Economics and Politics

What is the BSc Economics and Politics?
The BSc Economics and Politics is a three-year degree, or four years with an optional placement or study abroad year.

You’ll explore how governments and markets shape societies - from the role of central banks and globalisation to how economic forces influence political decisions. Through a blend of theory, data analysis, and applied learning, you’ll develop the skills to understand the world’s most pressing policy challenges.

Why this course
The BSc Economics and Politics gives you the insight and tools to understand and interpret how governments and markets shape our world. You’ll study political systems and economic principles side by side, exploring how decisions about money, power, and people drive everything from elections to global trade.

Learn from leading academics in a department where research informs government policy, economic reform, and international development. You’ll gain first-hand insight into how theory and data translate into real-world impact - and develop the analytical and quantitative skills that employers in government, finance, and consultancy value.

You can add a placement or study abroad year to apply your learning in professional or international settings, broadening your global perspective and confidence before graduation.

This course will help you develop a strong foundation in economic analysis and political understanding in preparation of a wide range of analytical roles, or further postgraduate study.

Who should apply

Students curious about the interaction between politics, economics, and global change
Future policymakers, analysts, or researchers aiming to influence decision-making
Those interested in careers spanning government, finance, NGOs, or international organisations
Ambitious learners who want both critical insight and quantitative skills

What you’ll learn

Economics and markets: Explore how economies function - from micro and macroeconomics to European and global systems - and understand how policies shape growth, trade, and inequality
Politics and power: Examine how governments, institutions, and movements make decisions, compete for influence, and manage change in an interconnected world
Global dynamics: Investigate how economic forces and political choices interact - shaping everything from financial crises to development and global cooperation
Ideas and ideologies: Study the political and economic philosophies that underpin democracy, capitalism, and globalisation
Research and data skills: Learn to design studies, analyse real-world data, and use advanced quantitative methods through our data skills pathway - preparing you for research and professional roles that rely on evidence-based insight