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The BSc Economics program at the University of Nottingham provides a solid grounding in microeconomics, macroeconomics, mathematics, and statistics, preparing students for data-driven careers in economics, finance, and public policy. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and real-world application.
Year-by-year module breakdown:
Year 1: Intro to Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Mathematical Economics, Statistical Methods
Year 2: Intermediate Micro/Macro, Econometrics + electives like Development Economics, Monetary Economics
Year 3: Dissertation + electives such as Public Economics, Environmental Economics, Industrial Organization
Teaching formats include:
Lectures – Core theoretical content delivered by academic experts.
Seminars & Tutorials – Smaller discussion-based sessions to deepen understanding.
Computer Laboratory Classes – Practical application of statistical and econometric tools.
Workshops – Interactive sessions to build research, communication, and problem-solving skills.
Most teaching is in-person, with supplementary online resources to support learning flexibility.
Quantitative Learning Pathways: In year one, students can choose between different mathematical pathways depending on prior experience (e.g., whether or not they have A-level Mathematics). By year two, all students will have reached the same mathematical proficiency level necessary for higher-level economic analysis.
Assessment types include:
Written Examinations – Held at the end of each semester or year.
Essays – Critical and analytical written work.
Group Exercises & Presentations – Collaborative tasks that reflect real-world economic scenarios.
Dissertation (Year 3) – An independent research project guided by an academic supervisor, allowing you to specialize in a topic of your choice and build valuable research experience for your CV.
Minimum weekly contact hours:
Year 1: 12+ hours
Year 2: 10+ hours
These include lectures, seminars, tutorials, lab sessions, and supervision. In addition to these, students are expected to engage in substantial independent study, which includes reading, preparing coursework, completing problem sets, and conducting research.
Final Year: 8+ hours
IDEAS RePEc Ranking 2025: Ranked 6th in the UK and Top 40 worldwide for economics research productivity and impact.
Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021: Ranked 5th in the UK for Economics and Econometrics, with 99% of research output rated world-leading or internationally excellent.
QS World University Rankings 2025: The University of Nottingham is ranked 108th globally across all disciplines.
The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025: Ranked Top 10 in the UK for Economics.
Opportunities for students:
Research & dissertation: In the final year, students undertake a Dissertation in Economics, conducting independent research on a chosen topic under faculty supervision.
Placement year (optional): A full-year paid internship between years 2 and 3 with full support from the Careers & Placements team.
Economics Society: Student-run group organizing employer talks, socials, and networking events.
Study abroad options: Students can study abroad at one of Nottingham’s global partners (e.g., in Europe, Asia, or North America) or spend a semester at the university’s Malaysia or China campus.
Built-in career support from day one:
From your first year, your career development is supported through both academic and extracurricular opportunities. You’ll automatically become a member of the Nottingham Economics and Finance Society (NEFS) — a student-led organization that enhances your university experience through:
Networking events with employers and alumni
CV-building workshops and career advice sessions
Additional training and practical skill development through NEFS divisions
The University of Nottingham is consistently ranked among the top 10 most targeted UK universities by major graduate employers, according to High Fliers Research (Graduate Market in 2013–2020). 89.8% of undergraduates from the School of Economics secured graduate-level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation, with an average annual starting salary of £33,841.
The University’s Careers and Employability Service offers a comprehensive suite of support services, including:
A levels: Mathematics preferred GCSEs: Maths grade 7 (A) or above, unless taking it at A level; and English grade 4 (C) or aboveIB score 36 points overall or 766 in 3 HL certificates. GCSE maths 7 (A) or above OR 6 in standard level or 4 in higher level mathsIELTS 6.5 (no less than 6.0 in each element)Mature Students: The University of Nottingham values its vibrant community of mature students and their unique contributions to campus life.Economist – Analyze economic data and trends to advise governments or private firmsInvestment Banking Analyst – Support large financial transactions such as mergers or stock offerings through in-depth financial modelingData Analyst or Data Scientist – Interpret large datasets using tools like Python or R to guide business strategyActuary – Use mathematics and economics to assess risk in insurance pensions or financial servicesManagement Consultant – Help organizations solve operational and strategic problems to improve performanceFinancial Analyst – Evaluate company financials and market trends to support investment or budgeting decisionsPolicy Analyst – Research and evaluate economic and social policies for think tanks or public sector bodiesEconometrics or Statistical Analyst – Apply quantitative techniques to test theories and forecast economic outcomesChartered Accountant – Provide financial reporting tax planning and auditing services for businesses or individualsEconomic Researcher – Conduct academic or applied research on economic issues for universities NGOs or global institutionsMarketing Analyst – Study consumer behavior and market data to guide pricing promotion and product decisionsFinancial Risk Analyst – Identify and measure risks in banking investment or corporate finance environmentsInternational Development Analyst – Work on poverty reduction economic growth and policy reform projects globallyCentral Banker – Contribute to financial regulation monetary policy and economic stability in national or international banksEntrepreneur – Launch businesses in sectors like fintech edtech or consulting using economic knowledge to solve real-world problems
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University of Nottingham
