Studying with us in 2021/22
It is possible that the 2021/22 academic year may be affected by the ongoing disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Any arrangements put in place by the University for the 2021/22 academic year will be in accordance with the latest government public health advice, pandemic-related/health and safety legislation, and the terms and conditions of the student contract.
This course has recently been updated. Please download the course specification for the up to date information.
The applied nature of our BA (Hons) Business Economics degree prepares you to work across all areas of the economy, especially the private sector.
Specifically, your degree combines the study of economics, with a wide variety of applicable business-related theories/models such as E-business, sustainability and innovation among others.
In this course the focus lies on three key pillars: it is applied enabling you to make sense of the impact of policies; it centres on enhancing your employability; finally, it provides you with a global outlook critical to sustainable growth within an organisation. The international focus of the course is derived through a variety of means including the student body, the teaching team and the use of international teaching materials. In addition to this you’ll also have the opportunity to gain industry experience by going on a professional placement, or to travel overseas to study abroad at one of our partner universities.
Economics is a major social science which studies the economy and its impact on society and the natural environment. Economics draws on and influences other social sciences and it is also a core business discipline, which is integral to understanding organisational behaviour, strategy and corporate performance. This course will equip you with a firm foundation of economics through a unique pluralist approach, which will bring to life diverse economic ideas and empower you to understand the relevance of competing economic theories and their application to business decision-making.
In order to do this effectively, this course equips you with a vast analytical toolkit, which includes mathematical and statistical analysis, critical thinking and the use of business tools and techniques to provide a richer understanding of the challenges contemporary businesses face within both the UK and International economies. During your study here you will have the chance to access to our Trading room and to work on a live client project with our Business Advice Centre. Finally, you will also gain critical communication and IT skills with our expert teaching team that has industry experience.
As Business Economists work in a number of settings: you will be prepared for a wide-ranging data-driven career in both the public and private sector, therefore, providing you with a range of options dependent on the graduate role you subsequently seek. The technical skills within this course, alongside your engagement with our Graduate+ employability programme and extra-curricular awards, will further enhance your development as a work-ready graduate.
“A learning environment that gives a vast amount of communication between the students and lecturers. This has helped reduce my difficulties with assignments liaising, involvement opportunities and much more. More than a teacher/learner relationship.” Sukaina Al-Husseiny
Our next Virtual Open Day is taking place on Saturday 20 March. It's the perfect opportunity to virtually tour our facilities, hear from some of our staff and get a feel of what it's like to study at BCU.
Our students have gone on to work with companies such as:
We accept a range of qualifications, the most popular of which are detailed below.
BBC or 112 UCAS tariff points from a maximum of 3 subjects. |
||
Level 2 Qualifications | ||
---|---|---|
UK Qualification | Requirements 2021/22 | |
GCSE |
|
|
Irish Leaving Certificate (Ordinary Level) |
|
|
Scottish National 5 |
|
|
Plus one of the following Level 3 (and above) Qualifications | ||
UK Qualification | Requirements 2021/22 | |
A level and Advanced VCE |
|
|
AAT Diploma in Accounting (QCF) |
|
|
Access to HE Diploma |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
IBO Certificate in Higher Level |
|
|
International Baccalaureate Diploma |
|
|
IFS / LIBF Diploma in Financial Studies |
|
|
Irish Leaving Certificate (Highers) |
|
|
NCFE CACHE Level 3 Applied General Certificate in Health and Social Care |
|
|
OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma |
|
|
OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma |
|
|
OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Introductory Diploma |
|
|
Scottish Advanced Higher |
|
|
Scottish Higher |
|
|
T-Levels |
|
|
Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate - Skills Challenge Certificate (first teaching September 2015) |
|
|
Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma – Core (awarded until 2016) ESW/KS Combined component |
|
|
Other Qualifications | ||
If you have a qualification that is not listed in the table please refer to our full entry requirements on UCAS. Further guidance on tariff points can be found on the UCAS website. |
Essential | ||
---|---|---|
Applications from international applicants with equivalent qualifications to 112 points are welcome. Please see your country page for further details on the equivalent qualifications we accept. In additional to the academic entry requirements listed above, international and EU students will also require the qualifications detailed in this table. |
||
English language requirements 2020/21 | ||
IELTS |
6.0 overall with 5.5 minimum in all bands If you do not meet the required IELTS score, you may be eligible for one of our pre-sessional English courses. Please note that you must have a Secure English Language Test (SELT) to study on the pre-sessional English course. More information. |
|
Other accepted qualifications | Visit our English language page |
From A/AS Level with a minimum of 2 A Levels
You could apply for a foundation course or a course at our International College. These routes have lower entry requirements and act as the bridge to a full degree. To find out more, please select your status:
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
Fees for Part-time students
This course can be studied on a Part-time study basis. The cost per year of study is based on credit requirements for that year as shown here.
Award: BA (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2021
If you're unable to use the online form for any reason, you can complete our PDF application form and equal opportunities PDF form instead. The University reserves the right to increase fees in line with inflation based on the Retail Prices Index or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament up to a maximum of five per cent.
UK students applying for most undergraduate degree courses in the UK will need to apply through UCAS.
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) is a UK organisation responsible for managing applications to university and college.
There are three ways to apply:
You will need to complete our International Application Form and Equal Opportunities Form, and submit them together with scan copies of your original academic transcripts and certificates.
Our in-country representatives can help you make your application and apply for a visa. They can also offer advice on travel, living in the UK and studying abroad.
If you are applying for an undergraduate degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND), you can apply through the UK’s Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).
You can request a printed form from your school or nearest British Council office. You will be charged for applying through UCAS. Birmingham City University’s UCAS code is B25 BCITY.
UK / EU students are required to submit a personal statement as part of their application for this course.*
The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the key areas you’ll need to address:
Why does this course appeal? What areas are of particular interest?
If you have a specific career in mind, say how your chosen course will help you pursue this goal.
Mention any work that is relevant to your subject, highlighting the skills and experience gained.
Highlight skills gained at school/college, eg summer schools or mentoring activities.
eg Duke of Edinburgh Award, Young Enterprise scheme.
You should also mention your future plans – if you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons. Talk about any subjects you’re studying that don’t have a formal assessment and any sponsorships or placements you’ve applied for. And don't be scared to add in details about your social, sports or leisure interests.
Get more information on writing personal statements.
*Non-EU students are not required to submit a personal statement when applying for this course.
If you study this course part-time or via distance learning, you will be charged on a pro-rata basis. This means your fee will be calculated per module.
There are no compulsory additional costs or charges associated with studying on this course. While you may choose to purchase personal copies of text books, all our key text books are available from our library or online (subject to normal library loan and online access arrangements).
Based on the past experience of our students, you might find it helpful to set aside about £50 for each year of your studies for your personal stationery and study materials. All our students are provided with 100 free pages of printing each year to a maximum total value of £15.
The cost of accommodation and other living costs are not included within your course fees. More information on the cost of accommodation can be found in our accommodation pages.
If you've got no idea where to start or just want to check you're on the right track, we’ve got expert advice and real examples from our students to help you nail your personal statement. You can even download our ultimate personal statement guide for free.
We offer further information on possible undergraduate financial support. This includes the type of loans, grants and scholarships available both from the government and from Birmingham City University.
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 120 credits).
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 80 credits).
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 40 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules.
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 60 credits).
In order to complete this course a student must choose ONE of the following core project routes (totalling 40 credits):
In order to complete this course, a student must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules.
A variety of delivery approaches will be utilised throughout the course to managing the learning process, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, peer teaching and learning, project-based learning, experiments, games and technology-enabled learning.
For example, blended learning is adopted, using a mix of face-to-face with online and independent study approach. While face-to-face sessions will vary in format, you will be expected to arrive to sessions fully prepared throughout. The application of key concepts during lectures and workshops are explored further during seminars and self-directed study.
A wide variety of assessment methods are used, and throughout the course you will be expected to deliver both individually and in groups, reports, presentations, essays, project plans, exams (case-based, open-book and closed-book; computer-based and essay-based) and proposals.
You will have the opportunity to visit a number of leading businesses during your studies, both locally and across the country. Recently, students visited leading brewery company Sadler’s Ales, gaining an innovative insight into how a successful business runs.
As an economics graduate, you’ll have the opportunity to progress to one of our MSc Management courses. We’ll provide advice and support to help you to decide what path is right for you based on your interests and career goals.
"The knowledge I have gained during second year has been incredible and learning about the economy and how it is works is fascinating. The lecturers have been so supportive and their passion for the subject has driven me to pursue my career early during my placement year at Collins Aerospace. I wouldn’t have been able to get this amazing opportunity without the knowledge and support I have been given this year."
Our Business Economics programmes undertake co-curriculum activities such as study trips, internships and placements. These provide you with the opportunity to work with a wide variety of organisations, enhancing your employability, confidence and learning.
Throughout the programme, you will receive assistance for your own development through co-curriculum activities, including our dedicated Employability Challenge Weeks and extended induction programmes.
There’ll be opportunities to try out different graduate roles with a wide variety of placements and internships on offer to complement your studies.
Past students have undertaken placements in companies such as Bosch, Network Rail, the NHS and Emirates.
OpportUNIty: Student Jobs on Campus ensures that our students are given a first opportunity to fill many part-time temporary positions within the University. This allows you to work while you study with us, fitting the job around your course commitments. By taking part in the scheme, you will gain valuable experiences and employability skills, enhancing your prospects in the job market.
It will also allow you to become more involved in University life by delivering, leading and supporting many aspects of the learning experience, from administration to research and mentoring roles.
Through our courses we give you the skills and experience needed to get a head start when applying for jobs. But we offer something extra too – Graduate+.
Our unique programme gives you the chance to develop valuable skills outside of the more formal classroom learning. We award points for Graduate+ activities (including firewalking!) and these can be put towards a final Graduate+ award.
Our graduates have secured jobs as personal advisors and account executives – as well as more diverse roles such as company directors, data analysts and recruitment consultants. They work for companies such as Barclays Bank, Nationwide, N Power, Arcadia Group Ltd and Royal Bank of Scotland.
"The 4 years of study here at Birmingham City University has been fundamental for my personal and professional development. The practical emphasis the university offers with its degree programmes truly helps prepare one for the world of work. I would strongly recommend everyone makes full use of the support offered by the university such as the Careers team and Centre for Academic Success, and takes a Sandwich Year. Such support can really enhance your overall university experience."
Welcome to the Birmingham City Business School, home to students from over 70 countries all around the world!
Birmingham City Business School is one of the UK’s largest, most established and most respected business schools. Our programmes are practice based and many have an international focus, which means your course will be entirely relevant to today’s business world. Almost all of our courses, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level, are open to international students.
We also have links with universities across the world, including Europe, the USA, China, India and Malaysia.
Our international pages contain a wealth of information for international students who are considering applying to study here, including:
The University is conveniently placed, with Birmingham International Airport nearby and first-rate transport connections to London and the rest of the UK.
International students who have a serious interest in studying with us but who perhaps cannot meet the direct entry requirements, academic or English, or who have been out of education for some time, can enter Birmingham City University International College (BCUIC) and begin their degree studies.
BCUIC is part of the global Navitas Group, an internationally recognised education provider, and the partnership allows students to access the University’s facilities and services and move seamlessly through to achieving a Bachelor’s degree from Birmingham City University.
We are constantly investing in our estate and are currently in the process of spending £340 million on new learning facilities.
This course is based at our City Centre Campus – and specifically The Curzon Building, alongside other Social Sciences, Law, Business and English students.
The £63m building offers students a unique social learning space, including a dedicated student hub incorporating student support services, in the heart of Birmingham’s Eastside development.
The Business floors house an extensive number of IT facilities, breakout areas, and specialised rooms. The Marketing Link Agency is designed to replicate a modern marketing firm, allowing students to get real-life experience of working in the marketing sector. There is also the City Trading Room, which features state of the art stock market tracking equipment, keeping you up to date with all the financial comings and goings of the London Stock Exchange and Wall Street.
The Curzon building is also conveniently close to Birmingham’s business and financial centre, allowing for strong links between your studies and the real world.
"Studying economics at BCU will equip you with practical skills and sound knowledge from a plurality of perspectives to understand and address real-life economic challenges for businesses and society."
Dr Eleni Papagiannaki, Course Leader
Having left school after his O-levels, Bruce Philp worked in the pharmaceutical industry before returning to education. After roles at several Universities, he is now the Head of Business School Research and Enterprise Activity at Birmingham City University.
Dr Elena Papagiannaki has completed her Phd in Economics and Operational Research at Aston University. Her special focus is on labour economics and particularly the contribution of unpaid overtime in the UK industries’ output.
Steve Harris has previously worked for Lafarge as both a design draughtsman and quality controller in their manufacturing plant, and then went on to work as an aircraft engineering manager within the Royal Air Force. His research interests currently include business sustainable enterprise and leadership identity.
Dr Hanna Szymborska joined Birmingham City Business School in 2019. Prior to this, she worked as a lecturer in economics at the Open University.
Dr. Stefania Paladini is a Reader in Economics & Global Security at Birmingham City University. Before joining academia in 2008, she has worked for the Italian central government for fifteen years, seven of which spent in East Asia as a trade commissioner. She obtained her PhD in International Relations and Security Studies from City University of Hong Kong.
Dr Erez Yerushalmi joined Birmingham City Business School as lecturer in Economics and Business in 2017. Prior to joining Birmingham City University, he worked as a Research Fellow in the Institute for Employment (IER) at the University of Warwick from 2012, as well as lecturing in Warwick Business School.
Francis McGonigal held several positions in industry as a programmer and systems analyst specialising in applying mathematical, statistical and operational research techniques. He has worked at Birmingham City University and its predecessor organisations since 1987, joining the Business School in 2010.
Anna Yartseva main area of academic expertise is macroeconomics and economic policy. Most of the research she has done so far is related to various macroeconomic phenomena.
After completing his DPhil ‘General Equilibrium Models of Monetary Economies’, Paul Heap held temporary lectureships at the Universities of Manchester, Bristol and Bath. He was then a tutor at the University of Nottingham, before coming to work at BCU.