Economics and International Relations with Year Abroad and Integrated Foundation Year BSc (Econ) (Hons)

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Queen Mary University of London

Program Overview

If you’re curious about how the global economy works and want to understand the politics shaping international relations, this program is perfect for you. It combines solid training in economics with insights into world politics, and the integrated foundation year gives you a strong start so you can succeed even if you’re new to these subjects.

Curriculum Structure

Foundation Year (Year 0):
The foundation year sets you up for success, covering the basics of economics, politics, and quantitative skills. You’ll take introductory courses in economics, political science, and mathematics, helping you build confidence and a strong academic foundation before diving into the main degree.

Year 1:
In your first year, you’ll explore core topics like Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Introduction to International Relations. These courses give you a clear understanding of economic theories and global political systems, creating a solid base for more advanced study.

Year 2:
The second year goes deeper with subjects such as Econometrics, International Political Economy, and Development Economics. You’ll learn to analyse complex economic problems and understand how politics and economics interact on a global scale.

Year 3:
Your year abroad is a chance to study in a different country, experience a new culture, and apply what you’ve learned in real-world contexts. It’s an exciting opportunity to broaden your perspective and gain skills that employers love.

Year 4:
In your final year, you’ll focus on advanced topics like Global Economic Governance, International Trade, and Advanced International Relations. You’ll also complete an independent research project, showing that you can apply your knowledge to real-world issues.

Focus Areas

Economics, International Relations, Quantitative Analysis, Global Policy, Development Economics

Learning Outcomes

Critical Thinking, Analytical Skills, Cross-Cultural Communication, Research Proficiency, Policy Analysis

Professional Alignment

This degree prepares you for a wide range of careers in policy, international organisations, economic consultancy, and more. The skills you gain are highly valued in both public and private sectors.

Reputation

Queen Mary University of London is highly regarded for research excellence and graduate employability, helping you stand out in a competitive job market.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Queen Mary, learning goes far beyond lectures and textbooks. Students on this program get hands-on experience with real-world tools, work on collaborative projects, and even spend a year studying abroad, giving them practical skills that employers value. From state-of-the-art facilities to immersive international experiences, the program ensures you’re not just learning theory—you’re applying it in meaningful ways:

Graduate Centre: A modern, seven-storey hub at Mile End campus with dedicated teaching and study spaces designed for economics and international relations students.
Bloomberg Trading Room: Work with real-time financial data and industry-standard tools to understand economic markets in practice.
International Foundation Year: A supportive first year that builds the skills you need to succeed in over 100 different bachelor’s programs at Queen Mary.
Study Abroad Programme: Spend a year at a partner university overseas, experiencing a new culture and applying your knowledge in an international setting.
Mile End Institute: Engage with public debates and research on key global political and economic issues, enhancing your understanding beyond the classroom.
Think Pod & QUBE Media Suite: Collaborative spaces with presentation, recording, and digital media facilities to support group projects and research work.
Libraries: Access to Queen Mary’s libraries and London’s extensive resources, including the British Library and Senate House Library, perfect for in-depth research.

These opportunities mean you’ll graduate not only with academic knowledge but with real, practical experience and a global perspective.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this program leave Queen Mary with the skills and confidence to pursue a variety of exciting career paths. Many find themselves working as Economic Analysts, Policy Advisors, International Relations Consultants, or even joining the Diplomatic Service. Your studies will give you the analytical, research, and communication skills employers value most:

Here’s how Queen Mary supports you on your career journey:

Careers and Enterprise Centre: Offers personalised guidance, workshops, and networking events to help you prepare for the job market.
qNomics Projects: Hands-on initiatives that let you apply economic and policy knowledge in real-world scenarios, working closely with industry professionals.
Finance Trading Programme: Gain practical experience with financial markets and trading, bridging theory with industry practice.
Graduate Outcomes: Around 90% of graduates are in employment or further study within fifteen months, with an average UK salary of £34,048 and 85% in highly skilled roles.
Industry Partnerships: Work on live projects and gain insights through partnerships with financial institutions and policy organisations, giving you real-world exposure.
Accreditation and Reputation: Your degree carries the weight of Queen Mary’s strong reputation, opening doors for long-term career growth.

Further Academic Progression:
After this program, you’ll have the foundation to continue your studies at a postgraduate level. Popular options include International Relations MA, Economics MSc, Public Policy MSc, or Development Studies MSc. These paths allow you to specialise further, preparing you for roles in research, policy-making, or higher-level consultancy.