BSc Economics and Finance Study Abroad

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Bristol

Program Overview

The BSc Economics and Finance with Study Abroad at the University of Bristol combines rigorous training in economic analysis with core financial theory and quantitative methods, together with a year of study at a partner university overseas. It suits students who want to develop strong analytical, data and financial skills and gain international academic experience that enhances global understanding and employability.

Curriculum structure

Year 1:
In the initial year, students build firm foundations through Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Mathematics for Economics, and Introductory Finance, developing essential economic reasoning, quantitative ability and an understanding of financial markets and instruments. These core units equip students with analytical tools and quantitative confidence that underpin later study.

Year 2:
The second year deepens expertise with Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, Corporate Finance, and Financial Markets and Institutions, where students further explore economic behaviour, macroeconomic dynamics, firm finance decision-making and how financial markets operate. Statistical and econometric methods are integrated through Applied Econometrics or Data Analysis to support empirical and policy-relevant work.

Year 3 (Study Abroad):
Students spend their third year at a recognised international partner university, taking economics and finance-related modules in a different academic and cultural setting. This year abroad enhances global perspectives, exposes students to alternative economic and financial frameworks, and develops adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills.

Year 4:
Returning to Bristol, students take advanced topics such as International Finance, Monetary Economics, Asset Pricing and Portfolio Theory, and complete a Dissertation or major research project that applies economic and financial analysis to real-world questions. This final year weaves together theory, empirical methods and policy or investment analysis in a capstone piece of independent work.

Focus areas: “Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Corporate Finance, Financial Markets, Quantitative Methods, International Economics & Finance”

Learning outcomes: “Apply economic and financial theory to complex problems; build and interpret quantitative models and financial analyses; analyse data using econometric methods; integrate international perspectives on economics and finance; conduct independent research.”

Professional alignment (accreditation): Prepares graduates for careers in finance, banking, economic consultancy, investment analysis, policy advising, international organisations and postgraduate study in economics or finance.

Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Bristol is highly ranked for Economics and Finance in major UK league tables (such as QS and Guardian) and is known for excellent graduate employability, with students entering competitive roles in economics, finance and international sectors.

Study Abroad: In Year 3 students study at a partner institution overseas, enriching their academic experience, expanding global networks and enhancing cultural and economic understanding — valuable for careers in global finance, development, policy and economics.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Study Abroad: An optional year abroad is available through the four-year BSc Economics and Finance with Study Abroad program, allowing students to gain international experience.
Internships: The university's Careers Service provides a range of work experience and internship opportunities, connecting students with employers.
Research Projects: Students have the opportunity to engage in independent research, particularly through the applied economics dissertation in the final year.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Bristol’s BSc Economics and Finance with Study Abroad enter high‑skill roles such as Finance Analyst, Trade Support Analyst, Tax Associate and Corporate and Investment Banking Analyst at employers like Deloitte, JPMorgan Chase, Lloyds Banking Group, Unilever and Siemens. On average, Bristol economics graduates earn 28% more than other UK economics graduates within five years, typically between £44,000 and £87,000 per year, reflecting strong long‑term earnings and progression.

Typical job roles: Finance Analyst, Trade Support Analyst, Tax Associate, Corporate and Investment Banking Analyst.

Careers service: Careers guidance, CV and interview support, employer events plus Bristol Abroad support for the study‑abroad year.
Employment stats and salary figures: Economics graduates typically earn £44,000–£87,000 five years after graduation, 28% above sector averages.
University–industry partnerships: Graduate roles and links with Deloitte, Lloyds Banking Group, JPMorgan Chase, Standard Chartered, Siemens and Bank Negara Malaysia.
Long-term accreditation value: CIMA‑accredited degree backed by top‑five UK economics and econometrics research.
Graduation outcomes: Alumni progressing into senior posts including CEO, diplomat and specialist analytical roles.

Further Academic Progression: Graduates can progress to MSc programmes in Economics, Finance or related quantitative fields, or move on to professional qualifications such as CIMA and research degrees (PhD) using their dissertation and international study experience as a strong foundation.