Economics with a Year Abroad

The BSc Economics with a Year Abroad at University College London offers students the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of economic theories, principles, and analytical methods while experiencing international academic environments. This program is designed to equip students with rigorous quantitative skills, a solid foundation in economic analysis, and a broad perspective on global economic issues. Throughout the course, students explore microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and various specialized topics such as development, environmental, and behavioral economics. The inclusion of a Year Abroad allows students to study at an esteemed partner university in a different country, enhancing their intercultural communication skills, worldview, and adaptability. This exchange not only fosters personal growth but also provides unique insights into regional economic policies and practices. The curriculum combines lectures, seminars, and practical data analysis exercises, with opportunities for research projects and internships. Students develop proficiency in statistical software and economic modelling, preparing them for diverse careers in finance, consultancy, public policy, and international organizations. The program encourages critical thinking, independent research, and effective communication, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address complex economic challenges in a globalized world. With access to UCL’s extensive academic resources, world-class faculty, and an active student community, students thrive in an intellectually stimulating environment. The Year Abroad component typically spans a full academic year, during which students immerse themselves in a new academic and cultural setting, often completing coursework that supplements their core studies. Upon graduation, students leave with a versatile set of skills, a global perspective, and valuable international experience, making them highly competitive in the job market or well-prepared for further postgraduate study.

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.

Your third year will be spent at a university overseas.

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

The Economics with a Year Abroad program at University College London offers a range of financing options for prospective students. Tuition fees vary depending on residency status; for UK students, the annual fee is approximately £9,250, while international students may pay around £22,150 per year. These fees are subject to change annually and should be confirmed through official university sources. In addition to tuition, students should consider costs associated with living expenses, including accommodation, food, transport, and study materials. UCL provides various financial support opportunities, such as scholarships, bursaries, and grants specifically aimed at international students and those demonstrating financial need. For example, the UCL Global Excellence Scholarships offer significant financial awards to outstanding international applicants, helping to offset tuition fees and living costs. UK students may be eligible for government-funded loans, including the Postgraduate Loan scheme, which can cover part of their tuition fees and living expenses. Moreover, UCL has partnerships with external organizations and charities that provide funding opportunities for students enrolled in economics and related disciplines. Students are encouraged to explore part-time work options available on and around campus, which can supplement their income while studying. The university also offers financial planning advice and resources to help students manage their budgets effectively throughout their studies. International students should account for additional costs such as visa fees and health insurance, which can significantly impact overall finances. Applying early for scholarships and financial aid increases the likelihood of securing funding. The university’s financial support team provides personalized guidance to help students identify suitable funding sources and develop a comprehensive financial plan for their studies at UCL.

The BSc Economics with Year Abroad at University College London (UCL) offers students a comprehensive introduction to the core principles of economics while providing the opportunity to enhance their academic experience through a year spent studying at a partner university abroad. This program is designed for students interested in understanding how economies operate, examining both microeconomic and macroeconomic theories, and applying these insights to real-world issues. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, including supply and demand analysis, fiscal and monetary policy, international trade, and development economics, complemented by quantitative methods and data analysis skills.

The inclusion of a Year Abroad is a distinctive feature of this program, allowing students to immerse themselves in different cultural and academic environments, thereby broadening their global perspective. Students typically spend their third year studying at a partner university, which may be located across Europe, North America, or other regions depending on partnerships at the time of admission. This experience aims to foster independence, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills, which are highly valued in today's globalized economy.

Throughout the program, students benefit from UCL's world-class faculty and resources, engaging in interactive lectures, seminars, and original research projects. The program also emphasizes the development of quantitative and analytical skills using industry-standard software and statistical techniques, preparing graduates for careers in finance, public policy, consultancy, or further academic study. Additionally, students have access to career services, networking events, and extracurricular activities that support professional development.

Assessment methods include examinations, coursework, presentations, and dissertation projects, ensuring a rigorous and diverse evaluation of students' understanding and capabilities. The program nurtures critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication, equipping graduates with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for success in various economic fields. Upon completion, students are awarded a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree from UCL, recognized internationally for its academic excellence. The program's combination of rigorous economics training and international exposure prepares students to thrive in a competitive global job market or to pursue advanced studies.