Program Overview

Introduction to the Economics BSc Program

The University of Birmingham offers a dynamic and globally focused BSc Economics program, equipping students with the analytical and decision-making skills to drive positive impact across sectors including policy, finance, and sustainability.

Course Overview

Our BSc Economics program provides a comprehensive education, allowing students to build a personalized degree to prepare for their future careers. With a range of optional modules to choose from and a focus on developing both theoretical insight and practical skills, students will gain cutting-edge insights and develop the analytical and professional skills needed to excel in the fast-paced world of economics.

Why Study Economics at Birmingham?

• The University of Birmingham is the most targeted university by top graduate employers.
• The program is ranked #17 in the UK for Economics by the Complete University Guide for 2026.
• The university boasts triple crown accreditation by the AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS.
• Students will learn from internationally renowned faculty, whose expertise spans economics, macroeconomics, finance, and related fields.

Course Delivery

• Students will learn through lectures, small-group classes, teamwork, and presentations, building skills and confidence highly valued by employers.
• The program includes a range of teaching methods, such as lectures, seminars, and tutorials.
• In the first two years, students will build a strong foundation in core theory, applied economics, and quantitative techniques.
• As students advance, they can tailor their studies to their interests and benefit from the specialist research expertise of the staff.

Module Information

• The modules listed for this program are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.
• The optional module information listed for this program is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year.
• Students will complete mandatory core modules and choose from a mix of optional modules.
  • Year 1:
    • Core Modules:
      • Contemporary Economic Challenges A
      • Principles of Economics
      • Professional and Academic Skills Development for Economists A
      • Applied Economics and Statistics
      • Contemporary Economic Challenges B
      • Professional and Academic Skills Development for Economists B
      • The Global Economy
    • Students without A-Level Mathematics or with A-Level Mathematics grade C or below or equivalent should choose module 'Introduction to Mathematics for Economics'.
    • Students with A-Level Mathematics grades A*, A, and B or equivalent should choose module 'Mathematics for Economics'.

Entry Requirements

• To secure a place at Birmingham, students will need to meet the general entry requirements as well as those specific to their course.
• A Level: AAA (including Maths), or A*AA.
• IB: 7,6,6 or 6,6,6 (to include Maths). 32 overall score.
• BTEC: D*DD in Business or Information Technology.
• GCSE: Mathematics 7 (if not taking A level Maths), English 4.
• A level subjects excluded for entry: General Studies, Critical Thinking, and Use of Maths.

English Language Requirements

• If students are international students, they will need to demonstrate they have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 in Listening, 22 in Speaking, and 21 in Writing.
• IELTS: 6.5 overall with 6.5 in Speaking and Writing and 6.0 in Listening and Reading.
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): PTE 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills.
• Cambridge English (exams taken from 2015): Cambridge English: Advanced. Minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component.
• Language Cert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 ‘Communicator’ with no less than 33 in each skill.

Fees and Scholarships

• The University tuition fee covers the cost of tuition, examination, and graduation, and includes membership of the Guild of Students.
• Fees for domestic (UK) students for 2026/27: £9,535 per year.
• The University will charge the maximum approved tuition fee per year.
• Scholarship information is available for students from different countries.

Application Process

• For all undergraduate courses at Birmingham, students apply online through UCAS.
• The UCAS website has lots of information and advice around the process.
• Application deadline for September 2026 entry: 14 January 2026.

Birmingham Business School Careers

• Our BSc Economics graduates are highly sought after by a wide range of employers worldwide, reflecting the strong analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills developed throughout the program.
• Many pursue careers as economists, policy advisers, and consultants across leading organizations, including the World Bank, Deloitte, EY, KPMG, and PwC.
• Throughout their studies and beyond, students will have access to dedicated careers guidance designed for their success in the global marketplace.

Student Experience

• The University of Birmingham offers a range of accommodation options in the UK’s second city.
• The city has a unique history and so much to see and do, with an ever-changing food and drink scene, a vibrant nightlife, and plenty of culture.
• The University is committed to providing the best possible support to its students, both before they start and throughout their time on campus.
• The beautiful campus is the place where the diverse community comes together to learn and socialize, with a range of historic and modern spaces and state-of-the-art facilities.