Our undergraduate economics curriculum for September 2020
In September 2020 we introduced some exciting changes to our undergraduate curriculum. The developments were a result of an extensive consultation with our students and external partners and reflect the latest developments in economic research and policy.
Methodological and Applied Pathways
The degrees are structured around two pathways: a Methodological Pathway and an Applied Pathway. These pathways are designed to help guide you through your learning so you can see how the knowledge and skills you develop during each year of study fit together.
On our Methodological Pathway you'll take modules that provide knowledge and training in theoretical, mathematical and statistical methods. You will learn how we use these tools to analyse economic issues.
Our Applied Pathway you'll take modules that give you the opportunity to use those tools in the analysis of specific economic issues that you are most interested in, whether related to individuals, firms or governments.
Our single honours degrees have lots of choice and flexibility so you can tailor your degree to suit your skills, interests and career aspirations. We’ve expanded the number of optional modules available and we’re introducing new modules to reflect the latest economics research and policy.
The structure of our BA Economics and BSc Economics degrees enable you to move from BA Economics to BSc Economics or vice versa depending on what you want to focus on. This opportunity to change runs up until the end of year two. Your choices within your final year determine whether you graduate with the BSc Economics or BA Economics.
There’s also a wide range of assessment methods. Most modules have an end of module exam, but there’s also computer based assignments, research projects, presentations and reports to assess the range of knowledge and skills that an economist needs.
Employment skills and personal development are embedded throughout our curriculum. We have a strong emphasis on data analysis from year one, where you will learn to analyse real data using software including Excel and Stata.
You will also gain independent research skills which are highly valued by employers in your final year Dissertation or Economics in Action module. The new Economics in Action module is an innovative module that allows you to undertake a number of projects related to the economic fields in the Applied Pathway. It enables you to demonstrate the abilities and skills you’ve developed throughout your degree, as well as to acquire new research skills.
The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it is up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research, funding changes, professional accreditation requirements, student or employer feedback, outcomes of reviews, and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.
Information last updated: 9 December 2020