Economics

Today's turbulent economy demands high calibre, well- rounded graduates who not only specialise in economics but also understand the wider social issues and forces at play.

Our BA (Economic and Social Studies), known as the BA (Econ), is a flagship interdisciplinary degree designed for you if you want to understand economics in its full social, political and technical context. This specialisation provides a rigorous education in core economic theory and quantitative methods, while equipping you with the broader perspectives needed to address today’s most complex global challenges.

The BA (Econ) is the parent programme to eight distinctive specialisations:

Economics; Economics and Politics; Economics and Philosophy; Economics and Sociology; Economics and Finance; Data Science and Economics; Accounting and Finance; and Finance. This structure allows you to gain a strong shared foundation in economics while benefiting from the intellectual richness of other social science disciplines.

If you choose the Economics specialism, you develop all the technical skills expected of a modern economist, including economic modelling, statistical/data analysis and interpretation, and policy evaluation. Beyond technical proficiency, the programme places strong emphasis on critical thinking, ethical reasoning and real- world application. You learn to analyse economic issues not only through mathematical and data- driven approaches, but also through an understanding of institutions, behaviour, history and social outcomes.

In a world that is increasingly complex, interconnected and shaped by rapid technological change, mathematics and algorithms alone cannot provide all the answers. While the programme ensures you understand how data is analysed and how emerging technologies, including generative AI, are transforming economic decision- making, it also recognises the growing importance of human judgement, contextual understanding and interdisciplinary insight. These skills are increasingly sought after by employers, policymakers and international organisations.

Graduates of the BA (Econ) Economics specialisation stand out for their ability to design effective policies, assess economic trade- offs critically, and understand how economic decisions affect societies, communities and countries. The programme prepares you for a wide range of careers in economics, public policy, finance, consultancy, data analysis, international development, and further academic study.

Teaching on the programme is delivered by world- leading academic staff who are internationally recognised for excellence in teaching and research, and who are leaders in their respective fields. You benefit from research- informed teaching, close academic support, and an intellectually stimulating environment that encourages curiosity, debate and independent thinking.

The BA (Economic and Social Studies) with specialisation in Economics is an ideal choice if you are seeking a rigorous, forward- looking and socially engaged economics education- one that combines technical strength with the critical perspectives needed to shape a better future.

https://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/courses/2027/05134/baecon-economics/

The way that you study and are assessed will depend on which course units you choose. Our methods are designed to promote in-depth learning and understanding, including:

• essays, coursework, and other mid-term evaluations;

• dissertations;

• presentations;

• group projects;

• exams.