Economics

Economics at University College London offers a comprehensive and rigorous education designed to develop your understanding of how economies function and how economic agents make decisions. This programme combines core principles of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics with a wide range of optional modules, allowing students to tailor their studies to their interests and career aspirations. Throughout the course, you will engage with real-world economic issues, analyze data, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are highly valued in many sectors, including finance, government, consultancy, and academia. The programme is delivered by leading experts in the field, providing students with access to cutting-edge research and up-to-date economic debates. In addition to enhancing quantitative and analytical skills, students will gain a solid understanding of economic theory and its practical applications. The programme also emphasizes the development of communication skills and the ability to present complex ideas clearly and effectively. UCL’s location in London offers unparalleled opportunities for internships, networking, and exposure to global financial institutions and policy organizations. Graduates of the programme have gone on to successful careers in finance, policy analysis, economic research, and beyond. The programme is suitable for students with a strong interest in economic issues, a desire to understand global economic trends, and a commitment to rigorous academic study. Whether you aim to pursue further academic research or enter the professional world, Economics at UCL provides a strong foundation and the analytical skills necessary for a successful career in today’s dynamic global economy.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

The department's fundamental premise is that students should learn how to do economics themselves, rather than just learn how the academic staff or other economists do it.

In the first year you take compulsory modules on the core concepts of microeconomics and macroeconomics, applied economics, mathematics and statistics, and have the opportunity to take optional modules.

In your second year, principles of model-building, problem-solving and quantitative techniques are emphasised, and you will take compulsory core modules in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics.

Most final-year modules introduce you to research papers and current research, including that of staff members. You will benefit from instruction by staff whose research impacts directly on the policy process, for example via contact with the Institute for Fiscal Studies and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

A levels

Grades

A*AA

Subjects

Mathematics grade A* required, plus grade A in Economics if offered.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade C. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

39

Subjects

A score of 19 points in three higher level subjects including grade 7 in Mathematics and grade 6 in Economics if offered with no score lower than 5.

The English language level for this programme is: Good

Financing for the Economics program at University College London (UCL) is provided through a variety of sources to support students' academic pursuits. UCL offers several scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options specifically tailored for domestic and international students enrolled in Economics. The university's scholarships include the UCL Excellence Scholarships, which are awarded to outstanding applicants based on academic merit and potential; those pertinent to Economics students can significantly reduce tuition fees. Additionally, the UCL Postgraduate Research Scholarships provide funding opportunities for research-focused Economics students, covering tuition and living expenses. International students may also be eligible for UCL Global Scholarships, which recognize academic excellence regardless of nationality.

Apart from university-specific funding, students can access external scholarships and government sponsorship programs. The UK government provides loans for domestic students pursuing undergraduate degrees, which can be used to cover tuition fees and living costs, with flexible repayment plans linked to income levels after graduation. International students often seek funding through their governments, private foundations, or international organizations that support study abroad programs.

UCL also offers financial guidance services to assist students in identifying appropriate funding options and managing their finances throughout their studies. Moreover, some students finance their education through part-time work opportunities available on and around the university campus, helping balance income and study commitments.

Students are encouraged to apply early for scholarships and financial aid, as many awards are competitive and have specific eligibility criteria. The university's financial support framework aims to ensure that capable students are not deterred from studying Economics due to financial constraints, thereby fostering diversity and inclusion within the student body. Overall, financing options at UCL for Economics students are comprehensive, combining internal scholarships, government loans, external funding, and on-campus employment opportunities to support their academic and career ambitions.

The Economics program at University College London (UCL) is a comprehensive and rigorous degree designed to provide students with a solid foundation in both theoretical and applied economics. The course aims to develop analytical skills, quantitative methods, and critical thinking necessary to understand complex economic issues at local, national, and global levels. UCL's Economics program covers a wide range of topics including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, development economics, financial economics, and international economics. Students will engage in both theoretical modeling and empirical analysis, utilizing advanced statistical software and data analysis techniques.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to participate in seminars, workshops, and research projects, often collaborating with faculty and industry professionals. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current economic challenges and policy debates, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, finance, government, or international organizations. UCL offers excellent resources, including access to extensive libraries, data archives, and research centers dedicated to economic study.

The program emphasizes the development of quantitative skills, including econometrics and data analysis, which are highly valued in the job market. Students may have the chance to undertake placement years or internships, gaining practical experience. The faculty members are renowned experts with active research agendas, contributing to a vibrant academic environment. Graduates of the program have gone on to successful careers in various sectors, including banking, consultancy, think tanks, and public policy.

UCL's central London location provides students with unique opportunities for networking and engagement with economic institutions, governmental agencies, and multinational companies. The program includes assessments such as exams, essays, project reports, and presentations to evaluate students' understanding and application of economic principles. Ultimately, the Economics program at UCL aims to prepare students not only with theoretical knowledge but also with practical skills and professional insights to excel in diverse economic fields.