Economics - BSc (Hons) *
Currently viewing course to start in 2027/28 Entry.
Through a mix of theory and opportunities to apply this in practice, our BSc (Hons) Economics degree prepares you to work as an economist, or in a related role which is concerned with the study of resource allocation (e.g. business management, policy analysis)....
- Level Undergraduate
- Study mode Full Time
- Award BSc (Hons)
- Start date September 2027
- Fees View course fees
- Subject
- Location City Centre
This course is:
Available with Professional Placement year
Open to International Students
Overview
Through a mix of theory and opportunities to apply this in practice, our BSc (Hons) Economics degree prepares you to work as an economist, or in a related role which is concerned with the study of resource allocation (e.g. business management, policy analysis). Economics is a social science which informs major challenges faced by our societies today, including inequality, environmental sustainability and economic policy. Economics draws on, and influences, other social sciences and humanities. It’s also a core business discipline, key to understanding organisational behaviour, strategy and corporate performance.
What's covered in this course?
You’ll explore different economic theories and perspectives, helping you understand how they shape the world around you and apply to real-world issues and your future career. We’ll provide you with a firm foundation of economics principles to interpret, analyse and question diverse economic theories and policies in a real-life context. To do this effectively, we’ll equip you with a robust analytical toolkit, including statistical analysis, critical thinking, analytical techniques and proficiency in a range of industry-specific software packages that are relevant to the Economics profession such as Python, SPSS and Eviews. You will also learn how to communicate results and ideas concisely to a variety of specialist and non-specialist audiences.
Economics is a global subject. You will look at situations from an international perspective. You will apply your knowledge to examine global events and look at how different economic ideas help us understand and address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, climate change and the impact of new technologies on the economy and society. In addition, your course will be delivered by a multinational team of experts, with fellow students from a variety of countries and cultural backgrounds. Finally, we offer you a study abroad opportunity, where you can study for one term overseas in one of our partner universities.
The course will foster your intellectual and professional development to support you in pursuing a wide range of career goals. After successful completion of the course, you will be able to work as a professional economist in the public, private or third sector; as an analyst in the financial services industry, or as a business professional in the private or third sector. The technical and critical thinking skills taught in this course, alongside your voluntary engagement with our BCU Award employability programme, will further enhance your development as a work-ready graduate capable of making an immediate impact, and long-term difference.
Professional Placement year
This course offers an optional professional placement year. This allows you to spend a whole year with an employer, following successful completion of your second year, and is a great way to find out more about your chosen career. Some students even return to the same employers after completing their studies.
If you choose to pursue a placement year, you will need to find a suitable placement to complement your chosen area of study. You will be able to draw on the University’s extensive network of local, regional, and national employers, and the support of our Careers teams. If you are able to secure a placement, you can request to be transferred to the placement version of the course.
Please note that fees are payable during your placement year, equivalent to 20% of the total full-time course fee for that year.
"I have achieved so much, and received so much guidance and so many opportunities over the past few years. Birmingham City University has broadened my horizons and opened many doors for the future. I am proud to be part of the BCU community."
Emily Chesson, Economics student
Why Choose Us?
- This course offers a variety of teaching and assessment methods and a student-centred approach, providing tailored feedback and learning methods.
- The wide range of modules and subject areas taught on this course offers a unique breadth, exploring themes outside of mainstream economics such as Environmental Economics, which concentrates on sustainability and the economic impacts of climate change, and Feminist Economics, which addresses gender disparities.
- In your final year, you will become a member of the Royal Economic Society, gaining access to webinars and events delivered by industrial experts and academics. Students have also set up an Economics Society within BCU Students’ Union where they meet and discuss current economic issues.
- This course is designed to prepare you for the real world of work. Graduates of this course have gone on to work in a wide range of industries including Government, Banking, Pharmaceutical, Logistics, Accounting, Conveyancing, Manufacturing and Construction.
- You will be prepared for the real world of work by working with professional statistical software such as Python, SPSS and Eviews which are used by economists and other financial professionals. There is also the opportunity to gain additional qualifications including MOS (Microsoft Office Specialist) Excel Certificates and Graduate+ Bronze award.
- There are student trips to visit real world working environments and meet previous graduates who now work in high-profile roles and household name companies. Previous trips have included MasterCard and the London Metal Exchange and students have also enjoyed talks from alumni now working for Goldman Sachs.
Open Day
Join us for our next Open Day where you'll be able to learn about this course in detail, chat to students, explore our campus and tour accommodation.
Next Open Day: 10 October
Course in Depth
First Year
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 120 credits from the following list of CORE modules:
Economics Principles 20 credits
This module introduces the students to basic finance as well as the financial world within which businesses operate. The module provides the basic foundation upon which other Level 5, 6 and 7 finance modules are designed.
Firms, Markets and Strategy 20 credits
History of Economics and Innovation 20 credits
Leadership, Future Skills and Personal Branding 20 credits
Applied Economic Analysis 20 credits
Second Year
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 100 credits).
Intermediate Microeconomics and Decision Analysis 20 credits
Intermediate Macroeconomics and Economic Policy 20 credits
Econometrics and Data Science 20 credits
Behavioural Economics and Consumer Behaviour 20 credits
Our understanding of the economy is contested. Reflecting this there are discernible schools of economic thought which vary in the extent to which they recommend government intervention, and in their understanding of market processes. This module offers you a relativist introduction to the major works of four great, and very different, thinkers: Adam Smith, Karl Marx, John Maynard Keynes and Friedrich Hayek.
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules.
Innovation and Technology 20 credits
Sustainable Development 20 credits
A semester abroad is a fantastic opportunity to explore your subject in an international context at one of our partner institutions. Spending a period of time abroad as part of your degree allows you to understand a different culture, and gain specific knowledge about working practices in your host country. Connecting with fellow international students can broaden your network and increase your graduate prospects.
If you choose this option, you will study 60 credits of modules at the overseas partner institution and fewer modules at BCU.
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Professional Placement (Optional)
In order to qualify for the award of BSc (Hons) Economics with Professional Placement Year you must successfully complete the following module.
This module is designed to provide you with the opportunity to undertake a credit bearing, 40- week Professional Placement as an integral part of your Undergraduate Degree. The purpose of the Professional Placement is to improve your employability skills which will, through the placement experience, allow you to evidence your professional skills, attitudes and behaviours at the point of entry to the postgraduate job market. Furthermore, by completing the Professional Placement, you will be able to develop and enhance your understanding of the professional work environment, relevant to your chosen field of study, and reflect critically on your own professional skills development within the workplace.
Final Year
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete all the following CORE modules (totalling 100 credits).
Research Design and Practice 20 credits
Accounting, Finance and Economics Research Project 20 credits
International Economics 20 credits
Advanced Economics and Policy 20 credits
Macro-Finance, Growth and Stability 20 credits
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 20 credits from the following indicative list of OPTIONAL modules:
Money, Banking and Monetary Policy 20 credits
Real Estate Economics and Property Investment 20 credits
Labour Economics 20 credits
All core modules are guaranteed to run. Optional modules will vary from year to year and the published list is indicative only.
Download course specification
Download nowArtificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is integrated into the course, helping you develop the digital skills, critical thinking and professional judgement needed in the modern finance sector. You’ll learn to use AI responsibly and transparently, while critically evaluating its outputs and considering issues such as accuracy, bias, data privacy, academic integrity and intellectual ownership.
You’ll develop your ability to apply AI critically in your studies and professional practice, using technology alongside independent judgement. AI is used in different ways across learning and assessment, and course content is regularly reviewed to reflect emerging technologies, industry developments and current professional practice.
Sustainability, SDGs and Ethics
Sustainability, ethics and responsible practice are embedded throughout the Economics course, reflecting the important role economics plays in understanding and responding to major global challenges. You will explore how economic decisions, policies and systems affect people, communities and the environment, developing your ability to evaluate economic issues from both an analytical and wider societal perspective.
Throughout the course, you will consider issues including sustainable development, inequality, welfare, economic growth, climate change and the environmental consequences of economic activity. You will also explore the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their relevance to contemporary economic challenges, helping you understand how economic theory and policy can contribute to more sustainable and inclusive outcomes.
How you will learn
A variety of delivery approaches will be utilised throughout the course, including lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops and experiments.
As a practice-based course, sessions will usually involve the application of academic concepts and themes, as well as case studies. The latter will be used to explore concepts applied to real-world scenarios, helping you sharpen your skills and employability prospects.
The first year of the course will provide a solid grounding in the principles of economics and its importance to business, as well as ensuring you are fully prepared to make informed decisions as to your route of study in future years of the course.
During the second and later years of the course there will be flexible learning opportunities to specialise in subject areas which are most appealing, tailoring the course to a particular career aim. There’ll also be opportunities to try out different graduate roles with a wide variety of placements and internships on offer to complement your studies.
Trips and visits
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.
Entry Requirements
These entry requirements apply for entry in 2027/28.
All required qualifications/grades must have been achieved and evidenced at the earliest opportunity after accepting an offer to help confirm admission and allow for on-time enrolment. This can also include other requirements, like a fee status form and relevant documents. Applicants can track their application and outstanding information requests through their BCU mySRS account.
Essential requirements
112 UCAS Tariff points. Learn more about UCAS Tariff points.
If you have a qualification that is not listed, please contact us.
Fees & How to Apply
UK students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2027
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 Years
- £10,050 in 2027/28
- Apply via UCAS
International students
Annual and modular tuition fees shown are applicable to the first year of study. The University reserves the right to increase fees for subsequent years of study in line with increases in inflation (capped at 5%) or to reflect changes in Government funding policies or changes agreed by Parliament. View fees for continuing students.
Award: BSc (Hons)
Starting: Sep 2027
- Mode
- Duration
- Fees
- Full Time
- 3 Years
- £19,220 in 2027/28
Guidance for UK students
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.
Applying through UCAS
- Register with UCAS
- Login to UCAS and complete your details
- Select your course and write a personal statement
- Get a reference
- Pay your application fee and submit your application
Guidance for International students
There are three ways to apply:
1) Direct to the University
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.
2) Through a country representative
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.
3) Through UCAS
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.
Personal statement
The personal statement gives you a crucial opportunity to say why you’re applying and why the institution should accept you.
Here are the three areas you’ll need to address:
- Why do you want to study this course or subject?
Here’s where you explain what makes this course exciting to you. Think about your motivations for studying the course and your future plans. If you’re planning to take a year out, don't forget to give your reasons.
- How have your qualifications and studies helped you to prepare for this course or subject?
This is your chance to show what you’ve learned at school or college. You should include the skills and knowledge you’ve gained from education or training and how this will help you succeed in your chosen course.
- What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences useful?
Not everything you’ve learned comes from the classroom. Life experience counts too! You might want to talk about work experience, employment, or volunteering and how they’ve helped you develop the skills needed for your chosen course or future career.
Worried about Personal Statements?
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.
Employability
We have a strong focus on employability and through placement opportunities and our links with local businesses, we aim to ensure you graduate not only with your degree but also with the skills and knowledge needed to embark on your chosen career.
Graduates have gone on to work in positions such as Economist, Auditor, Investment Specialist, Analyst, Account Manager and Consultant for organisations such as Amey Construction, VISFO Pharmaceutical company, Bostik manufacturing firm, Delta Capital finance firm, Metro Shipping Limited logistics firm, BT, HSBC, PWC, Lloyds, Goldman Sachs and roles within government departments (such as HM Treasury, Government Economic Service).
Placements
There’ll be opportunities to try out different graduate roles with a wide variety of placements and internships on offer to complement your studies.
Facilities & Staff
Accounting, Finance and Economics facilities
Take a look around the facilities available to you as an Accounting, Economics and Finance student at BCU.
Our staff
Dr Feranda Perin
Lecturer
Fernanda Perin holds a PhD in Economics of Industry and Technology from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRJ, Brazil). She is currently a Lecturer in Economics at Birmingham City University (UK) and a Research Associate at the Economics of Innovation Research Group (UFRJ).
More about FerandaDr Wenyu Zang
Associate Professor in Economics
Wenyu is an Associate Professor in Economics and Economics Subject Group Lead. She joined BCU in 2022. Prior to this, she was the Course Leader for Doctorates in Business Administration (DBA), Deputy Chair of the School Research Degree Committee and the Course Leader for BA Business Management and Economics course at Nottingham Trent...
More about WenyuFrancis McGonigal
Senior Lecturer, Mathematics and Statistics
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 BCU in 2010.
More about FrancisAnna Yartseva
Senior Lecturer in Economics, Programme Leader for BA Economics
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.
More about AnnaDr Danilo Spinola
Senior Lecturer in Economics
Dr. Danilo Spinola serves as a the Director of the Centre for Accountancy, Finance and Economics (CAFE), Academic Lead for Ethics at the AFE College, and Senior Lecturer in Economics at Birmingham City University (BCU). Dr. Spinola's research focuses on the intersections of innovation, inequality, and sustainability. Holding a Ph.D. in the...
More about DaniloProfessor Erez Yerushalmi
Professor of Economics
Dr Erez Yerushalmi joined Birmingham City University as lecturer in Economics and Business in 2017. Prior to joining BCU 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.
More about Erez