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Students in an economics class

Economics BA/BSc

Study of how individuals, businesses, and governments make decisions about resources, and how economic forces shape markets, inequality, growth, and global challenges.

Is this for you?

This degree could suit you if you:

  • Enjoy maths and analysis

  • Are interested in markets and finance

  • Like problem-solving

  • Want a career in economics or finance

  • Are analytical

Popular Career Fields

Finance & Banking

Government & Public Sector

Consulting

Research & Academia

Your Personality Might Be:

Analytical thinker

Government & Public Sector

Numerically confident

Logical reasoner

What is it?

What is an Economics degree?


Economics explores how societies allocate resources, how markets function, and how economic policies affect people, businesses, and global systems.


You will learn to analyse data, model behaviour, and understand complex interactions between consumers, firms, governments, and international economies.


The degree covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, statistics, policy analysis, finance, globalisation, and behavioural economics. 


It combines theoretical thinking with practical analytical skills used to solve real-world economic problems.


Economics is highly respected and valued across business, government, finance, research, consultancy, and international organisations.


Why Study Economics?


If you enjoy analytical thinking, problem-solving, and understanding how the world works, Economics offers a powerful and versatile foundation.


It helps you explore questions such as:

  • What drives inflation, inequality, or unemployment?

  • Why do markets succeed or fail?

  • How do global events impact businesses and households?

  • What policies encourage sustainable growth?


Economics equips you with numerical, analytical, and decision-making skills that are in high demand across sectors.

Graph analysis on a laptop

Course Summary

Study of how individuals, businesses, and governments make decisions about resources, and how economic forces shape markets, inequality, growth, and global challenges.

What you'll study

Most economics degrees cover modules such as:


  • Microeconomics and macroeconomics fundamentals

  • Data analysis, statistics, and econometrics

  • Markets, competition, and economic behaviour

  • Government policy, taxation, and welfare economics

  • International economics, trade, and global finance

  • Business economics, development, and financial systems

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Skills You'll Gain

An Economics degree builds strong analytical and professional skills, which might include:

Quantitative analysis – enabling you to interpret data, build models, and evaluate economic trends.


Problem-solving and logical reasoning – helping you break down complex problems and propose evidence-based solutions.


Economic modelling – applying theoretical tools to understand behaviour, markets, and policy outcomes.


Communication and reporting – presenting technical insights clearly to expert and non-expert audiences.


Policy and commercial awareness – understanding how economic decisions shape business, government, and society.

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Pathways, Placements and Work Experience

CAREERS

Career Pathways

Economics graduates are employed across a wide range of sectors, including:


  • Finance, banking, and investment

  • Government, civil service, and public policy

  • Business strategy and management consulting

  • Data analytics, market research, and economic analysis

  • International development and global organisations

  • Insurance, risk analysis, and actuarial support

  • Tech, logistics, or energy industries

Work Experiences & Placements

Depending on the programme, opportunities may include:


  • Financial services, banking, or investment firms

  • Government departments or policy units

  • Economic consultancies or think tanks

  • Research assistant roles

  • International development organisations

  • Data analytics or business strategy teams


Some universities offer placement years, internships, or industry-linked projects.

Salary Profile

Coming soon

Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?

AM I ELIGIBLE?

Entry Requirements

A-levels or equivalent. Many universities prefer Maths or Economics. Maths, Economics, Further Maths, Business, or Geography are beneficial. Some universities accept a broad range but Maths is increasingly preferred.

Personal Statement Tips

  • Show interest in global issues, markets, finance, or public policy.

  • Mention reading, competitions, or activities that sparked your interest.

  • Highlight logical thinking, curiosity, numeracy, or problem-solving skills.

  • Discuss economic questions or real-world issues that fascinate you.

What to do Next

  • Decide between BA and BSc pathways based on maths confidence.

  • Explore modules in finance, data analytics, behavioural economics, or development.

  • Attend open days or sample lectures.

  • Practise basic maths or statistics if preparing for a quantitative programme.

Uni student

Not sure what to study?

Alternatives to Degrees

Internships
Short Courses
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships

Wider Reading


  • Freakonomics – Steven Levitt & Stephen Dubner
    An engaging look at the hidden economic forces behind everyday behaviour.

  • The Undercover Economist – Tim Harford
    A clear explanation of how economic principles shape daily life, markets, and public policy.

  • Economics: A Very Short Introduction – Partha Dasgupta
    A concise guide to key economic concepts and debates.

  • Capital in the Twenty-First Century – Thomas Piketty
    A major analysis of inequality, wealth, and long-term economic trends.

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