Economics with Portuguese (including Year Abroad)

Economics with Portuguese (including Year Abroad) at the University of Essex offers students a comprehensive and immersive education in understanding the complex mechanisms of the global economy, combined with the opportunity to develop fluency in Portuguese and cultural insights into Portuguese-speaking countries. This innovative program is designed for students who aspire to excel in international business, finance, policy analysis, or academia, with a focus on both economic theory and practical application across diverse contexts. Throughout the course, students will engage with core topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and development economics, alongside specialized modules in Portuguese language, literature, and culture. The inclusion of a Year Abroad provides an invaluable opportunity for students to spend an academic year studying in Portugal or other Portuguese-speaking countries, allowing them to enhance language proficiency, experience new cultures firsthand, and build international networks. The program combines rigorous academic teaching with practical experiences, including seminars, group projects, and placements, emphasizing critical thinking, data analysis, and policy evaluation. Students will benefit from the expertise of dedicated faculty members who are active researchers and practitioners in their fields, ensuring that learning remains relevant to contemporary economic issues. Additionally, the program prepares graduates to compete effectively in international markets, with a strong language skillset and cultural understanding that are highly valued in global organizations, governmental agencies, and multinational companies. With excellent support services, modern learning facilities, and opportunities for extracurricular engagement, students are well-equipped to pursue successful careers or further academic study. Graduates of this program will be adept at analyzing economic problems, communicating complex ideas clearly across languages and cultures, and contributing meaningfully to economic development and policymaking on an international scale.

Economics with Portuguese (including Year Abroad) at the University of Essex offers students an in-depth understanding of economic theories, principles, and their real-world applications, complemented by proficiency in the Portuguese language and cultural insights. The programme combines rigorous academic coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and development economics with language modules designed to develop fluency and intercultural competence in Portuguese. Throughout the course, students explore key economic issues such as global financial markets, economic policy, market behaviour, and the impact of economic decisions on society and the environment.

A distinctive feature of this programme is the Year Abroad, which provides students with the opportunity to spend an academic year studying at a partner university in Portugal or another Portuguese-speaking country. This immersive experience enhances language skills, cultural awareness, and adaptability, preparing students for international careers in economics, finance, business, or public policy. During the year abroad, students engage with local economic contexts, undertake independent research projects, and develop valuable international networks.

The programme combines lectures, seminars, workshops, and practical sessions, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and independent research. Students are encouraged to apply their economic knowledge through coursework, case studies, and group projects that mirror real-world economic challenges. Throughout their studies, students have access to excellent resources, including dedicated economics laboratories, extensive library collections, and support from experienced academic staff.

Graduates of this programme are well-equipped for careers in finance, consultancy, government, international organizations, or further academic study. They benefit from a comprehensive education that blends economic analysis with language skills and cultural understanding, making them versatile and competitive in the global job market.

The University of Essex’s strong emphasis on employability ensures students gain practical skills, including data analysis, problem-solving, and effective communication. The programme also offers opportunities for internships, professional development workshops, and engagement with industry professionals, aiming to enhance employment prospects upon graduation.

Overall, Economics with Portuguese (including Year Abroad) at the University of Essex provides a unique, enriching educational experience for students aspiring to engage with international economics and multilingual communication in a globalized world.

Admission requirements for the BSc Economics with Portuguese (including Year Abroad) at the University of Essex typically include the following criteria: prospective students must have completed a relevant secondary education program, such as A-levels, International Baccalaureate, or equivalent qualifications. For A-level applicants, a typical offer might include grades of BBB or above, with specific subject requirements such as Mathematics being highly desirable. The university may also consider applicants with other qualifications such as Scottish Highers, Irish Leaving Certificate, or international qualifications, provided they meet the specified grade criteria.

Proficiency in English language is essential; therefore, applicants whose first language is not English are expected to demonstrate language proficiency through tests such as IELTS, with a required overall score generally of 6.0 or above, including a minimum of 5.5 in each component. Alternatively, other accepted English language tests or qualifications may be considered, such as TOEFL or Cambridge assessments, with scores matching or exceeding the university’s specified thresholds.

For applicants opting for the Year Abroad component, there may be additional requirements, such as language proficiency in Portuguese. This could involve completing a placement or assessment confirming their ability to study and communicate effectively in Portuguese during the year abroad. The university may also require applicants to demonstrate motivation and relevant skills through personal statements or references, illustrating their interest in economics and their preparedness for studying abroad.

Candidates are expected to provide Academic Transcripts and, if applicable, language certificates as part of their application process. The university assesses applications holistically, considering academic achievements, personal statement, references, and relevant experience.

Note that specific entry requirements may vary slightly based on the applicant's country of origin or qualifications, and the university reserves the right to request interviews or additional assessments for certain applicants. It is recommended that prospective students check the university’s official website or contact admissions directly for the most accurate and updated information.

Financing for the BSc Economics with Portuguese (including Year Abroad) at the University of Essex is primarily provided through a combination of tuition fees, government funding options, and external scholarships. Tuition fees for UK students are subject to annual change and are set by the university; for the academic year 2023/2024, they are approximately £9,250 per year. International students from Portugal or other countries typically pay higher fees, which can range up to approximately £15,000–£17,000 annually. Students are encouraged to consult the university's official fees page for the most current figures.

Funding options include government student loans, such as the UK Student Loans Company (SLC) for UK nationals, which cover tuition fees and offer maintenance loans to assist with living costs. For Portuguese students studying in the UK, a similar loan scheme may be available if they meet specific criteria. Additionally, the university offers a variety of scholarships and bursaries based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria such as country of origin. International students are also encouraged to seek external funding sources available in Portugal, including government grants, scholarships from Portuguese institutions, or private sponsorships.

Part-time work opportunities are permitted and often encouraged as a means of supplementing income during studies. The University of Essex's Careers Service provides support in finding part-time employment, both on and off-campus, which can help students fund their studies and gain valuable experience.

Regarding the Year Abroad component, students are responsible for financing their living expenses and travel costs associated with studying in Portugal or another partner country. The university offers some guidance on budgeting for the Year Abroad, and students may use savings, loans, or sponsorships to cover these costs. In some cases, students may be eligible for specific travel grants or financial support programs related to their Year Abroad.

Overall, students are advised to plan their finances carefully, considering tuition fees, living costs, travel, insurance, and personal expenses. The university maintains a dedicated financial aid webpage with comprehensive information and application procedures for available funding.

Economics with Portuguese (including Year Abroad) at the University of Essex provides students with a comprehensive understanding of economic theory and its application in real-world scenarios, combined with proficiency in the Portuguese language and knowledge of Portuguese-speaking economies. The program is designed to equip students with analytical skills and cultural competencies that are highly valued in today’s globalized job market.

The course curriculum integrates core principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics, fostering critical thinking and quantitative analysis skills. Students explore topics such as economic development, international trade, financial markets, and government policy. The inclusion of Portuguese language modules aims to develop fluency and intercultural communication skills, preparing students for careers in international business, diplomacy, or multinational organizations.

A distinctive feature of this program is the Year Abroad, typically undertaken in Portugal or other Portuguese-speaking countries. During this year, students immerse themselves in a Portuguese-speaking environment, which significantly enhances language acquisition and cultural understanding. This experience also provides practical insights into the economic structures and business practices of Portuguese-speaking nations, adding valuable international perspective to their academic knowledge.

The program emphasizes employability skills, encouraging students to engage in internships and placements during their studies. It also offers opportunities for research projects, tutorials, and seminars that promote independent learning and critical analysis. Graduates of this program are well-equipped for careers in economic analysis, international trade, policy advising, finance, or further postgraduate study.

The University of Essex’s supportive academic environment includes access to dedicated language tutors, economics lecturers with international expertise, and extensive learning resources. The program’s combination of economic theory, language skills, international exposure, and practical experience aims to produce graduates who are adaptable, culturally aware, and professionally competent in a variety of global contexts.