Enter OTP
4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program
University of East AngliaIf you’re curious about how economies work and how politics shapes our world, this degree is perfect for you. The BSc Politics and Economics with a Placement Year at UEA combines economic thinking with political insight, giving you the tools to analyze real-world issues and make an impact. It’s ideal for students who see themselves in careers like economic policy, political analysis, consultancy, or international organizations.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Laying the Foundations
In your first year, you’ll build a strong grounding in both economics and politics. You’ll study modules like Introductory Microeconomics and Introductory Macroeconomics to understand how markets and economies function. On the politics side, modules like Understanding Politics Today and Introduction to Political Communication will help you explore political systems and how ideas are communicated. Alongside this, ECO STEPS develops practical skills, and Current Economic Affairs keeps you connected to what’s happening in the world around you.
Year 2: Going Deeper
The second year is all about expanding your knowledge and developing your analytical skills. In economics, you’ll tackle Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, and Introductory Econometrics, giving you a stronger toolkit to understand data and trends. In politics, modules like Political Theory and International Relations broaden your perspective on global issues. ECO STEPS continues to support employability and professional growth.
Year 3: Placement Year
This year gives you the chance to step into the real world with a 9–12 month full-time placement. It’s a fantastic opportunity to apply what you’ve learned, gain practical experience, and explore the kinds of roles you might want after graduation.
Year 4: Specialization and Dissertation
Your final year focuses on advanced topics like Advanced Topics in Microeconomics, Advanced Topics in Macroeconomics, and Further Econometrics and Data Analysis. You’ll also complete a dissertation or consultancy project, allowing you to conduct independent research and demonstrate your expertise. ECO STEPS continues to guide you toward your career goals.
Focus Areas
Economic Policy, Political Analysis, International Relations, Public Policy, Governance, Market Dynamics
Learning Outcomes
Analytical Thinking, Policy Evaluation, Economic Modeling, Political Strategy, Research Skills, Professional Communication
Professional Alignment
The course is accredited by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), ensuring high academic standards and relevance to the professional world.
Reputation
UEA ranks among the Top 20 in the UK for Economics (Guardian University Guide 2024), and 84% of graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months (Graduate Outcome Survey 2022).
At UEA, studying Politics and Economics isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — you get plenty of hands-on, real-world experience that prepares you for life after graduation. The program blends classroom learning with practical opportunities, helping you build professional skills, gain industry insights, and connect with experts in the field. Whether it’s through placements, research, or student-led projects, you’ll leave with experience that employers value.
Here’s how UEA makes it happen:
Placement Year: Spend 9–12 months in a full-time placement, applying what you’ve learned in a professional setting. Past students have worked as data analysts, policy assistants, and research interns in both public and private sectors.
Professional Certifications: Gain industry-recognized qualifications, such as those offered in collaboration with the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI), giving you an edge in finance and economics careers.
Student-Led Publications: Contribute to the Norwich Economic Publications (NEP), showcasing your research and analysis while developing writing and editorial skills.
Mentorship Programs: Pair up with alumni working in your area of interest to receive guidance, career advice, and networking opportunities.
Employability Events: Participate in workshops and seminars with UEA alumni and industry professionals covering CV writing, interviews, and career planning.
Digital Tools & Software: Gain hands-on experience with essential software like Excel and statistical tools to strengthen your data analysis and problem-solving skills.
Research Facilities: Access dedicated computer labs, statistical software, and other research facilities to support your projects, dissertation, and independent study.
These experiences ensure that you don’t just graduate with a degree — you graduate ready to make an impact.
Graduating with a BSc Politics and Economics with a Placement Year from UEA opens up a wide range of career paths. The combination of economic analysis, political insight, and hands-on experience during your placement means you’ll be ready to step confidently into roles such as:
Economic Policy Analyst
Political Risk Consultant
Public Affairs Specialist
International Development Officer
UEA goes the extra mile to make sure you’re prepared for the job market:
CareerCentral Service: Personalized guidance on CVs, interviews, and job searches.
Industry Partnerships: Connections with organizations like the Government Economic Service, think tanks, and NGOs, providing networking opportunities.
Employability Workshops: Regular sessions covering professional skills, digital literacy, and career planning.
Alumni Network: Access to a global network of UEA graduates for mentorship and advice.
Graduates enjoy strong outcomes: 81% are in professional work or further study within 15 months of graduation, with starting salaries in economics or politics-related roles typically between £25,000 and £35,000. The program’s ESRC accreditation ensures your degree is respected and valued in both academic and professional circles.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your degree, you can continue your studies in areas like Public Policy, International Relations, or Development Economics through Master’s programs, or pursue a PhD in political economy or economic policy. You could also enhance your career with professional certifications in financial analysis, public administration, or data science.
With UEA, you’re not just earning a degree — you’re gaining the skills, connections, and experience to thrive in both professional and academic journeys.
A Levels: AAB International Baccalaureate 33Indian Curriculum 70%+ in Higher Secondary (Grade 12) is generally required for entry, with exact requirements varying by board and courseAmerican Curriculum High School Diploma Overall Score 3.5, 3 AP Exams with the following scores 3+. ACT: 27+ SAT: 1280+IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) TOEFL iBT including Special Home Edition 79Economic Analysis Policy Advisor / Policy Analyst Consultant Civil Service Officer / Government Administrator International Development Officer Public Affairs / Communications Specialist
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