UK Economics Degree

Introduction to Economics

London is one of the leading global financial centres in the world, and studying economics close to where many of its theories base their origins can be a huge advantage to any international student. Some of the world’s largest banks and accountancy firms operate in the UK, and upon completion of study there are a large number of opportunities for economic graduates to pursue.

During study, students will develop their problem solving, data analysis, computing and written and oral presentation skills, all abilities which are highly regarded and sought after in today’s economic climate. English is considered the language of world finance, and you will reap the benefits later in your career having studied here.

Joint-honours degrees are also available, while subjects such as history, law and politics will help craft how you see economics past and future. Modules throughout the degree will include statistics, sustainable development, microeconomics, macroeconomics and decision theory.

Bachelor of Economics

An undergraduate economics degree in the UK will provide international students with the required toolkit to succeed in the economics sector. Undergraduate economics courses generally last for 3-years, although commonly work placements and internships are available, meaning 4-year programmes are not unusual. Introductory teaching on the subject will see students learn key economic theory, with no prior economic experience generally required on most programmes when applying.

Dual honours degrees are also available on many economic courses in the UK, meaning you can study other subjects such as business, geography or maths to compliment your economics degree.

Masters in Economics

A masters in economics will provide students with thorough training in enhanced economic theories and techniques. You will apply economic theory to the real world in case studies, and be introduced to concepts and ideas via policy analysis, quantitative modelling and data analytics.

The UK is one of the most popular countries in the world for international students studying abroad and a postgraduate economics course at a UK university will provide the perfect platform for you to specialise in an area of specific interest as you prepare for your coming career.

What is the difference between BA and BSc economics?

When choosing to study an economics degree, you may notice that some economics courses have the BA suffix and some the BSc. A small number of UK universities offer both, but most usually only provide one or the other.

The differences are minimal, but broadly a BA in economics is more focussed on analytical theory, whilst the BSc is more concerned with quantitative and statistical analysis.

Graduate Economics Careers and Salary

In the private sector, Economics graduates find work as consultants in banking and finance, whilst in the public sector they work for government departments, national treasuries, central banks and bureaus of statistics. Positions are also available in manufacturing, transport, communications, insurance, charitable institutions, investment and retail industries.

• Average starting professional salary: £27,000
• Average starting non-professional salary: £18,000

Source: Higher Education Statistics Agency, Destination of Leavers from Higher Education 2016-17.

Economics UK Entry Requirements

• Typical International Baccalaureate requirements: 36 points.
• Typical A-levels requirements: AAA including mathematics.
• Typical IELTS requirements: 6.5 overall, with no lower than 6.0 in any one component.

Please note that entry requirements vary for each UK university.

Where can I study Economics in the UK?

To learn more about the best Economics courses in the UK, find details on the top ten ranking Economics universities in the Guardian University Guide 2023 below:

1. University of St Andrews
2. University of Oxford
3. University of Cambridge
4. London School of Economics and Political Science
5. University of Warwick
6. University of Stirling
7. Durham University
8. University of Hertfordshire
9. Heriot-Watt University
10. University College London

Study Economics in the UK

If you are interested in studying Economics in the UK, arrange your free consultation today. Don't forget the Premium Service will guarantee you at least one offer from a UK university.