Economics BSc (Econ) Economics with Placement Year BSc(Econ)
Gain a rigorous foundation in economic theories and quantitative tools, and consider their influence on real-world issues such as climate change, inequality and inflation. Working with UCL’s renowned economists, you’ll learn to research and solve problems using evidenced-based economic analysis. You’ll be prepared for further study or roles in public policy, finance, and management. There is an option in your third year to undertake a work placement.
Key information
Key information
Entry requirements
Placements must be undertaken in the UK. Anyone on Economics BSc (Econ) can transfer onto the degree providing they find a suitable placement and have it approved by the Placement Tutor.
- Grades
- A*AA
- Subjects
- A* in Mathematics required.
- Subjects
- A* in Mathematics required.
- GCSEs
- English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 4
Contextual offer
- Grades
- A*AB
- Subjects
- A* in Mathematics required.
- Subjects
- A* in Mathematics required.
- GCSEs
- English Language and Mathematics at grade C or 4
At least two A level subjects should be taken from UCL's list of preferred A level subjects.
- Points
- 39
- Subjects
- A total of 19 points in three higher level subjects including grade 7 in Mathematics with no higher level score below 5. The course will accept either ‘Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches’ or ‘Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation’ at higher level.
- Subjects
- A total of 19 points in three higher level subjects including grade 7 in Mathematics with no higher level score below 5. The course will accept either ‘Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches’ or ‘Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation’ at higher level.
Contextual offer
- Points
- 38
- Subjects
- A Score 18 in three higher level subjects including 7 in Mathematics, with no higher level score below 5. The programme will accept either ‘Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches’ or ‘Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation’ at higher level.
- Subjects
- A Score 18 in three higher level subjects including 7 in Mathematics, with no higher level score below 5. The programme will accept either ‘Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches’ or ‘Mathematics: Applications and Interpretation’ at higher level.
Resits
Additional entry tests
Test of Mathematics for University Admission
For the 2027 cycle, alongside the UCAS application, UCL will require all applicants to the above programme to sit the TMUA (Test of Mathematics for University Admission) run by University Admissions Tests UK. There will be an entry fee for the test. More information about the test including deadlines for when to register for the test can be found on University Admissions Tests UK website.The English language level for this programme is: Level 2
Information about the evidence required, acceptable qualifications and test providers can be found on our English language requirements page.
A variety of English language programmes are offered at the UCL Centre for Languages and International Education.
The Undergraduate Preparatory Certificates (UPC) prepare international students for a UCL undergraduate degree who do not have the qualifications to enter directly. These intensive one-year foundation courses are taught on our central London campus.
Typical UPC students will be high achievers in a 12-year school system which does not meet the standard required for direct entry to UCL.
For more information see: ucl.ac.uk/upc.
About this course
At the heart of the Economics BSc (Econ) is a commitment to research-intensive learning. From the first year of the course, students will engage with contemporary economic questions using cutting-edge methods in data science, programming, and econometrics. Students will be taught by internationally recognised scholars whose research informs global policy and academic debate, ensuring students’ learning is always at the forefront of the discipline.
The curriculum is structured to support students’ academic development through a clear progression from foundational theory to advanced, specialised modules. During the course, students will have the opportunity to undertake independent research and contribute to policy briefs, gaining hands-on experience in economic analysis.
Students will begin the course with a strong foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, mathematics, and statistics, before progressing to more advanced topics such as:
• Advanced Econometrics and Data Science
• Game Theory and Economics of Information
• Public Economics and Tax Policy
• Economic Inequality
• Financial Economics and Asset Pricing
• Economics of Health, Education and Crime
Optional and elective modules allow students to tailor their degree to their personal interests, with interdisciplinary options spanning political science, computer science, development studies, and languages, amongst others.
The optional placement year gives students the chance to learn about real-world careers in economics and in sectors that employ economics graduates. Many useful skills can be gained through the study of economics, for example: finding solutions to real-world problems, mathematical skills and an enhanced understanding of contemporary political and economic events. The placement year provides the opportunity to apply core economics skills in a professional context and develop key work-place proficiencies, including the ability to communicate ideas effectively to others and work successfully in a team.
We look to course is looking for bright, motivated individuals who can meet the strong academic standards, particularly showing a real talent and interest in applying Mathematics to tackle real world economic problems. Whether you are taking A levels, the IB, or equivalent qualifications, success is built on demonstrating a passion for critical thinking and quantitative problem-solving.
Please note this course does not consider applicants who are resitting qualifications.
Course structure
Each year comprises 120 credits, with a mix of 15-credit and 30-credit modules.
Year 1:
Consists of five compulsory modules in economics, mathematics, statistics, applied economics, and a newly designed module on coding, data, and communication skills.
Year 2:
Students take three compulsory modules in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics. Remaining 30 credits of optional modules.
Year 3:
Students select 120 credits of optional modules. Students are required to take at least two 30-credit modules that include a research project component.
Optional modules vary each year but cover a broad range of topics, including Game Theory and Economics of Information, Industrial Organization, Advanced Econometrics and Data Science, Economics of Finance and Financial Markets, Public Sector Economics and Tax Policy, and Economic Inequality.
Course structure
Year 1:
Five compulsory modules in economics, mathematics, statistics, applied economics, and skills development.
Year 2:
Three compulsory modules in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics. Optional modules to the value of 30 credits. Students apply for placements in the second year. Support in applying and preparing for placements is available, but a placement cannot be guaranteed.
Year 3:
Assuming students have been successful in securing an approved work placement, their third year will be spent in an organisation on a minimum 36-week work placement. To connect students’ academic and professional skills development over the course of their placement, they will need to demonstrate engagement with two reflective skills audits and create a poster of their placement experience.
Year 4:
Students select 120 credits of optional modules. Students are required to take at least two 30-credit modules that include a research project component.
Modules
In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 15 or 30 credits, adding up to a total of 120 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 30-credit module is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).
Please note that the list of modules given here is indicative. This information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change. Modules that are in use for the current academic year are linked for further information. Where no link is present, further information is not yet available.
Compulsory modules
- Economics (ECON0002)
- Applied Economics (ECON0004)
- Statistical Methods in Economics (ECON0005)
- Mathematics for Economics (ECON0010)
- The Economist's Toolkit: Data, Code, and Communication (ECON0129)
Compulsory modules
- Microeconomics (ECON0013)
- Macroeconomic Theory and Policy (ECON0016)
- Quantitative Economics and Econometrics (ECON0019)
Optional modules
Optional modules
- Econometrics for Macroeconomics and Finance (ECON0022)
- Economic Policy Analysis (ECON0024)
- The Economics of Growth (ECON0028)
- Issues in Economic Development (ECON0030)
- The Economics of Money and Banking (ECON0038)
- Advanced Macroeconomics (ECON0039)
- Behavioural Economics (ECON0040)
- Economics of Migration and Job Search (ECON0041)
- Economics of Education (ECON0056)
- Advanced Econometrics and Data Science (ECON0098)
Compulsory modules
- Economics (ECON0002)
- Applied Economics (ECON0004)
- Statistical Methods in Economics (ECON0005)
- Mathematics for Economics (ECON0010)
- The Economist's Toolkit: Data, Code, and Communication (ECON0129)
Compulsory modules
- Microeconomics (ECON0013)
- Macroeconomic Theory and Policy (ECON0016)
- Quantitative Economics and Econometrics (ECON0019)
Optional modules
Compulsory modules
Optional modules
- Econometrics for Macroeconomics and Finance (ECON0022)
- Economic Policy Analysis (ECON0024)
- The Economics of Growth (ECON0028)
- Issues in Economic Development (ECON0030)
- The Economics of Money and Banking (ECON0038)
- Advanced Macroeconomics (ECON0039)
- Behavioural Economics (ECON0040)
- Economics of Migration and Job Search (ECON0041)
- Economics of Education (ECON0056)
- Advanced Econometrics and Data Science (ECON0098)
Each module is taught differently depending on the content and skills required, but in each you are expected to read and watch assigned materials texts, articles, and multimedia independently, attend lectures and smaller group tutorials, actively participate in group discussions, and where appropriate, work in collaboration with your peers for formative and summative assessments.
The course uses varied teaching methods to support active and reflective learning:
• Lectures, tutorials, and workshops
• Peer-led and group projects
• Experiential and project-based learning
• Blended and tech-enhanced instruction
Students can choose to do a professional placement in their third year. Placements are not guaranteed.
Students can choose to do a professional placement in their third year. This is an opportunity to enhance their CV, gain new skills and establish networks with industry. Doing a professional placement in Year 3 allows students to use what they have learnt in the first two years of their degree in a practical setting. This will also allow them to find out about the organisation they join and how it works, while learning more about potential future careers.
Students on placement will develop skills like planning, problem solving, decision making and project management. Employers of economics graduates often value placements, so a placement year may provide students with an advantage in the job market after graduation. Previous UCL students have done placements with organisations in the public and private sectors. These include:
The Department of Work and Pensions
Lloyds Bank
Oxford Economics
Bank of England
Placement opportunities can’t be guaranteed but students receive tailored support from our dedicated Departmental placement team to support their search for a placement.
Students are introduced to a variety of assessment formats that reflect the skills required of modern economists. These include in-person examinations, empirical research projects, policy briefs, essays, group presentations, and data-driven portfolio work. This diversity ensures that students can demonstrate their strengths across a range of competencies—from theoretical reasoning and quantitative analysis to communication and teamwork.
Assessment is carefully structured across the three years of study to support students’ academic journey. Throughout the course, at least 50% of assessed credits in each year of the course are examined in person, ensuring academic integrity and rigour. Assessments are aligned with learning outcomes and designed to reflect real-world economic practice.
Each week students should expect to spend approximately 35 to 40 hours studying on their course.
Typical contact hours vary between 12–15 hours depending on year of study and module choices. Contact hours include timetabled sessions including in-person lectures, workshops and tutorials, or live interactive sessions through Teams or Zoom.
The remaining 20–28 hours should be spent in independent learning. This includes individual research, reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, preparing coursework assignments, presentations, or revising for exams.
In years 1, 2 and 4 students should expect to spend approximately 35 to 40 a week studying on their course.
Typical contact hours vary between 12–15 hours per week depending on year of study and module choices. Contact hours include timetabled sessions including in-person lectures, workshops and tutorials, or live interactive sessions through Teams or Zoom.
The remaining 20–28 hours should be spent in independent learning. This includes individual research, reading journal articles and books, working on individual and group projects, preparing coursework assignments, presentations, or revising for exams.
The department will endeavour to make reasonable adjustments for students with disabilities, including those with long-term health conditions, neurodivergence, learning differences and mental health conditions. This list is not exhaustive. If you are unsure of your eligibility for reasonable adjustments at UCL, please contact Student Support and Wellbeing Services.
Reasonable adjustments are implemented on a case-by-case basis. With the student's consent, reasonable adjustments are considered by UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services, and where required, in collaboration with the respective department.
Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble. Further information about support available can be obtained from UCL Student Support and Wellbeing Services.
For more information about the department and accessibility arrangements for your course, please contact the department.
Fees and funding
| Study mode | UK fee (2026/27) | Overseas fee (2026/27) |
|---|---|---|
| Full time | £9,790 | £39,200 |
UK undergraduate fees for 2026/27 are subject to parliamentary approval and are for the first year only. Fees for subsequent years may be subject to increase: Student Terms and Conditions. UK fees are in line with the Government announcement on fee cap increases. Fees for 2027/28 entry will be published in August 2026.
International undergraduate students benefit from a cohort guarantee unless indicated below, meaning that their tuition fees will not increase during the course of the programme, but UCL reserves the right to increase tuition fees to reflect any sums (including levies, taxes, or similar financial charges) that UCL is required to pay any governmental authority in connection with tuition fees.
International fees shown are the fees that will be charged to 2026/27 entrants.
Full details of UCL's tuition fees, tuition fee policy and potential increases to fees can be found on the UCL Students website.
Additional costs
Additional costs include the purchase of books and a UCL-approved calculator (approximately £20 depending on model). A laptop computer is also required for online assessments and activities during lectures (approximately £600 depending on model).
For in-person teaching, UCL's main teaching locations are in zones 1 (Bloomsbury) and zones 2/3 (UCL East). The cost of a monthly 18+ Oyster travel card for zones 1–2 is £119.90. This price was published by TfL in 2026. For more information on additional costs for prospective students and the cost of living in London, please view our estimated cost of essential expenditure at UCL's cost of living guide. If you are concerned by potential additional costs for books, equipment, etc., please get in touch with the relevant departmental contact (details given on this page).
Additional costs
Students on a placement year may incur travel and living costs. These will vary depending on your individual situation. You will pay a reduced fee on your placement year, Home students pay 15% of usual fee and International students pay 50% of their usual fee. Salary for the placement year varies but usually in the range of £23,000 to £65,000.
For in-person teaching, UCL's main teaching locations are in zones 1 (Bloomsbury) and zones 2/3 (UCL East). The cost of a monthly 18+ Oyster travel card for zones 1–2 is £119.90. This price was published by TfL in 2026. For more information on additional costs for prospective students and the cost of living in London, please view our estimated cost of essential expenditure at UCL's cost of living guide. If you are concerned by potential additional costs for books, equipment, etc., please get in touch with the relevant departmental contact (details given on this page).
Various funding options are available, including student loans, scholarships and bursaries. UK students whose household income falls below a certain level may also be eligible for a non-repayable bursary or for certain scholarships. Please see the Fees and funding pages for more details.
Why study this course at UCL?
Based in the heart of London at UCL’s Bloomsbury campus, UCL Economics is the longest established Economics Department in England.
The Economics BSc (Econ) at UCL offers a research-intensive, student-centred education designed to build deep disciplinary knowledge, critical thinking, and practical skills. Students learn from a diverse team of academics whose teaching is informed by cutting-edge research and real-world expertise.
The course aims to develop graduates who are intellectually rigorous, analytically skilled, and socially aware economists, equipped to understand and address complex economic challenges in a global and dynamic environment. The course is designed to foster deep disciplinary knowledge, methodological mastery, and transferable skills through a research-intensive, data-driven, and broad curriculum.
Our students have access to a wide range of events and activities, including the opportunity to present their own research at Explore Econ, the annual student research conference, hear from leading economists at the annual Stone Centre and Centre for Finance Lectures, and participate in events organised by the UCL Policy Lab.
You will have the opportunity to join the Economist’s Society which is run by an elected student committee for the undergraduate population of the Economics Department. The Society holds numerous academic and social events throughout the academic year. Recent academic events have included talks from J.P.Morgan, HSBC, Deutsche Bank and the Institute for Fiscal Studies.
Discover Uni
To see official information about this course and others visit Discover Uni.
What this course will give you
UCL Economics graduates are highly sought after across sectors including finance, consultancy, government, international organisations, and academia. The course is supported by an Employer and Alumni Advisory Board, which helps shape the curriculum and contributes to a bespoke careers and skills programme. Students will graduate with a portfolio of technical, analytical, and professional skills that are in high demand worldwide.
The course is designed to foster deep disciplinary knowledge, methodological mastery, and transferable skills through a research-intensive, data-driven, and interdisciplinary curriculum.
Many of our economics graduates have gone on to careers in both the private and public sectors, working as economists, financial or business analysts, researchers, accountants and tax professionals. They have worked for organisations such as:
- McKinsey
- Bank of England
- HSBC
- Amazon
- Financial Times
(Graduate Outcomes survey carried out by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), looking at the destinations of graduates in the 2022–2023 cohorts.)
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Register nowHow to apply
Application for admission should be made through UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). Applicants currently at school or college will be provided with advice on the process; however, applicants who have left school or who are based outside the United Kingdom may obtain information directly from UCAS.
UCL’s Economics BSc (Econ) is designed for students with a strong mathematical background and a passion for analytical rigor. Applicants must sit the Test of Mathematics for University Admissions (TMUA), which evaluates the mathematical reasoning essential for the course’s quantitative modules. Applications are assessed on strong academic performance, TMUA score, and a personal statement that demonstrates the capacity to learn independently and to thrive within a research-oriented course. We seek applicants who exhibit genuine intellectual curiosity about economics, excellent analytical and critical thinking skills, and an informed awareness of the social and institutional contexts in which economic activity and policy operate.
Selection
For further information on UCL's selection process see: How we assess your application.
Apply for this course
You are applying for the Economics BSc (Econ) course. Please note that the course options presented as post-enrolment specialisms will be available for you to choose once your enrolment is confirmed. For application guidance please visit Application guidelines.Course starts: September 2027
UCAS applications open for 2027 entry on 12 May 2026.
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