BA Education and Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Strathclyde

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Education & Economics at the University of Strathclyde combines the study of economic principles with educational theory, ideal for students who want to understand how economic systems impact learning and society. It suits those interested in teaching, economic policy, and research, preparing graduates for careers in education, policy analysis, or public service.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In the first year, students gain foundational knowledge in economics, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, and basic quantitative methods, alongside Education modules exploring childhood development, social and cultural influences on learning, and early teaching placements. This combination allows students to link theoretical understanding of economics with practical educational contexts.

Year 2

Year two deepens economic knowledge through modules such as Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, and Econometrics, while Education modules examine learning across the lifespan, inclusive education, and social factors affecting learning. Optional modules allow students to specialise in areas of economics or educational practice.

Year 3

In the third year, students study advanced economic topics, including Labour Economics, Public Economics, or Development Economics, applying analytical and research skills to real-world issues. Education modules focus on teaching methods, curriculum development, and research-led practice, with opportunities for placements or applied projects in schools.

Year 4

The final year allows students to complete a dissertation or major project integrating economic analysis and educational research, demonstrating independent critical thinking and research skills. Advanced modules may include Education Policy, Comparative Education, or specialised economic topics, preparing graduates for professional or postgraduate pathways.

Focus Areas:

Microeconomics and macroeconomics, econometrics, education theory, learning across the lifespan, curriculum design, inclusive learning, research and analytical skills, social and economic policy.

Learning Outcomes:

Graduates will be able to critically analyse economic and educational systems, apply research methods in both contexts, understand social and cultural influences on learning, design effective teaching strategies, and communicate effectively in academic and professional settings.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The degree prepares students for postgraduate teacher training (PGDE) and provides a foundation for careers in teaching, economic research, public policy, and education-related roles.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):

Graduates benefit from Strathclyde’s strong reputation in both economics and education, gaining skills valued by employers in teaching, policy-making, research, and public service, with excellent prospects for career progression and further study.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The BA (Hons) Education & Economics programme integrates the study of economic theory and practice with education, giving students both analytical and practical skills. Learners gain hands-on experience through educational placements, research projects, and applied economic analysis, preparing them for roles in education, policy, and economic or social sectors.

Experiential learning includes:

School / community placements with children or youth (age 0–14) — from Year 1, students engage in real educational settings, observing and supporting learning, applying theory to practice.
Education Resources Centre and economics learning facilities — students have access to materials, teaching aids, software, and support for both education and economics modules.
Workshops, seminars, and group projects — interactive sessions develop skills in teaching, economic modelling, data analysis, and applied problem-solving.
Applied research projects and dissertations — students undertake projects linking economic analysis with educational or social contexts, fostering analytical thinking and professional insight.
Data analysis and software tools — students gain experience with statistical and economic software to analyse educational and social data.
Professional networking and guest lectures — engagement with economists, educators, and policy professionals to understand real-world applications of economic and educational theory.

What the programme covers

Economics component

Year 1: Introduction to microeconomics, macroeconomics, and quantitative methods.
Year 2: Intermediate modules in economic theory, applied economics, and statistical techniques.
Year 3: Optional modules in areas such as development economics, labour economics, public policy, or behavioural economics.
Year 4 (Honours): Independent research or dissertation applying economic analysis to education or social issues.

Education component

Year 1: Foundational education topics, including social, cultural, and economic factors affecting learning; includes placement with children aged 0–14.
Year 2: Studies on learning across life stages, informal education, and optional modules tailored to student interests.
Year 3: Community-based placements, adult education studies, and training in educational research methods.
Year 4: Advanced modules in social justice, inclusion, educational policy, and research, alongside a dissertation or major project.
Learning methods include lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, placements, and independent research, fostering analytical, research, and communication skills.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA (Hons) Education and Economics develop expertise in educational theory alongside economic analysis, preparing them for careers in teaching, educational policy, financial education, or roles in government and business-focused educational programmes. Many also pursue postgraduate study to specialise in education, economics, or policy development:

University services that support employment: Strathclyde’s Careers Service offers guidance on placements, internships, and school-based teaching experience via the Faculty’s Student Placement System. Students can also access employability workshops, mentoring, and study-abroad programmes to gain practical experience.
Employment stats & salary figures: Graduate Outcomes data indicate strong employability, with early-career median salaries typically ranging from £23,000–£27,500, depending on role and sector.
University–industry connections: The School collaborates with local schools, economic research institutes, government bodies, and educational charities to provide hands-on experience and professional networking opportunities. Partnerships with organisations such as Skills Development Scotland and financial education programmes enhance career readiness.
Long-term accreditation value: Graduates who wish to teach can progress to the PGDE, achieving qualified teacher status, while their economic expertise supports careers in policy development, educational consultancy, and financial literacy education.
Graduation outcomes (typical roles): Typical roles include Secondary or Primary Teacher (after PGDE/induction), Economics Educator, Policy Analyst, Educational Consultant, and Financial Literacy Programme Officer.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BA (Hons) Education and Economics, students may pursue the PGDE for professional teaching qualification, taught Masters in Education, Economics, or Public Policy, or research degrees (MRes/PhD) in Education, Economics, or Policy Studies — all designed to build professional expertise and academic knowledge.