Economics

Gain a strong foundation in how economics works and explore a range of economic specialisms. As you progress through your degree, you'll learn how to use economics to solve the important real-world problems that we face today.

Develop the theoretical understanding and quantitative skills needed to become a highly proficient economist, with a focus on the application of economics to real-world problems.

In your first year you'll be introduced to foundational economic principles and theories and develop your core quantitative skills in mathematical and statistical methods for economics. Whether you have an A-Level (or equivalent) in Maths or not, you’ll receive specialist training and support catered to your current abilities.

You’ll then build on your toolkit of theoretical and quantitative skills in your second and final years and apply these to the specialist areas of economics that interest you the most.

In the first and second years, you’ll have the same core and optional modules on the BA Economics course as the BSc Economics course. This will expose you to both applied and methodological economics so you can decide which specialism is right for you.

At the end of your second year you will then decide if you wish to focus on the applied pathway (BA Economics), or switch to the methodological pathway (BSc Economics), subject to academic performance in mathematical and statistical modules.

e BA course, you will choose from a range of applied specialisms and study our flagship Economics Policy and Practice module. This module encourages you to apply your skills and knowledge to contemporary economic policy challenges, while also developing new skills in economic policy evaluation and in the communication of economics to both specialists and non-specialists. In addition, this module will enhance your employability skills, challenging you to critically appraise, analyse, interpret and communicate economics when it’s applied to real-world issues.

This degree comes with the opportunity to do a year-long, paid work placement, starting after your second year, with some of the UK's top employers – these have included the Bank of England, HM Treasury, IBM and PwC.

Whichever path you choose, you’ll graduate equipped with the practical skills you need to forge a career as an economist in the public, private or third sector, or other related professions.

Why study this course?

• No Maths entry requirement - Don’t have a Maths A-Level (or equivalent)? Our first year is designed to get you up to speed with the level of maths required for a Russell Group Economics degree.

• Variety, choice and flexibility - Specialise in key areas of economic policy, from international trade to environmental Economics. Or, at the end of year two, switch to the BSc and specialise in methods and theory, such as Finance or Game Theory.

• Comprehensive employability support - Apply for a year-long, paid work placement with a leading employer between your second and final year. You’ll also have access to career advice and events through the Sheffield Economics Employability Development (SEED) scheme.

• Excellent career prospects - Our graduates develop valuable career-relevant skills. They go on to kick start careers across computing, banking, actuarial work and data science for employers such as the Bank of England, Goldman Sachs, IBM, PwC, and HM Treasury.