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.
Our BSc (Hons) Financial Economics degree prepares you for a career in the financial sector as a financial economist, analyst, planner, investment analyst, or in a similar role.
Our degree provides both sound theoretical knowledge and technical skills which are highly sought-after by employers. This degree is built on core principles of economics, which are then applied to financial markets and institutions.
The course uses a unique pluralist approach that will empower you to understand competing economic ideas, think critically and apply your knowledge in your daily life and in your future workplace. Our degree is highly flexible, and apart from studying core economics subjects, you will be able to select optional modules which are most suitable for your own learning needs and career goals.
You will be able to benefit from unique set of modules, for example: Date Intelligence, Financial Modelling, Investment and Portfolio Management, Real Estate Economics and Financial Bubbles, as well as a capstone Business Advice or Economics Research Project. Moreover, you will learn advanced methods of quantitative analysis, econometrics, and IT skills using relevant industry-specific software to assist you to become a job-ready graduate.
You will be taught by industry experienced academics who bring real world practical knowledge to the classroom. You will be able to work on life client projects with our Business Advice Centre that will give your exposure to challenges and issues faced by businesses and a chance to develop successful solutions. You will be right in the hub of the vibrant city and be surrounded by other likeminded students on a variety of economics, business, finance and accounting degrees.
During your studies you will benefit from international exposure on different levels. All modules delivered within this course contains teaching material based on international data; thus, your knowledge and expertise will not be limited by the UK alone. Our course is delivered by a multinational team of experts.
Our BSc (Hons) Financial Economics degree is highly applied and we pay special attention to developing your transferable skills that will prepare you for a wide range of careers both in public and private sector, providing you with a range of options depending on your career aspirations.
We embed a variety of Grad+ and Career+ events directly into our course of study that will allow you to earn a number of employability-related awards to put on your CV. The technical skills within this course, alongside your engagement with our Graduate+ employability programme and extra-curricular awards, both within and outside of the classroom, will further enhance your development as a work-ready graduate.
Furthermore, every semester you will receive problem-based inputs from external speakers from the world of business, economics and finance, helping you to network and build an informed picture of the type of work you would like to enter and how you can get there. After the second year of study, you have the opportunity to undertake a professional placement which will equip you with valuable work experience. In the final year you will be offered a choice of doing an applied consultancy project within our Business Advice Centre, or an Economics Research Project.
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.
Visit our School site for more student work and extra information.
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. |
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Level 2 Qualifications | ||
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UK Qualification | Requirements 2021/22 | |
GCSE |
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Irish Leaving Certificate (Ordinary Level) |
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Scottish National 5 |
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Plus one of the following Level 3 (and above) Qualifications | ||
UK Qualification | Requirements 2021/22 | |
A level and Advanced VCE |
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AAT Diploma in Accounting (QCF) |
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Access to HE Diploma |
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IBO Certificate in Higher Level |
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International Baccalaureate Diploma |
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IFS / LIBF Diploma in Financial Studies |
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Irish Leaving Certificate (Highers) |
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NCFE CACHE Level 3 Applied General Certificate in Health and Social Care |
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OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma |
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OCR Cambridge Technical Diploma |
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OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Introductory Diploma |
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Scottish Advanced Higher |
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Scottish Higher |
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T-Levels |
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Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate - Skills Challenge Certificate (first teaching September 2015) |
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Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma – Core (awarded until 2016) ESW/KS Combined component |
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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 | ||
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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. |
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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. |
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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: BSc
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: BSc
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 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 80 credits).
Select 40 credits from the following:
Or both modules below:
In order to complete this course a student must successfully complete at least 40 credits from the following list of OPTIONAL modules.
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.
"I love understanding how the world works and what the impact from decisions made by firms and governments have on me and the world. What attracted me to Financial Economics at BCU was the applied modules where I’ve been given the opportunity to understand how basic theories are actually applied in the real world and have an a chance to look at real situations and assess what I would give the situation. I believe this applied nature will truly prepare me for life after university."
You will be supported throughout your studied by the University Careers and Employability team, with the aim of enhancing your employability prospects upon graduating.
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 will be opportunities to try out different graduate roles, with a wide variety of placements and internships on offer to complement your studies.
Past students on this programme have undertaken placements in companies such as Bosch, Network Rail, the NHS and Emirates.
Find out what Elliot got up to during his placement year with BMW.
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.
This course as it gives you the flexibility to specialise in the area you want to work in during your third year. This means you can tailor your learning to meet your specific career aspirations.
Our graduates move into many different specialist and more general roles. For example, one recent graduate went to work for Network Rail as a capacity planner, while another went to gemstone specialist Rocks and co as a data analyst. You can even go into a career that you might not have thought of, for instance one graduate has gone to Royal Bank of Scotland as mortgage processor.
"I believe that if you wish to work in the professional environment, why not immerse yourself beforehand and study in that environment? I believe the City of Birmingham offers that with the various companies, banks and political organisations."
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.
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.
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 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.
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.