BSc (Hons) Economics

Our 4-year BSc (Hons) in Economics will give you the skills you need for a career in the financial sector, or to pursue a managerial career.

You’ll develop a strong working knowledge of:

• Microeconomics and macroeconomics
• Qualitative and mathematical research methods
• Financial markets and banking
• Economic trends, institutions and policies – both national and international

You’ll study core Economics modules and choose optional modules from other complementary subject disciplines within the School of Management, ensuring you emerge as a well-rounded, commercially aware professional.

The programme focuses on the application of theory to real-world commercial situations. It is also oriented towards research-led teaching from academic staff with research interests in fields such as:

• International trade
• European economic integration
• Dynamic macroeconomics and international finance
• Financial economics
• Emerging markets and transitional economics

A placement year, taken in year three of the programme, enables you to develop your skills and professional confidence and boost your employability on graduation.

You'll have a wide range of career opportunities open to you on graduation, in both the public and private sectors, along with the foundations for further study in finance, economics and business management.

What you will study
All module information is for 2024 entry, and is subject to change.

First Year
Core

• Introduction to Microeconomics
• Principles of Responsible Management and Practice
• Quantitative Methods for Economists
• Development of Economic Ideas
• Finance and Accounting for Managers
• Introduction to Macroeconomics

Second Year
Core

• Entrepreneurship and Employability
• Intermediate Microeconomics
• Intermediate Macroeconomics
• Multinational Finance and Investment
• Research Methods for Economists

Optional

• Consumer Behaviour and Digital Insights
• Financial Accounting
• Financial Management
• Human Resource Management
• International Business Strategy
• Marketing Management and Strategy in a Digital Age

Third Year

Study abroad or placement year.

Placement Year
We provide access to high-quality internship opportunities at a variety of employers.

• Our students are highly successful in securing both summer and year-long internships and placements with Government Economic Service placement scheme (e.g. the Treasury, Department for Work and Pensions, Department of Health, Office for National Statistics) and a range of private sector companies involved in marketing, finance and the voluntary sector.
• Support to secure a placement comes from both the University’s Career and Employability Services and our Economics team (particularly in relation to the Government Economic Service placement scheme).
• In our experience the completion of a placement is a transformative process. It not only provides experience and improves employability – it boosts the performance and professionalism of returning students.

Learning and assessment

• Learning and teaching integrates applied and theoretical knowledge, taking into consideration the learning outcomes, progression through the levels of study, the nature of the mode of study and the need for you to take greater responsibility for your own learning as you progress through the programme.
• Lectures are the main teaching method, and you'll experience a wide variety of other learning activities including supplementary reading, exercises, projects and workbooks, independent study and group work.
• The final year dissertation is a substantial piece of work that gives you the opportunity not only to increase your specialist subject knowledge, but also to demonstrate your ability to undertake independent study.
• All teaching is supported by information and activities provided through the University’s virtual learning environment.
• In addition, the School offers an Effective Learning Service, which helps with the development of study skills both in group sessions and through individual coaching.
• Methods of assessment vary according to the learning outcomes of particular modules and the stage of study.
• Accordingly, a mixture of closed book examinations, essays and other written work, oral presentations, problem solving exercises and group work will be used in assessment of your work.
• Classroom and mid-semester tests provide feedback on your progress.
• Throughout the programme your learning will be supported using various methods of formative assessment and feedback. This is to help you progress your studies and support your continuing development.

Career prospects

• Our Economics programmes develop your powers of analysis and critical thought, and build skills in communication, expression and rational argument. These are valuable in any area of employment.