The impact of the European regional policy on British small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
  • The energy market in the UK: A microeconomic approach.
  • The impact of regulation on British industries: The case study of Uk energy sector.
  • Does firm size affect firm profits? Evidence from telecommunication firms in the UK.
  • Game theory and decision theory.

Macroeconomics is concerned with how the overall economy works and how all markets interact to generate big phenomena that economists call aggregate variables. It studies such things as employment, gross domestic product, inflation, national income, employment and the interaction between the global economy and financial markets.

The following are the examples of dissertation topics on ‘Macroeconomics’:

  • How do interest rates affect consumption in the UK?
  • What is the role of the dollar evolution in UK spending?
  • The magnitude of the impact of oil price changes on UK consumption.
  • The impact of Brexit on consumer spending in the UK.
  • The impact of Brexit on employment and labour in the UK.
  • What factors influence the salary inequality across the UK?
  • The evolution of the exchange rates in the UK: Causes and consequences.
  • Negative interest household savings in the UK.
  • The impact of the common agriculture policy (CAP) on British agriculture.
  • Economic growth and productivity. The UK in the century transition.
  • Interest rates and foreign direct investment in the UK.
  • Brexit and foreign direct investment in the UK.
  • Monetary policy pass-through for the UK after Brexit.
  • Development of UK monetary policy overtime.
  • Does inflation affect firms’ profits in the UK?
  • Macroeconomic determinant of house prices in the UK.
  • Unemployment and regional mobility of labour in the UK.
  • The impact of finance on growth: The case of UK.
  • Economic growth and unemployment: Is there a relationship in the UK?
  • The macroeconomics of SMEs entrepreneurship in the UK.
  • Global economic recession and factors that contribute to it.
  • Is the UK insurance system economically viable?
  • How does the Greek financial crisis impact the EU economy overtime?
  • The impact of COVID income inequality in the UK.
  • Coronavirus and wage inequality: The case of UK manufacturing sector.
  • COVID and economic recession: Will the impact be more pronounced than the 2007 financial recession?
  • Role of information technology in economic development.
  • Social inequality: the difference between wealth and income.
  • Why is insurance necessary for the economic development of a country?
  • How is the tax burden shared between buyers and sellers in the UK?
  • Asymmetric information and adverse market selection: A case study of UK insurance market.
  • Economic rent and transfer earnings in the UK.

This discipline is focused on understanding the dynamics of regions as smaller economies with their own circumstances and outcomes. The focus is on the internal working of the regional economies as well as on their interaction with other regions. There is a component of economic growth and development at a regional level. The suggestions below will give you further ideas for your economics dissertation topics:

  • Regional development and profitability of the businesses. What are the factors underpinning this relationship?
  • The contribution of entrepreneurial networks for regional development.
  • Implications and development of regional development policy in the UK.
  • Infrastructures and regional development. How can the rail and road network explain the differences in the development of regions in the UK.
  • Regional comparative advantage in natural resources and regional development.
  • Effect of regional policy surrounding start-ups on regional development: more new firms or better old ones?
  • The role of broadband internet technology in regional development: co-relation between internet speeds and regional development?
  • Public investment and regional output: Evidence from the UK regions.
  • Robustness of regional institutions and development: How to search for a link?
  • Regional aspects of entrepreneurship in the UK.
  • Differences between types and extent of entrepreneurship and unemployment across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.
  • Convergence and endogenous growth differences between South East England and the rest of the UK.

Employment/Labour Economics Dissertation Topics

Employment is considered to be a key concept in economics and its significance is reflected in the perception that people at work are seen as individuals/groups of individuals involved in the production of services and goods. Such production requires human capital and time; thus, organisations of different types pay people that are involved in the production process providing them with income that is later used to boost economic activity. In macroeconomics, low rates of national employment may signal underdevelopment or long-lasting depression while high rates of national employment may signal economic growth and development. Below is a list of dissertation topics that cover the area of employment economics.

  • Work from home or office and employee wellbeing: The case of the COVID pandemic.
  • A study of how flexible employment affects political support for social policy protection.
  • The impact of gender inequality in employment on economic growth and workforce productivity.
  • The influence of economic cycles on employment, workforce productivity and innovation: a study of manufacturing industries.
  • Local pools on unemployment in the UK: Looking for similarities.
  • Factors determining self-employment in the UK.
  • The effects of minimum wages on British employment.
  • How does technological innovation affect British unemployment? Evidence from the manufacturing industries.
  • A comparison of self-employment across Europe: Where does the UK stand?
  • Government policies in support of self-employment: Evidence from the UK.
  • The effects of immigration on British employment and productivity.

Financial economics concentrates on exchanges in which money of one type or another is likely to appear on both sides of a trade. Financial markets are crucial in facilitating these exchanges at a relatively reduced transaction cost. In many such cases, the amount of money to be transferred in the future is uncertain. Financial economists thus deal with both time and uncertainty. Often the latter is called risk. Financial economics is thus a branch of economics that examines the utilisation and distribution of economic resources in financial markets in which decisions must be made under uncertainty.

The following are examples of dissertation topics on ‘Financial Economics’:

  • How has the coronavirus pandemic affected the UK stock market?
  • How is the FTSE affected by interest rates?
  • Does CAPM measure the risk of stocks listed on the FTSE 100?
  • How does the behaviour of the FSTE 100 affect economic growth?
  • Behavioural finance: A study on the motivation of British investors.
  • The determinants of corporate debt in the UK.
  • The role of private equity and debt market in the finances of SMEs in the UK.
  • Do SMEs achieve higher profitability rates than large corporations in the UK?
  • The financial structure of British firms: A comparison with the European Union.
  • Financial markets and financial intermediation in the UK.
  • Temporary and permanent components of asset prices in the UK.
  • Capital and financial structure of UK companies.
  • Investor protection and corporate governance: Comparison between EU and US financial market.
  • Political uncertainty on asset prices.

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500+ Economics Research Topics

Economics Research Topics

Economics is a vast and fascinating field that explores how individuals, businesses, and governments make decisions about the allocation of resources. As such, it provides a wealth of research opportunities for those interested in understanding and analyzing the complexities of modern society. From macroeconomic issues such as globalization and monetary policy, to microeconomic topics such as consumer behavior and market competition, there are numerous research topics that economists can investigate. In this post, we will explore some of the most interesting and relevant economics research topics that are shaping our world today.

Economics Research Topics

Economics Research Topics are as follows:

  • The impact of technological change on income inequality.
  • An analysis of the relationship between exchange rates and foreign direct investment.
  • The effects of tax incentives on small business growth and development.
  • The determinants of economic growth in developing countries.
  • The impact of globalization on economic growth and development.
  • An analysis of the effects of the minimum wage on employment and poverty.
  • The role of central banks in managing inflation and economic stability.
  • An investigation into the factors influencing consumer behavior and spending.
  • An analysis of the impact of trade liberalization on economic growth.
  • The effects of income inequality on social welfare and economic stability.
  • The role of international trade in economic development.
  • An investigation into the relationship between education and economic growth.
  • An analysis of the effects of corruption on economic growth and development.
  • The impact of the gig economy on employment and wages.
  • An investigation into the causes and consequences of financial crises.
  • The role of innovation in economic growth and development.
  • An analysis of the impact of government spending on economic growth.
  • The effects of globalization on the environment.
  • The impact of climate change on economic growth and development.
  • An investigation into the determinants of poverty and inequality.
  • The role of entrepreneurship in economic growth and development.
  • An analysis of the effects of monetary policy on economic growth and stability.
  • The impact of immigration on labor markets and economic growth.
  • An investigation into the factors influencing international trade flows.
  • An analysis of the effects of foreign aid on economic development.
  • The role of financial intermediaries in economic development.
  • An investigation into the causes and consequences of income inequality.
  • The impact of trade agreements on economic growth and development.
  • An analysis of the effects of government regulation on business and economic growth.
  • The role of technology transfer in economic development.
  • An investigation into the effects of economic sanctions on trade and economic growth.
  • The impact of population growth on economic development.
  • An analysis of the effects of infrastructure investment on economic growth.
  • The role of natural resources in economic development.
  • An investigation into the effects of labor market policies on economic growth and employment.
  • The impact of financial innovation on economic growth and stability.
  • An analysis of the effects of income tax policy on economic growth and income distribution.
  • The role of social capital in economic development.
  • An investigation into the impact of economic policies on international trade.
  • The effects of financial liberalization on economic growth and stability.
  • The impact of urbanization on economic development.
  • An analysis of the effects of international migration on labor markets and economic growth.
  • The role of institutions in economic development.
  • An investigation into the effects of exchange rate volatility on international trade.
  • The impact of demographic change on economic growth and development.
  • An analysis of the effects of government debt on economic growth and stability.
  • The role of foreign investment in economic development.
  • An investigation into the effects of labor market flexibility on economic growth and employment.
  • The impact of intellectual property rights on innovation and economic growth.
  • An analysis of the effects of economic inequality on social mobility and economic growth.
  • The impact of COVID-19 on the global economy.
  • The role of financial markets in economic growth.
  • The effectiveness of monetary policy in stabilizing the economy.
  • The relationship between income inequality and economic growth.
  • The impact of government regulations on business activity.
  • The role of technology in shaping the future of the economy.
  • The effect of globalization on the labor market.
  • The impact of trade policy on economic growth.
  • The relationship between education and economic growth.
  • The effectiveness of fiscal policy in stimulating economic growth.
  • The impact of immigration on the labor market.
  • The effect of tax policy on economic growth.
  • The role of entrepreneurship in economic development.
  • The impact of environmental regulations on economic growth.
  • The effect of international capital flows on the economy.
  • The relationship between innovation and economic growth.
  • The impact of demographic changes on the economy.
  • The role of infrastructure investment in economic growth.
  • The effect of monetary policy on income inequality.
  • The impact of government debt on economic growth.
  • The relationship between corruption and economic growth.
  • The effect of globalization on income inequality.
  • The impact of education on income inequality.
  • The role of social welfare programs in reducing poverty.
  • The effect of minimum wage laws on the labor market.
  • The impact of health care policy on economic growth.
  • The relationship between energy prices and economic growth.
  • The effect of government subsidies on business activity.
  • The impact of exchange rate fluctuations on trade.
  • The role of financial innovation in economic development.
  • The effect of social media on consumer behavior.
  • The impact of consumer confidence on economic growth.
  • The relationship between economic growth and political stability.
  • The effect of demographic changes on income inequality.
  • The impact of government spending on economic growth.
  • The role of labor unions in the labor market.
  • The effect of natural disasters on the economy.
  • The relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability.
  • The effect of corporate social responsibility on business activity.
  • The impact of intellectual property rights on innovation.
  • The effect of cultural differences on business activity.
  • The impact of financial crises on the economy.
  • The relationship between economic growth and health outcomes.
  • The effect of government corruption on economic growth.
  • The impact of demographic changes on the labor market.
  • The effect of foreign aid on economic growth.
  • The impact of technological change on the labor market.
  • The effect of monetary policy on income distribution.
  • The impact of trade agreements on economic growth
  • The effect of corruption on economic development
  • The relationship between financial development and economic growth
  • The impact of foreign aid on economic growth in developing countries
  • The role of innovation in promoting economic growth
  • The impact of globalization on income inequality
  • The relationship between inflation and economic growth
  • The role of natural resources in economic development
  • The impact of government expenditure on economic growth
  • The relationship between income distribution and economic growth
  • The impact of monetary policy on economic growth
  • The role of education in promoting economic growth
  • The impact of entrepreneurship on economic development
  • The relationship between taxation and economic growth
  • The impact of infrastructure on economic growth
  • The role of international trade in economic development
  • The impact of fiscal policy on economic growth
  • The relationship between financial liberalization and economic growth
  • The impact of economic integration on economic growth
  • The role of institutions in promoting economic development
  • The impact of foreign direct investment on economic growth
  • The relationship between inequality and economic growth
  • The impact of social welfare programs on economic growth
  • The role of technology in promoting economic growth
  • The impact of political instability on economic growth
  • The relationship between corruption and economic growth
  • The impact of labor market policies on economic growth
  • The role of human capital in promoting economic development
  • The impact of health care on economic growth
  • The relationship between exchange rates and economic growth
  • The impact of foreign trade on income distribution
  • The role of entrepreneurship in economic development
  • The impact of environmental policies on economic growth
  • The relationship between foreign aid and poverty reduction
  • The impact of financial sector reforms on economic growth
  • The role of social capital in promoting economic development
  • The impact of regional integration on economic growth
  • The relationship between public investment and economic growth
  • The impact of monetary policy on income distribution
  • The role of international migration in economic development
  • The impact of labor market flexibility on economic growth
  • The relationship between trade and technology transfer
  • The impact of institutional quality on economic growth
  • The role of financial sector development in promoting economic growth
  • The impact of regional inequality on economic growth
  • The relationship between education and poverty reduction
  • The impact of foreign debt on economic growth
  • The role of social protection in promoting economic development
  • The impact of energy policies on economic growth
  • The relationship between foreign trade and environmental sustainability
  • The impact of international trade on income inequality.
  • The relationship between public debt and economic growth.
  • The effect of tax policy on international capital flows.
  • The impact of government subsidies on technological innovation.
  • The role of financial development in reducing poverty.
  • The effect of regulation on market structure.
  • The impact of globalization on financial stability.
  • The relationship between financial development and income inequality.
  • The effect of fiscal policy on long-term economic growth.
  • The impact of financial frictions on business cycles.
  • The role of international capital flows in financial crises.
  • The effect of natural resource abundance on economic growth.
  • The impact of fiscal decentralization on economic growth.
  • The relationship between institutions and economic growth.
  • The effect of financial innovation on market efficiency.
  • The impact of international migration on the labor market.
  • The role of corporate governance in firm performance.
  • The effect of monetary policy on the housing market.
  • The impact of environmental policy on the energy sector.
  • The effect of competition policy on market outcomes.
  • The impact of technology adoption on productivity.
  • The effect of regulation on consumer welfare.
  • The impact of trade policy on export performance.
  • The relationship between social capital and economic growth.
  • The effect of labor market institutions on the gender wage gap.
  • The impact of financial liberalization on economic growth.
  • The role of human capital in technological innovation.
  • The effect of trade openness on innovation.
  • The impact of natural disasters on economic growth.
  • The relationship between inequality and economic growth.
  • The effect of exchange rate volatility on international trade.
  • The impact of banking regulation on financial stability.
  • The role of venture capital in financing innovation.
  • The effect of regional trade agreements on economic growth.
  • The impact of financial development on economic growth in emerging markets.
  • The relationship between government spending and economic growth.
  • The effect of monetary policy on credit markets.
  • The impact of innovation on firm performance.
  • The role of social networks in job search and labor market outcomes.
  • The effect of international capital flows on income inequality.
  • The impact of natural resource dependence on political instability.
  • The relationship between financial development and income mobility.
  • The effect of tax competition on fiscal policy.
  • The impact of labor market institutions on unemployment.
  • The role of infrastructure investment in economic development.
  • The effect of monetary policy on financial market volatility.
  • The impact of fiscal policy on income redistribution.
  • The role of digital currencies in the future of finance.
  • The effects of the gig economy on labor markets.
  • The impact of artificial intelligence on economic growth.
  • The relationship between climate change and economic growth.
  • The role of blockchain technology in supply chain management.
  • The effects of automation on the labor market.
  • The impact of E-commerce on traditional retail industries.
  • The relationship between social media and consumer behavior.
  • The role of data analytics in business decision-making.
  • The effects of globalization on income inequality.
  • The impact of digital platforms on the sharing economy.
  • The relationship between education and economic growth in the digital age.
  • The role of fintech in financial inclusion.
  • The effects of trade policies on global supply chains.
  • The impact of corporate social responsibility on business performance.
  • The relationship between immigration and economic growth.
  • The role of venture capital in stimulating innovation and economic growth.
  • The effects of the circular economy on sustainable development.
  • The impact of cybersecurity threats on the global economy.
  • The relationship between gender inequality and economic growth.
  • The role of green finance in promoting sustainable development.
  • The effects of automation on income inequality.
  • The impact of the sharing economy on traditional business models.
  • The relationship between human capital and economic growth.
  • The role of technology transfer in international trade.
  • The effects of regulatory frameworks on innovation.
  • The impact of government policies on the growth of start-up companies.
  • The role of venture philanthropy in social entrepreneurship.
  • The effects of digital disruption on the financial services industry.
  • The impact of the circular economy on job creation.
  • The relationship between health outcomes and economic growth.
  • The role of impact investing in social and environmental sustainability.
  • The effects of trade agreements on the global economy.
  • The impact of entrepreneurship on economic growth.
  • The relationship between innovation and income inequality.
  • The role of corporate governance in sustainable business practices.
  • The effects of immigration policies on labor market outcomes.
  • The impact of international capital flows on economic development.
  • The relationship between corporate social responsibility and financial performance.
  • The role of innovation clusters in regional economic development.
  • The effects of digitalization on productivity.
  • The impact of the sharing economy on urban development.
  • The relationship between social entrepreneurship and economic growth.
  • The role of government policies in promoting sustainable development.
  • The effects of demographic changes on the economy.
  • The impact of digitalization on economic development in developing countries.
  • The relationship between consumer behavior and sustainability.
  • The role of private equity in stimulating economic growth.
  • The impact of government spending on economic growth
  • The effects of minimum wage laws on employment and poverty rates
  • The role of government subsidies in promoting renewable energy adoption
  • The impact of trade liberalization on economic growth and income inequality
  • The effectiveness of monetary policy in managing inflation and unemployment
  • The determinants of foreign direct investment flows in emerging markets
  • The role of financial markets in economic development
  • The impact of globalization on the labor market
  • The effects of tax policies on economic growth and income distribution
  • The role of human capital in economic growth and development
  • The economics of climate change and the environment
  • The effects of population aging on economic growth and social welfare
  • The impact of social safety net programs on poverty reduction
  • The effects of corruption on economic development and political stability
  • The impact of technological innovation on labor market outcomes
  • The economics of healthcare policy and healthcare markets
  • The determinants of entrepreneurship and small business success
  • The effects of income inequality on economic growth and social welfare
  • The economics of urbanization and regional development
  • The role of foreign aid in promoting economic development
  • The impact of fiscal policy on economic growth and government debt
  • The effects of financial regulation on economic stability and growth
  • The economics of education policy and school choice
  • The determinants of consumer behavior and market outcomes
  • The role of multinational corporations in the global economy
  • The effects of immigration on labor markets and economic growth
  • The impact of monetary policy on financial markets and stability
  • The economics of natural resource management and conservation
  • The determinants of industrial competitiveness and productivity
  • The effects of trade policies on economic growth and regional integration
  • The role of institutional quality in economic development
  • The impact of technological change on income inequality
  • The economics of innovation and intellectual property rights
  • The effects of financial globalization on emerging markets
  • The role of infrastructure investment in promoting economic development
  • The impact of exchange rate policies on international trade and investment
  • The determinants of consumer credit and debt behavior
  • The effects of social media and online platforms on market competition
  • The role of international organizations in global economic governance
  • The impact of natural disasters on economic development and poverty
  • The economics of gender inequality and discrimination
  • The effects of government regulation on business behavior and market outcomes
  • The role of behavioral economics in understanding market behavior
  • The impact of public investment on economic growth and social welfare
  • The determinants of household saving and investment behavior
  • The economics of renewable energy and clean technology adoption
  • The effects of economic sanctions on international trade and investment
  • The role of information and communication technologies in economic development
  • The impact of globalization on income distribution and poverty
  • The economics of international migration and remittances.
  • The effects of income inequality on economic development
  • An analysis of the efficiency of market structures in different industries
  • The role of technology in economic growth and development
  • The impact of international trade on economic development
  • An investigation into the determinants of inflation
  • The effects of labor market regulations on employment and productivity
  • An analysis of the relationship between economic growth and environmental sustainability
  • The role of institutions in economic development
  • The impact of foreign aid on economic development
  • The effects of taxation on economic growth
  • An investigation into the factors that contribute to economic fluctuations
  • The effects of globalization on income distribution
  • The impact of education on economic growth and development
  • The role of infrastructure in economic development
  • The effects of trade liberalization on economic growth
  • An analysis of the impact of exchange rates on trade and investment
  • The relationship between innovation and economic growth
  • The impact of government policies on the agricultural sector
  • The effects of corruption on economic development
  • An investigation into the effects of demographic changes on economic growth
  • The impact of financial crisis on economic growth
  • The effects of foreign direct investment on economic growth
  • An analysis of the effects of natural resources on economic development
  • The impact of healthcare on economic growth
  • The effects of international migration on the economy
  • The relationship between poverty and economic development
  • The role of infrastructure in promoting economic growth
  • An investigation into the effects of regional economic integration
  • The impact of foreign trade on economic development
  • The effects of government regulation on economic growth
  • An analysis of the role of technology in improving economic efficiency
  • The impact of population growth on economic development
  • The effects of government spending on income inequality
  • The role of the financial system in economic growth
  • The impact of energy policies on economic development
  • An investigation into the effects of intellectual property rights on economic growth
  • The effects of trade on labor markets
  • The role of social capital in economic development
  • The effects of regional inequality on economic development
  • An analysis of the impact of financial market development on economic growth
  • The impact of international trade on technological progress
  • The effects of financial regulation on economic growth
  • The role of institutions in promoting entrepreneurship
  • The impact of healthcare policies on economic growth
  • An investigation into the effects of income redistribution on economic growth.

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Economics Research Paper Topics

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Economics Research Guide

Economics is a field of study that deals with the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. As such, it has a profound impact on our lives and society as a whole. Given its importance, economics research is a critical component of the field, as it helps to advance our understanding of economic principles, and inform policy decisions. In this guide, we will explore a range of economics research paper topics, organized into several categories, each with its own unique focus and scope.

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This guide is intended for students and researchers who are interested in understanding the complexities of economic systems, and how they relate to broader social and political issues. Through a careful examination of these topics, readers will gain insights into the ways in which economics influences our daily lives, and the world around us.

The following sections will provide an overview of the categories of economics research paper topics that will be explored in this guide. Each category will be accompanied by a list of potential research paper topics that can serve as a starting point for students and researchers looking to explore these areas in greater depth. By the end of this article, readers will have a deeper appreciation of the breadth and depth of the field of economics, and the important role it plays in shaping our world.

Economics is a vast field of study that covers a wide range of topics and sub-disciplines. To help students navigate this broad subject area, economics research paper topics can be organized into several categories. This approach not only assists in topic selection but also enables students to explore various aspects of economics in a more systematic manner. In this section, we will discuss 20 categories of economics research paper topics that can serve as a starting point for students looking to write a research paper in economics.

  • Economic Theory

Economic theory is the foundation of modern economics, providing a framework for understanding economic behavior and decision-making. Research in economic theory can focus on topics such as game theory, decision-making under uncertainty, and the design of economic mechanisms. Potential research paper topics within economic theory include:

  • The role of information in economic decision-making
  • The effects of taxation on economic behavior
  • The design of auctions in different economic contexts
  • The efficiency of different market structures
  • The impact of externalities on market outcomes
  • The role of social norms in economic behavior
  • The implications of bounded rationality for economic theory
  • The relationship between inequality and economic growth
  • The impact of financial frictions on economic outcomes
  • The use of experimental methods in economic theory research
  • Microeconomics

Microeconomics is the study of how individuals and firms make decisions in the context of limited resources. Research in microeconomics can explore topics such as consumer behavior, market structure, and the impact of public policy on individual and firm behavior. Potential research paper topics within microeconomics include:

  • The economics of discrimination and inequality
  • The impact of regulation on market outcomes
  • The role of innovation in market competition
  • The economics of information and the internet
  • The relationship between education and earnings
  • The impact of trade on local labor markets
  • The economics of healthcare and insurance markets
  • The impact of minimum wage laws on employment
  • The economics of environmental regulation
  • The role of non-profits and social enterprises in market competition
  • Macroeconomics

Macroeconomics is concerned with the behavior of the economy as a whole, including topics such as economic growth, inflation, and monetary policy. Research in macroeconomics can explore topics such as the causes and consequences of economic fluctuations, the role of government policy in stabilizing the economy, and the impact of globalization on macroeconomic outcomes. Potential research paper topics within macroeconomics include:

  • The impact of fiscal policy on economic growth
  • The role of central banks in maintaining price stability
  • The relationship between inflation and unemployment
  • The impact of monetary policy on exchange rates
  • The causes and consequences of financial crises
  • The economics of international trade and exchange rate regimes
  • The impact of technology on economic growth
  • The role of government in promoting long-term economic growth
  • The impact of demographic changes on macroeconomic outcomes
  • The use of macroeconomic models to forecast economic outcomes
  • Econometrics

Econometrics is the application of statistical and mathematical methods to economic data. Research in econometrics can explore topics such as causal inference, time-series analysis, and the modeling of complex economic systems. Potential research paper topics within econometrics include:

  • The use of machine learning algorithms in econometric analysis
  • The impact of measurement error on econometric results
  • The role of panel data in econometric analysis
  • The use of quasi-experimental methods in causal inference
  • The impact of model selection on econometric results
  • The estimation of dynamic models in econometrics
  • The role of Bayesian methods in econometric analysis
  • The use of structural models in econometric analysis
  • The impact of omitted variable bias on econometric results
  • The use of econometric methods to study income inequality
  • International Economics

International economics refers to the study of economic interactions among countries. It analyzes trade, investment, finance, and migration across borders. International economics is concerned with the causes and consequences of international trade, the determinants of trade flows, the impact of globalization on economic growth and inequality, and the effects of trade policy on national welfare. International economics research papers can address topics such as:

  • The impact of trade liberalization on economic growth and income distribution.
  • The role of institutions in promoting international trade.
  • The determinants of foreign direct investment flows.
  • The impact of globalization on labor markets in developed and developing countries.
  • The effects of trade policies, such as tariffs and quotas, on international trade and welfare.
  • The role of exchange rates in international trade and finance.
  • The impact of international trade on the environment.
  • The economic implications of regional trade agreements, such as the European Union.
  • The impact of trade on human rights.
  • The effectiveness of development aid in promoting economic growth in developing countries.
  • Behavioral Economics

Behavioral economics is the study of how psychological and cognitive factors influence economic decision-making. Behavioral economics seeks to explain why people make economic decisions that appear to be irrational or suboptimal, and how these decisions can be influenced by various factors, such as social norms, emotions, and cognitive biases. Research papers in behavioral economics can focus on topics such as:

  • The impact of social norms on economic decision-making.
  • The role of emotions in financial decision-making.
  • The effect of framing and context on consumer behavior.
  • The impact of cognitive biases, such as overconfidence and loss aversion, on decision-making.
  • The implications of bounded rationality for economic models and policies.
  • The impact of incentives on economic behavior.
  • The role of trust in economic decision-making.
  • The effect of social networks on economic behavior.
  • The impact of reputation and social status on economic decisions.
  • The role of identity and self-image in economic behavior.
  • Game Theory

Game theory is a branch of economics that studies strategic decision-making in situations where the outcome of a decision depends on the actions of other decision-makers. Game theory is used to analyze a wide range of economic interactions, such as auctions, oligopolies, and bargaining situations. Research papers in game theory can address topics such as:

  • The impact of information on strategic decision-making.
  • The effect of repeated interactions on cooperation and competition.
  • The role of commitment and credibility in strategic interactions.
  • The impact of uncertainty and risk on decision-making.
  • The implications of incomplete information for strategic behavior.
  • The effect of network structure on strategic interactions.
  • The role of reputation and trust in strategic interactions.
  • The impact of strategic interaction on social welfare.
  • The effect of communication on strategic decision-making.
  • The implications of bounded rationality for game-theoretic models.

Development Economics

Development economics is a branch of economics that focuses on economic development, specifically the process of economic growth, poverty reduction, and improving the standards of living in developing countries. Development economics examines the social, economic, and political factors that contribute to or impede economic growth and development. Possible research paper topics in this category include:

  • The impact of foreign aid on economic development in developing countries.
  • The role of microfinance in poverty alleviation.
  • The effects of globalization on economic development in developing countries.
  • The impact of corruption on economic development in developing countries.
  • The role of human capital in economic growth and development.
  • The effects of trade liberalization on economic growth and development.
  • The relationship between income inequality and economic growth in developing countries.
  • The role of foreign direct investment (FDI) in economic development in developing countries.
  • The effects of political instability on economic growth and development in developing countries.
  • The impact of natural resource endowments on economic growth and development in developing countries.

Financial Economics

Financial economics is a subfield of economics that focuses on the financial markets and financial instruments, such as stocks, bonds, and derivatives. This field also includes the study of financial institutions and their roles in the economy. Some potential research paper topics in this category include:

  • The impact of monetary policy on financial markets.
  • The role of financial intermediaries in the economy.
  • The impact of financial regulation on financial markets.
  • The effects of financial innovation on financial markets and the economy.
  • The impact of international financial markets on the domestic economy.
  • The relationship between financial markets and the real economy.
  • The effects of financial crises on financial markets and the economy.
  • The role of credit markets in the economy.
  • The impact of interest rates on financial markets and the economy.
  • The effects of quantitative easing on financial markets and the economy.

Industrial Organization

Industrial organization is a subfield of economics that focuses on the study of firms, markets, and industries. This field examines the behavior of firms and the market structure in which they operate. Potential research paper topics in this category include:

  • The impact of mergers and acquisitions on market competition.
  • The relationship between market structure and firm behavior.
  • The effects of antitrust regulation on market competition.
  • The role of patents and intellectual property rights in industry.
  • The effects of market power on consumer welfare.
  • The impact of technological change on industry structure.
  • The role of advertising and branding in creating market power.
  • The effects of network externalities on industry structure.
  • The impact of vertical integration on market competition.
  • The effects of globalization on industry structure and market competition.

Labor Economics

Labor economics is a subfield of economics that focuses on the study of labor markets and the behavior of workers and firms in those markets. Possible research paper topics in this category include:

  • The impact of minimum wage laws on employment and wages.
  • The effects of labor unions on wages and employment.
  • The role of discrimination in labor markets.
  • The impact of immigration on wages and employment.
  • The relationship between education and earnings.
  • The effects of job training programs on employment and wages.
  • The impact of labor market regulations on employment and wages.
  • The effects of technology on employment and wages.
  • The role of gender in labor market outcomes.
  • The impact of globalization on labor markets and employment.

Environmental Economics

Environmental economics is a branch of economics that focuses on the study of how economic activity affects the environment and how policies and regulations can be designed to mitigate negative impacts while promoting sustainable development. Some potential research paper topics in environmental economics are:

  • The effectiveness of carbon pricing in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The economic impact of the Clean Air Act on the US economy.
  • The role of property rights in promoting conservation of natural resources.
  • The impact of environmental regulations on the competitiveness of domestic industries.
  • The trade-offs between economic development and environmental protection in developing countries.
  • The role of international trade in driving global deforestation.
  • The economics of water scarcity and the allocation of water resources.
  • The impact of climate change on agricultural productivity and food security.
  • The effectiveness of eco-labeling programs in promoting sustainable consumption.
  • The economics of renewable energy development and the transition away from fossil fuels.

Health Economics

Health economics is the study of how resources are allocated in the healthcare sector. It involves analyzing the economic factors that influence healthcare, such as the demand for healthcare services, the supply of healthcare providers, and the financing of healthcare systems. Potential research paper topics in health economics include:

  • The impact of healthcare financing on health outcomes.
  • The economics of healthcare reform.
  • The relationship between healthcare spending and health outcomes.
  • The role of incentives in healthcare delivery.
  • The economics of healthcare technology.
  • The effect of insurance coverage on healthcare utilization.
  • The economic burden of chronic diseases on healthcare systems.
  • The impact of globalization on healthcare systems.
  • The economics of mental health.
  • The economics of public health interventions.

Agricultural Economics

Agricultural economics is the study of the production, distribution, and consumption of agricultural goods and services. It analyzes how the agricultural sector operates and interacts with other sectors of the economy, as well as the economic principles that govern it. Some potential research paper topics in this area include:

  • The impact of climate change on agriculture.
  • The economics of land use and farming practices.
  • Agricultural subsidies and their effects on farmers and consumers.
  • The role of agriculture in rural development.
  • Agricultural trade policies and their impact on domestic and international markets.
  • The economics of genetically modified crops.
  • The use of technology in agriculture and its economic implications.
  • The economics of food safety and food security.
  • The role of agricultural cooperatives in promoting economic development.
  • The impact of globalization on the agricultural sector.

Urban and Regional Economics

Urban and regional economics is concerned with the economic issues that arise in urban and regional contexts. It examines how economic activities are distributed across geographic areas and how policies can be designed to promote regional growth and development. Some potential research paper topics in this area include:

  • The economic impact of gentrification on urban neighborhoods.
  • The role of transportation infrastructure in urban and regional development.
  • The economics of urban sprawl and its impact on the environment.
  • The economics of regional trade agreements.
  • The economic impact of sports stadiums on local communities.
  • The role of land use regulations in shaping urban and regional development.
  • The economics of urban crime and its impact on local economies.
  • The economics of cultural districts and their impact on local economies.
  • The impact of immigration on urban and regional economies.
  • The economics of regional innovation systems and their role in promoting economic growth.
  • Public Economics

Public economics is the study of the role of government in the economy. It examines how government policies and programs affect economic outcomes and how they can be designed to promote efficiency and equity. Some potential research paper topics in this area include:

  • The economics of taxation and tax policy.
  • The impact of government spending on economic growth and development.
  • The economics of social welfare programs.
  • The economics of healthcare policy and healthcare reform.
  • The role of government in promoting environmental sustainability.
  • The economics of education policy and education reform.
  • The economics of public goods and common pool resources.
  • The impact of government regulations on business and economic activity.
  • The economics of social insurance programs such as Social Security and Medicare.
  • The economics of public-private partnerships and their role in promoting economic growth and development.

Energy Economics

Energy economics is the study of the production, consumption, and distribution of energy resources and their impact on the economy. It examines the economic principles that govern the energy sector and the policies that can be designed to promote energy efficiency and sustainability. Some potential research paper topics in this area include:

  • The economics of renewable energy sources and their role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
  • The impact of energy policies on energy security and national security.
  • The economics of energy markets and energy pricing.
  • The impact of energy consumption on the environment and public health.
  • The economics of energy efficiency and energy conservation.
  • The economics of energy storage and transmission.
  • The role of government in promoting energy innovation and technology development.
  • The impact of international energy markets on domestic energy policy.
  • The economics of energy subsidies and their impact on energy markets.
  • The economics of energy transition and its impact on the economy and society.

Education Economics

Education economics is a branch of economics that studies how education and the education system can impact economic outcomes. It explores the relationship between education and economic growth, productivity, and income distribution. Education economics research topics can range from the analysis of specific educational policies and programs to the broader societal impacts of education on economic development. Here are ten potential research paper topics in education economics:

  • The impact of school choice policies on student achievement.
  • The effectiveness of early childhood education programs in promoting long-term educational success and economic outcomes.
  • The relationship between education and technological innovation.
  • The impact of teacher quality on student outcomes and long-term economic success.
  • The role of education in reducing income inequality.
  • The economics of student loan debt and its impact on college attendance and graduation rates.
  • The effect of private schools on educational attainment and economic outcomes.
  • The economics of college athletics and its impact on university finances and student outcomes.
  • The role of education in promoting entrepreneurship and innovation.
  • The impact of educational technology on student outcomes and economic development.

History of Economic Thought

The history of economic thought is a fascinating field that explores the evolution of economic ideas over time. It examines the development of economic theories, the contributions of different economists, and the historical context in which they worked. Some potential research paper topics in this category include:

  • Adam Smith’s contribution to economic thought.
  • The Marxist critique of capitalism.
  • The role of the Austrian School in economic theory.
  • Keynesian economics and the Great Depression.
  • Milton Friedman’s monetarist theory.
  • Behavioral economics and the rise of the “nudge” approach.
  • The development of econometric modeling techniques.
  • The influence of economic ideas on policy making.
  • The evolution of the concept of economic growth.
  • The relationship between economic thought and political ideologies.

Interdisciplinary Economics

Interdisciplinary economics combines principles and methodologies from different fields, such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, and political science, to better understand economic phenomena. This category includes research on topics such as:

  • The economic dimensions of climate change.
  • The role of institutions in economic development.
  • The political economy of healthcare.
  • The effects of globalization on inequality.
  • The relationship between culture and economic behavior.
  • The history of economic thought from a multidisciplinary perspective.
  • The impact of technology on the labor market.
  • The intersection of law and economics.
  • The economics of happiness and well-being.
  • The role of social networks in economic behavior.

Economics research paper topics are diverse and provide a wide range of opportunities for exploring the intricacies of the economy. Whether you’re interested in macro or microeconomics, development or environmental economics, or the history of economic thought, there are plenty of topics to choose from. By carefully selecting your research paper topic and utilizing expert advice and writing services, you can produce a high-quality paper that contributes to the ongoing discourse in the field of economics.

Browse 1000 More Economics Research Paper Topics in:

  • Managerial Economics
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Advice on Choosing Economics Research Paper Topics

Choosing an economics research paper topic can be challenging, especially if you’re not sure where to start. The key is to find a topic that is interesting to you and aligns with your research goals. Here are some expert tips to help you choose a great economics research paper topic:

  • Read widely and stay updated : Keep up with the latest news and trends in economics by reading relevant articles, journals, and books. This will help you identify emerging topics and debates that could make for interesting research paper topics.
  • Consider your audience : Before selecting a research paper topic, think about who your audience is and what they might be interested in. If you’re writing for an academic audience, you might choose a more technical or specialized topic. However, if you’re writing for a broader audience, you might choose a more accessible or relevant topic.
  • Narrow your focus : Economics is a broad field, so it’s important to narrow your focus to a specific topic or question. This will help you avoid getting overwhelmed and allow you to conduct more in-depth research.
  • Choose a researchable topic : Make sure the topic you choose is researchable and has enough literature available for you to build upon. You don’t want to select a topic that has little research available, as this will limit your ability to produce a strong paper.
  • Consider your research goals : What do you hope to achieve with your research paper? Are you looking to provide a new perspective on a topic, or do you want to contribute to an ongoing debate? Your research goals can help guide you in choosing a relevant and impactful topic.
  • Seek advice from your professor or mentor : If you’re still having trouble choosing a research paper topic, don’t hesitate to seek advice from your professor or mentor. They can provide valuable insights and point you in the direction of relevant literature.

In summary, choosing an economics research paper topic requires careful consideration and planning. By reading widely, narrowing your focus, and considering your audience and research goals, you can select a topic that is both interesting and impactful. Remember to seek advice from your professor or mentor if you need help along the way.

How to Write an Economics Research Paper

A well-written economics research paper should be clear, concise, and well-organized. Here are some general tips on how to write an economics research paper:

  • Choose a good topic : Select a topic that is interesting and relevant to your area of study. Conduct preliminary research to ensure that you have enough information to support your arguments.
  • Develop a thesis statement : Your thesis statement should be a clear and concise statement that summarizes the main point of your paper.
  • Gather information : Conduct research using reliable sources such as academic journals, books, and government publications. Take detailed notes and organize them according to your outline.
  • Create an outline : An outline is a roadmap for your paper that helps you organize your thoughts and arguments. Your outline should include an introduction, main points, and a conclusion.
  • Write the paper : Use your outline to write your paper. Start with an introduction that grabs the reader’s attention and includes your thesis statement. The body of your paper should include your main arguments, supported by evidence and examples. End with a conclusion that summarizes your main points and restates your thesis statement.
  • Edit and proofread : After you have completed your paper, read through it carefully to check for errors in grammar, spelling, and punctuation. Make sure that your arguments are well-supported and that your paper flows logically.
  • Cite your sources : Be sure to cite all sources used in your paper using the appropriate citation style. This helps to avoid plagiarism and gives credit to the original authors of the ideas you are using.

By following these steps, you can create a well-written and effective economics research paper. Remember to take your time and be thorough in your research and writing, and always seek feedback from your instructor or peers to improve your work.

iResearchNet Writing Services for Economics Research Papers

At iResearchNet, we understand the importance of quality research when it comes to writing an economics research paper. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of writing services to help students produce top-quality work. Our services are designed to meet the needs of all students, regardless of their academic level or the complexity of their research topics.

When you work with us, you can expect the following features:

  • Expert degree-holding writers : Our team of writers includes experts in various fields of economics. They hold advanced degrees in their respective fields and have years of experience in academic writing.
  • Custom written works : We offer custom-written research papers tailored to the specific requirements of our clients. Our writers use their expertise to produce unique, plagiarism-free content that meets the highest academic standards.
  • In-depth research : We conduct in-depth research on every topic to ensure that our papers are well-researched and up-to-date with the latest developments in the field.
  • Custom formatting : We format our papers according to the preferred style of our clients, whether it’s APA, MLA, Chicago/Turabian, Harvard, or any other style.
  • Top quality : We are committed to delivering top-quality research papers that meet the highest academic standards.
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At iResearchNet, we are committed to providing top-quality economics research papers that meet the unique needs and requirements of each of our clients. We strive to deliver customized solutions that help students achieve their academic goals and succeed in their studies.

Economics Research Paper Topics

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The Best Ways to Find Economics Research Topics

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Economics may not always seem easy to all, especially when it is time to choose right economics research topics for a project or writing a master’s thesis. Many diverse aspects have to be taken into consideration while choosing the topic. And yes, sometimes it does get confusing. That is the reason why we are here to help you.

This blog is authored with a view to assist students get through the tough process of choosing the right topic for their economics research.

What is the concept of economics research topics?

Table of Contents

Economics can be defined as a social branch of knowledge. Its study mainly examines the use of scarce natural resources. These resources are used in the process of production, distribution and consumption of goods and services, which are produced in an economy during a particular period of time. This process is continuous.

Before assigning the research papers, students are taught of many elements that affect the economy. This qualifies them to learn real-life economies, day-to-day expenditures as well as expenses. Such basics include elements like medicine, politics, trade, unemployment, poverty, religion, and war with others. Based on these learning’s, they tend to choose economics research topics depending on their area of study.  

Tips on how to choose economics research topics

One of the biggest and challenging tasks is to come up with that first lengthy economics research paper. However, in order to name that task, an economics research topic is a must. Picking the best economics research topics is an issue most learners pursuing economics studies come across. Sometimes, learners face difficulties understanding different characteristics of economics research. This is what makes choosing the right and best fitting economics research topics difficult.

Thus, to help the students, this section of the blog contains tips on how to choose the right economics research topics.

Generate interest

Yes! This tip is very important. The topic you choose for the project should absolutely interest you and generate the hunger of curiosity inside you. If the research paper requires you to be working on it for months or even longer. Then it has to be something by which you are thoroughly attracted to. The best way to keep you engaged is to position a question for your paper to which you have always wanted to know the answer. Consider what intriguing economic issues you enjoy discussing or even for a fact, thinking about.

Take inspiration

If one is uncertain where to start from, or have no idea as to what sort of project would be matching up to your course, then it is a wonderful idea to have a look at previous students’ projects. You can grasp inspiration, as a student. Most universities/schools allow its students to access the previous year’s student’s research materials and papers. However, while doing the same, one must make sure to never copy someone else’s idea. You may only look up to them for taking references from their work.

Ask for advice

Once you have collected ideas on the topic for your project, you will perhaps want to ask people who have a certain amount of experience for advice. This tip should be considered before you start your work on the paper. The experienced person or the supervisor should advise you whether the topic chosen by you is the right one. Some basic preparation before the meeting should be done.

Make sure you understand the basic facts of the research area properly. Also, the sub questions and what methods you will be using should be clear for the supervisor to understand. This advice should cover for the rest of the research paper as well. He/she must be able to guide you and correct you wherever necessary.

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Specific topic

This amazingly useful tip while drafting your research paper advises us to think smaller. If the person is not much acquainted with the economic topic, then it is obvious for that person to not include all the subtleties and complexities it comprises. Be more specific while writing. This will help your project to not only be more manageable, but also that you will actually get to the root of researching for something.

Interdisciplinary topic

If you are in the field of economics but find yourself more absorbed in another academic subject, this may be a golden opportunity to study about that particular field in detail as a part of your research paper. For instance, you could pick a topic which traces itself in a subject like history, sociology, finance, politics, or even psychology. The advantage here is that you can try out acknowledging other information and approaches from another field of study.

It will help you to curate a different project in comparison to most of your fellow classmates as well. This is because they will tend to study a topic which is based purely in the field of economics. It may seem a little harder to acquire information about a different field all together, but we are certain that it will all be worth it at the end of your economics research paper.

Conclusion on how to choose economics research topics

From the above discussion, we are clear about the concept and how to choose economics research topics. With the help of the above mentioned tips, one can now easily pick the right and an equally appropriate topic for their economics research paper.  

Economics is the study of how humans utilize scarce resources in the production of goods. Students analyze how these goods and services are eventually distributed globally after production. Because of the vast field, they sometimes find it difficult to find suitable economics research topics. and also get the best economics assignments from our economics assignment helper .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What is the concept of economics.

Economics is a social branch of knowledge. It determines how rare natural resources are allotted for the purpose of production, distribution and consumption of goods that are produced in a country within a stipulated period of time.

Why is it difficult for students to choose suitable economics research topics for their papers?

Owing to the vast as well as complex sea of knowledge in the field of economics, it sometimes becomes difficult for students pursuing economics studies to choose the right economic research topic for their papers.

What are the tips mentioned in order to choose the right economic research topics?

Tips mentioned in the blog above are all very useful. Generating interest and curiosity among the writer, taking inspiration from students, taking advice from supervisors are some of the tips mentioned above.

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50+ Economics research Topics and Topic Ideas for dissertation

The ultimate goal of economic science is to improve the living conditions of people in everyday lives. Economists study how to utilize the available scarce resources to maximize value and thus profits. The concerns of economics today are largely focused on issues such as opportunity cost, consumption and production, borrowing, saving, investments, occupations and employment, trades markets, pricing and human behavior concerning making economic decisions.

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Given that economics covers a lot of issues in society today coupled with the multitude of research studies within the existing literature, many economics students find it difficult to find the most suitable economic research topic for their undergraduate project, master’s thesis, and dissertations. Technological advancement has also increased the pace of transformation and globalization creating new areas in economics that are worth research. Our economics experts have curated a list of research paper topics in economics that you can use to get the perfect research paper topic.

economics masters research topics

Micro-Economics Research Topics

Microeconomics deals with the economic behavior of individual isolated units of the economy like an individual, a household, a company, and industry. Micro-economists study factors that influence economic choices, markets and their key elements such as demand and supply and analyze markets and determine the prices for goods and services that best allocate the available limited resources. Some of the best research topics in microeconomics that you can use for your thesis or dissertation include:

1. The effect of income changes on consumer choices

2. The effect of labor force participation on the economy and budget – A comparison

3. The impact of marital status on the labor force composition: A case of [your country] economy

4. The difference in the consumption attitude in [your country] over the last decade – Critical analysis of consumer behavior trends

5. The relationship between salary levels and ‘economic convergence’ in [your country]?

6. Analyzing salary inequalities in [your country] and the forces behind such inequalities.

7. The evolution of consumption in [your country] over the last 10 years: Trends and consumer behavior.

8. Dynamics of the Gini index as a reflection of the problem of inequality in income 

9. Cashless economy: The impact of demonetization on small and medium businesses

10 Privatization of Public Enterprises and its implications on economic policy and development

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economics masters research topics

Macroeconomics Research Topics

1. The relationship between economic growth and unemployment in [your country]

2. Global recession and factors that contribute to it.

3. Impact of government expenditure on economic growth in [country]

4. The impact of company income tax revenue on the developing economies- A comparative analysis of Kenya, India, and Nigeria

5. The relationship between common stock prices and inflation in [your country]

6. The relationship between inflation and government spending in [your country] economy.

7. The effect of currency devaluation on small and medium firms- A case study of selected multinationals in [your country]

8. The relationship between internet connectivity and productivity in the workplace 

9. The evolution of the stock market in [your country]: Causes and consequences

10 Unemployment and regional mobility of labor in [your country]

11 A comparison of the United States unemployment to the rest of the world

Research Topics on International Trade

1. The relationship between economic growth and international trade

2. To what extent does a currency union affect trade: A case of the United States

3. What are the gains and losses of international trade for developing countries?

4. Foreign direct investment in the United States: Determinants and impact

5. The effects of the banana crisis on the Jamaican and British economies

6. The impact of Brexit on small and middle businesses in the UK

7. The relationship between foreign direct investment and wages- A comparative analysis of USA and China

8. The roles of exchange rate and exchange rate regime in the US export

9. The importance of international trade in developing countries

10 To what extent are the gains of less developed countries from tradeliberalization exaggerated?

Environmental economics research paper topics

Economic activities such as production have a significant impact on the environment such as pollution and depletion of natural resources. Environmental economics studies these impacts and other environmental issues. Below are some of the best research paper topics in environmental economics.

1. An economic examination of waste disposal programs in the United States

2. Man-made environmental disasters: who bears the economic liability?

3. The economics of land- a comparative analysis of land sharing and land sparing in the United States

4. The impact of waste disposal programs to America’s Environmental Policy: An economic evaluation

5. Water management and conservation policies in the United States and the UK- a comparative analysis

6. The economic implications of climate policy changes because of different climate change assessment mechanisms

7. Investigating the cost of organizational environmental analysis in the United States

8. What are the determinants of climate policy formulation in the United States? An economic scrutiny

9. The economic perspectives of distribution of natural resources across boundaries

10 The impact of technological innovation for clean and green products on the environment

11 The impact of work-life balance on social eco-systems: perspectives from the United States

12 The relationship between financial subsidies and generation of eco-friendly products

Research Paper Topics on Behavioral Economics

Behavioral economics examines the psychology behind economic activities and economic decision making. It examines the limitation of the assumption that individuals are perfectly normal. Good behavioral economics topics cover subjects such as bounded rationality, irrational exuberance, and choice architecture. 

1. Inducing choice paralysis: how retailers bury customers in an avalanche of options

2. The behavioral economics of discounting- A case study of amazon

3. Pricing and the decoy effect; how corporations ‘nudge’ consumers to spend more

4. Big data and implications for behavioral economics

5. A study of how the United States market benefitted from behavioral economics theory

6. How has behavioral economics influenced the real-world context? A case of online purchase behavior

7. Weight management through behavioral economics: use of incentives

8. What motivates consumers? A behavioral economics perspective

9. Using behavioral economics to help in reducing substance abuse

10 Addressing lifestyle management for diabetes through behavioral analysis- insights from the US healthcare sector

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Development Economics research paper topics

1. The impact of multinational commodity trading through the development economic perspective

2. The impact of globalization on income distribution in emerging economies

3. Investigating the relationship between migration and development economics

4. Budgeting and decision making by low-income earners in emerging economics

5. Investigating the relationship between family planning, labor force, and income fluctuations

6. The impact of natural disasters on development in emerging economies

7. The impact of population growth on development economics- review of India

8. The determinants of high performing institutions in emerging economies

9. Comparative economic patterns of villages across Virginia

10 Aid and economic growth of developing economies- a review

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economics masters research topics

How To Pick A Topic For Your Economics Research Project Or Master's Thesis

Read a summary or generate practice questions using the INOMICS AI tool

One of the biggest and most exciting challenges of a young academic's career is coming up with that first economics research topic. Knowing how much is riding on the decision, it can also be pretty stressful. With so much to consider, we thought it would be easier to break the decision-making process down into some key points. Consideration of each will give you the best chance possible to make sure the topic of your economics Master's thesis is the right one - both for you personally and for your future career.

Without further ado, read on for our advice on how to pick a topic for your economics thesis.

Browse our course listings for economics Master's degrees

How to pick your economics master's thesis

1. Make sure it's something you're interested in

This sounds obvious, but you should make sure that the project you choose is of interest to you. If you're going to be working on a project for months or even longer, then it has to be something which you are engaged with.

The best way to keep engaged is to pose a question for your project to which you want to know the answer. Think back over the lectures you've attended and the books you've read, and consider what issues you enjoyed discussing and thinking about. If there was ever a topic which you came across and enjoyed studying, but didn't have the time or resources to investigate more, this is your chance to dive deep and become an expert.

2. Get inspired by previous students' projects

If you're unsure where to start, or don't know what sort of project would be appropriate for your course, it's a great idea to look at previous students' projects. In most universities you'll be able to access previous student theses in the library, so you should take advantage of this resource.

While you should never copy someone else's idea, you can use it as inspiration. For example, perhaps someone has done a project on the economic implications of an international policy within a certain country. Your project could look at the implications of that same policy in a different country. Or you could look at a similar policy in a different period of history.

Additionally, many alumni will still have links with your university, so it may be possible to get in contact with them directly. If someone has written about a topic you are interested in, do not hesitate to request a meet up to pick their brains. Most academics relish the opportunity to discuss their own research, so there is no reason to be shy. In any case, it is always fascinating meeting those more experienced than yourself who have remained in the field.

3. Ask your lecturers or supervisor for advice

Once you have one or more ideas about thesis topics, you'll want to ask for advice from people who have experience in assessing projects. You don't want to do a lot of work on a project idea, only to hear much later that your supervisor thinks your topic is not a good choice.

Do some basic preparation before meeting with a supervisor or lecturer. Make sure you understand the basic facts of the topic area in which you're interested, and that you have some ideas about what your research question will be and what methods you'll use to study it.

Further, make sure that you get feedback on your idea early in the process. This advice extends to the rest of the research project too. It is your supervisor's job to guide you, so keep in regular contact with them throughout the course of your research.

4. Pick something original, but not too obscure

It’s common to struggle to come up with new economics research topic ideas, but you don't want to do the same project which has been done by a million students before. Not only will this be uninteresting to you, but it will be uninteresting to the person marking your thesis.

Try to come up with a novel approach or a new topic to study. Perhaps there is a new type of data analysis you could use to study an old problem from a new angle. Perhaps new data has been made available, and an older study could be challenged or reaffirmed by studying the new data.

However, be wary of anything too obscure – you don't want to be stuck with no materials or resources to work from. To reiterate the above, definitely run your more ambitious topic ideas by your supervisor to help avoid the pitfall of going too niche and really falling down the rabbit hole.

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5. Choose a small and specific topic

One general tip when coming up with a project or research question is to think smaller. If you don't know a lot about a topic, you won't yet appreciate all the subtleties and complexities it contains. You might think that you can produce a great project on the impact of the introduction of the Euro in Ireland, for example, but this topic is way too broad to cover in a Master's project.

Choosing a topic that is far too broad like the above example is a common mistake that new students make when they are unfamiliar with academic research. Get more specific, and your project will not only be more manageable, but you will actually get to the crux of something.

It may seem counterintuitive, or scary - it can seem impossible to write 50 or more pages about an obscure question. But, it’s much better for your final evaluation to maintain a small scope and conduct very high-quality research about that small topic, rather than attempt to explain a large phenomenon alone and fill up an entire paper with surface-level analysis.

6. Consider an interdisciplinary topic

If you're thinking of economics Master's thesis ideas but find yourself interested in another academic subject, you may have the opportunity to learn about that field as a part of your research project. You could consider a project which touches on a subject like history, sociology, business, politics, or psychology, for example.

The advantage of this is that you can try out learning information and methods from another field to see if studying it further would interest you. It will also help you to create a unique and memorable project, as most of your fellow students will likely study a topic which is based purely in economics.

However, this might also make your project a little harder, as you will have more new information to grasp than others – but it can also be very rewarding for ambitious and engaged students. If you wish to take this route, strongly consider finding a secondary supervisor within the interdisciplinary field who can guide you along with your more economics-focused supervisor. This can even be beneficial for your career, as you become well-versed in a niche set of skills that employers or PhD programs would find attractive.

economics masters research topics

7. Check for available data

If you’re doing an empirical project, the success or failure of your thesis may very well come down to data availability. It’s very important to have an idea of what data to use for your study before you commit to a topic. If you have the world’s greatest research idea, but the data to study it just isn’t available, you’re out of luck.

To avoid this heartbreaking situation, search for usable data as early in the process as possible. This search can even help you narrow down your topic area of focus, and pick a specific, small-scope research question within your field of interest.

Perhaps you’re interested in the effect of malaria prevention programs on children’s economic outcomes in the future, but panel studies haven’t yet been completed in your region of interest. If you search for data, you might find a completed panel dataset that studied a similar disease, or one that studied malaria in a different country. These types of searches can help you pick a related, doable, and properly-scoped research question without wasting time racing towards a dead end.

8. Meticulously plan your experiment

Of course, if you’re running an experiment, you can create your own dataset. This situation presents its own, equally important challenges.

A poorly designed experiment can render your data biased or unusable even after months of work. To avoid this type of catastrophe, spend as much time as you can designing the experiment, checking over all your assumptions meticulously, and seeking feedback and approval from your supervisor to ensure that the experiment is designed well.

Studying examples of experimental designs that led to published studies in prominent journals is highly recommended. Modeling your experiment on successful ones in the past is a great way to ensure your experiment runs smoothly.

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Economics Research Topics

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Welcome to our latest blog post on economics research topics! Whether you are an academic seeking inspiration or a student looking for a starting point for your next assignment, you've come to the right place. 

With so many areas to explore in economics, it can be difficult to know where to begin. But don't worry, we've got your back. In this post, our online paper writers have shared some of the most interesting and hot economics research paper topics. So, grab a cup of coffee and let's dive in!

What Are Economics Research Topics?

Economics is a social science that studies how people, businesses, and governments make decisions about how to use resources. It deals with issues like production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. 

As a student, you might be given to write a research paper on research topics in economics. These types of social science topics can cover a wide range of subjects, including:

  • Macroeconomics
  • Microeconomics
  • International economics
  • Behavioral economics, and more.

Whether you are interested in exploring current trends, global markets or history, or taxes, we collected a bunch of economics topics for a research paper to choose from. Stay with our service to spot the best idea for your upcoming project.

Characteristics of Good Economics Research Paper Topics

When it comes to selecting a research topic related to economics, it is important to decide on a subject that is not only interesting but also appropriate for your academic level. Consider these fundamental characteristics of good economics paper topics to make a wise choice:

  • Select a title that is both relevant and is intended to solve a current issue.
  • Choose a unique topic that has not been explored too much by other researchers.
  • Make sure you can easily access the data or sources needed to create your paper.
  • Consider if the topic has the potential to be of practical or social importance.
  • Pick an area that genuinely interests you and will keep you motivated throughout your project.

How to Choose an Economics Research Paper Topic?

Choosing between this selection of economics project ideas can be really difficult especially if you are first to this. However, with a little bit of guidance, you will see that there is nothing challenging about picking a proper topic for a research paper in economics. Take a look at these step-by-step instructions to make the right decision:

  • Brainstorm potential economics research topics that sound interesting to you in the first place. After all, you don’t want to work with boring aspects.
  • Narrow your list down and consider whether there are enough resources to back up your research.
  • Carry out preliminary investigation to see what you can write about. Use academic journals, newspapers, and other reputable sources to gather information.
  • Check if the topic complies with your instructor’s guidelines.
  • Based on your research and requirements alter a title to create a focused research question.

Remember to choose a topic that you are passionate about and that aligns with your academic and professional goals.

Economics Research Topics List

Economics is a vast field that encompasses a wide range of topics and issues. If you're looking for inspiration for your next research paper, consider exploring one of these top research paper topics in economics:

  • What is the impact of trade policies on international trade patterns?
  • How does income inequality affect economic growth?
  • What role does entrepreneurship play in economic development?
  • How do government regulations affect market efficiency?
  • What are the economic implications of climate change and environmental policy?
  • How do automation and artificial intelligence affect the labor market?
  • What are the effects of healthcare policies on the economy and society?
  • How does education influence economic outcomes?
  • What are some economic aspects of taxation and fiscal policy?
  • How does globalization impact domestic economies and societies?

Interesting Research Topics in Economics

Are you searching for interesting topics in economics? Look no further than these cptivting economic paper topics ideas.

  • How do government policies impact income mobility?
  • What role do financial institutions play in economic growth?
  • Economics of housing and homelessness.
  • How do immigration policies shape the labor market?
  • Impact of gender inequality on economic growth.
  • Sustainable development and renewable energy.
  • What are some effects of globalization on income distribution?
  • How do minimum wage policies impact employment and poverty?
  • Economics of crime and punishment.
  • How does corruption relate to economic growth?
  • Effects of social welfare policies on income inequality.
  • Healthcare markets and insurance systems.
  • How does technology influence income distribution and employment?
  • Education financing and student loan debt.
  • How do economic sanctions affect international trade and diplomacy?

Good Topics for Economic Research Papers

Economics research topics are diverse and can be approached from various angles. Below are some great economic topics to write about:

  • What are some effects of social media on consumer behavior and advertising?
  • What is the relationship between corporate social responsibility and profitability?
  • Sharing economy and its impact on traditional industries.
  • How does climate change affect the tourism industry economically?
  • Economics of healthcare systems and policies in developing countries.
  • How does population aging influence labor markets and retirement policies?
  • How does artificial intelligence impact business and employment?
  • What factors are involved in energy transition and the shift to renewable energy?
  • Income inequality and political polarization.
  • How do digital streaming services and the music industry intersect economically?
  • How does cultural diversity contribute to growth and innovation?
  • Effects of trade agreements on income distribution.
  • Cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.
  • How does globalization impact labor standards and working conditions?
  • Natural disasters and economic growth.

Best Economics Research Topics

Want to take your project to the next level? Don’t skip these hot economic research questions. They suit any academic level and can be supported by credible evidence.

  • Big data and its role in economic forecasting.
  • How does public debt impact economic growth?
  • The economics of international migration.
  • What is the impact of technological innovation on income inequality?
  • The role of infrastructure investment in fostering economic growth.
  • The economics of the gig economy and freelance work.
  • How does foreign aid affect economic development?
  • The economics of natural resource management and sustainability.
  • What is the impact of urbanization on economic growth and development?
  • The economics of the entertainment industry and streaming services.
  • How do exchange rate fluctuations influence trade and investment?
  • The economics of food production and distribution systems.
  • How do government regulations affect small businesses economically?
  • The study of behavioral finance and decision-making in economics.
  • What is the impact of monetary policy on financial markets and inflation?

Unique Economics Research Topics

Economics is a constantly evolving field that offers endless possibilities for research and analysis. That’s why choosing unique economic research ideas shouldn’t be a big deal. Below we added a list of authentic topics you most likely won’t be able to find anywhere else.

  • How does mobile banking contribute to financial inclusion in emerging economies?
  • How do natural disasters affect supply chains?
  • What are some effects of gender bias in venture capital funding decisions?
  • How does population density influence the demand for public transportation in urban areas?
  • Virtual currencies and their potential as an alternative to traditional currencies.
  • How do government subsidies influence the adoption of renewable energy?
  • How do industrial policies shape innovation and contribute to economic growth?
  • Alternative meat and its potential impact on the food industry.
  • What is the relationship between public transit availability and property values in urban areas?
  • How does corruption impact economic growth and development?
  • Renewable energy storage systems and their impact on grid stability.
  • What are some effects of automation on job displacement and income inequality?
  • Blockchain technology in the banking industry and financial transactions.
  • International trade in cultural goods and services.
  • How does income inequality relate to health outcomes from an economic standpoint?

Popular Economics Topics for Research Paper

Do you want to focus on current and pressing issues? Consider these trending topics for economic research papers.

  • The impact of COVID-19 on the global economy.
  • What are economic implications of healthcare reform?
  • How does globalization affect labor markets economically?
  • Climate change and the role of carbon pricing.
  • Effects of income inequality on social mobility.
  • How does automation impact employment and wages in the workforce?
  • The economics of education and the burden of student loan debt.
  • How do government regulations influence business and innovation economically?
  • Income taxation and progressive taxation.
  • Impact of immigration on labor markets.
  • Behavioral economics and the use of nudges in decision-making.
  • How do trade policies influence international relations and diplomacy?
  • Mergers and acquisitions in the business world.
  • How do minimum wage policies affect low-wage workers economically?
  • Urbanization and transportation planning.

Economics Research Paper Topics for Students

As a student, picking decent economic topics for research papers can be a challenging task. It's important to focus on relevant and interesting aspects. Below you will find some economic research paper topics specifically geared toward students of all levels.

Economics Research Topics for College Students

College students majoring in economics have a range of choices when it comes to research topics. Below are some inspiring economic paper topics you can use as inspiration for your project in college:

  • Effects of gig economy on labor markets.
  • Economic growth and environmental sustainability.
  • Impact of sharing economy on traditional industries.
  • Housing affordability and homelessness.
  • How does trade liberalization affect domestic industries and consumers?
  • How does public policy influence small business growth?
  • Food waste and its impact on sustainability.
  • Income inequality and access to education.
  • Impact of automation on the future of work.
  • Online advertising and consumer behavior.
  • How does fiscal policy influence income distribution and poverty reduction?
  • How does tax reform impact business investment?
  • Economics of international tourism and its impact on local economies.
  • Effects of financial regulation on consumer behavior and investor confidence.
  • Demographic shifts and labor force participation.

Economics Research Topics for Undergraduates

Are you an undergraduate student looking for topics related to economics? Here are some amazing ideas you can pick from:

  • Financial implications of space exploration and commercial space travel.
  • Role of urban farming in city development for sustainability.
  • Impact of genetic engineering and biotechnology on the agricultural sector.
  • Financial consequences of digital privacy.
  • Implications of mass surveillance on consumer spending patterns.
  • How do remittances influence growth in developing countries?
  • Fiscal consequences of cybercrime and cybersecurity breaches.
  • Role of microfinance in alleviating poverty.
  • Potential financial implications of quantum computing.
  • Water scarcity and its worldwide financial implications.
  • Monetary consequences of epidemics, pandemics, and public health crises.
  • Transformation of markets by virtual and augmented reality.
  • Effect of corporate governance on shareholder value.
  • Financial aspects of aging societies and pension reform.
  • Role of intellectual property rights in promoting innovation and growth.

Economics Research Topics for Grad Students

Graduate students in economics are expected to delve deeper into economic theories, models, and concepts. They are also required to contribute new insights to the field. We suggest that you choose these economics topics for research to earn a high grade:

  • How does drug legalization influence national economies?
  • Impact of universal basic income on poverty levels and unemployment rates.
  • Financial implications of political instability and conflict.
  • Impact of cultural heritage sites on local and national finances.
  • Financial repercussions of biodiversity loss and species extinction.
  • Role of venture capital in fostering startups and growth.
  • Disaster risk management and its relevance to financial resilience.
  • Potential fiscal impacts of deep-sea mining.
  • Financial consequences of single-use plastics and transition to a circular economy.
  • Business aspects of the digital gaming industry and eSports.
  • Impact of the maker movement and DIY culture on traditional manufacturing.
  • How can nanotechnology shape future market economies?
  • Impact of drone technology on supply chain operations.
  • Financial aspects of mental health in the workplace.
  • Role of public-private partnerships in fostering growth and infrastructure development.

Research Topics in Economics by Subject

Economics paper topics ideas will also depend on your area of expertise. This block will offer topics by subject, so that you can choose a theme that fits your special needs. Whether you are interested in exploring the economics of renewable energy or the effects of globalization on income distribution,you will surely spot an idea or two right below.

World Economics Research Paper Topics

The global economy is a complex and interconnected system, and there are many world economics research paper topics that can shed light on global aspects. Between them are these ideas:

  • Evolving landscape of international trade in the post-COVID era.
  • Role of Special Economic Zones in boosting global competitiveness.
  • Impact of machine learning and artificial intelligence on global financial markets.
  • How do social impact bonds contribute to global development goals?
  • Cybersecurity risks in global financial institutions: Are we prepared?
  • Influence of social entrepreneurship on worldwide poverty reduction.
  • Green bonds and their role in global sustainable finance.
  • Economic prospects of the African Continental Free Trade Area.
  • Role of global remittance flows in socioeconomic development.
  • Impact of climate change on global supply chains: What can we do?
  • Global consequences of a cashless society: Are we ready?
  • How does geopolitics affect global energy markets?
  • Repercussions of cryptocurrency adoption on global financial stability.
  • Economies of scale in global manufacturing: A new era?
  • Role of international development assistance in achieving Sustainable Development Goals.

>> More ideas: Politics Research Topics

Microeconomics Research Paper Topics

Microeconomics studies the behavior of individuals and firms in making decisions regarding the allocation of resources. If you need microeconomics topics for research paper, we collected great ideas below:

  • How do consumer ethics shape purchasing decisions?
  • What influences price elasticity of demand in luxury goods markets?
  • How does the gig economy affect individual financial stability?
  • What are the key economic factors determining college major choices?
  • How do credit scores influence personal finance management?
  • What impacts have peer-to-peer lending platforms had on traditional banking?
  • What drives consumer decisions between online and brick-and-mortar shopping?
  • How do economic considerations play into personal retirement planning?
  • What market dynamics and pricing strategies dominate the smartphone industry?
  • How does behavioral economics impact personal savings habits?
  • How significantly does brand loyalty influence consumer spending?
  • What strategies help businesses survive during economic downturns?
  • How does corporate social responsibility influence consumer choice?
  • What role does digital marketing play in shaping consumer behavior?
  • What are some economic impacts of identity theft on individuals and businesses?

Macroeconomics Research Paper Topics

Unlike microeconomics, macroeconomics explores the behavior and performance of entire economies. Below are some awesome macroeconomics research paper topics:

  • Exploring connections between inflation and unemployment.
  • Impact of quantitative easing on long-term economic growth.
  • How does fiscal deficit affect a country's economic stability?
  • The role of central banks in managing economic downturns.
  • Effects of government debt on interest rates and investment.
  • What factors contribute to business cycles and economic fluctuations?
  • Examination of macroeconomic factors influencing foreign direct investment.
  • How do monetary policies impact inflation and unemployment rates?
  • Role of technology advancements in macroeconomic productivity.
  • Impact of demographic changes on long-term economic growth.
  • Can green investment stimulate economic recovery?
  • What role do exchange rates play in a country's trade balance?
  • Comparative analysis of economic growth models.
  • Macroeconomic challenges of transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
  • How does income inequality affect economic growth at a macro level?

Economics Research Paper Topics on International Trade

International trade is a vital part of the global economy and has a significant impact on development, and international relations. Here are unique topics for an economic research paper focusing on international trade:

  • Impact of Brexit on international trade relations.
  • How do currency fluctuations affect international trade?
  • Economic consequences of trade wars: A case study of U.S.-China relations.
  • Role of World Trade Organization in shaping international trade norms.
  • How does international trade contribute to economic growth?
  • Evaluation of free trade agreements and their economic implications.
  • Role of emerging markets in shaping the future of international trade.
  • How do trade barriers influence domestic industries?
  • Fair trade vs. free trade: An economic analysis.
  • Global supply chain disruptions: Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic.
  • Effects of international trade on income distribution within countries.
  • Economic impact of sanctions on international trade.
  • How do intellectual property rights issues affect international trade?
  • Role of e-commerce in transforming international trade.
  • What are the economic consequences of offshore outsourcing on international trade?

Financial Economics Research Topics

Financial economics is a subfield of economics that focuses on financial markets, institutions, and instruments. Here are outstanding financial economic topics for a paper:

  • Role of FinTech in shaping the future of banking.
  • Analysis of risk management strategies in investment banking.
  • How do hedge funds contribute to financial market stability?
  • Impact of regulatory changes on financial market competitiveness.
  • How does financial literacy influence individual investment decisions?
  • Examination of financial derivatives and their role in financial risk management.
  • Role of central banks in maintaining financial stability.
  • Analysis of market efficiency in cryptocurrency markets.
  • How do financial crises affect economies in the long term?
  • Financial inclusion and the role of mobile banking.
  • Impact of corporate governance on financial performance.
  • Examination of the link between financial markets and economic growth.
  • High-frequency trading: Impact on financial market stability.
  • Effect of algorithmic trading on financial market efficiency.
  • How do interest rate changes impact financial markets.

Development Economics Research Topics

Development economics studies the economic and social development of low-income countries. With this branch in mind, we prepared a list of development economic research paper topics ideas:

  •  Role of microfinance in economic empowerment in developing countries.
  • How do infrastructure projects affect economic development?
  • How do cultural factors shape economic progress in developing countries?
  • Impact of corruption on resource allocation in developing nations.
  • Impact of foreign aid on economic growth in recipient countries.
  • Evaluation of agricultural policies on rural development.
  • How do commodity price fluctuations affect developing economies?
  • Implications of population growth on resource management in emerging economies.
  • How does political stability influence economic growth in developing countries?
  • Impact of public health initiatives on economic development.
  • Analysis of sustainable development strategies in emerging economies.
  • How do migration patterns affect economic development?
  • How does technological adoption improve productivity in developing economies?
  • Role of social entrepreneurship in sustainable economic development.
  • How does tourism influence the economic development of low-income countries?

Behavioral Economics Research Paper Topics

Behavioral economics combines insights from psychology and economics to understand how people make financial decisions. Below you can find behavioral economics research topics:

  • Impact of cognitive biases on economic decision making.
  • Role of emotions in consumer purchasing behavior.
  • How does social influence shape spending habits?
  • What are the economic implications of procrastination?
  • Nudging for good: Can behavioral economics promote healthier lifestyles?
  • How does framing influence consumers' perception of price and value?
  • Role of incentives in shaping individual and collective behavior.
  • Examination of loss aversion in investment decisions.
  • Analysis of irrational behaviors in financial markets.
  • Behavioral economics in policy design: What works and why?
  • How does choice overload affect consumer decision making?
  • The effect of anchoring bias in pricing strategies.
  • Role of behavioral economics in promoting sustainable consumption.
  • How does scarcity mindset affect economic decisions?
  • Behavioral economics and personal finance: How to avoid common pitfalls?

>> Read more: Psychology Topics to Research

Environmental Economics Research Topics

Environmental economics investigates the interaction between economic systems and the natural environment. This subfield also offers multiple perspectives for exploration. Here are some examples of project topics on economics with emphasis on environment:

  • Examining the economic impacts of biodiversity loss.
  • Impact of environmental policies on manufacturing industries.
  • Role of renewable energy investments in economic growth.
  • Does a carbon tax impact economic competitiveness?
  • Economic analysis of water resource management.
  • How do natural disasters affect economic performance?
  • The economic value of ecosystem services.
  • Cost-effectiveness of different strategies for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Role of environmental economics in climate change mitigation.
  • How does waste management contribute to sustainable economic growth?
  • The effects of air pollution on economic productivity.
  • What is the economic impact of deforestation?
  • Evaluation of economic tools for managing plastic waste.
  • Economics of transitioning to a circular economy.
  • How does sustainable agriculture contribute to economic development?

>> View more: Environmental Research Topics

Health Economics Research Topics

Health economics examines how health care practices affect the health outcomes of individuals and whole populations.  Take a glance at these health economics research paper topics:

  • Economic impact of pandemics on healthcare systems.
  • Role of telemedicine in healthcare cost reduction.
  • How do health insurance policies influence medical spending?
  • Economic analysis of mental health issues and treatment access.
  • The cost-effectiveness of preventative healthcare measures.
  • Evaluating the economic burden of chronic diseases.
  • Economic implications of antibiotic resistance.
  • How does socioeconomic status influence health outcomes?
  • Impact of aging populations on healthcare costs.
  • Evaluation of the economic benefits of vaccination programs.
  • The effect of medical technology advancements on healthcare costs.
  • Role of behavioral economics in health promotion and disease prevention.
  • How does health literacy influence healthcare utilization and costs?
  • Economic analysis of substance abuse treatment.
  • Evaluating the economic impacts of health policy reforms.

>> Read more: Public Health Topics for Research

Extra Research Topics for Economics

Sometimes, finding the right idea can be a challenging task. However, there are numerous resources available to help you find unique angles. Also, don't be afraid to ask your professors or research paper writer team for suggestions on the selection process. But if you don’t have enough time, we gathered some supplementary economics research topics.

Economics Essay Topics

An economics essay can cover a broad range of topics, from macroeconomic issues such as international trade and monetary policy to microeconomic aspects such as consumer behavior and market structure.

  • Can an increase in minimum wage curb poverty?
  • What are the potential economic effects of Brexit?
  • Impact of income inequality on societal cohesion.
  • How does the rise of remote work influence economic structures?
  • Examination of the economic benefits of public libraries.
  • Role of the informal economy in urban development.
  • Economic implications of increasing life expectancy.
  • How does piracy impact the music and film industry economically?
  • Impact of subsidies on agricultural economies.
  • Exploration of the economic factors influencing the housing market.
  • Analysis of the economic costs of obesity.
  • Role of child labor in global supply chains.
  • Examination of the economic implications of internet censorship.
  • Impact of single-use plastics on local and global economies.
  • Economic effects of urban green spaces.

Economics Topics for a Short Project

If you need to complete a short assignment, you may want to consider project topics in economics that can be analyzed within a limited timeframe. Don’t worry. We’ve added some simple ideas as well:

  • Examining the economic impacts of online privacy breaches.
  • Role of advertising in shaping consumer behavior.
  • Analysis of the economic effects of natural disasters.
  • Economic implications of self-driving cars.
  • Role of cooperatives in the economy.
  • Impact of e-waste on developing economies.
  • The role of micro-credit in alleviating poverty.
  • Examining the economic impacts of space exploration.
  • How do online reviews influence consumer purchasing decisions?
  • Economics of disaster recovery: Case studies.
  • Examination of the economic implications of cybercrime.
  • Impact of nutritional labeling on consumer behavior and market outcomes.
  • Economic analysis of the craft beer industry.
  • Examining the economic effects of animal agriculture.
  • How do tax incentives influence corporate behavior and economic outcomes?

Economics Research Questions

Formulating a research question is a crucial step in conducting an economics research project. A good research question should be specific, measurable, and relevant to the topic under study. Here are some economics research questions to consider:

  • How does widespread adoption of digital currencies impact traditional banking?
  • To what extent do economic factors contribute to obesity rates?
  • What are the consequences of large-scale solar power adoption?
  • How do parental leave policies shape labor markets?
  • What impacts do large-scale data breaches have on corporations?
  • Does green urban planning significantly contribute to city development?
  • How much does mental health contribute to workplace productivity?
  • What effects do fair trade agreements have on farmers in low-income countries?
  • How valuable are clean oceans for global trade?
  • How does political stability of a country influence foreign investments?
  • What are the consequences of patent wars in the tech industry?
  • How does the rise of freelancing shape labor laws?
  • What economic implications does the rise of eSports have?
  • How does nutrition education impact economic health?
  • What are some benefits and drawbacks of commercial space tourism?

Economics Research Topics for Exams

If you're preparing for an exam, it's important to have a good understanding of the concepts and theories that you'll be tested on. To help you prepare, we offer these economics research topics for exams to study:

  • Implications of autonomous vehicles on transportation.
  • Role of trade unions in contemporary job markets.
  • Analysis of gender disparities in retirement savings.
  • Influence of corporate social responsibility on brand reputation.
  • How do plant-based diets influence the global meat industry.
  • Evaluating efficiency of ride-sharing platforms.
  • Role of drones in shaping future commercial landscapes.
  • How public health initiatives influence workplace productivity.
  • Exploring the potential economic impact of asteroid mining.
  • How does fashion industry affect global economy and environmental sustainability?
  • Impact of video-on-demand services on traditional film industries.
  • Role of social entrepreneurship in poverty alleviation.
  • Role of energy-efficient appliances in electricity markets.
  • Influence of shifting demographics on global trends.
  • How does celebrity endorsement influence consumer buying behavior?

Economics Research Paper Topics for Experts

For those who are already experts in the field of economics, finding 100% original economics research topics can be an uphill struggle. But not with ideas attached below:

  • How does quantum computing pose an economic challenge to cybersecurity firms?
  • How do gene editing technologies affect agricultural markets?
  • In what ways does space commercialization affect global economies?
  • How does increased lifespan influence retirement and pension systems?
  • Financial viability of carbon capture and storage.
  • Influence of ethical consumerism on global supply chains.
  • How have nanotechnologies impacted manufacturing sectors?
  • Impact of rising sea levels on coastal economies.
  • Role of predictive analytics in preventing financial fraud.
  • Examining the economic consequences of major oil spills.
  • How does deep face technology pose an economic challenge to film industries?
  • Economic impacts of large-scale reforestation.
  • Implications of extensive antibiotic resistance.
  • Impacts of geopolitical tensions on global oil prices.
  • Universal basic income as a solution for automation-induced job loss.

Bottom Line on Economics Papers Topics

Hopefully, by now you have found a perfect economics research paper topic. Make sure you can find enough evidence to back up your points. But if you have any difficulties with the research or writing process, consider to buy coursework or any other project from academic experts.

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Home > Academics > Master's Programmes > Master in Economics > The Best Master Thesis in Economics

The Best Master Thesis in Economics

Academic year 2022-2023, academic year 2021-2022, academic year 2020-2021, academic year 2019-2020, academic year 2018-2019, academic year 2017-2018.

  • Academic Year 2016-2017

Academic Year 2015-2016

Academic year 2014-2015.

Impact of conflicts on the underground drug economy in Aghanistan (PDF, 764 Ko) Antoine POL under the direction of Golvine de Rochambeau , Assistant Professor  of Economics at Sciences Po.

The case of win-win bilateral slot swapping between ECAC area competing airlines (PDF, 951 Ko)  Hugo BARRAS under the direction of   Marleen Marra , Assistant Professor of Economics at Sciences Po.

Do Banks Help Build? Evidence from the 19th century US (PDF, 2,7 Mo) Martin BERNSTEIN under the direction of Moritz Schularick , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po & Clement de Chaisemartin , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po, ERC Project REALLYCREDIBLE, NBER Faculty Research Fellow, J-PAL Affiliated Professor.

Heterogeneous firms and Sudden Stops: insights from Chile (PDF, 835 Ko) Natalia CARDENAS FRIAS under the direction of Xavier Ragot , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po et President of the OFCE.

Structural cost and network effects in a decentralized network: The case of Mastodon platform (PDF, 290 Ko) Mathias DACHERT under the direction of Michele Fioretti ,  Assistant Professor of Economics at Sciences Po.

Age-Earnings Profiles in China (PDF, 1,4 Mo) Fangqi DING under the direction of Moshe Buchinsky , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po.

Natural and Financial Crises: Do Natural Disasters Increase The Risk Of Financial Crises? (PDF, 701 Ko) Daniel FICHMANN under the direction of Moritz Schularick , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po.

Intergenerational mobility in Mauritius (PDF, 889 Ko) Jeteesha FOOLLEE under the direction of Roberto Galbiati , Professor (CNRS), CEPR Research Fellow, ANR Project SOSELF.

The merits of boarding (PDF, 2,3 Mo) Alexandre GRELLET under the direction of Clement de Chaisemartin , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po, ERC Project REALLYCREDIBLE, NBER Faculty Research Fellow , J-PAL Affiliated Professor.

Causal Effect of Studying Ancient Languages on Overall School Performance: Evidence from French Data (PDF, 2,1 Mo) Anthony KUYU under the direction of Clement de Chaisemartin , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po, ERC Project REALLYCREDIBLE, NBER Faculty Research Fellow , J-PAL Affiliated Professor.

Holes in the ceiling! Dividend elasticities and tax avoidance in light of the ceiling mechanism of the French wealth tax (PDF, 1,9 Mo) Elvin LE POUHAËR under the direction of Lucas Chancel , Associate Professor at Sciences Po.

Consequences of Colonial Rule on Health Outcomes in India (PDF, 1,2 Mo) Kunal PANDA under the direction of Emeric Henry , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po, ANR Project SOSELF, CEPR Research Fellow.

A good year to bury bad loans? Uncovering liquidity in the market for non-performing loans (PDF, 1.12 Mo) Nathaniel Butler Blondel under the direction of Guillaume Plantin , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po &  Maximilian Fandl of the Macroprudential Division at the European Central Bank

Mobility of French teachers in secondary education: modelisation and estimation of a dynamic centralised matching market (PDF, 1.37 Mo) Antoine Chapel under the direction of Jean-Marc Robin , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po & Alfred Galichon , Professor of Economics at New York University

The Drivers of Social and Individual Environmental Behaviour (PDF, 1.82 Mo) Sidonie Commarmond under the direction of Emeric Henry , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po & Roberto Galbiati , CNRS Professor (DR) at Sciences Po

Weighted Dynamic Latent Block Model and its Applications in Sorting Estimation (PDF, 1.55 Mo) Xinyu Dai under the direction of Jean-Marc Robin , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po & Junnan He, Assistant Professor of Economics at Sciences Po

Does school choice increase social segregation? Evidence from private schools opening in France between 2005 and 2019 (PDF, 2.95 Mo) Constance Frohly under the direction of Pierre Cahuc , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po & Denis Fougère , Directeur de recherche CNRS-CRIS

Cost and benefit of green R&D: evidence from French firms (PDF, 1.10 Mo) Axel Meunier under the direction of Jean-Marc Robin , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po & Agnès Benassy-Quéré , Professor of Economics at Paris School of Economics

Campaign Finance Quotas and Female Political Representation: Evidence from 2018 Brazilian Reform  (PDF, 2.42 Mo) Olympia Tsoutsoplidi under the direction of Julia Cagé , Associate Professor & Benjamin Marx , Assistant Professor of Economics at Sciences Po

International inequality transmission in a two-country HANK model (PDF, 43 Mo) Naomi Cohen  under the direction of Xavier Ragot , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po

Job seeker's strategic attention allocation : Evidence from a Field Experiment (PDF, 315 ko) Mattis Gilbert  under the direction of Pierre Cahuc , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po

Women Empowerment through Public Employment Programmes: Evidence from Ethiopia (PDF, 2 Mo) Till Kadereit   under the direction of Benjamin Marx , Assistant Professor  of Economics at Sciences Po

Price discrimination with endogenous participation in two-sided platforms (PDF, 536 ko) Aurélien Salas under the direction of Eduardo Perez-Richet , Assistant Professor  of Economics at Sciences Po

The landscapes of transition: Identifying economic geography in the emergence of capitalist markets in Central and Eastern Europe (PDF, 2 Mo) Karolina Wilczyńska under the direction of Thierry Mayer , Professor of Economics at Sciences Po

Inequality and Current Account - Imbalances in a Monetary Union. Heterogeneous heterogeneities in the Eurozone (PDF, 11Mo) Danell Benguigui sous la direction de Xavier Ragot , Professeur d'économie à Sciences Po

Paris Terrorist Attacks and Hotel Word‐of‐Mouth (PDF, 497 ko) Yulin Hao sous la direction de Michèle Fioretti , Assistant Professor  au Département d'Économie, Sciences Po

Political Trust, Political Participation and Conflict. A case study of the Boko Haram conflict in Nigeria (PDF, 2.71 Mo) Simeon Lauterbach sous la direction de Benjamin Marx , Assistant Professor  au Département d'Économie, Sciences Po

Public debt and safety trap in open economies (PDF, 440 ko) Valentin Marchal sous la direction de  Nicolas Coeurdacier , Associate Professor of Economics at  Sciences Po

Global Migration and the Skill Premium (PDF, 346 ko) Alberto Nasi sous la direction de Thierry Mayer , Professeur d'économie à Sciences Po

Information design against petty corruption (PDF, 341ko) Grégory Dannay , sous la direction d' Eduardo Perez-Richet , Professeur d'économie à Sciences Po

What drives the French discontent? (PDF, 453 ko) Eva Davoine , sous la direction de Benjamin Marx , Assistant Professor  au Département d'Économie, Sciences Po

Overtime Hours and Bonuses: A Story of Fiscal Optimization (PDF, 700ko) Nicolas Ghio , sous la direction de Pierre Cahuc , Professeur à Sciences Po &   Denis Fougère , Directeur de recherche CNRS - OSC-LIEPP

Knocking on closed doors? Identifying the determinants of employer call-backs for unskilled youth (PDF, 1.20Mo) Lorenzo Kaaks, sous la direction de Pierre Cahuc , Professeur à Sciences Po

Cracks in the boards: the opportunity cost of homogeneous boards of directors (PDF, 5.37Mo) Hélène Maghin , sous la direction de Ghazala Azmat , Professeur à Sciences Po

Does Dark Trading Alter Liquidity? Evidence from European Regulation (PDF, 504ko) Victor Saint-Jean , sous la direction de Stéphane Guibaud , Assistant Professor  au Département d'Économie, Sciences Po

The Relationship Between Housing Vouchers and Educational Attainment in Atlanta, GA (PDF, 396ko) Rebecca Smith , sous la direction de Ghazala Azmat , Professeur à Sciences Po

Reading about Flood Risk in the News - Evidence from the Housing Market (PDF, 19Mo) Jeanne Sorin , sous la direction de Julia Cagé ,  Assistant Professor  au Département d'Économie, Sciences Po &  Florian Oswald ,  Assistant Professor  au Département d'Économie, Sciences Po 

Gravity in paradise - How do tax havens shape multinational production (PDF) Samuel Delpeuch sous la direction de Zsofia Barany , Assistant Professor au Département d'Économie, Sciences Po et Thomas Chaney , Professeur d'économie à Sciences Po

Chasing the Flapper Vote Women Enfranchisement and Electoral Outcomes at the 1929 British General Election (PDF) Edgard Dewitte sous la direction de Julia Cagé , Assistant Professor au Département d'Économie, Sciences Po

Savings in a 3 Period-Model with a Behavioral Agent - Rational inattention with a Sparse Dynamic Approach (PDF) Galo Egas G. sous la direction de Xavier Ragot , Professeur d'économie à Sciences Po

Quality of life in French cities (PDF) Mylène Feuillade sous la direction de Pierre-Philippe Combes , Professeur d'économie à Sciences Po et Laurent Gobillon , Professeur d'économie à Paris School of Economics

Non-Cognitive Skills Training and Educational Outcomes: New Evidence from French Middle Schools (PDF) Laura Green sous la direction de GREEN, Yann Algan , Doyen de l’École d’Affaires Publiques (EAP) et Professeur d’économie à Sciences Po & Denis Fougère , Directeur de recherche CNRS - OSC-LIEPP

Dynamics of local employment in Europe: Is the impact of agglomeration economies time inconsistent?  (PDF) Magdalena Kizior sous la direction de Pierre-Henri Bono , Chef de projet au LIEPP & Département d'économie de Sciences Po, Jean Imbs , Directeur de recherche CNRS, Paris School of Economics

Learning under Coarse Thinking (PDF) Daniel M. de A. Barreto sous la direction de Eduardo Perez-Richet , Professeur d'économie à Sciences Po et Jeanne Hagenbach, Associate Professor d'économie à Sciences Po

Estimating employment effects of the German minimum wage (PDF) Johannes Seebauer sous la direction de Florian Oswald , Assistant Professor à Sciences Po & Denis Fougère , Directeur de recherche CNRS - OSC-LIEPP

Present-Bias and Salience in Discounting Acros Short Durations: a Proposed Experimental Approach (PDF) Zydney Wong sous la direction de Jeanne Hagenbach, Associate Professor au Département d'Économie, Sciences Po & Emeric Henry, Associate Professor au Département d'Économie, Sciences Po

Academic year 2016-2017

Does training pay? Estimating the wage returns to vocational training in France (PDF)

Olivier Cassagneau-Francis sous la direction de Jean-Marc Robin , Professeur à Sciences Po et  Robert Gary-Bobo , Professeur à l'ENSAE

Competing Information Designers (PDF)

Théo Durandard  sous la direction d' Eduardo Perez-Richet , Professeur d'économie à Sciences Po

What's new in the new? Media coverage about the ECB and market participants'inflation expectations   (PDF)

Mikael Eskenazi  sous la direction de  Christine Graeff , directrice générale de la communication de la Banque centrale européenne et Benoit Coeuré , Membre du Directoire de la Banque centrale européenne

Impact of Trade on the Characteristics of the Digital Newspaper Market (PDF)

Anaïs Galdin  sous la direction de  Julia Cagé , Associate Professor of Economics à Sciences Po et Thomas Chaney , Professeur d'économie à Sciences Po

Intergenerational Income Mobility in France : National and Territorial Estimates (PDF)

Gustave Kenedi sous la direction de Pierre-Philippe Combes , Professeur d'économie à Sciences Po

Intergenerational transfert without commitment: a macroeconomic framework (PDF)

Hugo Lhuillier  sous la direction de  Nicolas Coeurdacier , Associate Professor of Economics at Sciences Po

Evaluation of the impact computer-aided instruction on student performence  (PDF)

Clémence Lobut  sous la direction de  Denis Fougère , Directeur de recherche CNRS - OSC-LIEPP

Colonial Administrators and Public Educational - Investments in French West Africa   (PDF)

Christine Cai sous la direction de Quoc Anh DO , Associate Professor of Economics 

  Incumbency Effect and Partisanship in development: Evidence from close elections in India  (PDF)

Ragini Chaurasia, sous la direction de  Sergei Guriev , Professor of Economics

Were Administrators the "Rulers of the Empire"? An Empirical Investigation of the Determinants of Colonial Public Investments in French West Africa (PDF)

Par Sacha Dray, sous la direction d' Elise Huillery , Assistant Professor of Economics et Quoc-Anh Do,  Associate Professor of Economics 

Aspirations, Family Background and Educational Outcomes: Evidence of a Poverty Trap in Ethiopia, India, Peru and Vietnam (PDF)

Ava Guez, sous la direction d' Elise Huillery , Assistant Professor of Economics

  Present and Future Costs of Education and International Students - Evidence from a Natural Experiment in Germany  (PDF)

Par Benoit Rauturier, sous la direction d' Etienne Wasmer , Full Professor of Economics

  The Consequences of Managerial Short-termism on the Firm : Theory and Empirics  (PDF)

Bilal Tabti, sous la direction de  Guillaume Plantin , Professor of Economics

Measuring the impact of the CICE on Firms' investments (PDF)

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Home > CLA > ECON > Applied Economics Masters Theses Collection

Applied Economics Masters Theses Collection

This collection contains open access and campus access Masters theses, made possible through Graduate Studies at the University of Massachusetts Boston. The full content of open access theses is available to all, although some files may have embargoes placed on them and will be made available as soon as possible. The full content of campus access theses is only available to those either on the UMass Boston campus or with a UMass Boston campus username and password. Click on the "Off-Campus UMass Boston Users" link on the record page to download Campus Access publications. Those not on campus and those without a UMass Boston campus username and password may gain access to this thesis through resources like Proquest Dissertations & Theses Global or through Interlibrary Loan.

Theses from 2019 2019

Off The Farm: An Evaluation Of Non-Farm Earnings And Employment On Poverty Alleviation In Rural Nicaragua , Magaly Vanessa Saenz Somarriba

Theses from 2018 2018

Hydropower in the Decarbonized Mauritian Grid: A Prospective Study , Benjamin M. Havumaki

Renewable Biomass Energy Utilization in Mauritius: A Cost-Minimization Approach , Ariana K. Lema-Driscoll

Theses from 2016 2016

Trends in Marriage and Women's Earnings: Evidence From Administrative Data , Kristie L. Flaherty

Financial Markets and the American Working Class: An Empirical Investigation of Financial Stress , Michael J. McCormack

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Research Topics & Ideas: Finance

120+ Finance Research Topic Ideas To Fast-Track Your Project

If you’re just starting out exploring potential research topics for your finance-related dissertation, thesis or research project, you’ve come to the right place. In this post, we’ll help kickstart your research topic ideation process by providing a hearty list of finance-centric research topics and ideas.

PS – This is just the start…

We know it’s exciting to run through a list of research topics, but please keep in mind that this list is just a starting point . To develop a suitable education-related research topic, you’ll need to identify a clear and convincing research gap , and a viable plan of action to fill that gap.

If this sounds foreign to you, check out our free research topic webinar that explores how to find and refine a high-quality research topic, from scratch. Alternatively, if you’d like hands-on help, consider our 1-on-1 coaching service .

Overview: Finance Research Topics

  • Corporate finance topics
  • Investment banking topics
  • Private equity & VC
  • Asset management
  • Hedge funds
  • Financial planning & advisory
  • Quantitative finance
  • Treasury management
  • Financial technology (FinTech)
  • Commercial banking
  • International finance

Research topic idea mega list

Corporate Finance

These research topic ideas explore a breadth of issues ranging from the examination of capital structure to the exploration of financial strategies in mergers and acquisitions.

  • Evaluating the impact of capital structure on firm performance across different industries
  • Assessing the effectiveness of financial management practices in emerging markets
  • A comparative analysis of the cost of capital and financial structure in multinational corporations across different regulatory environments
  • Examining how integrating sustainability and CSR initiatives affect a corporation’s financial performance and brand reputation
  • Analysing how rigorous financial analysis informs strategic decisions and contributes to corporate growth
  • Examining the relationship between corporate governance structures and financial performance
  • A comparative analysis of financing strategies among mergers and acquisitions
  • Evaluating the importance of financial transparency and its impact on investor relations and trust
  • Investigating the role of financial flexibility in strategic investment decisions during economic downturns
  • Investigating how different dividend policies affect shareholder value and the firm’s financial performance

Investment Banking

The list below presents a series of research topics exploring the multifaceted dimensions of investment banking, with a particular focus on its evolution following the 2008 financial crisis.

  • Analysing the evolution and impact of regulatory frameworks in investment banking post-2008 financial crisis
  • Investigating the challenges and opportunities associated with cross-border M&As facilitated by investment banks.
  • Evaluating the role of investment banks in facilitating mergers and acquisitions in emerging markets
  • Analysing the transformation brought about by digital technologies in the delivery of investment banking services and its effects on efficiency and client satisfaction.
  • Evaluating the role of investment banks in promoting sustainable finance and the integration of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria in investment decisions.
  • Assessing the impact of technology on the efficiency and effectiveness of investment banking services
  • Examining the effectiveness of investment banks in pricing and marketing IPOs, and the subsequent performance of these IPOs in the stock market.
  • A comparative analysis of different risk management strategies employed by investment banks
  • Examining the relationship between investment banking fees and corporate performance
  • A comparative analysis of competitive strategies employed by leading investment banks and their impact on market share and profitability

Private Equity & Venture Capital (VC)

These research topic ideas are centred on venture capital and private equity investments, with a focus on their impact on technological startups, emerging technologies, and broader economic ecosystems.

  • Investigating the determinants of successful venture capital investments in tech startups
  • Analysing the trends and outcomes of venture capital funding in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, or clean energy
  • Assessing the performance and return on investment of different exit strategies employed by venture capital firms
  • Assessing the impact of private equity investments on the financial performance of SMEs
  • Analysing the role of venture capital in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship
  • Evaluating the exit strategies of private equity firms: A comparative analysis
  • Exploring the ethical considerations in private equity and venture capital financing
  • Investigating how private equity ownership influences operational efficiency and overall business performance
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of corporate governance structures in companies backed by private equity investments
  • Examining how the regulatory environment in different regions affects the operations, investments and performance of private equity and venture capital firms

Research Topic Kickstarter - Need Help Finding A Research Topic?

Asset Management

This list includes a range of research topic ideas focused on asset management, probing into the effectiveness of various strategies, the integration of technology, and the alignment with ethical principles among other key dimensions.

  • Analysing the effectiveness of different asset allocation strategies in diverse economic environments
  • Analysing the methodologies and effectiveness of performance attribution in asset management firms
  • Assessing the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria on fund performance
  • Examining the role of robo-advisors in modern asset management
  • Evaluating how advancements in technology are reshaping portfolio management strategies within asset management firms
  • Evaluating the performance persistence of mutual funds and hedge funds
  • Investigating the long-term performance of portfolios managed with ethical or socially responsible investing principles
  • Investigating the behavioural biases in individual and institutional investment decisions
  • Examining the asset allocation strategies employed by pension funds and their impact on long-term fund performance
  • Assessing the operational efficiency of asset management firms and its correlation with fund performance

Hedge Funds

Here we explore research topics related to hedge fund operations and strategies, including their implications on corporate governance, financial market stability, and regulatory compliance among other critical facets.

  • Assessing the impact of hedge fund activism on corporate governance and financial performance
  • Analysing the effectiveness and implications of market-neutral strategies employed by hedge funds
  • Investigating how different fee structures impact the performance and investor attraction to hedge funds
  • Evaluating the contribution of hedge funds to financial market liquidity and the implications for market stability
  • Analysing the risk-return profile of hedge fund strategies during financial crises
  • Evaluating the influence of regulatory changes on hedge fund operations and performance
  • Examining the level of transparency and disclosure practices in the hedge fund industry and its impact on investor trust and regulatory compliance
  • Assessing the contribution of hedge funds to systemic risk in financial markets, and the effectiveness of regulatory measures in mitigating such risks
  • Examining the role of hedge funds in financial market stability
  • Investigating the determinants of hedge fund success: A comparative analysis

Financial Planning and Advisory

This list explores various research topic ideas related to financial planning, focusing on the effects of financial literacy, the adoption of digital tools, taxation policies, and the role of financial advisors.

  • Evaluating the impact of financial literacy on individual financial planning effectiveness
  • Analysing how different taxation policies influence financial planning strategies among individuals and businesses
  • Evaluating the effectiveness and user adoption of digital tools in modern financial planning practices
  • Investigating the adequacy of long-term financial planning strategies in ensuring retirement security
  • Assessing the role of financial education in shaping financial planning behaviour among different demographic groups
  • Examining the impact of psychological biases on financial planning and decision-making, and strategies to mitigate these biases
  • Assessing the behavioural factors influencing financial planning decisions
  • Examining the role of financial advisors in managing retirement savings
  • A comparative analysis of traditional versus robo-advisory in financial planning
  • Investigating the ethics of financial advisory practices

Free Webinar: How To Find A Dissertation Research Topic

The following list delves into research topics within the insurance sector, touching on the technological transformations, regulatory shifts, and evolving consumer behaviours among other pivotal aspects.

  • Analysing the impact of technology adoption on insurance pricing and risk management
  • Analysing the influence of Insurtech innovations on the competitive dynamics and consumer choices in insurance markets
  • Investigating the factors affecting consumer behaviour in insurance product selection and the role of digital channels in influencing decisions
  • Assessing the effect of regulatory changes on insurance product offerings
  • Examining the determinants of insurance penetration in emerging markets
  • Evaluating the operational efficiency of claims management processes in insurance companies and its impact on customer satisfaction
  • Examining the evolution and effectiveness of risk assessment models used in insurance underwriting and their impact on pricing and coverage
  • Evaluating the role of insurance in financial stability and economic development
  • Investigating the impact of climate change on insurance models and products
  • Exploring the challenges and opportunities in underwriting cyber insurance in the face of evolving cyber threats and regulations

Quantitative Finance

These topic ideas span the development of asset pricing models, evaluation of machine learning algorithms, and the exploration of ethical implications among other pivotal areas.

  • Developing and testing new quantitative models for asset pricing
  • Analysing the effectiveness and limitations of machine learning algorithms in predicting financial market movements
  • Assessing the effectiveness of various risk management techniques in quantitative finance
  • Evaluating the advancements in portfolio optimisation techniques and their impact on risk-adjusted returns
  • Evaluating the impact of high-frequency trading on market efficiency and stability
  • Investigating the influence of algorithmic trading strategies on market efficiency and liquidity
  • Examining the risk parity approach in asset allocation and its effectiveness in different market conditions
  • Examining the application of machine learning and artificial intelligence in quantitative financial analysis
  • Investigating the ethical implications of quantitative financial innovations
  • Assessing the profitability and market impact of statistical arbitrage strategies considering different market microstructures

Treasury Management

The following topic ideas explore treasury management, focusing on modernisation through technological advancements, the impact on firm liquidity, and the intertwined relationship with corporate governance among other crucial areas.

  • Analysing the impact of treasury management practices on firm liquidity and profitability
  • Analysing the role of automation in enhancing operational efficiency and strategic decision-making in treasury management
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of various cash management strategies in multinational corporations
  • Investigating the potential of blockchain technology in streamlining treasury operations and enhancing transparency
  • Examining the role of treasury management in mitigating financial risks
  • Evaluating the accuracy and effectiveness of various cash flow forecasting techniques employed in treasury management
  • Assessing the impact of technological advancements on treasury management operations
  • Examining the effectiveness of different foreign exchange risk management strategies employed by treasury managers in multinational corporations
  • Assessing the impact of regulatory compliance requirements on the operational and strategic aspects of treasury management
  • Investigating the relationship between treasury management and corporate governance

Financial Technology (FinTech)

The following research topic ideas explore the transformative potential of blockchain, the rise of open banking, and the burgeoning landscape of peer-to-peer lending among other focal areas.

  • Evaluating the impact of blockchain technology on financial services
  • Investigating the implications of open banking on consumer data privacy and financial services competition
  • Assessing the role of FinTech in financial inclusion in emerging markets
  • Analysing the role of peer-to-peer lending platforms in promoting financial inclusion and their impact on traditional banking systems
  • Examining the cybersecurity challenges faced by FinTech firms and the regulatory measures to ensure data protection and financial stability
  • Examining the regulatory challenges and opportunities in the FinTech ecosystem
  • Assessing the impact of artificial intelligence on the delivery of financial services, customer experience, and operational efficiency within FinTech firms
  • Analysing the adoption and impact of cryptocurrencies on traditional financial systems
  • Investigating the determinants of success for FinTech startups

Research topic evaluator

Commercial Banking

These topic ideas span commercial banking, encompassing digital transformation, support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and the evolving regulatory and competitive landscape among other key themes.

  • Assessing the impact of digital transformation on commercial banking services and competitiveness
  • Analysing the impact of digital transformation on customer experience and operational efficiency in commercial banking
  • Evaluating the role of commercial banks in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs)
  • Investigating the effectiveness of credit risk management practices and their impact on bank profitability and financial stability
  • Examining the relationship between commercial banking practices and financial stability
  • Evaluating the implications of open banking frameworks on the competitive landscape and service innovation in commercial banking
  • Assessing how regulatory changes affect lending practices and risk appetite of commercial banks
  • Examining how commercial banks are adapting their strategies in response to competition from FinTech firms and changing consumer preferences
  • Analysing the impact of regulatory compliance on commercial banking operations
  • Investigating the determinants of customer satisfaction and loyalty in commercial banking

International Finance

The folowing research topic ideas are centred around international finance and global economic dynamics, delving into aspects like exchange rate fluctuations, international financial regulations, and the role of international financial institutions among other pivotal areas.

  • Analysing the determinants of exchange rate fluctuations and their impact on international trade
  • Analysing the influence of global trade agreements on international financial flows and foreign direct investments
  • Evaluating the effectiveness of international portfolio diversification strategies in mitigating risks and enhancing returns
  • Evaluating the role of international financial institutions in global financial stability
  • Investigating the role and implications of offshore financial centres on international financial stability and regulatory harmonisation
  • Examining the impact of global financial crises on emerging market economies
  • Examining the challenges and regulatory frameworks associated with cross-border banking operations
  • Assessing the effectiveness of international financial regulations
  • Investigating the challenges and opportunities of cross-border mergers and acquisitions

Choosing A Research Topic

These finance-related research topic ideas are starting points to guide your thinking. They are intentionally very broad and open-ended. By engaging with the currently literature in your field of interest, you’ll be able to narrow down your focus to a specific research gap .

When choosing a topic , you’ll need to take into account its originality, relevance, feasibility, and the resources you have at your disposal. Make sure to align your interest and expertise in the subject with your university program’s specific requirements. Always consult your academic advisor to ensure that your chosen topic not only meets the academic criteria but also provides a valuable contribution to the field. 

If you need a helping hand, feel free to check out our private coaching service here.

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50+ Economics Dissertation Topics in 2024

Manali Ganguly Image

Manali Ganguly ,

Mar 4, 2024

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The most popular economics dissertation topics in 2024 are economic development, economic policy and planning, impact of globalisation on economy, money and rates of interest, and international finance among others.

50+ Economics Dissertation Topics in 2024

The economics dissertation topics include impact of globalisation on economy, international finance, economic development, the macroeconomic features of international trade, and many more. A student who has enrolled in a BA Economics course or who is pursuing a PhD in Economics must be aware of the topics that are popularly selected to prepare economics dissertation.

Economics can be said to be a social science associated with the production, distribution, and the consumption of services. The subject analyses the efforts made by the country, organisation, or individual for the allocation of resources.

Economics covers a vast number of topics. These are macroeconomics, microeconomics, international economics, managerial economics, labour economics, behavioural economics and many more.

Top 50+ Economics Dissertation Topics

The list of economics dissertation topics that have been listed below are the most popular ones picked up by the students. These topics cover varied theories, laws, and principles of economics. The list has been categorised under various heads, which are as follows:

  • Macroeconomics Dissertation Topics
  • Microeconomics Dissertation Topics
  • Economic Geography Dissertation Topics
  • Labour Economics Dissertation Topics
  • Environmental Economics Dissertation Topics

1. Macroeconomics Dissertation Topics

This branch of Economics studies the performance, behaviour, structure, and decision-making of an aggregate or the whole economy. Long term growth in the economy and short termed cycles in business are the two major areas of macroeconomics.

The economics dissertation topics for macroeconomics are:

  • Is the system of economics practicable for all sections of a society?
  • How do interest rates affect consumption in a country?
  • Effect of Covid-19 on industrial production?
  • Using big data in behavioural economics at macro level
  • Has Brexit influenced the rate and quality of consumer spending?
  • Division of tax between a buyer and seller
  • How to mitigate the space between theory and practise of behavioural macroeconomics?
  • FDI and interest rates in India
  • Is it necessary to revise neoclassical growth according to the modern world conditions?
  • Housing prices and the macroeconomics determinants

Also Check: Thesis Vs. Dissertation - Meaning, Differences and Similarities

2. Microeconomics Dissertation Topics

Microeconomics is the branch of economics that deals with the study of households, firms, and individual’s ' behaviour in allocating resources. It applies to goods and services and deals with economic and individual issues.

The dissertation topics on macroeconomics are:

  • A macroeconomic study of the energy sector
  • The relationship between merger and acquisition and productivity
  • Inequality of income in the Indian workforce
  • The antitrust regulations and horizontal mergers
  • Impact of the new supermarket stores on local economy
  • The impact of cryptocurrency on economy
  • The concept of minimum wage for the daily wage wage earners
  • Relationship between the game theory and decision theory
  • Impact of eCommerce on small and medium enterprises
  • Is the profit percentage made by a firm directly proportional to the size of the firm? Shed light on the telecommunication sector

Also Check : Skill Development Courses List for Students 2024

3. Economic Geography Dissertation Topics

Economic geography can be said to be a part of human geography and the economic activities that affect it. This is a subfield of economics.

The economics dissertation topics related to economic geography are:

  • How is local proximity being affected by the networks? Difference between co-localized and dispersed networks
  • The effect of Covid-19 on the economic life in the cities
  • The role of local and regional cultures in the shaping of economic development of the entrepreneurs
  • Indian economy in the post pandemic era
  • National, regional, and local policies for an environment conducive to local cluster
  • How does local culture help promote regional innovation networks?
  • What is regional divergence? Poorest and richest areas in India in terms of wealth distribution.
  • The difference in entrepreneurial behaviour between the rural and urban areas
  • How can natural calamities affect the economy and resources of a localised region or state or country?
  • How has recession affected the economic geography of India in the past?

Also Check : 6 Coping Strategies For Student Mental Health

4. Labour Economics Dissertation Topics

The Labour Economics studies the role of the labour force in the production process. The labour force refers to the whole gamut of the industry, i.e., the employers and the employed.

The distinctive labour economics dissertation topics are:

  • A critical and analytical assessment of a collective bargaining practice
  • The role of gender inequality in the staggered growth of economy and productivity within the context of work-culture
  • The impact of digitization on the labour market
  • How practical are the economic labour laws in India?
  • Government policies in favour of self-employment
  • The impact of ‘Vocal for local’ on local and regional economies in India
  • Immigration policies in India and its impact on the local labour market
  • Labour exploitation in China and its impact on the labour laws of the country
  • How Brexit has impacted the policy outcomes shaping the local economy of the cities in the United Kingdom.
  • Cheap labour: An exploitation of the labour laws in India

Also Check :  10 Tips for Staying Focused and Productive as A Student

5. Environmental Economics Dissertation Topics

Environmental economics is a branch of economics that deals with the cost-effective use, allocation, and protection of the natural resources of the world.

The most popular environmental economics dissertation topics are:

  • The impact of a company running on an eco-friendly model on its competitiveness in the market
  • The economic and cultural impact of the of the maintenance of heritage cities on a country’s economy
  • A qualitative study of the paying for recycled products
  • Biological invasion and its impact on a country’s economy
  • Analysing the impact of risk aversions in the context of goods and services
  • Climate change and its impact on natural production and thereby on the national economy
  • Does drinking clean water really impact the GDP of a country?
  • The impact of greenhouse effect on the global and local economy
  • Waste management procedure: implication on the environmental economy
  • Economic environmental policies in the lights of natural disasters: An impact on the national economy
  • Is the growth of new industries impacting the environment economy of India?
  • Preservation of natural resources and its impact on the economy

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Topics for master's theses

Topics for master's theses.

The Department of Economics would like to present the following ideas for topics:

  • Department of Economics
  • MSC in Economics and Business Administration
  • Master's thesis
  • Apply for master's thesis supervisor

Behavioural Economics

Do you feel lucky, punk.

Background:

High-achieving persons often attribute part of their success to luck – that is, exogenous events outside their own control. Random events have been shown to play a decisive role in shaping people’s life trajectories. However, people may also differ in what they infer from the same objective outcome, which could have repercussions for their long-term financial success. In this master thesis, students will get the chance to conduct an economic experiment to shed light out on why some people feel lucky: is it because they are overly optimistic about the frequency of lucky events, or because they neglect unlucky events? The thesis will then explore how these personal traits correlate with basic economic preferences, personal characteristics, and real investment behavior.

Key references: 

Kaufman (2018), “The Role of Luck in Life Success Is Far Greater Than We Realized”, Scientific American

Profile: ECN, ECO, BUS, FIN, STR

Supervisor: Mathias Ekström

Paying with money or paying with personal data

During the last years concerns have been raised regarding the business model of several tech companies, which base their revenues on advertisements from third parties in exchange of customers’ personal data. From a consumers’ perspective, an important question behind this growing debate is how to quantify a price on personal data. Do consumers attach the same value to their personal data as they do to money? Is it even possible to put a price on your personal data? Previous literature has found a mismatch between willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to accept (WTA) the sharing of personal information, but understanding behind this gap has not been fully explored. This master thesis project should conduct experiments to study a trade-off between paying with money and paying with personal data. In particular, it should explore potential explanations that could explain the mismatch between WTP and WTA of privacy.

Key references:

Acquisti, Alessandro, Leslie K. John, and George Loewenstein (2013). “What is privacy worth?.” The Journal of Legal Studies 42.2, 249-274.

Winegar, A. G. and C. R. Sunstein (2019). “How much is data privacy worth? A preliminary investigation.” Journal of Consumer Policy 42(3), 425–440.

Brynjolfsson, E. and Collis, A. (2019). “How Should We Measure the Digital Economy?”

Harvard Business Review, 97(6): 140-48. doi: 10.1257/aer.20170491

Collect your own data either by conducting an experiment on the online labor market Amazon Mechanical Turk or by doing a survey experiment.

Supervisors: Researchers from FAIR and Telenor Research.

UNDERSTANDING PATERNALISM

The extent to which it is acceptable to restrict the freedom of individuals in order to promote their own best interest is at the core of much political debate about the relationship between the state and its citizens: Should the state institute mandatory retirement savings, require motorcyclists to wear helmets or refuse to enforce certain types of contracts? Questions about the legitimate role of paternalism are also important in many interpersonal relationships, in particular between parents and their children, and people’s views on these matters may be of great importance for understanding their willingness to accept inequality in society. The master thesis project should conduct experiments to study a person’s willingness to reduce another individual’s freedom in order to promote that individual’s best interests. For example by studying how the willingness to act paternalistically depends on the characteristics of the individuals whose freedom is being restricted, such as how well informed they are, their competence, and their age.

Julian Le Grand & Bill New (2015): Government Paternalism: Nanny State or Helpful Friend? Princeton University Press, 2015

Suitable for profiles:   ECO, ECN, STR, INB, ENE

Supervisor: Alexander W. Cappelen

THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL PREFERENCES: EXPERIMENTAL EVIDENCE FROM INTERNATIONAL PILOTS

We are seeking master students who would like to write their master thesis as part of a project on the development of fairness preferences. The project is a collaboration between FAIR professors Alexander W. Cappelen and Bertil Tungodden.

We have recruited children from kindergartens and schools in Bergen to take part in a lab experiment we are implementing in September 2018. We have also collected comparable data for adults from Norway and Shanghai as well as for children from kindergartens and schools in Shanghai.

Almås, Cappelen, Sørensen and Tungodden (2010): “Fairness and the Development of Inequality Acceptance”, Science 328(5982): 1176–1178. (2) Almås, Cappelen, Salvanes, Sørensen and Tungodden (2017): “Fairness and family background”, Philosophy, Politics and Economics 16(2) 117-131. (3) Cappelen, List, Samek and Tungodden (2016): “The Effect of Early Education on Social Preferences”, NBER Working Paper No. 22898.

Suitable for:

NHH master students who are interested in helping to implement pilot experiments internationally during the fall and in writing their master thesis as part of the project are welcome to send an e-mail to Adriana Condarco-Quesada. It should include your name, your CV and a short note on why you would like to write your master thesis on this subject. Please also send any questions you might have regarding the project to Adriana.

Supervisor:   Bertil Tungodden

The role of the telco industry towards screen addiction

In the context of conducting fair business practices, a relevant question in the telecommunication industry is whether telco companies should allow and push for unlimited internet data usage. The particular issue at stake is whether providing unlimited data package would push consumers into increasing their social media use and their phone in general, and consequently increasing screen addiction. Telco companies obviously gain by costumers using more their phones. However, this issue raises ethical considerations regarding overdose and potential addiction consequences, which may eventually backfire on the companies’ long term profitability. The master thesis project should conduct experiments or surveys to gather information about people’s perspective on the role of telco companies towards screen use. In particular, it should focus on understanding the view on companies’ interventions when the consumer lacks the will power and/or intrinsic motivation to reduce his/her data consumption.

Alter, A. (2017). “Irresistible: The rise of addictive technology and the business of keeping us hooked”. Penguin.

Supervisors:  Researchers from  FAIR and Telenor Research.

WHAT DRIVES CONSUMERS TO CHANGE ELECTRICITY PROVIDER?

In markets characterized by subscription services, such as electricity, banking and telecommunications, we often find that consumers change providers or plans to a very low extent despite considerable price differences between seemingly similar (or even homogenous) products. There are many potential explanations for this phenomenon, e.g., lack of information, costs of switching, and strong preferences for particular providers. Understanding the sources of passive consumer behavior is important for both regulation, business planning, government policy and market design. We find clear signs of consumer passivity also in the Norwegian electricity retail market, and data sources available to this supervisor can allow a talented student to shed light on some of the potential channels.

von der Fehr and Hansen (2010): "Electricity Retailing in Norway", The Energy Journal 31: 25-45 (Basic reference); Hortacsu et al (2015): "Power to Choose? An Analysis of Consumer Inertia in the Residential Electricity Market", NBER Working Paper No. 20988 (Advanced reference)

Data:  Monthly data on number of subscriptions and sales (kWh) for the largest retailers within local areas will be provided by the supervisor, as well as weekly contract prices and monthly visitor statistics for the contract comparison website of the Competition Authority. Wholesale electricity prices and other useful market statistics can be gathered from Nordpool.

Suitable for profiles:  ECO, ECN, ENE, BUS, FIE, INB

Supervisor:   Morten Sæthre

Energy efficiency and electricity consumption: Drivers of green technology adoption

(Note: Theses under this topic can be eligible for an  Equinor scholarship for master theses .)

Description:

Assessments of potential savings from energy efficiency investments have suggested the existence of an "Energy Efficiency Gap"; that consumers do not undertake energy efficiency investments with even large positive returns. Though the conclusion has been hotly debated in the academic literature, we still lack a solid understanding of drivers and barriers to energy efficiency adoption, which is necessary for designing appropriate policies. Currently, most countries employ some combination of regulation and subsidies to increase energy efficiency, e.g., 100-300 mNOK in yearly Enova subsidies for households in Norway.

Under this topic, you will contribute to our understanding of green technology adoption under the supervision of one or more experienced researchers with competences targeted to different approaches and research questions. Examples of specific projects are "Inattention and green technology: Do temporary shocks to electricity prices spur adoption?", "Does increased electricity demand lead to energy efficiency investment: Evidence from electric vehicle take-up", and "Are green technology subsidies regressive?", "Constrained wallets or constrained minds: The role of mental budgeting and relative thinking in green technology investment", or "Green loans vs investment subsidies: The optimal mix". The examples are far from an exhaustive list, and we encourage you to contact us if you could see yourself writing your master thesis within this topic and want to learn more.

Hunt Allcott and Michael Greenstone (2012) "Is There an Energy Efficiency Gap", Journal of Economic Perspectives 26, pp. 3-28

Hunt Allcott (2016) "Paternalism and Energy Efficiency: An Overview", Annual Review of Economics 8, pp. 145-176

Anna Sahari (2019) "Electricity prices and consumers' long-term technology choices: Evidence from heating investments", European Economic Review 114, pp. 19-53

Electricity prices and consumption data from Nordpool and Statistics Norway, Enova subsidies, statistics on sales of efficient heating systems. It might be possible to gain access to household data given availability and project needs.

Suitable for profiles:  BUS, ECN, ECO, ENE, FIN

(Tentative) supervisor:  Samuel D. Hirshman , Harim Kim,  Eirik G. Kristiansen ,  Mateusz Mysliwski  and/or  Morten Sæthre

Development Economics

Bulk buying and poverty.

Buying in bulk is a common way that consumers use to obtain lower prices on their purchases. There is now some evidence that low income consumers are not exploiting this strategy well, despite the large potential gains. The thesis will review the issue, and use an innovative detailed dataset from India to investigate it in a new setting.

Key References:

Brian Dillon, Joachim De Weerdt, Ted O’Donoghue, Paying More for Less: Why Don’t Households in Tanzania Take Advantage of Bulk Discounts?, The World Bank Economic Review , Volume 35, Issue 1, February 2021, Pages 148–179.

Suitable for profiles:  ECN, ECO

Supervisor:  Vincent Somville

High Frequency Poverty

Poverty is typically measured at annual level. High frequency data reveals that potentially many households cross the poverty line for significant periods even if they are not poor on average on an annual basis. The thesis will investigate transitory poverty using weekly financial diaries from India.

Jonathan Morduch. Rethinking Poverty, Household Finance, and Microfinance. Forthcoming in Handbook of Microfinance, Financial Inclusion, and Development, edited by Robert Cull and Valentina Hartarska. Forthcoming.

Supervisor: Bertil Tungodden

What effect daugthers have, globally?

There is some evidence from western countries that fathering daughters changes men’s attitudes towards women in general, and can also affect the household structure.

The students will use a global data base covering dozens of countries to investigate the global effects of daughters, and how they affect the economics of families.

Washington, Ebonya L. 2008. "Female Socialization: How Daughters Affect Their Legislator Fathers." American Economic Review , 98 (1): 311-32 .

Jan Kabátek, David C Ribar, Daughters and Divorce, The Economic Journal , Volume 131, Issue 637, July 2021, Pages 2144–2170.

Economic History

Bergen as a maritime capital.

The Norwegian consultancy group Menon publishes an annual list of “The leading maritime capitals of the world”. Bergen is not included in the list of 15 cities evaluated in the report, but has been included in a longlist of 30 nominated cities that are benchmarked according to a set of 24 indicators. The aim of the thesis would be to analyze a) the basis for the ranking; and b) measures that would make Bergen a leading maritime capital.

Key literature: Menon report

Data: developed together with the supervisor

Suitable for profiles: STR, INB, BUS

Supervisor: Stig Tenold

BERGEN AS A MARITIME SERVICE PROVIDER

Bergen plays a key role as one of the leading maritime cities internationally. Bergen shipping companies have dominant positions in several markets (chemical tanker transport, open hatch bulk shipping), and there are also world-class companies in auxiliary services (in particular ship finance, insurance, ship registry). Combining historical perspectives and economic theory, the aim of the thesis would be to analyze to which extent the success of these auxiliary services is based on linkages to the local industry, and to which extent it is a result of the international orientation of the service providers themselves.

Data: Veritas, surveys developed together with the supervisor

Innovation and the patent system

Intellectual property rights are usually associated with the patent system – patents and patent laws. The relationship between patents and innovations has been studied extensively, for example how patent laws create incentives to invent, promote innovation and encourage economic growth. Historical or modern data analysis do, however, give no clear answers, and there is a potential for research that addresses several questions: Does the existence of strong patent laws encourage innovation?  What proportion of innovations is patented? Is this share constant across industries? How does patenting and licensing affect the diffusion of knowledge? Such questions have only to a limited extent been studied in a Norwegian context.

Key reference:

P. Moser, ‘Patents and Innovation: Evidence from Economic History’, Journal of Economic Perspectives, Vol. 27 (1), 2013.

Patent and innovation statistics from the Norwegian Research Council (NFR) and Patentstyret. Norwegian policy documents, company annual reports.

Suitable for profiles: ECO, ECN, STR, INB, BUS

Supervisor: Bjørn L. Basberg

The gender wage gap

How large is the gender wage gap and why do we observe a gender wage gap. These are important questions that occupy economists, business operations and politicians. Students can address this question empirically by documenting the gender wage gap with international data (e.g. OECD, Eurostat, ILO) or national data sets. An interesting focus is to look at young adults or young adults in the NEET (not in education and employment) group.  It could be interesting to compare the measure across data sources and discuss differences and explanations.

There is also a new data source made available for research for young adults in developing countries which could be explored in this thesis (see Bandiera et al. (2022). Other macro-data sources that could be explored and compared across countries, demographic groups and time are found on the webpages of the OECD, Eurostat and ILO. Students could also use historical data for a thesis on this topic.

Key References: 

Bandiera, Oriana, Ahmed Elsayed, Andrea Smurra, and Céline Zipfel. 2022. "Young Adults and Labor Markets in Africa."  Journal of Economic Perspectives , 36 (1): 81-100.

Kunze, A. (2018). The gender wage gap in developed countries.  The Oxford handbook of women and the economy , 369-394.

Fields: economics, labour markets, developing countries, developed countries, empirical, econometrics

Profile: ECON

Supervisor: Astrid Kunze

Environmental & Resource Economics

Climate change in the arctic and economic activities.

The climate change is evident in the Arctic in the way of increased temperatures, decreasing ice and consequently increased accessibility. Maritime transport, fisheries and resource exploitation (mineral oil in particular) are industries that already are pushing the frontiers further north. Since the Arctic Ocean is surrounded by several national states (Canada, the United States, Russia, Norway and Denmark / Greenland), the political tension in the region has increased in a classic ‘race for property rights’ that has historic parallels. Other non-Arctic nations, China in particular, shows increased interest in the region.

There are many potential issues and questions that could be analyzed in an economic framework. What have been the recent trends, and how do businesses and stakeholders view the future? How does the government-business interaction play out in different countries involved? The climate change involves changes in both costs and benefits. How could this be modelled and analyzed?

A.S. Crépin et.al., ‘Arctic Climate Change, Economy and Society (ACCESS): Integrated Perspectives’, Ambio, Dec. (46) 2017, 341-354 and G. Eskeland and L.S. Flottorp, ‘Climate Change in the Arctic: A Discussion of the Impact on Economic Activity’, in Glomsrød et.al. (eds.), The Economy of the North, SSB, 2006.

Data: Climate change reports, government papers and statistics, business prospects.

Suitable for profiles: ECN, STR, INB, BUS.

COMMERCIAL ACTIVITIES IN THE ANTARCTIC REGION

The Antarctic region has a long history of resource exploitation (sealing, whaling). Today, human activity in the region is dominated by science, but there are also industries like fisheries, tourism and bio-prospecting. Such industries have to a small extent been analyzed in an economic context and several questions are interesting to pursue. What is the economic scale of these operations? What is the economic and financial importance for the companies involved? Are management and regulatory systems sufficient?

B.L. Basberg, ‘Perspectives on the Economic History of the Antarctic Region’, International Journal of Maritime History, VO. XVIII (2), 2006,

Data: Economics and business statistics on tourism from the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO) and on fisheries from the Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (CCAMLR).

ECONOMIC PERSPECTIVES ON TOURISM IN THE POLAR REGIONS

Polar tourism, especially ship born cruise tourism both in the Arctic and in the Antarctic has increased for many years. Business prospects and plans seem to indicate that this will continue.

There are, however, serious challenges ahead. The climate change involves increased accessibility, but also alters the unique experience that constitutes the rationale for the industry. Concerns about long travels is also a factor that creates uncertainties about future demand for such travels.

Several questions could be analyzed about this industry in an economic context. Is it possible, within a traditional business model, to create an environmental and social sustainable industry? There seems to be large future uncertainties connected both to the supply and the demand side in this market. How could that be modelled and analyzed?

M. Lamers and B. Amelung, ‘Climate Change and its Impact for Cruise Tourism’ in M. Lück et. al. (eds), Cruise Tourism in Polar Regions. Promoting Environmental and Social Sustainability? London 2010, p. 147-165.

Data:  Climate change reports, statistics and reports from the International Association of Antarctic Tour Operators (IAATO), tour operator plans and annual reports.

Suitable for profiles: ECN, STR, INB, BUS

Reflections of climate change: suffering and regret

With increasing consumption and production of many goods and services, the humanmade effects on climate change are getting bigger and bigger. For some activities the potential effects are well-known, such as plastic taking at least 400 years to dissolve completely in the nature. For some other activities the effects can be ambiguous and unknown to the consumers, such as the impact of an e-mail box size on the environment. When there is ambiguity about the consequences of their actions, people may suffer from both the direct effects of climate change and the regret from contributing this. The master thesis project should investigate regret and regret aversion when making decisions have potential consequences for the climate. Treatment variation could be driven by using manipulated regret lotteries for consumption (or digital) decisions.

Imas, A., Lam´e, D., Wilson, A. J. (2020). Reversals between one-shot and repeated decisions in incentive design: the case of regret. Mimeo

Robinson, P. J., Botzen, W. J. (2018). The impact of regret and worry on the threshold level of concern for flood insurance demand: Evidence from Dutch homeowners. Judgment and Decision Making , 13(3), 237-245.

Volpp, K. G., John, L. K., Troxel, A. B., Norton, L., Fassbender, J., Loewenstein, G.

(2008). Financial incentive–based approaches for weight loss: a randomized trial. Jama , 300(22), 2631-2637.

Zeelenberg, M., Pieters, R. (2007). A theory of regret regulation 1.0. Journal of Consumer Psychology , 17(1), 3-18.

Collect your own data either through a survey experiment or by conducting an online experiment on a crowdsourcing platform.

Firms & Ethics

Diversity in firms, top leadership, financial and technology sector.

Societies and firms increasingly become diverse in terms of gender, sexual orientation, ethnic background, language background, age. Gender imbalances are particularly pronounced when we look at top leadership, but also sectors such as the financial and technology sector. But the goal of firms of increasing diversity is not restricted to gender balance, but also other demographic characteristics such as age, ethnic background etc.

Equality is high on the political agenda and more and more firms acknowledge that in order to recruit the best workers they need to make diversity and inclusive worklife part of their strategic goals. Firms increasingly integrate gender equality and business ethics as part of their corporate management strategy.

A masterthesis in this area can be an empirical thesis where students assemble or collect novel data that allow to measure diversity in firms and policies that firms design to increase diversity. Students could measure corporate social responsibility along various dimensions and investigate whether such policies do lead to improved firm performance. Students could also study in their thesis more conceptually why firms care about diversity.

Depending on the study profile of the student this thesis can focus on financial outcomes, socio-economic outcomes, careers or theory and empirical methods.

SNF database merged with other data (for Norway)

Orbis database (for international study)

Suitable for profiles: ECON, STR, BUS, FIN

Do business organisations in Europe use diversity and inclusive worklife policies?

I am looking for master's students who collect data from business organisations in Europe, a sample or as many as possible,  to measure whether business organisations D&I policies (e.g. a webpage) and what policies they have. This thesis can take different forms depending on the interests and skills of the students. The thesis could take a focus on the discussion what D&I are, how to categorize those and then how to measure the outcomes of interest. The collection of the data demands a plan how to collect these data (manually from webpages, scaping, or other methods). The thesis may have the design of the data collection as the main part, hand-collection of data or developing an algorithm. Students may also use the plan if there is time to collect a small sample. The most ambitious plan is to collect a large sample that may be merged with other data. If the latter part is the main part, the literature overview of D&I and the more conceptual discussion may be shorter. Instead there could be some empirical descriptive analysis part of the thesis. This thesis leaves a lot of space for the students to find their own focus matching with their interests.

References:

Hospido, L., Laeven, L., & Lamo, A. (2019). The gender promotion gap: evidence from central banking.  The Review of Economics and Statistics , 1-45.

Kalev, A., Dobbin, F., & Kelly, E. (2006). Best practices or best guesses? Assessing the efficacy of corporate affirmative action and diversity policies.  American sociological review ,  71 (4), 589-617.

Fields: organisations, labour markets, equality, diversity in firms, empirical

Profiles: ECON, STR, FOR

Do universities in Europe have diversity and inclusive worklife policies

I am looking for master's students who collect data from universities in Europe, a sample or as many as possible,  to measure whether universities and economic faculties in Europe have D&I policies (e.g. a webpage) and what policies they have. This thesis can take different forms depending on the interests and skills of the students. The thesis could take a focus on the discussion what D&I are, how to categorize those and then how to measure the outcomes of interest. The collection of the data demands a plan how to collect these data (manually from webpages, scaping, or other methods). The thesis may have the design of the data collection as the main part. Students may also use the plan if there is time to collect a small sample. The most ambitious plan is to collect a large sample  that may be merged with other data on representation of women among Professors in Economics. If the latter part is the main part, the literature overview of D&I and the more conceptual discussion may be shorter. Students could collect data on universities overall, or focus on departments of Economics, or Engineering or other fields. This thesis leaves a lot of space for the students to find their own focus matching with their interests.

Auriol, E., Friebel, G., Weinberger, A., & Wilhelm, S. (2022). Underrepresentation of women in the economics profession more pronounced in the United States compared to heterogeneous Europe.  Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences ,  119 (16), e2118853119.

Profiles : ECON, STR, FOR

Supervisor : Astrid Kunze

Firm behaviour, recruitment and personnel policies

I am looking for masterstudents who are interested to work together with a firm and evaluate certain firm policies and personnel data. The thesis may require designing a survey, preparing confidential data, analysing data collected by the firm. Topics may be on performance evaluation, recruitment, careers, firm performance, accounting. The students could also come with their own ideas.

If students have interest or an idea please get in touch early in the process of planning the masterthesis.

Data: They will be prepared together with the supervisor.

Suitable for profiles:  ECON, BUS, ECN, FIN, STR

Supervisor:   Astrid Kunze

Who should get internet?

Background: 

Access to broadband internet has been found to increase employment and wages, labour productivity, financial technology and banking, education, among other things. A question that still needs to be answered is how to evaluate the expansion of broadband internet in developed countries, where penetration rates are already very high. For example, in Norway 11% of the population does still not have access to internet broadband. A recent public debate has raised the issue on whether the Norwegian government should step in and extend the coverage to the entire population. The master thesis project should investigate people’s perspectives on broadband expansion in Norway. It should, for example, elicit the willingness to pay for (fast) broadband and evaluate different scenarios in a cost and benefit analysis of a potential public investment. Moreover, based on previous evidence that connectivity can enable higher economic productivity, the project could explore whether resources for the broadband expansion should be allocated to all the uncovered areas or whether they should only focus on the most productive areas with more growth potential.

Akerman, Anders, Ingvil Gaarder, and Magne Mogstad (2015). ”The skill complementarity of broadband internet.” The Quarterly Journal of Economics 130.4 : 1781-1824.

M. Bhuller, T. Havnes, E. Leuven and M. Mogstad (2013). “Broadband Internet: An Information Superhighway to Sex Crime?” Review of Economic Studies , 80, 1237-1266.

International Trade & Globalization

How are global value chains affected by the pandemic and recent geopolitical events.

An important aspect of the trends towards more globalisation since the turn of the century, has been the increasing importance of ever more complex (global) supply chains in many industries. The unprecedented technological development in information and communication technology (ICT), combined with more integrated markets and reduced transportation and transaction costs, have made it both technically feasible and economically profitable to split the production process and produce parts and components in various parts of the world. This is often called global value chains (GVC).

From the beginning of the corona pandemic, spring 2020, it became clear that many of these supply chains are very vulnerable to market disruptions, be it in production in various regions or in transportation and international infrastructure. Supply shortages and long delivery times for key components and products have had a significant negative impact on firms and industries in all parts of the world, and many firms have had to reconsider their global value chains.

The present geopolitical situation adds to the pressure on supply chains and exposes the vulnerability of relying on certain sources of raw material and key parts and components in various industries.

Possible approaches:

Given the general picture above, several master thesis topics are possible, depending on the interests of the students. Here are some suggestions:

  • Choose an industry (or a firm) and study how the global supply chains in that industry developed before the pandemic and how they have changed recently.  Assess how the pandemic and the geopolitical situation have affected the situation and what the future development might be.
  • Choose several industries and compare their development over time both before and during the pandemic.  
  • There could also be room for a more theoretical thesis, perhaps with examples from various industries, in which the basis for growing GVC-trade over a long period is analysed, followed by a discussion of why and how the recent events have had such a negative impact in GVCs, and what the future development may be. 

Possible majors:   ECN, ECO, BUS, STR (depending on the focus of the thesis)

Possible supervisors:   Linda Orvedal , Jan I. Haaland or other faculty members from the Department of Economics

How will BREXIT and the new trade agreements affect Norway and Norwegian industry?

The UK decision to leave the EU (BREXIT) will have implications not only for the UK and the EU, but also for other countries.  After a long period of debate and negotiations, the UK and the EU agreed on the new “Trade and Cooperation Agreement” on the 24 th December 2020.  The agreement has been in place since 1 st January 2021, although parts of it is still debated.  In June 2021 Norway, together with the other EEA countries (Iceland and Liechtenstein), agreed on a free-trade agreement with the UK.

Both the Trade and Cooperation Agreement between the UK and the EU and the new free-trade agreement between the UK and the EEA countries will have profound implications for trade between the UK and Norway, for many reasons.  First, the UK is an important trading partner for Norway, for goods and services, as well as when it comes to investments and mobility of labour.  All of this have been affected by Brexit, even if new agreements are in place. Secondly, through the European Economic Area (EEA) Norway is part of the EU single market, but not part of the EU Customs Union. Hence, the UK’s departure from the EU customs union will have implications for Norway’s trade both with the EU and the UK.  And thirdly, Brexit has initiated a new discussion about the EEA (EØS) agreement in Norway; hence the implications may be even more serious. 

Approach:  

There could be many interesting ways of approaching the question of how BREXIT may affect Norway and Norwegian industry. One approach could be to take a general national view and discuss possible implications of BREXIT and the new trade agreements for overall trade and economic interactions between the UK and Norway. Another approach could be to select a particular industry and study the possible implications for that industry. And a third option could be to focus on the implications of a possible future change in the trade relations between the EU and Norway. All three approaches would need a good combination of theoretical understanding of trade agreements and possible future trade regimes, and empirical observations and analysis of the actual trade relations between the two countries.

Standard international economics textbooks for the understanding of trade policies and trade agreements.  www.wto.org for more specific information about the multilateral trade system and regional trade agreements. For BREXIT the literature is evolving constantly.  A good source is UK Trade Policy Observatory ( https://blogs.sussex.ac.uk/uktpo/ ) with many blogs and reports on recent developments.  When it comes to the new trade agreement between Norway and the UK, there are so far few independent analyses of possible consequences, but official information about the agreement is given on the governments’ webpages: Norwegian Government: https://www.regjeringen.no/no/aktuelt/inngar-historisk-frihandelsavtale-med-storbritannia/id2857147/   UK Government’s: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/united-kingdom-signs-free-trade-deal-with-norway-iceland-and-liechtenstein

Data: Industrial characteristics and trade data.

Possible majors: ECN, INB

Possible supervisors: Jan I. Haaland and Linda Orvedal

Sustainability and global value chains

The UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) cover a number of areas of great importance for both national and multinational companies, and many companies use the SDGs both in their strategies and in marketing as something they will contribute to.  Areas like decent work and economic growth (SDG8), industry, innovation and infrastructure (SDG9), responsible consumption and production (SDG12), climate action (SDG13) all have direct links to companies, but the same is true for most of the SDGs. For some key areas, like human rights and labour conditions, there are also more specific international agreements and rules that companies are obliged to adhere to.

A key feature of international business today, is the reliance on global value chains (GVC for short, also called global supply chains), where the final products are made up of parts and components produced by a number of suppliers and sub-suppliers in different parts of the world.  Some of these GVCs are very complex, and it is not easy for the companies to keep track of the whole supply chain.  Yet, the companies’ responsibility to adhere to national and international rules, as well as their commitment to contribute to the SDGs, cover not only their own parts of the production process, but the whole supply chain.

How do multinationals go about to keep track of their GVC and to ensure that their obligations and commitments to e.g. human rights, labour conditions and/or environment issues are fulfilled throughout the supply chain?

There could be several approaches to this research question, depending on the students’ interest.  One possibility is to choose an industry or a firm and try to map the situation for that industry/firm.   Another possibility could be to start out with international rules and regulations in one or a few areas (e.g. human rights, or climate emissions) and to study how various industries relate to the regulations and how this affects their global value chains.   

Possible majors:   ECN, ENE, BUS, STR (depending on approach)

The war in Ukraine – implications for key markets in Europe and globally

The Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has affected the European and world economy in many ways. Energy and food markets have been disrupted with huge implications for both Europe and the rest of the world, but other markets have also seen significant changes due to the war. The market implications follow directly from the fact that the war prevents Ukraine from producing and exporting many products, as well as from the economic sanctions towards Russia and the Russian reactions.  Although the immediate and short-term effects have been huge, it is still too early to say what the longer-term effects may be.

Two possible approaches: 

  • Choose an industry/product, study how the war has affected the international markets for that industry so far, and try to assess how the future development may be.
  • Look at the broader picture and assess how various international markets have been affected and what the future development may by. 

Possible majors:   ECN, ECO, ENE (depending on approach)

Labour Economics

Do flexible pay schemes explain the rise of wage inequality.

In most developed countries, wage inequality has increased in the last decades. A popular explanation is that it is increasingly common to have pay set at the worker rather than at the sectoral level. This leaves more room for wage negotiations, potentially driving labor market inequality. This master thesis aims to assess the role of flexible pay setting in developing wage inequality using unique data on workers’ pay components (e.g., overtime, bonuses). You will have access to microdata for 25 European countries (SES data) to implement your analysis. 

Lemieux, Thomas, MacLeod, W Bentley and Parent, Daniel. 2009. "Performance Pay and Wage Inequality" The Quarterly Journal of Economics , 124 (1): 1-49.

Profile:  ECON

Supervisor: Antoine Bertheau

GENDER DIFFERENCES IN LABOUR MARKETS

Despite the fact that great gender convergence in employment is observed in labour markets, large gender differences remain. Women earn 16 per cent on average less in terms of hourly wages than men in the EU. Women also work in very different occupation and industries than men. True, if we compare men and women in the same job and in the same firm, we find very small wage differences; however, very few men and women work in the same job in the same firm. There are many more differences in labour markets between men and women which invites to important research questions suitable for a masterthesis. You could look for questions related to graduates in economics and business administration (use data from NHH. e.g.). You could study questions at the national level for Norway or another country, or internationally. International evidence is very important to learn and valuable to your career if you work, for example, in a company that does trade with EU and the world. Germany is a country important to learn about, since it is one of the main trading partners of Norway, followed by the UK etc.

•   SIAB (German register data, employer-employee matched panel, 1975-2015

•   SOEP (Socio Economic Panel for Germany, 1984-2016)

  • Mikrodata.no at NSD provides access to the Norwegian register data

•    NHH annual graduate survey

Suitable for profiles:  ECN, FIN, STR

HOW DID THE INTERNET CHANGE THE CHANNELS OF JOB SEARCH?

People that search for a job have several options to find it: read newspapers, go to employment agencies, browse the web and mobilize their local networks of friends and relatives. Networking has increasingly become important for job search. Social networks are an important source of information in the labor market and many workers find jobs through friends and relatives. On the other hand, an increasing number of people use the Internet to look for new jobs. One reason online job search has become so popular is that it has changed the search process considerably. Employment websites allow job seekers to access thousands of job offers and use intelligent filter mechanisms to find suitable vacancies.

Key references: Kuhn, P. J. and M. Skuterud (2004): “Internet Job Search and Unemployment Durations," The American Economic Review, 94, 218-232.

Data: Norwegian Labor Force Survey

Suitable for profiles:   ECO, ECN, STR, INB, BUS

Supervisor: Aline Bütikofer

Human capital, apprenticeship training, aspirations to success, early career, youth unemployment and youth labour markets

Some research has debunked the argument that job-hopping can propel a person onward and upward more rapidly than would be possible by staying in one place. In this thesis students can study and quantify mobility during the early career after first entry into the labaour market and after completion of education.  How do high achievers perform during the early career who eventually will fill top positions. Students could also analyse how women versus men’s early career looks like. Is it important to be mobile, or how long is it optimal to stay in the first job?

The thesis can focus more on firms and careers and strategic human capital or take a more labour economics and empirical methods direction.

See an example of a paper here:

Bonet, R., Cappeli, P.,  Hamori, M.  (2020). “Gender differences in speed of advancement: an empirical examination of top executives in the fortune 100 firms”.  Strategic Management Journal , Vol. 41 (4): 708-737

This project requires individual panel data on employment and wage histories.

•  SIAB (German register data, employer-employee matched panel, 1975-2015)

•  SOEP (Socio Economic Panel for Germany, 1984-2016)

•  Mikrodata.no at NSD provides access to the Norwegian register data

Suitable for profiles: ECON, BUS, ECN, FIN, STR

Labour markets, gender differences and family policy

Despite the fact that great gender convergence in employment is observed in labour markets, large gender differences remain. Women earn 16 per cent on average less in terms of hourly wages than men in the EU. Women also work in very different occupation and industries than men. True, if we compare men and women in the same job and in the same firm, we find very small wage differences; however, very few men and women work in the same job in the same firm. In addition, differentials build up over careers and these may not be reflected in cross-sectional differentials.

There is a great need for studies focusing on occupations, industries, and selected groups. Students could look for questions related to graduates in economics and business administration using data from NHH surveys.). Students could study questions on labour markets and policies fighting unfair differences at the national level for Norway or another country, or internationally (EIGE database).

International evidence on labour markets is very important to learn and valuable to your career if you work, for example, in a company that does trade with EU and the world. Labour is the main input factor to the firm. Germany is a country important to learn about, since it is one of the main trading partners of Norway, followed by the UK etc.

  • EIGE database, ILO
  • SIAB (German register data, employer-employee matched panel, 1975-2015
  • SOEP (Socio Economic Panel for Germany, 1984-2016)
  • NHH annual graduate survey

Macroeconomics

Assessing the norwegian macroeconomic policy framework.

The design of monetary and fiscal policy has moved towards a rule based framework, exemplified by the so-called Taylor rule or the “Handlingsreglene” governing the management of the oil fund in Norway. How does monetary and/or fiscal policy respond  to shocks affecting the Norwegian economy? Are the responses of macroeconomic policy stable over time. How did the economy and financial markets respond to the introduction of these rules?

Clarida, R., J. Gali and M. Gertler. (1999). The Science of Monetary Policy: A New Keynesian Perspective, Journal of Economic Literature 37(4): 1661-1707. J. Taylor (2000). Reassessing Discretionary Fiscal Policy. Journal of Economic Perspectives 14(3): 21-36.

Suitable for profiles:   ECN, ECO, FIE

Supervisor: Gernot Doppelhofer

Business Cycles and Gender

Men and women work in different sectors, which are differently susceptible to business cycle fluctuations. In the US, the stereotype is that men work in the construction sector, which is highly business cycle sensitive, while women work in the education sector, in which hours worked do not fluctuate much over the business cycle. There are also differences in the aggregate behavior of hours worked in the group of people living in one-person households and those living in couple households. Are the same patterns true in Norway as well? What could the reason be for why / why not?

Albanesi, S. and A. Şahin (2018). The Gender Unemployment Gap. Review of Economic Dynamics 30, 47–67. Olsson, J. Singles, Couples, and Their Labor Supply: Long-run Trends and Short-run Fluctuations. Working paper.

Suitable for profiles:   ECN, ECO

Supervisor: Jonna Olsson

Economic growth and the input factor labor

How much does the input factor labor account for in the national product in Norway? A Norwegian minister once said in public: Women are more worth than oil in Norway. Is that true and how can we measure the contribution over time? In this thesis students can conceptionally think about a growth model and how to measure the contribution of labour to growth and the level of production in an economy. This could include a literature survey and an overview of estimates for different countries and time periods. Then they can take the model to Norwegian data or other data to estimate the contribution. For the empirical estimations the students could explore Norwegian register data accessible on microdata at NHH. This is a sketch of the idea and the students can develop their own ideas.

Fields: macro-economics, labour economics, empirical, econometrics

Profiles: ECON

Supervisors: Astrid Kunze

How Prevalent is Downward Rigidity in Nominal Wages in Norway?

Since Keynes, macroeconomists typically assume that wages are rigid, i.e., cannot be adjusted downward. However, the empirical evidence is still scant. In Norway, we now have good data to test this assumption empirically. The master thesis would aim to assess the degree of wage rigidity using rich Norwegian administrative datasets (on firms and their employees). 

Elsby, Michael W. L, Solon, Gary (2019) How Prevalent is Downward Rigidity in Nominal Wages? International Evidence from Payroll Records and Pay Slips, Journal of Economic Perspectives, 185-201.

Suitable for profiles: ECN

Is there a Beveridge curve in the Norwegian housing market?

Originally, the Beveridge curve measures the relationship between the number of vacant positions and the number of unemployed people in the labour market. It gives expression to the existence of search frictions in this market. But the housing market is also characterised by such frictions: it takes time for a buyer to find a suitable house and for a seller to get in touch with a buyer. 

This project would consist in (i) collecting monthly data about the number of buyers searching for a house, e.g., based on data about visits during house showings, (ii) collecting data about the number of houses for sale, and (iii) estimating the relationship between both variables during the business cycle. Focus can be on the housing market for one of the larger cities in Norway.

Genvose and Han (2012) Search and matching in the housing market. Journal of Urban Economics.

Gabrovski and Ortego-Marti (2019) The cyclical behavior of the Beveridge curve in the housing market.

Gabrovski and Ortego-Marti (2022) On the slope of the Beveridge curve in the housing market.

Data: Data from eiendomnorge.no, real estate agencies

Suitable for profiles: ECN, ECO, FIN, BAN

Supervisor: Fred Schroyen

NOWCASTING AND PREDICTING THE NORWEGIAN ECONOMY

A large number of indicators have been proposed to predict the current and future state of the economy. Many macroeconomic or financial data are being reported at different points in time and some are subject to revisions. The measurement of current and future economic conditions is essential for the conduct  of macroeconomic policy, dating of business cycles and household or financial decision making . What are important factors predicting current and future economic activity and financial variables, such as exchange rates, stock prices, …?

Stock, J. and M. Watson. (1999). Forecasting Inflation. Journal of Monetary Economics v44(2): 293-335

Price changes among manufacturing firms

To understand how prices are adjusted, and why, is very important, for both consumers, firm-owners and -managers, regulators and macro economists. The typical IO question; How does a firm set the price or quantity in relation to other market participants? Macro economists: Monetary policy has only a real effect if prices (and wages) are sticky (think of the IS-LM or AD-AS models). Price adjustment costs and their nature are central for industrial organization and the macro economy. What do we know empirically about the micro behaviour of firms? Do we see some patterns in firms’ price setting? Do we observe immediate responses to demand-, technology-, and cost-shocks?

Based on survey information from Statistics Norway about product prices in the manufacturing industry, merged with register data on firms’ revenues, costs, investments, and labour demand there are several topics for empirical master theses on pricing behaviour, either seen through the lenses of an IO scholar, or a macro economist.

Data: 

As the data include highly sensitive information, it is necessary to apply for access to the data.

Suitable for profiles:  ECN

Supervisor:  Prof. Øivind A. Nilsen

The price development on the real estate market in a non-Scandinavian country

In many European countries, the housing market is characterized by soaring prices.  Is this price evolution reflecting a development in the underlying fundamentals for this market, or are actual prices and fundamentals little connected, thereby possibly indicating a price bubble?  Using quarterly data on real estate prices, this project would estimate a model for the housing market allowing for both fundamentals and error-corrections mechanisms.

Bergman and Sørensen (2021) The interaction of actual and fundamental house prices: a general model with an application to Sweden, Journal of Housing Economics 54 .

Data:  Real estate price statistics, housing stock statistics, national account data

Suitable for profiles:  ECN, ECO,FIN.

Supervisor:  Fred Schroyen

Corporate sustainability, firm performance and economic growth

Firms, consumers, investors and stakeholders more generally are increasingly informing their decisions based on  environmental, social and governance (ESG) credentials. 

Policies are put in place fostering ESG reporting. Governments are implementing regulations requiring organisations to increase transparency in areas such as diversity, equal pay, carbon emissions and complying with responsible working conditions. On the 21st of April 2021, the EU commission announced the adoption of the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) in line with the commitment made under the European Green Deal. The proposed directive will also entail a dramatic increase in the number of companies subject to the EU sustainability reporting requirements across the EU countries.

The hypothesis or claim is that sustainable growth is the only way to build a successful business and have a lasting impact on our environment and society. More empirical research is needed in this area and this topic area offers opportunities for mastertheses in, for example,  macroeconomics, public economics, management, finance, and resource economics.

Examples of research questions for masterthesis:

Collect data on how many firms report on ESG and make reports publicly available in Norway or the EU. Here students can focus on one aspect or a subset.

What is the quality of ESG reporting and are firms pursuing the attempted goals? E.g. what is the quality of firms’ reports on gender equality and gender diversity consistent with national statistics? Students can collect their own data for a subset of Norwegian firms and compare these to Norwegian micro-statistics or indicators based on firm-level data.

Consultancies are providing guidance and software to help firms report on ESG. An interesting thesis could contain collecting data on these and organise an overview of the work of consultancies in this area, e.g. on equality and gender diversity or environment. This material could then be critically assessed comparing it to main indicators and challenges in terms of equality and D&I.

Students interested in macroeconomics could quantify the contribution of human capital to growth and discuss the expected chances coming from ESG reporting and the transition of the economy.

Data sources and methods:

  • Firm level data collected by the students (could use hand collection, text analysis, scaping, or other methods)
  • Firm level data: SNF database, BoardEx Data
  • Regression analysis (programs STATA or R)
  • OECD data, EIGE data (on equality, wages, education, job titles)

Gillan, S. L., Koch, A., & Starks, L. T. (2021). Firms and social responsibility: A review of ESG and CSR research in corporate finance.  Journal of Corporate Finance ,  66 , 101889.

Post, C., & Byron, K. (2015). Women on boards and firm financial performance: A meta-analysis.  Academy of management Journal ,  58 (5), 1546-1571.

Miller, A. R. (2018). Women and leadership in Averett, S., & Hoffman, S. D. (Eds.). (2018).  The Oxford handbook of women and the economy . Oxford University Press.

Kunze, A. (2020): Kjønnsmessig mangfold i ledelsen" (Gender diversity in top management), Magma, No. 320, Årgang 23, 3/2020.

Fields: macroeconomics, public economics, management, finance, and resource economics

If you are interested please get in touch with Prof. Astrid Kunze, Assoc. Prof. Krisztina Molnar, or Antoine Bertheau

Microeconomics & Industrial Organization

Competition and pricing in the european airline industry.

The airline industry is comprised of large, capital-intensive firms competing on prices, availability and prices, making decisions over prices, routes to operate and fleet. Important features of competition is price discrimination, use of loyalty programs and entry in or exit from specific routes, in the face of potentially tough competition and volatile demand over the business cycle. The European and Norwegian airline industry has changed dramatically over the years, with changing technologies, travel habits, regulations, taxation and industry structure. The rise of low-cost carriers from the late 90s and early 2000s and the strategic responses of flag carriers, for instance by reducing prices in response to even merely the threat of entry has been important for the development of the industry we see today, in addition to the growing domestic, regional and international policy debates on how to handle the carbon footprint of the sector in later years.

There are many possible directions for a thesis on this topic, for instance:

  • What factors determine how an incumbent airline responds to increased threat of entry on a route?
  • How would carbon taxation influence fleet choices and competition in the industry?
  • What is the effect of loyalty programs on demand and competition?
  • Differences in price discrimination across routes and carriers: What are the main drivers?
  • Aircraft investment and the business cycle: A recipe for hysteresis?

Key literature:

Goolsbee, A. and Syverson, C. (2008) "How Do Incumbents Respond to the Threat of Entry? Evidence from the Major Airlines", Quarterly Journal of Economics, 123, pp. 1611–1633

Borenstein, S. and Rose, N. L. (1994) "Competition and Price Dispersion in the U.S. Airline Industry", Journal of Political Economy, 102, pp. 653–683

"Aviation Industry Leaders Report 2022: Recovery through Resilience", KPMG, edited by Victoria Tozer-Pennington 

Data: Data on number of passengers and prices for separate routes, airlines and ticket classes can be made available by supervisors.

Suitable for profiles: BAN, BUS, ECN, ECO, ENE, FIN

Possible supervisors: Lars Sørgard , Mateusz Mysliwski , Morten Sæthre

DO ECONOMIC BOOMS AND BUSTS AFFECT SLEEPING PATTERNS AND THE NUMBER OF HOURS OF LEISURE ACTIVITIES?

Although health is usually thought to worsen when the economy weakens, substantial recent research suggests that mortality actually declines during such periods. Could this decline in mortality be explained by people enjoying more free time and more sleep during recession?

Christopher J. Ruhm (2000): “Are Recessions Good for Your Health?” The Quarterly Journal of Economics, 115 (2): 617-650.

Data: Norwegian time use survey 1971-2010

DO SMOKING POLICIES AFFECT SMOKING BEHAVIOR AND DO BETTER-EDUCATED INDIVIDUALS REACT FASTER TO POLICY CHANGES?

The strong correlation between education and health, even after controlling for income, has been recognized as a robust empirical observation in the social sciences and economic literature (Deaton and Paxson 2003; Lleras-Muney 2004). The decision to smoke or not to smoke is a conscious choice that directly affects the health status and ultimately the mortality of individuals. It therefore provides an interesting opportunity to investigate how education, by influencing behaviors, affects health outcomes.

Damien de Walque (2010): “Education, Information, and Smoking Decisions: Evidence from Smoking Histories in the United States, 1940–2000” Journal of Human Resources, 45:682-717.

Data: Norwegian smoking habit survey from 1973-2011

Suitable for profiles:   ECO, ECN, (STR, INB, BUS)

(Note: Theses under this topic can be eligible for an Equinor scholarship for master theses .)

Suitable for profiles: BUS, ECN, ECO, ENE, FIN

(Tentative) supervisor:  Samuel D. Hirshman , Harim Kim, Eirik G. Kristiansen , Mateusz Mysliwski and/or Morten Sæthre

HOW CAN WE EXPLAIN CEO PAY?

There is a widespread suspicion that top managers and other key person are overpaid. They are frequently lavishly rewarded when the firm is lucky and not penalized when the firm is unlucky. Some receive discretionary severance pay that the firms are not committed to pay. Pay structure and level seem to depend on the owner structure. There are a large set of observations that are puzzling if you believe that owners should provide cost efficient incentives to managers. The project might examine pay structure in a particular industry or across countries and compare observations with empirical predictions from analytical models.

Bebchuk, L. A. and J. M. Fried (2004) Pay without performance: The unfulfilled promise of executive compensation, Harvard University Press

Suitable for profiles: ECO, ECN, FIN

Supervisor: Eirik Gaard Kristiansen

How should we pay for drugs? Is Netflix a model?

Health plans negotiate rebates on list prices with drug companies. If the net price is sufficiently low, the health plan may decide to include the drug in their plan so that the drug is reimbursed and available for patients. The current model is that health plans pay a uniform net price per unit purchased from the drug company. Recently, there has been proposed a different payment regime – called the Netflix model. Instead of paying a uniform price, proponents of the Netflix model argue that health plans should instead pay a fixed (subscription) fee to the drug company for getting access to the drug at marginal costs (or zero costs). The argument is that two-part tariffs is more efficient given the high innovation costs and low production costs. Opponents argue that the Netflix model will extract more consumer surplus and lead to higher costs for health plans. Some countries and health plans are now testing the Netflix model, which also seems to be relevant for the new covid-19 vaccine.

Barros, P. and X. Martinez-Giralt (2012) Health economics: an industrial organization perspective. Routledge. Chapter 17

The Economist (2019): The antibiotic industry is broken. Take inspiration from the entertainment industry. Leader.

Suitable for profiles: ECN, ECO, BUS, STR

Supervisor: Kurt R. Brekke

Data:  Data from eiendomnorge.no, real estate agencies

Suitable for profiles:  ECN, ECO, FIN, BAN

MANAGEMENT PRACTICES AND FIRMS

We know very little about the management practices in Norway. International data have shown that great differences exist between family businesses, multinationals and that the public sector has relatively worse management practices. Questions related to measurement and comparison of management practices invite to a great number of research ideas for a master thesis. You can explore  existing data sets, and create extended data by merging additional firm level information.

Corecon. Empirical Project 6: Measuring Management Practices

Data:  World Management Survey

Suitable for profiles:  ECN, FIN, STR.

Maximum likelihood estimation of a demand system

The almost ideal demand (AID) system was developed by Deaton and Muellbauer (1980).  It specifies a household’s set of demand functions for different goods and services.  The AID system combines flexibility and consistency with theoretical properties with a specification for the demand equations that allows for tractable estimation.

However, one of the weaknesses of the AID system is that the crucial property of negativity (that compensated demand functions should always slope downwards—the “law of demand”) cannot be imposed under estimation without giving up the flexibility of the system.

To remedy this weakness, Moschini (1998) suggested incorporating the negativity property “at the mean data point”, i.e., to make sure that if the household has the average income level and faces the average prices in the dataset, then its behavior respects the “law of demand”.  While not solving the problem completely, this is a big step forward.

The purpose of the thesis would be to write a maximum likelihood estimation programme in Stata that incorporates Moschini’s restriction, and use it on household budget survey data for Norway to obtain estimates for income and price elasticities.  

Deaton A and J Muellbauer (1980) An almost ideal demand system, American Economic Review 70 , 312-336.

Moschini (1998) The semi-flexible almost ideal demand system, European Economic Review 42 , 349-364.

Data: Household budget survey data collected by Statistics Norway (SSBs Forbruksundersøkelsen 1999-2012 )

Suitable for profiles : ECO, ECN

Merger remedies: Is the cure effective in restoring competition?

Mergers that restrict competition should be stopped by competition authorities. However companies may propose remedies that reduce or eliminate the competitive harm to get the merger cleared. Such remedies can be structural or behavioral. Structural remedies imply usually that competing activity are divested to a new or existing company in the market. Behavioral remedies are usually commitments to abstain from various forms of anti-competitive behavior for a given period after the merger. Merger remedies can be a win-win in the sense that the harm to competition can be solved and otherwise profitable mergers can be carried out. However recent studies show that this instrument in merger control is inefficient in restoring competition and that mergers that are cleared with remedies tend to result in price increases after the merger. Why is that? Is the problem mainly related to behavioral remedies? Are there inherent incentive or information problems? How can merger control be improved? This project should combine theory and data. Data can be made available upon request.

Kwoka, J. (2015): Mergers, merger control and remedies: a retrospective analysis of US policy. The MIT Press.

Supervisor: Lars Sørgard

The market for gift cards

In Norway, and in many other countries, gift cards have become popular. Both firms, organisations, and private persons buy gift cards as presents during the Christmas season or on occasions like birthdays. Like money, gift cards give the recipient a wider variety of things to choose from.  At the same time, gift cards are more memorable than an envelope with cash. But gift cards come with restrictions. They can only be used in certain stores/chains of stores, and they expire after a well-defined period. For these reasons, a second-hand market for gift cards has developed. You can buy gift cards on finn.no or Ebay at a discount of their nominal value.

Offenberg, Jennifer Pate (2007) "Markets: Gift Cards", Journal of Economic Perspectives, 21, pp. 227-238. 

Data:  Data from Finn.no, "Bygavekort" Bergen

Suitable for profiles: ECN, ECO

Possible supervisors: Fred Schroyen

THE PEAK-END-RULE AND DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

The peak-end-rule says that the most memorable parts of an experience is the peak (i.e the most enjoyable period) and the end. Daniel Kahneman and co-authors have for example shown that you can make patients better off by simply extending a painful medical treatment with a more joyful period at the end. The idea of this thesis proposal is to test the peak-end theory in a relevant, high-stake, real-world environment. In particular, the aim is to combine data from e.g. the Premier League in England  with regional data on domestic violence and other offensive behavior, and test whether football fans are more upset, and therefore make more criminal acts, when their team lost because of a goal occurring in the final minutes of the game as opposed to the same nominal loss, but were the score was determined earlier in the game. The thesis will also include a replication of the paper by Card and Dahl (2011) on prospect theory and violence

Key reference: 

Card and Dahl (2011), Family Violence and Football: The Effect of Unexpected Emotional Cues on Violent Behavior, Quarterly Journal of Economics

The use of budget survey data to estimate demand functions

In many countries, the statistical office regularly carries out a household budget survey.  Such a survey documents how households allocate their budget over different commodity and service groups.  The same statistical office also constructs price indices for different consumption categories.  Using these two data sources, the project would consist in estimating a system of demand functions that describes the price and income sensitivity of the different consumption categories, and in testing the microeconomic properties of such functions.  Estimation can be carried out with existing user friendly Stata programmes.

Banks J, R Blundell and A Lewbell (1997) Quadratic Engel Curves and Consumer Demand, Review of Economics and Statistics 79 , 527-539

Data:  Household budget survey data and price indices for your country

Suitable for profiles:  ECN, ECO.

Public Economics

Four topics on challenges in the electricity markets.

There is a dramatic transition taking place in energy markets, where renewable energy is about to replace energy based on fossil fuels. In Europe coal, gas and oil is about to be replaced by renewable energy such as solar power and wind power. One challenge, though, is that the renewable energy is intermittent. For example, wind power produces for full capacity in some time periods, and have zero production in other time periods. This irregularity may lead to increased volatility in electricity prices, with very low prices when the wind is blowing and very high prices else.

In the Norwegian electricity market more than 90 % of its production of electricity comes from hydro power. In contrast to renewable energy such a wind power, hydro power is flexible since water can be stored in reservoirs. Such a flexibility is valuable, since one can reallocate production such that it produces when it is most needed. On the other hand, the total supply of energy in a hydro power system during a year is dependent on the weather. In a wet year with a lot of rain, the total production in Norway is approximately 30 % higher than the domestic consumption. However, in a dry year the domestic supply is lower than the domestic demand.

Due to a move from fossil fuels to electricity, the domestic demand is expected to increase the next years in Norway (and other countries). Unless Norway expands production substantially in the coming years, which is unlikely given the (lack of) decisions that have been made concerning new power plants, the next ten years the periods with excess supply in the Norwegian electricity market will be fewer than before.

The present crisis, with gas being decisive for the prices in the electricity market for the whole of Europe, adds to the challenges Europe is facing with the transition to renewable energy. There is at present an ongoing debate in Europe whether there is a need for a structural reform of the market design of the electricity market. Some question the coordinated system of export or imports of electricity, while others question the model where the producer with the highest costs sets the price (the so called merit order system).

  • Describe the present market design for electricity, and discuss pros and cons of the system that is used today. In particular, discuss how suitable such a system is for a future situation with much more intermittent electricity production (especially wind and solar power).
  • Consider the situation for Norway, with mostly hydro power. Discuss how Norway can gain from trade with the rest of Europe. In particular, what are the pros and cons of building more transmission lines (or scrapping some existing ones) between Norway and surrounding countries.
  • In Norway there is a rather high seller concentration in situations with bottlenecks on the transmission lines, and then markets becoming national or even smaller than that. Discuss how a producer with market power can behave in such a system, and whether there are any structural reforms that can curb any potential harmful exploitation of market power.
  • There are some large producers in the Norwegian electricity market, with water reservoirs that makes it possible to store water even from one year to another. Discuss how such a player should allocate its sales of water in order to maximize profits, and relate your predictions from theory to what you observe in this market.

Possible majors: ECN, ECO, BUS, STR (depending on the focus of the thesis)

Possible supervisors: Depending on the approach you choose, but Lars Sørgard or other faculty members from the Department of Economics

HOW EFFECTIVE ARE THE NORWEGIAN INCENTIVE SCHEMES FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLES?

Several countries, including U.S.A., Canada and Norway, have introduced incentives to encourage the sale of electric vehicles and hybrid electric vehicles. There is a debate over the effectiveness of these policies in achieving the desired policy goals, such as reductions in CO2 emissions. The Norwegian incentive scheme is notable for high subsidies as well as other extensive benefits, including exemption from the registration tax, free toll roads, free parking, and programs for building charging stations. More detailed knowledge about the effects of specific parts of the incentive scheme would be helpful, both to inform possible improvements of the incentive schemes, but also for planning purposes in businesses and local governments. There are several open questions regarding the effect of the rich incentive scheme. One question regards how much the different policies contribute to increasing electric vehicle sales. A related question is whether they have differential impact on which modes of transportation consumers substitute away from, e.g., whether consumers substitute away from regular cars, public transport and biking, both at the intensive and the extensive margin. A master thesis on this topic could focus on one or several specific policies and subquestions.

Fearnley et al (2015): "E-vehicle policies and incentives - assessment and recommendations", TØI report 1421/2015; Chandra et al (2010): "Green drivers or free riders? An analysis of tax rebates for hybrids vehicles", Journal of Environmental Economics and Management 60: 78-93; Holtsmark (2012): "Elbilpolitikken - virker den etter hensikten?", Samfunnsøkonomen 5: 4-11

Data: Detailed data about car ownership including some usage measures per vehicle can be provided by the supervisor, in addition to data on tollroads and charging stations.

Suitable for profiles: ECO, ECN, ENE, BUS, FIE, INB

Supervisor: Morten Sæthre

REGULATION OF FINANCIAL MARKETS: HOW CAN THE POLITICAL PROCESS PRODUCE VERY DIFFERENT REGULATIONS ACROSS COUNTRIES?

Improved financial market regulation ensure that information is widely spread and investors can trust information and contracts. However, not all parties benefit from better regulation. For example, some established firms dislike that new entrants obtain financing, demand for labour may increase which again will increase wages.  In an influential book, Rajan and Zingales describe how financial regulation across countries can be explained by political forces in favour and against better regulation. A possible project would be to discuss how strong labour unions, industry structure, openness to trade and other institutional characteristics can explain the current regulation in Norway. The project might combine insights from analytical approaches discussed in Tirole with the empirical literature discussed in the book by Rajan and Zingales.

Rajan R. G. and L. Zingales (2003), Saving capitalism from the capitalists Princeton University Press.

Tirole, J (2006) The theory of Corporate Finance, see chapter 16 on Institutions, Public Policy and the Political Economy of Finance, Princeton University Press.

TECHNOLOGY MARKETS: HOW TO (NOT) SELL TECHNOLOGIES?

The best innovators are often not the best producers. Many patented technologies with different owners need to be used together in order to produce a valuable product. Consequently, there should be a vivid market for technology transactions. However, many claim that the market is smaller than expected and not working very well. Knowhow is not easy to sell: None are willing to buy something before they have seen it, and when they have seen it (and can use it) why should they pay for it? Will the patent system solve the problem or can patenting prevent investments in new technologies. You might use Apple (or another firm) as a motivating example for a study of how firms might organize sales and purchases of technologies?

Bessen, J. and M.J. Meurer, (2008) Patent failure: How judges, bureaucrats, and lawyers put innovation at risk, Princeton University Press.

Jaffe, A. B. and J. Lerner (2004): Innovation and its Discontents: How our broken patent system is endangering innovation and progress, and what to do about it, Princeton University Press

Suitable for profiles: ECO, ECN, FIN, STR

The death of Queen Elizabeth II.-a Monetary policy shock

Queen Elizabeth II. died on 8 September 2022. The queen liked to "keep calm, and carry on" whatever happened. In contrast to this spirit, the next day Bank of England announced delaying their upcoming pre-scheduled monetary policy meeting from 15 to 22 September. The rescheduling was unexpected, i.e., an exogenous monetary policy shock. This time it was not an unexpected decision but an unexpected `lack of.` Financial markets expected a new interest rate hike. However, for a further week, interest rates stayed the same.

The thesis investigates the effect of this unexpected delay of MPC decisions on financial markets. Our method to isolate this story from other news events is to use high-frequency data in a narrow window around the announcement.

Nakamura, Emi, and Jón Steinsson. Forth- coming. “High Frequency Identification of Monetary Non-Neutrality: The Information Effect.” Quarterly Journal of Economics

Supervisors:   Markus Karlman and Krisztina Molnar  

  • Department of Economics
  • Postgraduate study
  • PhD Programme in Economics

PhD research topics

PhD conference

Applications are welcomed in all Economics topics. We particularly welcome applications from candidates with research interests in the following speciality areas of our research-active staff:

Behavioural Economics

  • Behavioural Health Economics and Policy
  • Behavioural Labour and Organisational Economics
  • Decisions under Risk and Uncertainty
  • Experimental and Behavioural analyses of markets
  • Charitable Behaviour
  • Analysis of Conflict and Conflict Resolution
  • Behavioural Welfare Economics (including subjective wellbeing)

Financial Economics and Household Finance

  • Banking and financial stability
  • Household portfolios
  • Household wealth inequality
  • Household saving
  • Household financial vulnerability and asset accumulation

Gender, Race and Inequality

  • Domestic violence
  • Discrimination and Wellbeing
  • Identity Economics (gender, ethnicity, inequality)
  • Wealth inequality and racial wealth gap
  • Affirmative Action Policies

Health Economics

  • Healthcare and demographics
  • Health, wellbeing and employment
  • Long-run impact of COVID
  • Aversion to inequality in multidimensional wellbeing
  • Health state valuation and stated preferences

Industrial Organization 

  • Competition Policy
  • Innovation, industrial policy and mixed markets
  • Networks and Regulation
  • Firms Productivity
  • Tax compliance and administration

International Economics and Development

  • Empirical development economics
  • Foreign aid and development finance institutions
  • Foreign Direct Investment and Economic Growth
  • Trade models with heterogeneous firms, trade gravity and productivity growth
  • Trade policies and public economics

Labour and Education Economics

  • Empirical studies on the relationships between labour, health and wellbeing
  • Education Economics
  • Gender differences in human capital accumulation
  • Labour market transitions of (young) workers
  • Social mobility
  • Vocational education
  • Wages, employment and contract type

Macroeconomics

  • Open Economy Macroeconomics
  • Business Cycles
  • Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium Modelling
  • Labour Market Dynamics
  • Search and Matching

Political Economy

  • Elections, political ideology, institutions and economic policy
  • Immigration: causes and consequences
  • Terrorism, public attitudes and behavioural outcomes
  • Rent-seeking and other contests

Time Series Econometrics

  • Econometric detection of bubbles and crashes
  • Specification testing and forecasting in non-linear Econometric/Time-Series models
  • Theoretical econometrics and statistical inference

Urban and Environmental Economics

  • Environmental economics and environmental policy 
  • Environmental reporting
  • Real estate economics
  • Local labour markets
  • Agglomeration externalities
  • Spatial distribution of economic activities and innovation
  • Transport economics
  • Local economic impacts and drivers of internal and external immigration 
  • Local and regional determinants of social mobility and inequality
  • Levelling-up: drivers of local productivity and growth

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  • Explore the many exciting research areas  in economics through specialized field courses, by getting a first taste of research, writing a research proposal, and, finally, by writing a Research Master Thesis that will be the basis for your first major research paper.
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50 Best Finance Dissertation Topics For Research Students

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50 Best Finance Dissertation Topics For Research Students

Finance Dissertation Made Easier!

Embarking on your dissertation adventure? Look no further! Choosing the right finance dissertation topics is like laying the foundation for your research journey in Finance, and we're here to light up your path. In this blog, we're diving deep into why dissertation topics in finance matter so much. We've got some golden writing tips to share with you! We're also unveiling the secret recipe for structuring a stellar finance dissertation and exploring intriguing topics across various finance sub-fields. Whether you're captivated by cryptocurrency, risk management strategies, or exploring the wonders of Internet banking, microfinance, retail and commercial banking - our buffet of Finance dissertation topics will surely set your research spirit on fire!

What is a Finance Dissertation?

Finance dissertations are academic papers that delve into specific finance topics chosen by students, covering areas such as stock markets, banking, risk management, and healthcare finance. These dissertations require extensive research to create a compelling report and contribute to the student's confidence and satisfaction in the field of Finance. Now, let's understand why these dissertations are so important and why choosing the right Finance dissertation topics is crucial!

Why Are Finance Dissertation Topics Important?

Choosing the dissertation topics for Finance students is essential as it will influence the course of your research. It determines the direction and scope of your study. You must make sure that the Finance dissertation topics you choose are relevant to your field of interest, or you may end up finding it more challenging to write. Here are a few reasons why finance thesis topics are important:

1. Relevance

Opting for relevant finance thesis topics ensures that your research contributes to the existing body of knowledge and addresses contemporary issues in the field of Finance. Choosing a dissertation topic in Finance that is relevant to the industry can make a meaningful impact and advance understanding in your chosen area.

2. Personal Interest

Selecting Finance dissertation topics that align with your interests and career goals is vital. When genuinely passionate about your research area, you are more likely to stay motivated during the dissertation process. Your interest will drive you to explore the subject thoroughly and produce high-quality work.

3. Future Opportunities

Well-chosen Finance dissertation topics can open doors to various future opportunities. It can enhance your employability by showcasing your expertise in a specific finance area. It may lead to potential research collaborations and invitations to conferences in your field of interest.

4. Academic Supervision

Your choice of topics for dissertation in Finance also influences the availability of academic supervisors with expertise in your chosen area. Selecting a well-defined research area increases the likelihood of finding a supervisor to guide you effectively throughout the dissertation. Their knowledge and guidance will greatly contribute to the success of your research.

Writing Tips for Finance Dissertation

A lot of planning, formatting, and structuring goes into writing a dissertation. It starts with deciding on topics for a dissertation in Finance and conducting tons of research, deciding on methods, and so on. However, you can navigate the process more effectively with proper planning and organisation. Below are some tips to assist you along the way, and here is a blog on the 10 tips on writing a dissertation that can give you more information, should you need it!

1. Select a Manageable Topic

Choosing Finance research topics within the given timeframe and resources is important. Select a research area that interests you and aligns with your career goals. It will help you stay inspired throughout the dissertation process.

2. Conduct a Thorough Literature Review

A comprehensive literature review forms the backbone of your research. After choosing the Finance dissertation topics, dive deep into academic papers, books, and industry reports, gaining a solid understanding of your chosen area to identify research gaps and establish the significance of your study.

3. Define Clear Research Objectives

Clearly define your dissertation's research questions and objectives. It will provide a clear direction for your research and guide your data collection, analysis, and overall structure. Ensure your objectives are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART).

4. Collect and Analyse Data

Depending on your research methodology and your Finance dissertation topics, collect and analyze relevant data to support your findings. It may involve conducting surveys, interviews, experiments, and analyzing existing datasets. Choose appropriate statistical techniques and qualitative methods to derive meaningful insights from your data.

5. Structure and Organization

Pay attention to the structure and organization of your dissertation. Follow a logical progression of chapters and sections, ensuring that each chapter contributes to the overall coherence of your study. Use headings, subheadings, and clear signposts to guide the reader through your work.

6. Proofread and Edit

Once you have completed the writing process, take the time to proofread and edit your dissertation carefully. Check for clarity, coherence, and proper grammar. Ensure that your arguments are well-supported, and eliminate any inconsistencies or repetitions. Pay attention to formatting, citation styles, and consistency in referencing throughout your dissertation.

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Finance Dissertation Topics

Now that you know what a finance dissertation is and why they are important, it's time to have a look at some of the best Finance dissertation topics. For your convenience, we have segregated these topics into categories, including cryptocurrency, risk management, internet banking, and so many more. So, let's dive right in and explore the best Finance dissertation topics:

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Cryptocurrency

1. The Impact of Regulatory Frameworks on the Volatility and Liquidity of Cryptocurrencies.

2. Exploring the Factors Influencing Cryptocurrency Adoption: A Comparative Study.

3. Assessing the Efficiency and Market Integration of Cryptocurrency Exchanges.

4. An Analysis of the Relationship between Cryptocurrency Prices and Macroeconomic Factors.

5. The Role of Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) in Financing Startups: Opportunities and Challenges.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Risk Management

1. The Effectiveness of Different Risk Management Strategies in Mitigating Financial Risks in Banking Institutions.

2. The Role of Derivatives in Hedging Financial Risks: A Comparative Study.

3. Analyzing the Impact of Risk Management Practices on Firm Performance: A Case Study of a Specific Industry.

4. The Use of Stress Testing in Evaluating Systemic Risk: Lessons from the Global Financial Crisis.

5. Assessing the Relationship between Corporate Governance and Risk Management in Financial Institutions.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Internet Banking

1. Customer Adoption of Internet Banking: An Empirical Study on Factors Influencing Usage.

Enhancing Security in Internet Banking: Exploring Biometric Authentication Technologies.

2. The Impact of Mobile Banking Applications on Customer Engagement and Satisfaction.

3. Evaluating the Efficiency and Effectiveness of Internet Banking Services in Emerging Markets.

4. The Role of Social Media in Shaping Customer Perception and Adoption of Internet Banking.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Microfinance

1. The Impact of Microfinance on Poverty Alleviation: A Comparative Study of Different Models.

2. Exploring the Role of Microfinance in Empowering Women Entrepreneurs.

3. Assessing the Financial Sustainability of Microfinance Institutions in Developing Countries.

4. The Effectiveness of Microfinance in Promoting Rural Development: Evidence from a Specific Region.

5. Analyzing the Relationship between Microfinance and Entrepreneurial Success: A Longitudinal Study.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Retail and Commercial Banking

1. The Impact of Digital Transformation on Retail and Commercial Banking: A Case Study of a Specific Bank.

2. Customer Satisfaction and Loyalty in Retail Banking: An Analysis of Service Quality Dimensions.

3. Analyzing the Relationship between Bank Branch Expansion and Financial Performance.

4. The Role of Fintech Startups in Disrupting Retail and Commercial Banking: Opportunities and Challenges.

5. Assessing the Impact of Mergers and Acquisitions on the Performance of Retail and Commercial Banks.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Alternative Investment

1. The Performance and Risk Characteristics of Hedge Funds: A Comparative Analysis.

2. Exploring the Role of Private Equity in Financing and Growing Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises.

3. Analyzing the Relationship between Real Estate Investments and Portfolio Diversification.

4. The Potential of Impact Investing: Evaluating the Social and Financial Returns.

5. Assessing the Risk-Return Tradeoff in Cryptocurrency Investments: A Comparative Study.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to International Affairs

1. The Impact of Exchange Rate Volatility on International Trade: A Case Study of a Specific Industry.

2. Analyzing the Effectiveness of Capital Controls in Managing Financial Crises: Comparative Study of Different Countries.

3. The Role of International Financial Institutions in Promoting Economic Development in Developing Countries.

4. Evaluating the Implications of Trade Wars on Global Financial Markets.

5. Assessing the Role of Central Banks in Managing Financial Stability in a Globalized Economy.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Sustainable Finance

1. The impact of sustainable investing on financial performance.

2. The role of green bonds in financing climate change mitigation and adaptation.

3. The development of carbon markets.

4. The use of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors in investment decision-making.

5. The challenges and opportunities of sustainable Finance in emerging markets.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Investment Banking

1. The valuation of distressed assets.

2. The pricing of derivatives.

3. The risk management of financial institutions.

4. The regulation of investment banks.

5. The impact of technology on the investment banking industry.

Dissertation topics in Finance related to Actuarial Science

1. The development of new actuarial models for pricing insurance products.

2. The use of big data in actuarial analysis.

3. The impact of climate change on insurance risk.

4. The design of pension plans that are sustainable in the long term.

5. The use of actuarial science to manage risk in other industries, such as healthcare and Finance.

Tips To Find Good Finance Dissertation Topics 

Embarking on a financial dissertation journey requires careful consideration of various factors. Your choice of topic in finance research topics is pivotal, as it sets the stage for the entire research process. Finding a good financial dissertation topic is essential to blend your interests with the current trends in the financial landscape. We suggest the following tips that can help you pick the perfect dissertation topic:

1. Identify your interests and strengths 

2. Check for current relevance

3. Feedback from your superiors

4. Finalise the research methods

5. Gather the data

6. Work on the outline of your dissertation

7. Make a draft and proofread it

In this blog, we have discussed the importance of finance thesis topics and provided valuable writing tips and tips for finding the right topic, too. We have also presented a list of topics within various subfields of Finance. With this, we hope you have great ideas for finance dissertations. Good luck with your finance research journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i research for my dissertation project topics in finance, what is the best topic for dissertation topics for mba finance, what is the hardest finance topic, how do i choose the right topic for my dissertation in finance, where can i find a dissertation topic in finance.

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Juan Acosta , Beatrice Cherrier , François Claveau , Clément Fontan , Aurélien Goutsmedt , Francesco Sergi; Six Decades of Economic Research at the Bank of England. History of Political Economy 1 February 2024; 56 (1): 1–40. doi: https://doi.org/10.1215/00182702-10956544

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This paper discusses the transformation of the content, role, and status of economic research at the Bank of England in the past sixty years. We show how three factors (the policy functions and missions of the Bank, the attitude of its executives toward economics, and its organizational structure) shaped the evolution of in-house economic research at the Bank during three distinctive periods (1960–91; 1992–2007; 2007–14). Our account relies on a broad set of sources and methods (the Bank's publications, archives, interviews with current and former Bank economists, citation analysis, prosopography, and topic modeling).

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POV: Decision to Reclassify Marijuana as a Less Dangerous Drug Is Long Overdue

Photo: A stock image of an individual rolling up a joint. A POV overlay rest on top.

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Move signals a new opportunity for scientific research and economic opportunities, but quest i ons remain

Seth blumenthal.

In 1971, when asked about psychiatric professionals’ support for cannabis’ therapeutic applications and benefits, President Richard Nixon complained, “Most people would do a hell of a lot better with a preacher than a psychiatrist.” For Nixon, removing science from the cannabis discussion and elevating morality and virtue moved the conversation into his long-standing concern with youth’s ever-growing permissiveness.

However, cannabis science seems to be making a comeback. In a widely anticipated, but still controversial announcement, the Biden administration indicated that the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will move cannabis out of its Schedule I narcotic classification—grouped with the most dangerous drugs, such as heroin, that the DEA deems highly addictive and of little or no medicinal value. With cannabis a Schedule III substance, businesses will now be allowed to invest in the industry with tax relief and researchers will have an opportunity to investigate cannabis without the draconian restrictions on funding in place since 1971.

While many cannabis legalization activists argue that the move does little to address the historical wrongs of the war on drugs and fails to end federal marijuana prohibition, it is important to note this foundational shift away from the moralistic and criminalized framing perpetuated over the last 50 years since Nixon ensured this outdated scheduling classification.

When Nixon announced the war on drugs and his signature contribution in 1971, the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), narcotics enforcement in America suffered from a fragmented patchwork of policies that begged for federal standards across state lines and provoked a controversy about where cannabis stood in relation to other “street drugs.” Marijuana, the symbolic drug of the counterculture, quickly became a political football in the increasingly heated dialogue surrounding the generation gap. Hoping to diffuse this tension, Nixon appointed Governor Raymond P. Shafer (R-Pa.), a former prosecutor, as head of the National Commission on Marijuana and Drug Abuse to develop guidelines for prevention and law enforcement as well as scheduling recommendations.

The Shafer Commission conducted the most extensive and comprehensive examination of marijuana ever performed by the US government. They recorded thousands of pages of transcripts of formal and informal hearings, solicited all points of view, including those of public officials, community leaders, professional experts, and students. They also organized a nationwide survey of public beliefs, information, and experience with drugs. In addition, they conducted separate surveys of opinion among district attorneys, judges, probation officers, clinicians, university health officials, and “free clinic” personnel. In total, they commissioned more than 50 projects to survey enforcement of the marijuana laws in six metropolitan jurisdictions.

Nixon found himself in the awkward position of opposing his own study as the report claimed that marijuana did not cause hallucinations and that there was no evidence pot itself caused “crime, sexual immorality or addiction to hard drugs.” The commission recommended that private use be legalized, but further suggested that Nixon should remove drug classification from the DEA purview to allow cannabis rescheduling. As Congressman James Scheuer (D-N.Y.) observed, the commission’s recommendation to decriminalize marijuana represented a “great step forward in regaining the credibility of the youth in our country.”

Nixon disagreed. A week before the report came out, the president announced he would never decriminalize cannabis no matter the study’s findings. “I don’t want psychiatrists,” Nixon grumbled, “I want to smash the dope peddlers.” Thus, Nixon maintained an enforcement- and supply side–focus on cannabis policy that exaggerated prohibition’s moral righteousness, dismissed the scientific evidence, and maintained the DEA’s control over scheduling, which stifled researchers’ efforts to understand this widely used substance.

While efforts to persuade the DEA to reschedule cannabis failed several times, this imminent correction raises a new controversy. Even cannabis activists question the impact this new policy will have on enticing “Big Pharma” and corporate investment, often at odds with the public health research that rescheduling allows and threatening the struggling effort in each state to foster economic and racial equity in the industry. While the opening of both research and economic opportunities reflect a shared effort to bring cannabis science out of the morality framing Nixon preferred, Biden’s efforts shift the question from “whether” we should reschedule to “how.”

Seth Blumenthal, a master lecturer in the College of Arts & Sciences Writing Program, can be reached at [email protected] .

“POV” is an opinion page that provides timely commentaries from students, faculty, and staff on a variety of issues: on-campus, local, state, national, or international. Anyone interested in submitting a piece, which should be about 700 words long, should contact John O’Rourke at [email protected]. BU Today reserves the right to reject or edit submissions. The views expressed are solely those of the author and are not intended to represent the views of Boston University.

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  20. 50+ Economics Dissertation Topics in 2024

    Manali Ganguly, Mar 4, 2024. Share it on: The most popular economics dissertation topics in 2024 are economic development, economic policy and planning, impact of globalisation on economy, money and rates of interest, and international finance among others. The economics dissertation topics include impact of globalisation on economy ...

  21. Topics for master's theses

    Deaton A and J Muellbauer (1980) An almost ideal demand system, American Economic Review 70, 312-336. Banks J, R Blundell and A Lewbell (1997) Quadratic Engel Curves and Consumer Demand, Review of Economics and Statistics 79, 527-539. Data: Household budget survey data and price indices for your country. Suitable for profiles: ECN, ECO.

  22. PhD research topics

    Urban and Environmental Economics. Environmental economics and environmental policy. Environmental reporting. Real estate economics. Local labour markets. Agglomeration externalities. Spatial distribution of economic activities and innovation. Transport economics.

  23. Research Master in Economics

    CentER's Research Master (RM) in Economics is a challenging two-year program that prepares you for academic research in economics and econometrics with graduate level coursework and research training. After completing the program, most students continue with PhD research in economics or opt for a research-based position at a company or public sector organization. The RM and PhD program ...

  24. 50 Best Finance Dissertation Topics For Research Students

    Opting for relevant finance thesis topics ensures that your research contributes to the existing body of knowledge and addresses contemporary issues in the field of Finance. Choosing a dissertation topic in Finance that is relevant to the industry can make a meaningful impact and advance understanding in your chosen area. 2. Personal Interest.

  25. Six Decades of Economic Research at the Bank of England

    Abstract. This paper discusses the transformation of the content, role, and status of economic research at the Bank of England in the past sixty years. We show how three factors (the policy functions and missions of the Bank, the attitude of its executives toward economics, and its organizational structure) shaped the evolution of in-house economic research at the Bank during three distinctive ...

  26. POV: Decision to Reclassify Marijuana as a Less ...

    Boston University moderates comments to facilitate an informed, substantive, civil conversation. Abusive, profane, self-promotional, misleading, incoherent or off-topic comments will be rejected. Moderators are staffed during regular business hours (EST) and can only accept comments written in English.

  27. International Nurses Day 2024 report

    Publication description. The theme for International Nurses Day 2024 is: "Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care". This theme and our IND report present an in-depth analysis of how elevating the nursing profession can catalyse transformative improvements in health care delivery, economic development, peace and societal well-being.