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The BA (International Honours) in Economics is a distinctive four-year joint degree offered collaboratively by the University of St Andrews in Scotland and the College of William & Mary in Virginia, USA. This program combines the academic strengths and cultural experiences of both institutions, allowing students to spend two years at each university. The curriculum provides a robust foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and applied economics, preparing graduates for diverse careers in economics, finance, policy, and beyond.
Key Focus Areas
Economic Theory: Comprehensive study of microeconomics and macroeconomics.
Quantitative Methods: Training in mathematics and statistics essential for economic analysis.
Applied Economics: Exploration of specialized fields such as development economics, environmental economics, international trade, and public policy.
Research Skills: Opportunities to undertake independent research projects or dissertations.
Cross-Cultural Experience: Immersion in both UK and US educational systems and cultures.
Year-wise Breakdown of Core Modules
Years 1 & 2: Foundations and Intermediate Studies
Students spend one year at each institution, completing foundational courses:
At St Andrews:
Macroeconomics
Microeconomics
Intermediate Macroeconomics
Intermediate Microeconomics
Statistics for Economists
Mathematics for Economists
WaMStA Studies (orientation module for joint degree students)
At William & Mary:
Equivalent courses in economic theory and quantitative methods, along with liberal arts electives.
Years 3 & 4: Advanced Studies and Specialization
Honours Modules at St Andrews (sample offerings):
Econometrics
Development Economics
Environmental Economics
International Trade
Game Theory
Public Economics
Innovation Economics
Health Economics
European Macroeconomics
Mathematical Economics
Dissertation or Research Project (optional in final year)
Students may also choose to undertake a dissertation or research project on a topic of their choice, developing key research skills desired by employers and postgraduate programs.
Learning and Assessment Methods
Teaching Methods:
Lectures (ranging from 100 to 350 students)
Small-group tutorials (15 to 20 students)
Laboratory sessions
Independent study, including individual and group projects, research, and coursework preparation
Assessment Methods:
Written examinations (constituting at least 50% of module assessments)
Coursework, including essays, oral presentations, and class tests
Regular feedback provided to support student development
Rankings
The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025: University of St Andrews ranked 2nd in the UK.
QS World University Rankings 2025: University of St Andrews ranked #104 globally.
Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2024: University of St Andrews ranked #193 globally.
The BA (International Honours) Economics program offers a range of experiential learning avenues to enhance practical skills and global exposure:
Summer Internships: Students are encouraged to pursue internships during their studies. Many secure summer positions in sectors like finance, consulting, law, and technology, often leading to full-time job offers post-graduation.
Research Projects: In their final year, students have the option to undertake a dissertation or research project on a topic of their choice, developing key research skills desired by employers and postgraduate programs.
Professional Skills Development: The university offers a Professional Skills Curriculum, including workshops and seminars on essential skills such as project management, leadership, teamwork, public speaking, and communication. Students receive certificates upon completing these courses, enhancing their employability.
Entrepreneurship Support: St Andrews encourages entrepreneurship through initiatives like the Entrepreneurship Society, which organizes workshops, networking events, and pitch competitions. Students interested in startups can gain experience and mentorship through these platforms.
Global Exchange: The program's structure allows students to study at both St Andrews and the College of William & Mary in Virginia, USA, providing a unique international academic experience.
Graduates of the BA (International Honours) Economics program possess a strong analytical foundation and international perspective, making them highly sought after in various sectors:
Career Destinations: Alumni have pursued careers in economic consulting, management consulting, accountancy, business intelligence analysis, broadcasting and journalism, risk management, research analysis, financial services analysis, and stockbroking.
Employability: The university boasts high graduate employment rates, with around 95% of graduates employed or engaged in further studies within six months of graduation.
Top Employers: St Andrews graduates are recruited by leading organizations worldwide, including Accenture, Barclays Capital, Citibank, Ernst & Young, JP Morgan, and PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Postgraduate Study: Graduates are well-prepared for advanced studies in economics, finance, or related fields, should they choose to pursue further education.
Alumni Network: The university's global alumni network offers mentorship, networking opportunities, and support for current students and recent graduates, facilitating career advancement.
IELTS - We require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component for this programme For full IB Diploma students - 36 (HL 6,5,5) to 38 (HL 6,6,6 and SL 6,6,6), with the majority of offers for subjects in the Faculty of Arts and Medicine being at the upper end of this range or higher. Some subjects also require specific HL or SL courses and grades. This course does not have a Foundation YearThis course does not have a Placement YearInternational Economist – Analyze global trade and policyDevelopment Economist – Study growth in emerging marketsDiplomatic Economic Advisor – Support international relationsTrade Policy Analyst – Guide global economic agreementsGlobal Market Strategist – Monitor international economic trendsForeign Aid Analyst – Evaluate economic impact of assistance programsWorld Bank Associate – Work on global economic development projectsInternational Business Consultant – Advise firms on cross border strategyEconomic Researcher – Study global macroeconomic issuesUN Economic Analyst – Support international policy initiatives
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University of St Andrews
