BSc Economics and Economic History

The BSc Economics and Economic History at the London School of Economics and Political Science offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding economic development, historical change, and the functioning of economies. This programme combines rigorous training in theoretical and analytical techniques with an in-depth exploration of economic history, enabling students to analyze contemporary economic issues within their historical context. Students will develop strong quantitative skills, including econometrics, data analysis, and mathematical methods, alongside a solid foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and economic theory. Through a carefully structured curriculum, learners gain insights into how economic systems evolve over time, influenced by social, political, and institutional factors. The programme encourages critical thinking and provides access to world-renowned faculty members who are leaders in their fields. Students will engage with a diverse range of modules covering topics such as global economic history, development economics, financial markets, and the impacts of technological change. Furthermore, the programme offers practical experience through data projects, policy analysis, and research assignments, preparing graduates for careers in finance, government, international organizations, or further academic study. The vibrant academic environment at LSE fosters intellectual curiosity, debate, and innovation, ensuring students are equipped to contribute meaningfully to understanding and solving complex economic challenges. Graduates leave the programme with a nuanced perspective on how historical contexts shape contemporary economic policies and practices, making them valuable contributors to policy-making, research, and analysis on a global scale.

The Bachelor's degree in Economics and Economic History at the London School of Economics and Political Science offers students a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles of economics alongside an in-depth exploration of historical economic developments. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to equip students with both quantitative analytical skills and a solid grasp of historical contexts that have shaped modern economic systems. Throughout the course, students will study core topics such as microeconomics and macroeconomics, economic theory, international economics, development economics, and econometrics, complemented by modules in economic history that analyze key periods and events from the Industrial Revolution to contemporary global economic trends.

The programme emphasizes rigorous methodological training, including statistical analysis and economic modelling, enabling students to interpret complex data and develop evidence-based economic insights. Students also have the opportunity to explore specialized areas such as financial markets, economic policy, and global economic governance. The incorporation of economic history allows students to understand how historical forces, institutions, and policies influence current economic issues, fostering a nuanced perspective that integrates theory with real-world applications.

Teaching methods combine lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent research, supported by access to advanced computing facilities and extensive library resources. The programme encourages critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and effective communication of ideas, preparing graduates for careers in finance, government, academia, international organizations, and the private sector. Students are also encouraged to participate in internships, research projects, and conferences to enhance practical experience and professional development.

Graduates of the programme will be well-equipped to analyze economic problems from multiple perspectives, evaluate economic policies, and contribute to evidence-based decision making. The interdisciplinary approach ensures that students develop a holistic understanding of economic phenomena across different periods and regions, making them valuable assets in a variety of global economic contexts. With a strong foundation in both the theoretical and historical aspects of economics, alumni are prepared to pursue further study or enter the workforce with confidence and expertise.

Program requirements for Economics at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) typically include a strong academic background in mathematics and a demonstrated interest in social sciences. Applicants are generally expected to have completed secondary education with excellent grades in relevant subjects such as mathematics, economics, and other analytical disciplines. A high grade in A-level mathematics (or equivalent qualification) is usually required, often with a minimum grade of A or its equivalent. For international students, acceptable qualifications include the International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement exams, and other national qualifications demonstrating strong analytical and quantitative skills.

In addition to academic excellence, applicants must submit a personal statement that articulates their interest in economics, their motivation for studying the subject, and how their background has prepared them for rigorous academic work. Relevant work experience or extracurricular activities that demonstrate analytical thinking, research abilities, or interest in economic issues can strengthen an application. Standardized test scores such as the UCAS tariff points are also considered, with competitive applicants typically present high scores indicative of academic aptitude.

Proficiency in English language is mandatory, with applicants required to provide evidence of English language proficiency through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent, unless they have been educated in an English-speaking country for a certain period, as specified by LSE's admissions policy. For IELTS, a minimum overall score usually around 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component is expected.

Applicants may also need to attend an interview or provide additional information if required by the admissions committee. The program encourages an understanding of both theoretical and applied aspects of economics, with coursework spanning microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and specialized electives in various fields such asDevelopment Economics, Financial Economics, and Behavioral Economics. The program's rigorous mathematical component often requires students to be proficient in calculus, statistics, and data analysis techniques.

Overall, successful candidates display a combination of academic excellence, relevant skills, clear motivation, and the ability to engage critically with economic ideas. Meeting these requirements allows students to pursue a comprehensive and rigorous education in economics, preparing them for careers in academia, finance, public policy, or related fields.

The financing of the Economics and Economic History programs at the London School of Economics and Political Science is structured through a combination of tuition fees, government funding, and student support schemes. Tuition fees for both UK and international students are set annually and are published on the official LSE website; these fees typically align with the university’s standard rates for undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. UK government funding is accessible through student loans and maintenance grants for eligible UK students, covering tuition and living costs, which students can apply for via the Student Loans Company. International students are generally responsible for funding their tuition fees and living expenses independently, though scholarships and bursaries are available to support outstanding applicants. The LSE participates in various scholarship schemes, including the LSE Undergraduate Support Scheme and the Graduate Support Scheme, which provide partial fee waivers or financial aid based on merit and need. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources, such as government or private scholarships and grants from other organizations. The university also offers bursaries and hardship funds designed to assist students facing financial difficulties. For postgraduate research students, there are specific funding options, including research council grants, university fellowships, and departmental studentships. The financial aid information is regularly updated, and students are advised to consult the LSE official website for detailed and current information regarding costs and available financial support. Overall, the program’s financing structure aims to make education accessible through a combination of institutional funding, government support, and external scholarships, ensuring that students can focus on their studies without undue financial hardship.

The Economics and Economic History undergraduate programme at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) offers students a comprehensive education that combines theoretical and empirical approaches to understanding economic processes and historical developments. This interdisciplinary course is designed to equip students with a solid foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and historical analysis, enabling graduates to critically analyze economic issues within their historical contexts and contemporary settings. The programme covers core areas such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, economic history, and quantitative research methods, providing students with both analytical and practical skills essential for diverse careers in finance, policy analysis, academia, and international organizations.

Students have opportunities to explore special topics including development economics, financial markets, international economics, and the economic history of various regions. The curriculum emphasizes the importance of understanding historical trends to interpret current economic challenges and policy debates. Students engage in rigorous coursework, seminars, and research projects, often using historical data and modern econometric tools to analyze economic phenomena. The programme also promotes critical thinking and interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from history, politics, and sociology to deepen understanding of economic dynamics.

Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for postgraduate study or careers in economics, finance, government, research institutes, and international organizations. The programme benefits from LSE’s renowned faculty, extensive academic resources, and strong links with policy institutions. Students can also participate in a range of extracurricular activities, including internships, conferences, and student societies dedicated to economics and economic history. Overall, the programme aims to develop knowledgeable, analytical, and adaptable graduates equipped to address complex economic issues across global and historical contexts.