Economics and Data Analytics with Foundation Year BSc

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Leicester

Program Overview

This degree at the University of Leicester gives you the best of both worlds — a solid grounding in economic theory and hands-on data analytics skills. You’ll learn how to make sense of complex datasets and apply insights to real decisions, whether in business, government, or consulting. If you enjoy numbers, problem-solving and thinking critically about how the world works, this course is a great fit.


Curriculum Structure

Foundation Year (Year 0)
If you need a boost before starting the full BSc, the foundation year helps you build the essentials. You’ll take modules such as Maths for Economics and Finance, Economics and Finance Foundations, Introduction to the Business Environment, Accounting and Business Operations, and Skills for Your Successful Future. An extended project also lets you explore a topic in depth. By the end of the year, you’ll have the confidence and skills to thrive in Year 1.

Year 1
Your first year of the main course introduces you to the core ideas of economics and data. Modules include Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Statistics for Economics, Maths for Economics 1 & 2, and Introduction to Economic Data Analysis. You’ll also look at Contemporary Issues in Economics, Finance and Business. This year is about building the toolkit you’ll rely on throughout your degree.

Year 2
In your second year you go further into economic modelling and data methods. You’ll study Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, Introductory Econometrics, and Methods for Data Analytics 1 & 2. You’ll also take Topics in Applied Econometrics plus two optional modules — choices include Principles of Finance, Labour Economics, Environmental Economics, or Money and Central Banking. This is where you sharpen both your analytical and applied skills.

Optional Year (Industry or Abroad)
Between Years 2 and 3, you can choose to spend a year on a paid industry placement or studying abroad. The industry year gives you real workplace experience and a chance to apply your skills, while the year abroad develops your global outlook and adaptability.

Final Year (Year 3 or 4)
Your final year is about pulling everything together. Core modules include Data Analytics in Practice, Economic Forecasting, and a Reflective Project. You’ll also select three electives, with options such as Mathematical Finance, Advanced Microeconomics, Behavioural Economics, International Finance, or Public Economics. By the end, you’ll be ready to use economic theory and advanced data analysis to address big real-world challenges.


Focus Areas

  • Economic theory and econometrics

  • Data analytics and forecasting

  • Applied economics and finance

  • Flexible specialisation through electives


Learning Outcomes

By graduation you’ll have:

  • Strong command of economic models and data analysis methods

  • The ability to design and interpret empirical research

  • Skills in forecasting and applied problem-solving

  • Experience applying economics and analytics to real-world policy, business and finance contexts


Professional Alignment

The course is delivered by Leicester’s School of Business, known for its strong quantitative training and close links to employers in finance, consulting and policy. While not tied to one external accreditation, the skills and methods you’ll gain are exactly what these sectors demand.


Reputation & Employability

The University of Leicester has been awarded Gold in the 2023 Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), recognising excellent teaching and student outcomes.
Employability is woven into every course, with support from the dedicated Careers and Employability Team, guest speakers from industry, placement opportunities, and even a real trading room equipped with Bloomberg terminals on campus.


✨ This way, you graduate not just with a degree, but with the experience, skills and confidence to step into roles in economic consulting, policy analysis, data strategy, or financial services.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

When you join Leicester’s Economics and Data Analytics with Foundation Year, you’re not just learning theory — you’ll be doing real work from the start. You’ll dive into industry-level tools and datasets, collaborate on projects with peers, and actively apply what you learn. The University gives you access to resources that reflect what professionals in economics, business, and data science actually use.

Here’s what your practical learning journey looks like, and the facilities, tools, projects, and opportunities waiting for you:

Experiential learning comes alive in this program through:

  • Real-world trading experience: The ULSB Trading Room in the School of Business features 16 dual-screen Bloomberg terminals, letting you explore live financial, economic, and market data — exactly what analysts use in the industry. Plus, additional Bloomberg terminals are available in other parts of the University for student use.

  • Software and analytical tools: As you move into the main degree, you’ll get hands-on with econometric and data analytics software, programming tools, statistical packages, machine learning techniques, and advanced AI methods. The School’s research cluster in Data Analytics supports this practical, cutting-edge learning.

  • Group and individual projects: Many modules include group essays, presentations, reflective assignments, and data-focused projects to help you apply knowledge and develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.

  • Year in Industry / internship options: The degree offers a Year in Industry track, giving you the chance to take a placement between your second and final years. This lets you gain real-world experience and put your skills into practice in a professional environment.

  • Flexible degree pathways: After your foundation year, you’ll progress seamlessly into the BSc Economics & Data Analytics. You can also choose variants that include a year abroad or an industry placement, tailoring your experience to your goals.

  • Structured teaching with support: You’ll benefit from a mix of lectures, seminars, tutorials, computer classes, formative tasks, and scaffolded assessments — all designed to help you steadily build practical skills.

  • Research-led environment & clusters: The School of Business is active in research, so you’ll have exposure to seminars, staff research projects, and advanced data analytics — putting you in touch with the latest ideas and innovations.

  • Strong campus facilities & learning spaces: Brookfield, home of the Business School, offers modern lecture theatres, seminar rooms, and a business hub — all within easy walking distance on campus.

  • Support, libraries & dataset access: You’ll have full access to the University’s libraries, study spaces, and digital resources, including extensive economic and data sources to support your learning and projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Future Progression & Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc Economics and Data Analytics with Foundation Year at the University of Leicester leave ready to explore a wide range of exciting and rewarding career paths. By combining economic theory with practical data analytics skills, this program equips students for roles in government, business, finance, and beyond.

Career Outcomes & Support

Typical Job Roles: Economic Analyst, Data Scientist, Policy Advisor, Business Intelligence Consultant

Graduate Earnings: On average, University of Leicester graduates earn £3,600 more than the sector average five years into their career.

Employment Rate: 76.2% of 2023 graduates secured positive outcomes within 15 months, with over 77% in highly skilled roles.

Industry Partnerships: The School of Business works closely with a variety of organizations, giving students access to internships and real-world experience.

Accreditation Value: With a solid academic foundation and a strong practical focus, this program helps graduates stand out in the job market.

Graduation Outcomes: Whether moving straight into the workforce or continuing their studies, graduates benefit from a comprehensive curriculum and robust support services that prepare them for success.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing this program, graduates have multiple options to continue their education:

  • Postgraduate Programs: Pursue a Master’s in Economics, Data Science, or a related field to gain deeper expertise.

  • Professional Certifications: Enhance career prospects with certifications in data analytics, business intelligence, or related areas.

  • PhD Opportunities: Explore doctoral research in economics, data analytics, or interdisciplinary fields.

Program Key Stats

£17,750
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


71 %
No
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

BCC
N/A
26
70

N/A
N/A
6.5
90

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Data Analyst
  • Economist
  • Financial Analyst
  • Business Intelligence Analyst
  • Policy Analyst
  • Market Research Analyst
  • Risk Analyst
  • Management Consultant
  • Investment Analyst
  • Economic Consultant
  • Operations Analyst
  • Data Scientist
  • Actuarial Analyst
  • Quantitative Researcher
  • Public Sector Analyst  

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