HSE-SWUFE Double Degree Master's Programme
The Double Degree Program in Economics and Finance with the Southwestern University of Finance and Economics is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and skills in Economics and Finance, while embracing the educational traditions of both China and Russia. One of the main benefits for our students is that ICEF students will enrich their study experience and expertise with a unique Chinese perspective. Graduates will not only enhance their global employment opportunities but also be well-prepared for further academic pursuits. This combination of skills and cultural insights will set them apart in a competitive job market.
Partner University: Southwestern University of Finance and Economics (SWUFE)
School: Research Institute of Economics and Management (RIEM)
Location: Chengdu, China
Participating programs: Master’s in Financial Economics at ICEF and Master’s in Finance at RIEM
Degrees awarded upon successful completion:
- Master’s degree in Economics (Financial Economics) from HSE University and
- Master’s degree in Economics (Major in Finance) from Southwestern University of Finance and Economics (SWUFE)
Total duration: ~28-35 months. The program duration exceeds beyond the standard two years in Russia due to the inclusion of country-specific courses and the requirement for ICEF students to achieve HSK3 proficiency in Chinese language. In China, the typical duration is around three years, primarily due to the extensive dissertation process.
Language of instruction: English. ICEF students must achieve a Chinese language proficiency of HSK3 level during their studies and pass an examination to qualify for the SWUFE degree. RIEM students may choose Russian as an optional course.
Study Plan
Year 1 – In the first year, students follow a standard curriculum at their Home University, and apply for the double degree program.
Year 2 – at the partner university:
- ICEF students at RIEM: Corporate Finance, Chinese Language, China Panorama, Electives, ICEF Research Seminar (online), Master’s thesis preparation*
- RIEM students at ICEF: Financial Econometrics, Time Series and Panel Data Analysis, Advanced Microeconomic Theory, Stochastic Calculus, Electives, ICEF Research seminar, Master’s thesis preparation*
Year 3 – at RIEM and at ICEF:
- ICEF students: Chinese language (HSK3), Financial Econometrics, Master’s thesis completion and defense**
- RIEM students: Master’s thesis completion and defense**
Master’s thesis
* Every student will have two supervisors from both universities.
** Master’s thesis will be defended and graded separately at each partner university.
Tuition: Tuition fees are only paid at your home university (if any).
Travel and living expenses: are to be covered by participants themselves.
Application Process
The call for applications will contain all the details regarding the application procedure, the selection process, deadlines, and further information.
Who can apply
- ICEF students enrolled in the first year of the master’s program in Financial Economics can apply for this double degree program.
- RIEM students apply for the Double Degree Program during Year 1 at SWUFE.
Number of places
Up to 3 students from each partner university may participate annually.
Selection criteria
Students should comply with the conditions and deadlines set by the Home university.
Maxim Nikitin, Academic Supervisor of the Master’s in Financial Economics at ICEF
"Our Financial Economics programme has been notable for its international format from the very start. We strive to integrate international standards and practices into the education process. Our cooperation with SWUFE, one of China’s leading finance universities, marks an important step in expanding the geographical scope of our academic network. We are glad that this initiative brings equal benefits to both sides, enriching our curricula and creating a new platform for academic exchange and joint projects. We are confident that this partnership will give our students access to unique knowledge and skills that will benefit them in the global labour market".