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The BSc (Hons) Financial Economics at the University of St Andrews offers a rigorous foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and financial analysis. Over four years, students delve into microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, while also exploring specialized areas such as asset pricing, corporate finance, and portfolio management. The program emphasizes analytical and decision-making skills, preparing graduates for careers in finance, policy-making, and research. Students benefit from a flexible modular degree system, allowing them to study additional subjects alongside financial economics in the initial years.
Key Focus Areas
Economic Theory: Comprehensive understanding of microeconomics and macroeconomics.
Quantitative Methods: Training in mathematics and statistics essential for economic modeling.
Econometrics: Application of statistical techniques to economic data.
Financial Analysis: In-depth study of asset pricing, corporate finance, and portfolio management.
Research Skills: Opportunities to undertake independent research projects.
Year-wise Breakdown of Core Modules
Year 1: Foundations
Compulsory Modules:
Macroeconomics
Microeconomics
Mathematics for Economists
Additional Subjects: Students study two additional subjects alongside financial economics.
Year 2: Intermediate
Compulsory Modules:
Intermediate Macroeconomics
Intermediate Microeconomics
Statistics for Economists
Mathematics for Economists (if not taken in Year 1)
Additional Subjects: Continuation of at least one subject from Year 1.
Years 3 & 4: Honours
Compulsory Modules:
Econometrics
Financial Economics: Asset Pricing
Financial Economics: Corporate Finance
Portfolio Management
Optional Modules (sample offerings):
Behavioural Economics
Development and Finance
Economic Fluctuations
Economics of the Environment
European Macroeconomics
Game Theory
Health Economics
Incentives, Contracts and Markets
Innovation Economics
International Trade
Mathematical Economics
Monetary and Financial History
Practical Financial Modelling
Dissertation: Opportunity to undertake an independent research project in the final year.
Learning and Assessment Methods
Teaching Methods:
Lectures (ranging from 10 to 450 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 within three weeks 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.
QS Subject Rankings 2025: Economics and Econometrics ranked #251–300 globally.
Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025: University of St Andrews ranked #185 globall
The University of St Andrews offers several avenues for students to gain practical experience and global exposure during their studies:
Study Abroad Programs: Students can apply to participate in the University-wide St Andrews Abroad programme or the School Abroad exchange programme, allowing them to spend a semester or year at partner institutions worldwide, enriching their academic and cultural perspectives.
Internships and Work Experience: While the program doesn't include a dedicated placement year, students are encouraged to pursue internships during their studies. The university's Careers Centre supports students in finding summer internships, particularly in fields like finance, consulting, law, and technology.
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.
Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Financial Economics program possess a strong analytical foundation and quantitative skills, 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 Goldman Sachs, PwC, Deloitte, IBM, McKinsey & Company, Google, BBC, and the United Nations.
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.
A minimum average of 90% (with 90% or higher in any prerequisite subjects) in Standard XII examinations, or A1-A2 if you are taking examinations used by Central BoardsSQA Highers: AAABGCE A-Levels: AABIB points: 38IELTS score of 6.5, with a minimum score of 6.0TOEFL (IBT) of 92 overall with at least 20 in all componentsCAE/CPE of 176, PTE (Academic) of 62 overall with at least 59 in each componentFinancial Economist – Study markets and monetary policyInvestment Analyst – Evaluate securities using economic toolsQuantitative Analyst – Apply economic models in financeCapital Markets Associate – Track market movements and flowsMacroeconomic Strategist – Predict policy and market outcomesRisk Management Analyst – Assess market and credit risksBanking Policy Advisor – Guide financial regulatory policyDebt Market Analyst – Analyze bond and lending marketsMonetary Policy Researcher – Study interest rates and inflationAsset Allocation Analyst – Balance portfolios using economic theory
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University of St Andrews
