BSc Economics

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Manchester

Program Overview

The BSc Economics at The University of Manchester combines in‐depth training in economic theory with strong quantitative methods such as mathematical modelling and econometrics, preparing you to analyse real-world economic challenges. It’s ideal for students who enjoy mathematics and want to specialise in economics while keeping their career options open in finance, policy, data analysis or research.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1:

You’ll start with foundational units such as Applied Economics (ECON10162), Principles of Microeconomic Theory 1: Consumers, Welfare, Production and Costs (ECON10171) and Introduction to Mathematical Economics, building your understanding of how individuals and firms make decisions and how to use maths to model these.

Year 2:

In your second year you dive into deeper topics like Macroeconomic Analysis 2, Econometrics (ECON20182) and optional modules allowing you to shape your pathway and begin specialising in areas such as labour, growth or finance.

Year 3 (Honours year):

In your final year you can tackle advanced units and may have the option to complete a dissertation, choosing modules in areas such as Economic Modelling, Inequality, Growth & Climate Change or Game Theory so you can tailor your degree to your interests and future direction.

Focus areas: Economics, Econometrics, Mathematical & Statistical Methods, Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Quantitative Modelling, Specialised Topics

Learning outcomes: You will gain the ability to model economic behaviours quantitatively, analyse data and economic problems, and apply your findings in business or policy settings.

Professional alignment (accreditation): Awarded by the School of Social Sciences at the University of Manchester; the department is research-led and recognised for quantitative economics training.

Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Manchester is ranked among UK Top 10 for Economics and Econometrics (Times Higher Education World University Rankings by Subject 2025) and the programme reports strong graduate outcomes.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At The University of Manchester’s BSc Economics programme, you’ll go beyond lectures to engage in practical modelling, real-world data analysis and optional industry placements that sharpen your quantitative and transferable skills. The department supports you with access to statistical tools, strong staff-led research communities and project-based modules that mirror professional practice. Here are some concrete ways your learning becomes applied:

Professional Experience Year Option: You can apply in Year 1 for a paid placement in industry during Year 3, extending your degree to four years and gaining real workplace experience.
Optional Study Abroad: After Year 2 you may spend a year at a partner university, adding global exposure and broadening your insights before returning to complete your honours year.
Specialist Quantitative Modules: Units in econometrics, mathematical economics and modelling use statistical software and data analysis tools, connecting theory with real datasets.
Interactive Tutorials & Group Projects: The Economics department emphasises tutorials, seminars and student-led group work (essays, presentations, teamwork) that help you build practical communication and analytical skills.
Comprehensive Library & Data Resources: Manchester’s library system gives you access to major economics journals, databases and digital tools, supporting your research and independent study.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BSc Economics at University of Manchester often move straight into high-impact roles like economist, financial analyst, data analyst or policy analyst, harnessing their quantitative and analytical training. With around 80% of graduates in work or further study within 15 months and an average earning of £31,000 at that point, the degree provides strong career foundations:

Here’s how Manchester supports your onward success:

Career & Employability Services: The university’s Careers Service and the School of Social Sciences’ “Careers & Employability” team provide tailored support for Economics students, including employer events, internships and dedicated guidance.
Employment Statistics & Salary Figures: According to Discover Uni data, BSc Economics graduates earn a median salary of ~£31,000 15 months after completion.
University–Industry Partnerships: Graduates go into finance, banking, consultancy, public sector and government roles; Manchester is recognised by top UK graduate employers as a highly targeted institution.
Long-Term Accreditation Value: A degree from Manchester’s School of Social Sciences in Economics is globally recognised and equips you with a strong quantitative and analytical skill set valuable across industries.
Graduation Outcomes: For BSc Economics at Manchester: approximately 90% of graduates were in highly skilled employment 15 months after finishing their course.

Additional Information & Requirements

GCSE: Grade C or 4 in GCSE/iGCSE English Language and Grade B or 6 in GCSE/iGCSE Mathematics. GCSE/iGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/iGCSE English Language.
A-Level entry requirement: AAA, including Mathematics (preference will be given to applicants studying two of these subjects): Accounting; Economics; Finance; Business Studies; Development Studies; Government and Politics; Economic and Social History; Mathematics; Anthropology; Sociology; Philosophy; Religious Studies; English Language; English Literature; Geography; Psychology; Classical Civilisation; History; Archaeology; Communication Studies; Environmental Studies; World Development; Biology; Chemistry; Physics; Modern Languages.
International Baccalaureate: 36 points overall. 6,6,6 in Higher Level subjects including Mathematics.
American Curriculum: USA High School Diploma with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0/4.0 including grade B in English Language and Mathematics and 555 in 3 AP's. For BSc Economics we require 5 in Calculus BC AP.
T-Level qualifications are not accepted for entry to this programme.
English language proficiency: IELTS 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any sub-component, or TOEFL iBT 90 overall with minimum 20 in each subset.
CBSE: Overall average grade of 85% in India Standard XII awarded by CBSE/ISCE national boards with no lower than 80% in any subject including English.