Economics BSc
This BSc course allows you to specialise in methodological modules, learn rigorous quantitative and analytical skills and apply this knowledge to your analysis of economics issues and policy.
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A Levels
AAB -
UCAS code
L101 -
Duration
3 years -
Start date
September
- Course fee
- Funding available
- Optional placement year
- Study abroad
Explore this course:
Course description
Why study this course?
This course allows you to specialise in your area of interest, building from a broad grounding in economic theory and analysis, and guiding you through the pathway of your choice.
This degree comes with the opportunity to do a year-long, paid work placement with a leading employer in your second year. You will also be able to do internships, voluntary work and access employability advice and workshops through the 91ÖÆƬ³§ Economics Employability Development (SEED) scheme.
Our graduates develop the key skills that employers in a variety of fields value. They go on to kick start careers across computing, banking, actuarial work and data science for employers such as Amazon, the Bank of England, Goldman Sachs, IBM, PwC, HM Treasury, the NHS and the Civil Service.
You’ll specialise in methodological modules, learn rigorous quantitative and analytical skills and apply this knowledge to analyse economic issues and policy.
Our BSc Economics degree has a particular focus on mathematical and statistical quantitative methods, which are applied to a variety of economics problems
In your first year you will be introduced to foundational economic principles and theories and develop your core quantitative skills in mathematical and statistical methods for economics. You will then build on your toolkit of theoretical and quantitative skills in your second year and select from a set of advanced methodological modules in your final year, with the option of incorporating some applied options available to the BA stream.
You will be able to choose which pathway you specialise in. You'll have the same core and optional modules on the BA Economics and BSc Economics courses in the first and second years, so that you can study modules in both applied and methodological economics.
At the end of your second year you will then decide if you wish to focus on the methodological pathway (BSc Economics), or switch to the applied pathway (BA Economics). This will determine the set of modules you can choose to study from in your final year.
This degree comes with the opportunity to do a year-long, paid work placement, starting after your second year with some of the UK's top employers – these have included the Bank of England, HM Treasury, IBM and PwC.
Whichever path you choose, you’ll graduate equipped with the practical skills you need to forge a career as an economist in the public, private or third sector, or other related professions.
Modules
Our degrees are structured around two pathways that allow you the flexibility to explore the methodological and applied approaches to economics. Throughout your levels of study, these pathways will help guide you through your learning so that you can develop your skills and knowledge and specialise in your chosen pathway in your final year.
Methodological pathway
These modules will train you in theoretical, mathematical and statistical methods and you will learn how to to use these tools to analyse economics issues.
Applied pathway
These modules provide you with the skills to analyse the economic issues that you're most interested in, whether related to individuals, firms or governments, using the methodological tools you have learned throughout your degree programme. In your final year, you will have the option to specialise in this applied pathway and change your degree to BA Economics.
UCAS code: L101
Years: 2026
Core modules:
- Microeconomic Analysis and Policy
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This module introduces you to the fundamental principles of microeconomic theory, focusing on the behaviour and decision-making processes of individuals, households, and firms. You will gain a solid understanding of key microeconomic concepts, such as choice theory, market structures, consumer behavior, and firm decision-making. The module explores the practical application of microeconomic analysis to contemporary policy issues.
20 credits - Macroeconomic Analysis and Policy
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This module introduces you to the foundations of macroeconomic theory and analysis. You will explore how economies operate at the aggregate level and develop the tools to understand key economic indicators such as interest rates, national output, inflation, and exchange rates. Through real-world examples and policy applications, you will learn how macroeconomic analysis informs and shapes economic decision-making and policy evaluation in national and global contexts.
20 credits - Statistical Methods for Economics
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The aims of the module are: 1. To introduce statistical methods and provide an insight into their uses in economics. 2. to demonstrate application of a range of statistical techniques to economic problems. Topics include collection and presentation of data, descriptive statistics, probability and applications, statistical inference, correlation and regression.
20 credits - Mathematical Methods for Economics 2
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This module is designed for students with an A-Level in Mathematics (or an equivalent qualification). You will revisit key mathematical tools covered in A-Level Mathematics (such as differential calculus) and learn to use them to formulate and solve problems in economics and finance. You will also be introduced to other techniques that are essential for problem solving in economics. These tools will be used throughout the rest of your degree. The topics covered include: sequences/series and the economics of finance, functions, univariate optimization, elasticity, integration, multivariate optimization, constrained optimization, and matrix algebra.
20 credits - Applied Data Analysis in Economics
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This module introduces you to the fundamentals of economic data analysis and visualisation. You will learn how to find, collect, and manage real-world economic data, as well as apply basic statistical tools to interpret and present insights effectively. The module covers key economic indicators such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), inflation, and unemployment while teaching best practices for creating clear, accurate, and meaningful data visualisations. Through hands-on experience with Excel, you will develop practical skills that are highly valued in both academic research and the workplace. The module has a strong emphasis on employability, promoting reflection in the skills you acquire aligned to the 91ÖÆƬ³§ Graduate Attributes (SGA).
20 credits
Optional modules:
- Introductory Finance for Economics
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This module introduces students to the financing and investment decisions that financial managers make, and the financial market context in which those decisions are made. Its aim is to provide a solid grounding in the basic concepts of finance for economists, focusing in particular on theoretical analysis and problem solving.
20 credits - Economic History of Britain and the Modern World
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This module provides an introduction to the economic history of Britain and the evolution of the global economy in the context of modern theories of economic growth and development and present-day debates about poverty, inequality and North-South relations.
20 credits - Classical and Contemporary Thinkers in Economics
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This module introduces students to a range of classical and contemporary economists, including the founders of the discipline and some Nobel Prize winners, past and present. For each economist, a senior member of the department will give a short biography, outline their contributions to the discipline of economics and the development of the subject, and explain how they have influenced their own thinking and research that is undertaken in economics today. Examples of the contribution of these economists to a range of economic issues will be used to illustrate the continuing relevance and application of their ideas.
20 credits
Plus the option to take a module from the Languages for All Scheme.
In your second year, you’ll continue to build upon your knowledge of micro and macro economics and econometrics.
Example core modules:
- Intermediate Microeconomics
- Intermediate Macroeconomics
- Econometrics
- Applied Econometrics
You’ll also have the opportunity to enhance your knowledge of applied economics through optional modules covering topics such as industrial organisation, finance, international economics, and economic policy and decision-making.
In your third year, you’ll gain specialist knowledge by completing a dissertation related to a topic of your choosing.
You’ll have the opportunity to tailor your degree to your interests by selecting from a range of optional modules, both methodological and applied. Example topics include Game Theory, finance, international trade, development economics, and advanced mathematical methods.
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we will inform students and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Learning and assessment
Learning
We provide students with a varied and interactive learning experience. You'll learn by attending lectures and seminars, interactive workshops, tutorials and computer labs. We also incorporate online resources into our teaching, such as online videos, to enhance your studies.
Assessment
This degree is primarily exam-based, however you'll also be assessed by written coursework, computer-based assignments, research projects, presentations and reports to assess the range of knowledge and skills that an economist needs.
Entry requirements
With Access 91ÖÆƬ³§, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
AAB
including Maths
- A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
- ABB, including Maths + B in the EPQ
- International Baccalaureate
- 34, with 5 in HL Maths; 33, with 5 in Higher Level Maths, and B in the extended essay
- BTEC Extended Diploma
- DDM in a relevant subject + A in A Level Maths
- BTEC Diploma
- DD + A in A Level Maths
- Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher/s
- AAABB + B in Maths
- Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
- B + AA, including Maths
- Access to HE Diploma
- Award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction (to include 12 Maths units) and 9 at Merit
The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
ABB
including Maths
- A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
- ABB, including Maths + B in the EPQ
- International Baccalaureate
- 33, with 5 in Higher Level Maths
- BTEC Extended Diploma
- DDM in a relevant subject + A in A Level Maths
- BTEC Diploma
- DM + A in A Level Maths
- Scottish Highers + Advanced Higher/s
- AABBB + B in Maths
- Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
- B + AB, including Maths
- Access to HE Diploma
- Award of the Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction (to include 12 Maths units) and 15 at Merit
You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification
Equivalent English language qualifications
Visa and immigration requirements
Other qualifications | UK and EU/international
If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the school/department.
Graduate careers
School of Economics
Some of our graduates become professional economists in government, industry or the City. Others enter related professions - banking, â€insurance, accountancy, sales and marketing, and â€retail management.
Recent graduates are now working for the Bank of England, HM Treasury, the European Parliament, PwC, Deloitte, IBM and Rolls Royce. Some prefer to advance their knowledge by studying economics at postgraduate level.
School of Economics
National Student Survey (NSS) 2024
We have an international reputation for practical and real-world economics.
You'll be taught by some of the top economic experts in their field and you'll receive the latest cutting-edge teaching from people who care passionately about their subject.
Our staff advise government departments in the UK such as the Department for Work and Pensions, the Department for Education, as well as advisory bodies such as the Low Pay Commission. Their research helps shape government policies and aims to improve people's lives. This research also informs what you will be taught in your modules.
The School of Economics is based in Elmfield building, close to The Wave, the new home for the Faculty of Social Sciences. The Wave features state-of-the-art collaborative lecture theatres, study spaces and seminar rooms.
Teaching may take place in Elmfield, The Wave, or in other buildings across campus, many of which are close together so it’s easy to walk between them and it’s a great way to get to know the city. You will also be close to our Students' Union and central libraries.
Facilities
Our state-of-the-art classrooms are in the same building as our staff offices. You'll also have your own social space with computer access.
University rankings
A world top-100 university
QS World University Rankings 2026 (92nd) and Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025 (98th)
Number one in the Russell Group
National Student Survey 2024 (based on aggregate responses)
92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
Research Excellence Framework 2021
University of the Year and best for Student Life
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024
Number one Students' Union in the UK
Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2024, 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017
Number one for Students' Union
StudentCrowd 2024 University Awards
A top 20 university targeted by employers
The Graduate Market in 2024, High Fliers report
Fees and funding
Fees
Additional costs
The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.
Funding your study
Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.
Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.
Placements and study abroad
Placement
Recent placements have been with the Bank of England, Lloyds Bank, IBM, ASOS and Mercedes-Benz.
Study abroad
Visit
University open days
We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.
Subject tasters
If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.
Offer holder days
If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong school focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.
Campus tours
Our weekly guided tours show you what 91ÖÆƬ³§ has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.
Apply
The awarding body for this course is the University of 91ÖÆƬ³§.
Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read and the .
Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.