Economics (with placement year)

Equip yourself to succeed in today’s fast-evolving world on our BSc Economics degree. You will gain new perspectives on pressing problems facing the world, build sought-after skills and get the practical experience you need to get noticed by today’s employers.

Economics relates to almost every area of our lives – from the decisions we make as individuals, to the policies adopted by governments, and the products and services offered by companies. By joining us on our BSc Economics degree, you will develop the skills of an economist, learning to understand how consumers and firms interact and behave, how government policy affects the economy, and how financial systems operate. This will enable you to go out and help organisations have a positive impact by tackling pressing issues that matter to all of us.

We explore such questions as: what causes income inequality in society, and how can it be addressed through economic policy in the UK and globally? And how can we use ‘behavioural nudges’ to help people save more for their pensions?

Engaging and topical modules
There are a variety of choices built into the course, so you can focus on the areas that interest you the most – from sustainable economic development to financial economics. You will also work on your own purpose-driven projects, and build key transferable skills to get you ready for making a difference when you start work.

Enhanced employability through a third year placement
Most importantly, you will not only be learning the theory – you can also have the opportunity to put it into practice. We offer several placement pathways, including a year-long or half-year work-based placement, building on your skills and getting valuable experience in industry. There are also options to study abroad. Many students find the experience vital in helping them secure good positions following graduation and increasing their confidence when they start their first job after graduating.

Lots of support available
This is a challenging but rewarding course and is open to you even if you have not studied economics or maths at A Level or equivalent. There will be plenty of support available, both inside and outside the lecture rooms, to help you get the most from your experience with us.

For a full list of areas studied, see the 'What You'll Study' section of the course page on our website.

Depending on the nature of the material, most modules are assessed by a mixture of coursework and examination (for example 20% coursework and 80% examination), whilst a few other modules are assessed by 100% coursework or 100% examination.

Coursework is based on a variety of tasks including individual essays, projects, presentations, contribution in tutorials, group work, class tests, problem sheets and computer-based exercises.