BSc Hons Economics

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Portsmouth

Program Overview

The BSc (Econ) (Hons) Economics program at the University of Portsmouth delves into the intricate mechanisms of economies and their influence on societal structures. Students engage with both microeconomic and macroeconomic theories, applying them to contemporary issues such as globalization, financial crises, and policy-making. The curriculum emphasizes the development of analytical and quantitative skills, preparing graduates for diverse roles in economics and related fields.

You’ll learn:

  • Using data to communicate financial, ethical, and social issues
  • Presenting arguments and influencing decisions in diverse scenarios
  • The impact of economics on behaviour, sustainability, investments, and policy

Year 1:

  • Introduction to Microeconomics​
  • Introduction to Macroeconomics​
  • Mathematics for Economists
  • Statistics for Economists​
  • Economic History and Thought​
  • Personal Development Planning

Year 2:

  • Intermediate Microeconomics​
  • Intermediate Macroeconomics​
  • Econometrics​
  • Public Economics​
  • International Trade​
  • Research Methods​

Year 3:

  • Advanced Microeconomics​
  • Advanced Macroeconomics​
  • Development Economics​
  • Environmental Economics​ 
  • Dissertation​
  • Optional Modules (e.g., Behavioral Economics, Financial Economics)

Learning and assessment methods

The program employs a blend of lectures, seminars, and practical workshops. Assessments are varied, including examinations, coursework, group projects, presentations, and data analysis exercises, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of both theoretical understanding and practical application.

Accreditations: The program is accredited by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), facilitating a streamlined path for students aiming for professional qualifications.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Applied Learning: Live Projects & Simulations

Throughout the course, students participate in practical simulation exercises that replicate real-world economic and financial scenarios. These sessions help bridge the gap between theory and practice.

Examples of In-Class Simulations:

  • Monetary Policy Committees modeled on the Bank of England
  • Government budget planning for hypothetical economies
  • Financial market analysis using Bloomberg Terminals (delivered in partnership with the Finance programme)

 Economics and Finance Society: Students are encouraged to engage with the Economics and Finance Society, a vibrant, student-led community that supports personal and professional development.

Society Activities Include:

  • Guest lectures from professionals, including Bank of England and IMF alumni
  • Workshops focused on econometric tools and software
  • Stock market simulation competitions
  • Peer mentoring 

Sandwich Year (Industry Placement) — Optional

Students may choose to undertake a paid industry placement between their second and third year of study. This year in industry allows students to gain valuable professional experience, enhance their CV, and apply economic theory in a practical context.

Placement Support Provided By:
The Faculty of Business and Law’s Placement Office offers tailored guidance and employer connections.

Recent Placement Employers Include:

  • BMW Group
  • Lloyds Banking Group
  • Santander UK
  • IBM
  • HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC)
  • Office for National Statistics (ONS)

Study Abroad Opportunities

Economics students have the opportunity to study internationally at one of our renowned partner institutions. This is an excellent way to gain global experience and broaden academic and cultural horizons.

Partner Institutions:

  • United States – University of North Carolina Wilmington
  • Canada – Carleton University
  • Europe – Opportunities available in France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Spain through the Erasmus+ programme

All study abroad options are fully supported by the university’s Global Mobility Team, with most Economics modules already mapped for credit transfer.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduate Employability

  • Over 90% of BSc Economics students are in employment or further study within 15 months of graduation (HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey).

Postgraduate Pathways

Graduates often move into:

  • MSc Economics or MSc Finance (University of Portsmouth or other Russell Group unis)
  • MSc Behavioural Economics
  • MSc Data Analytics and Economics
  • PhD pathways in Public Economics and Trade (Portsmouth offers internal funding for top grads)

Program Key Stats

£17,200
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


Eligibility Criteria

ABB
3.0
30
75

N/A
N/A
6.0
79

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Economist – Analyze economic data and trends to advise governments or private firms
  • Investment Banking Analyst – Support large financial transactions such as mergers or stock offerings through in-depth financial modeling
  • Data Analyst or Data Scientist – Interpret large datasets using tools like Python or R to guide business strategy
  • Actuary – Use mathematics and economics to assess risk in insurance pensions or financial services
  • Management Consultant – Help organizations solve operational and strategic problems to improve performance
  • Financial Analyst – Evaluate company financials and market trends to support investment or budgeting decisions
  • Policy Analyst – Research and evaluate economic and social policies for think tanks or public sector bodies
  • Econometrics or Statistical Analyst – Apply quantitative techniques to test theories and forecast economic outcomes
  • Chartered Accountant – Provide financial reporting tax planning and auditing services for businesses or individuals
  • Economic Researcher – Conduct academic or applied research on economic issues for universities NGOs or global institutions
  • Marketing Analyst – Study consumer behavior and market data to guide pricing promotion and product decisions
  • Financial Risk Analyst – Identify and measure risks in banking investment or corporate finance environments
  • International Development Analyst – Work on poverty reduction economic growth and policy reform projects globally
  • Central Banker – Contribute to financial regulation monetary policy and economic stability in national or international banks
  • Entrepreneur – Launch businesses in sectors like fintech edtech or consulting using economic knowledge to solve real-world problems

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