MSc in Econometrics and Operations Research
MSc in Econometrics and Operations Research is a one-year programme conducted in English. You can choose one of the following specializations: Actuarial Sciences, Econometrics, Mathematical Economics, and Operations Research.
Actuarial Sciences
The role of actuaries is changing. Until recently, actuaries have concentrated on mitigating risk. Now, their role is broader and more proactive: they study market demand and manage return on investment, both in the short and long terms. To do this, they must take a balanced view of both assets and liabilities. The Actuarial Sciences track at Maastricht University is one of only three such studies in the Netherlands, putting it at the cutting edge of its field. Become a ‘financial engineer’: take Actuarial Sciences.
What will you learn?
Keys skills that you will learn include problem solving and the ability to see those problems from more than one point of view. You will also learn how to communicate your opinions and solutions professionally and clearly in order to persuade others of your viewpoint.
At the end of the track, you will be able to:
break financial problems down into smaller parts in order to solve them
use a two-pronged approach to financial problems: an asset perspective and a liability perspective
demonstrate financial expertise in the pension and insurance sectors
Econometrics
The Econometrics track looks at three major areas:
statistical analysis of economic data
finance – including financial theory
asset liability management
What will you learn?
In pensions and investment funds, investors need predictions of how their portfolio will develop over time. Econometrics will give you the tools to predict this for them, making you an extremely valuable human resource in the investment sector. Econometrics will provide you with the know-how to get to grips with new information quickly, in order to be able to solve problems. Fast.
At the end of the track, you will be able to:
analyse data using statistical and econometric tools
model future developments based on past data
Mathematical Economics
Mathematical methods can be used to solve a whole range of business problems, from a company’s finances to the organisation of its people. In order to do this strategically, the Mathematical Economics track looks at theories and models that can help you make the right decisions.
What will you learn?
Mathematical Economics is certainly a theoretical track. But it’s also about solving real business problems, which means that you’ll learn about more than just the academic theories. You’ll also learn about business issues such as resources (both human and material), finance and organisational structure (both internal and external).
At the end of the track, you will be able to:
apply theoretical models to solve business problems
take educated decisions on resources, finances and organisational structure
MSc in Operations Research
Business and economic problems can use several methods to solve them. In the Operations Research track, you will use optimisation techniques, such as algorithms, for this purpose. You will also use computer technologies and programming techniques to reach solutions.
What will you learn?
Operations Research is about using technology but, more importantly, it’s about applying that technology in business situations to solve real problems. The track will give you the means not only to use computer programming to your advantage, but also to communicate your proposed solutions to the business decision makers effectively.
At the end of the track, you will be able to:
develop and implement software to find solutions for logistical scheduling problems
offer good advice on finding technical solutions to business and economic problems
