The BSc Economics with Study Abroad at the University of Leeds gives you a robust grounding in economic theory, quantification and real-world policy analysis, helping you understand how firms, markets and governments interact. It suits curious and numerical thinkers eager to apply economics in finance, consulting, public policy or business innovation.
Curriculum structure
Year 1: You’ll begin with core modules such as Academic, Professional and Research Skills for Studies in Economics and Economic Theory & Applications which equip you with economic thinking, presentation and analytical skills. You’ll take mathematics/statistics modules to build your quantitative foundation, and explore introductory optional modules allowing you to sample finance or business pathways.
Year 2: In your second year you’ll deepen your understanding with Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics, Statistics & Econometrics and Economics Research Methods. Alongside, you’ll select optional modules such as Labour Economics, International Economics or Business Economics, and begin taking pathway modules in Finance, Enterprise & Innovation, or Ethics & Sustainability.
Year 3 (Study Abroad):
Students spend a year at an international partner university, studying economics and business-related modules aligned with Leeds curriculum. This year enhances global awareness, academic independence, and intercultural competence.
Final Year (Year 4): In your final year you’ll tackle advanced units like Advanced Microeconomics, Advanced Macroeconomics, a 40-credit Economics Dissertation, and optional modules in Behavioural Economics, Environmental Economics or Corporate Strategy. This year allows you to specialise and apply your learning through independent research.
Focus areas: Economics, Econometrics, Quantitative Methods, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Applied Policy
Learning outcomes: You will master economic modelling, interpret data, analyse policy decisions and communicate economic insights clearly and confidently.
Professional alignment (accreditation): The programme is delivered by the Leeds University Business School which is triple-accredited (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS), offering strong professional credibility.
Reputation (employability rankings): The course reports average earnings of about £33,000 fifteen months after graduation and an employment or further study rate of around 80%.
At the University of Leeds BSc Economics with Study Abroad you won’t just study theory—you’ll put economics into practice by working with real datasets, taking part in simulation-based group games and carrying out your own independent research project. The course structure is designed to give you hands-on skills in quantitative methods, economic modelling and professional communication from Year 1 onwards. Here are some of the specific tools and experiences you’ll engage with:
Excel-based simulation games in final-year modules where students act as policy-makers (e.g., Secretary of DWP or Chair of BoE) and test the impact of economic policies using real-world style models.
The Academic, Professional and Research Skills for Studies in Economics module (20 credits) in Year 1, designed specifically to develop your research, presentation and software skills.
Use of the university’s advanced library and IT resources—including the Brotherton Library and Edward Boyle Library—for data access, journal subscriptions and economics research projects.
Pathway modules from Year 2 in areas like Finance, Ethics & Sustainability or Enterprise & Innovation, giving you the chance to apply economics in a focused context.
A final-year Economics Dissertation (40 credits) where you pick a topic, analyse data and communicate results—gaining real-world research experience.
Graduates of the BSc Economics with Study Abroad at University of Leeds typically move into roles such as economist, financial analyst, management consultant and policy adviser — leveraging their strong analytical foundation and broad employability skills. The degree provides very good outcomes: about 89 % of graduates are in work or study 15 months after finishing.
Here’s how Leeds supports your career journey:
University services supporting employment: The LUBS Employability & Opportunity team offers CV workshops, interview coaching, employer networking, and a dedicated placement-year support unit.
Employment stats & salary figures: 89 % of graduates from the Economics course are in work or study 15 months out. Typical earnings across economics-related courses are around £33,000 after 15 months, with longer-term earnings averaging ~£37,000 after 3 years.
University–industry partnerships: The Business School’s “Year in Industry” placement scheme gives you access to UK/overseas full-time work placements for 9–12 months with real employers and builds direct employer links.
Long-term accreditation value: Leeds University Business School holds triple accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS) – enhancing the global reputation of your economics degree.
Graduation outcomes: With strong recruiter recognition (the University is reported as the 4th most targeted UK university by graduate recruiters) your qualification carries weight across the job market.



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.
