Economics BSc (Econ)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University College London

Program Overview

UCL’s Economics BSc (Econ) gives you a rigorous training in economic theory and quantitative tools while constantly linking what you learn to real-world issues like inequality, climate change, and financial stability. It’s a great fit if you enjoy mathematics, problem-solving, and want a degree that opens doors to competitive roles in finance, consulting, policy, research, and graduate study.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1

In your first year you build your toolkit through core modules in Economics, Applied Economics, Statistical Methods in Economics, and Mathematics for Economics, learning how markets work, how to handle data, and how to think like an economist using formal models. You’ll also choose approved optional modules (such as The World Economy or History of Economic Thought) to start connecting global issues and historical perspectives with modern economic analysis.

Year 2

Your second year deepens the core: you take compulsory modules in Microeconomics, Macroeconomic Theory and Policy, and Quantitative Economics and Econometrics, sharpening your ability to model behaviour, understand economic fluctuations, and work confidently with real datasets. Alongside this, you can explore options such as Economics of Labour, Economics of Finance, or Economics of Development, aligning your studies with interests like markets, public policy, or global growth.

Year 3

In the final year you design your own pathway from a wide portfolio of advanced options, with at least one module including an assessed research component and the opportunity to complete an Undergraduate Research Dissertation. You might choose modules such as Game Theory, Economics of Financial Markets, International Trade, Economics of Inequality, Economics of Tax Policy, or Behavioural Economics, applying everything you’ve learned to complex, policy-relevant and industry-relevant questions.

Focus areas: Economic theory, Applied economics, Quantitative methods & econometrics, Finance, Labour & development economics, Public policy, International & behavioural economics.

Learning outcomes: Strong mathematical and statistical competence; the ability to model and interpret economic behaviour; confidence in using data and empirical methods; and the skills to evaluate real-world policies and business decisions using clear, evidence-based economic reasoning.

Professional alignment (accreditation): Awarded as BSc (Econ) Economics by UCL’s Department of Economics (Faculty of Social & Historical Sciences); no additional professional body accreditation is stated for this programme.

Reputation (employability rankings): UCL is ranked 9th in the world in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and recognised for strong graduate outcomes; for BSc Economics specifically, over 96% of graduates are in professional work or postgraduate study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes survey, HESA).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At UCL’s Economics BSc (Econ) programme, you will put theory into practice—working with real data, engaging in research-led teaching, and making use of central London’s economic hub to gain professional insight. The Department of Economics ensures students use statistical software, participate in small-group problem-solving, and benefit from strong links with industry and research institutions. Here are specific ways your learning becomes hands-on:

Statistical & Quantitative Tools: You’ll use specialist software and statistical methods (as emphasised in the module “Statistical Methods in Economics”) to analyse real-world data.
Small-Group Tutorials & Skills Labs: Throughout each year you can join “Skills Lab” modules that hone research, independent learning, and team-based project skills.
Access to Premier Library & Data Resources: The UCL library system, including economics-specific collections, supports extensive data-driven work and independent research.
Placement/Industry Exposure Option: While the standard BSc is three years, the department offers a placement year variant where students apply tools in a workplace setting, giving you real commercial context.
Central London Location for Networking & Visits: Being in London places you within proximity to financial institutions and policy-making bodies, aiding guest lectures, networking and field-relevant exposure.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from UCL’s Economics BSc (Econ) move swiftly into roles such as Financial Analyst, Management Consultant, Policy Economist or Quantitative Data Analyst — applying their strong analytical training and economic insight to high-impact environments. With over 96% of graduates in professional work or postgraduate study 15 months after graduation, this degree opens doors to both industry and advanced academic routes.

Here’s how UCL supports your career journey:

Career Services Support: UCL’s Economics Department works with the central UCL Careers Service and an Economics Careers Tutor to offer employer-led workshops, alumni networking events, and internship/placement listings.
Employment Stats & Salary Figures: According to Discover Uni data, full-time Economics graduates from UCL earn a median of approximately £41,000 15 months after graduation, and around £45,500 after 3 years.
University–Industry Partnerships: The Department facilitates employer-led sessions where firms engage directly with students about placements, graduate schemes and recruitment processes.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: A UCL BSc in Economics holds global recognition, equipping you with highly transferable quantitative, statistical and problem-solving skills that remain relevant across sectors and regions.
Graduation Outcomes: Over 92% of graduates were employed or in study 15 months after finishing this programme.