Enter OTP
This interdisciplinary programme combines two core social science disciplines: Economics and Politics. Students explore the creative tensions and connections between economic models and political analysis, particularly through the lens of the new political economy. The programme offers flexibility in the first two years, allowing students to study a range of subjects outside their chosen degree programme. By the end of Year 2, students can decide which subject areas to focus on in the honours years.
Year 1:
Economics 1, Politics and International Relations 1A, Politics and International Relations 1B, and one optional course
→ Foundations in political theory, international systems, and core economic principles
Year 2:
Economics 2, Statistical Methods for Economics, Comparative Politics in a Globalised World, Political Thinkers, and one optional course
→ Intermediate economics, statistical analysis, and comparative political systems
Year 3:
Topics in Microeconomics, Essentials of Econometrics, Applications of Econometrics or Topics in Macroeconomics, two politics honours options, and one optional honours course (economics or politics)
→ Specialised economics tools and in-depth political electives; research prep begins
Year 4:
Dissertation in economics or politics, two economics honours options, and two politics honours options
→ Independent research and subject specialisation in both disciplines
Learning & Assessment
Teaching: Lectures, tutorials, seminars, web-based learning
Assessment: Exams, essays, reports, presentations, Year 4 dissertation
Ranked in the UK's top 10 universities for Economics and Politics in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025.
The program emphasizes experiential learning through:
Undergraduate Research: All students undertake an honours dissertation. The Sponsored Dissertations scheme pairs top-performing students with external organizations to research live economic challenges, developing professional analytical skills.
Study Abroad Opportunities: Many students spend a semester or year abroad in Year 3 at partner institutions in Europe, the USA, or globally, enhancing their international perspectives and cultural understanding.
Internships and Work Experience: Students receive robust support in securing internships and part-time professional roles through the University’s Careers Service. Internship placements often include finance, consulting, government, or research roles, significantly enhancing employability.
Student Societies and Co-curricular Activities Students engage with active societies such as:
Economics Society (EconSoc): Offers academic events, panel discussions, networking, career workshops, and special interest groups like EconWomen, sports activities, and publications.
Edinburgh University Trading and Investment Club (EUTIC): Provides practical experience in trading, investment strategies, and managing a student-run fund.
180 Degrees Consulting: Allows students to undertake pro-bono consulting for non-profits and social enterprises, gaining valuable real-world experience.
Additional skills workshops provided by the Edinburgh University Students’ Association (EUSA) offer training in communication, leadership, teamwork, and presentations.
The Careers Service supports students during their studies and for up to two years after graduation. Services include:
Employment Rate: 96% of graduates were employed or pursuing further study within 15 months post-graduation.
Highly Skilled Employment: 89% secured positions classified as “graduate-level” or enrolled in advanced academic programmes
After you complete your programme, you may want to go onto further study at Edinburgh or a different university. You could progress to:
UCAS Application, UCAS Personal Statement, UCAS Reference, A Levels: ABB. GCSEs: English at Grade C or 4.Test scores: IELTS, TOEFL, PTEIELTS Academic: total 6.5 with at least 5.5 in each component.We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements.TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition): total 92 with at least 20 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements.SQA: Highers: Mathematics at B. Higher Applications of Mathematics is not accepted in place of Higher Mathematics. National 5s: English at C.A Levels: Mathematics at B, or AS Mathematics at A. GCSEs: English at C or 4.IB: HL: Mathematics at 5. SL: English at 5 and Mathematics at 6 (if not at HL).Policy Analyst – Study and evaluate the impact of public policies on the economy and societyGovernment Economist – Develop economic forecasts and reports for public planningDiplomat – Represent national interests in international political and economic forumsLegislative Analyst – Analyze laws with implications for economic governanceThink Tank Researcher – Produce insights on political economy and social systemsPublic Affairs Consultant – Guide organizations through complex political economic environmentsNGO Policy Advisor – Shape policies on social justice development or public financeEconomic Consultant – Analyze how regulation or political shifts affect businesses or institutionsJournalist – Report on economic and political developments with depth and clarityDevelopment Officer – Work on economic reform governance or foreign aid policyCampaign Strategist – Use data and political economy to guide electoral or advocacy campaignsPolitical Risk Analyst – Evaluate how political events affect markets investment or securityAcademic – Teach or conduct research on political economy or public policyInternational Relations Analyst – Monitor and interpret global political and economic trendsEntrepreneur – Launch ventures focused on civic technology policy or economic change
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
University of Edinburgh
