Undergraduate Course
Economics BSc (Hons)
Go beyond theory. Develop practical skills. Thrive in your Economics Career.
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Look ahead to the future of the economics industry and develop the your ability to succeed in an ever changing economy. This course will prepare you for a career as an economist, consultant or policy adviser by developing your understanding of the world of economics.
95% of our students were in work or further study 15 months after graduation (Higher Education Graduate Outcomes Data, 2021)
89% of Business students thought that staff are good at explaining things. (National Student Survey 2022)
York campus
- UCAS code – L2N6 (L2N7 with placement)
- Duration – 3 years full time, 4 years with placement year
- Start date – September 2023, September 2024
- School – York Business School
Minimum entry requirements
104 UCAS Tariff points
3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language and Maths.
Tuition fees
UK 2023 entry £9,250 per year full time
International 2023 entry £13,000 per year full time
Discover Economics at York St John University
Course overview
On this course you will develop your knowledge of economic principles and learn to apply this to real situations and challenges. We will discuss how the economy is affected by issues relating to crime, fiscal policy, political issues and international constraints. You will also investigate how economic metrics can be used to measure and enhance collective happiness in society. Through practical investigation you will learn the essentials of econometrics modelling, and go beyond them to explore experimental economics. You will consider the economic effects of centralised banking and government on our society. You will also investigate contemporary economic events as a part of the essential modules for obtaining The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) qualification which will improve your employ-ability and experience.
We have close links with businesses across the region, and you will regularly hear from high profile guest speakers. This includes representatives from the Bank of England as well as well known private organisations. These connections also provide opportunities for networking, internships and work experience placements.
We make sure your learning is always kept practical and relevant by embedding Guest speakers, live projects and experiments at every level of study. While you study with us, we will fund your membership of the Royal Economic Society. This will enhance your professional profile in the industry. It also opens up extra opportunities for training and development, such as competitions, grants and conferences.
As with all of our Business courses, you have the option to go on a placement year between years 2 and 3 of your degree. You can also choose to study abroad for a semester at one of our partner universities.
As a Business School we are passionate about social responsibility and sustainability. These values and this commitment will be embedded throughout this course. We are a Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME) signatory for the United Nations. Our mission is to develop your potential so that you can make a difference in society.
Course structure
Year 1
Our academic year is split into 2 semesters.
In your first year, you will study:
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 1
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 2
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Modules
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will examine the nature of business enterprise and its relationship with wider society, focusing on what it means to be a responsible business. In the ongoing debate about what a business behaving responsibly really means, we will engage with ideas including:
- Stakeholder theory
- The triple bottom line
- Corporate social responsibility
- Business ethics
- The role of the state
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will learn the basic principles of microeconomics and macroeconomics. You will develop an understanding of economic principles and techniques and learn how to apply them in business contexts. You will also investigate the different issues related to macroeconomic theories and gain insight into the impact of the macroeconomic environment on business decisions.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module we will consider why societies value economic growth. You will engage with debates about whether it is a goal we should be pursuing, or whether other approaches to development would be more appropriate. We will discuss contemporary issues such as sustainability, inequality and the environmental effects of continuous economic growth. You will learn about how economic growth occurs and evaluate level of success in achieving it around the world and over time. Throughout the module we keep your learning relevant by applying the theories you explore to current events in the world around us.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module we will introduce you to essential quantitative methods for modelling and analysing financial data. You will investigate statistics and probability concepts, and then use these theories to analyse practical situations. This module feeds into the year 2 module Applied Econometrics.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
This module explores the fundamental concepts and techniques of macroeconomic analysis. You will gain an understanding of quantitative techniques and modern macroeconomics. You will learn how decisions of the central bank and government affect inflation, consumption, economic growth and unemployment. You will also investigate contemporary economic events. This module is essential for obtaining The Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment (CISI) qualification.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will take an unusual approach by explicitly considering, early in your career, what is involved in making markets work and some of the many circumstances in which they may ‘fail’. This will help you to gain a better understanding of the true usefulness of economics in the real world.
Year 2
In your second year you will study:
- 3 compulsory modules in semester 1
- 2 compulsory modules and 1 optional module in semester 2
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Optional modules will run if they receive enough interest. It is not guaranteed that all modules will run every year.
Modules
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will develop the ability to discuss and apply econometric techniques using real data. You will focus on which econometric methods to use in different circumstances and how to interpret and evaluate the results. You will learn about regression techniques, using econometric software, to estimate econometric models and also methods for finding and overcoming estimation problems.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will learn about theories of economic behaviour in the labour market and the nature of the labour market. You will test macroeconomic theoretical concepts and justify conclusions. You will gain core practical skills that are essential for a career as an economist, policy advisor or economic analyst. This module will help you to develop skills in analysing economic data and combine the results to form a discussion on societal problems such as wage inequality, the role of education and training and factors driving the demand and supply for labour.
Credits: 20
Optional module
This module aims to develop you into a confident, enterprising and creative graduate who will be able to cope with the ever changing business environment, recognise opportunities and to take responsible and measured risks. This is a very practical module. Starting with an initial idea, you will explore and assess a business opportunity and present a feasible business concept. Working alone or in groups, you will develop skills in collecting, analysing and organising ideas and information.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module we will introduce you to the field of Industrial Economics, looking at why and how firms and industries behave and interact with each other. Understanding their behaviour is relevant not only to the firms, but also to the governments that design industrial policies in order to favour consumers without decreasing firms' efficiency.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Organisations frequently require both an understanding of how and why data is acquired, and an ability to collect, analyse and interpret it. This module considers the use of quantitative and qualitative research methods, and allows you to develop skills in the collection, analysis and reporting of relevant data. You will develop your project planning and management skills as a way to manage the research process.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
International trade is extremely controversial. It is thought to be the engine of much worldwide economic prosperity. It is also blamed for inequality between countries and for the rise of populism and nationalism in some parts of the world. On this module we will investigate these controversies. This will help you understand the patterns of international trade, the forces that produce these patterns, and how they impacts different people. Ideas from economic theory, business strategy and political economy will help you to develop this understanding.
Credits: 20
Optional module
Enhance your future employability by experiencing the workplace. We have designed this module to help you develop your skills, knowledge and understanding in different areas related to your career. You will engage with issues such as:
- Career decision making
- The recruitment cycle
- Applying for jobs
- Interviewing
As part of this module you will embark on a work placement or business project in a group, or individually.
Year 3
In your third year you will study:
- A compulsory dissertation module across semesters 1 and 2
- 2 compulsory modules in semester 1
- 2 compulsory modules in semester 2
You can find out which modules are available in each semester on the Course Specifications.
Optional Placement Year
As with all of our Business courses, you have the option to go on a placement year between years 2 and 3 of your degree. If you choose not to do a full year, you can do a shorter placement module in Year 2. You can also choose to study abroad for a semester at one of our partner universities.
Modules
Credits: 40
Compulsory module
This module is your chance to plan and conduct a piece of independent research. You will be able to choose from the following projects:
- Traditional dissertation: Plan and conduct a piece of independent research. Present your findings in a writing.
- Business Research Project: Complete a small scale piece of individual research work.
- Consultancy Project: Work with industry professionals and investigate a business project and produce a research based report.
- Business creation project: Develop a full business proposal and plan. Use primary and secondary research to support your work.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Experimental economics is a growing area of economic research. This module will be your introduction to experimental economics and your study will go beyond traditional economic models. You will focus on observing behaviour and how people make decisions in different controlled situations. You will have the opportunity to learn how people actually respond to economic incentives and will be able to design your own economic or social experiment.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
Prospective managers working in an international context require a clear understanding of key aspects of the contemporary economy. On this module you will investigate business economics topics that address relevant contemporary issues, for example, the economics of large data driven tech companies. You will learn about concepts within business economics using industry examples and news reports.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
It is widely recognised that economic measures of wellbeing, such as income, have limitations. In this module you will study the factors that make people happy, how to measure happiness, and how government policy can be guided to enhance people’s happiness. You will investigate social, psychological, political and cultural factors such as relationships, religion, age, human rights, democracy, the natural environment and health. You will also look at ways of measuring happiness, identifying the factors that influence happiness and how happiness research can guide public policy.
Credits: 20
Compulsory module
On this module you will have the opportunity to analyse and evaluate the connection between politics and economics on an international level. You will engage with key aspects of International Political Economy, with a focus on how differences in growth and development arise due to the unique circumstances that characterise specific regions around the world.
Teaching and assessment
Teaching and learning
All of your modules will be delivered using a variety of different teaching sessions. This includes:
- Lectures
- Seminars
- Guest speakers
- Workshops
- Events
Each module has 3.5 hours of contact time a week. This consists of a 1.5 hour lecture and a 2 hour seminar. 1 to 1 time can be booked through our tutorial booker system.
You will also have regular individual tutorial sessions with your academic tutors to support your learning. You will also have opportunities to gain work experience through modules which take your learning beyond the classroom and into the city.
Our teaching draws on both our research and professional experience. This means your learning is informed by the most current thinking in the subject area. You can find out more about our research and backgrounds by visiting our staff pages.
Assessment
We use a wide variety of assessment types, which help you to develop skills relevant to the workplace. This includes:
- Written assignments
- Individual and group presentations
- Exams
- Practical activities
- Economic experiments
You will receive feedback on your work throughout each module. This will help you to improve your work for your graded assessments. We will advise you on developing your skills, useful areas for research and how to extend your business knowledge further.
Professional skills
We encourage you to extend your learning through Continuing Professional Development as you study. Our Success Lab provides extra events, short courses and opportunities to help you make the most of your degree. The academic and professional skills you develop through this will help to boost your employability when you graduate.
Career outcomes
Your future with a degree in Economics
This course will give you the skills to succeed in many different careers relating to economics. These include skills in researching, constructing arguments, communication, teamwork and decision making.
This degree could be the first step toward your career as an:
- Economist
- Consultant
- Policy advisor
- Analyst
- Policy analyst
Discover more career options on Prospects careers advice pages.
PGCE at York St John University
Further your education and work towards a rewarding career in teaching by studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) after you graduate. For over 180 years, we have worked with enthusiastic individuals who want to shape the future of young people across both primary and secondary school settings. You'll spend a lot of time in schools, developing your practice by teaching. You will graduate with Qualified Teacher Status and become part of the well respected alumni of York St John educators.
Whatever your ambitions, we can help you get there.
Our careers service, LaunchPad provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:
- Employer events
- LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
- Workshops on application writing and interview skills
- Work experience and volunteering opportunities
- Personalised career advice
This support doesn't end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain experience and confidence to succeed. It's your career, your way.
Entry requirements
Qualifications
Minimum entry requirements
104 UCAS Tariff points
3 GCSEs at grade C/4 (or equivalent) including English Language and Maths.
Calculate your UCAS Tariff points
International Students
If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.
Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.
If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.0 (with no skill below 5.5) or equivalent.
International entry requirements
This course is available with foundation year
If you do not yet meet the minimum requirements for entry straight onto this degree course, or feel you are not quite ready for the transition to Higher Education, this is a great option for you. Passing a foundation year guarantees you a place on this degree course the following academic year.
Mature Learners Entry Scheme
If you have been out of education for 3 years or more and have a grade C GCSE in English Language or equivalent, you are eligible for our entry scheme for mature learners. It's a scheme that recognises non-traditional entry qualifications and experience for entry onto this course. Information on how to apply can be found on our dedicated page.
Advanced Entry
Considering transferring to join us in year 2 or 3 of our Business Courses? Please see our Advanced Entry page for information on the courses available and how to apply.
Terms and conditions
Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions page.
Fees and funding
To study for an undergraduate degree with us, you will need to pay tuition fees for your course. How much you pay depends on whether you live inside the UK, or internationally (outside the UK). Tuition fees may be subject to inflation in future years.
UK 2023 entry
The tuition fee for 2023 entry onto this course is £9,250 per year for full time study.
This price applies to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students.
You can find out more about funding your degree by visiting our funding opportunities page.
Placement year funding
If you choose to take a placement year, and your course offers it, you can apply for the Tuition Fee and Maintenance Loan for your placement year. How much you are awarded is based on the type of placement being undertaken and whether it is a paid or unpaid placement. The tuition fee for your placement year will be reduced.
Tuition fees
UK 2023 entry £9,250 per year full time
International 2023 entry £13,000 per year full time
International 2023 entry
The tuition fee for 2023 entry to this course is £13,000 per year for full time study.
This price applies to all students living outside the UK.
Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a Student Visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.
Find out more about funding your degree.
Additional costs and financial support
There may also be some additional costs to take into account throughout your studies, including the cost of accommodation.
Course-related costs
While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include a DBS check, purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips.
Study Abroad
For more information on tuition fee reductions and additional costs for studying abroad, please visit our study abroad pages.
Accommodation and living costs
For detailed information on accommodation and living costs, visit our Accommodation pages.
Financial help and support
Our Funding Advice team are here to help you with your finances throughout your degree. They offer a personal service that can help you with funding your studies and budgeting for living expenses.
For advice on everything from applying for scholarships to finding additional financial support email fundingadvice@yorksj.ac.uk.
Course highlights
Develop your learning focus
Focus on your learning, your way, by making decisions on the focus of your module studies, business case studies and final research project. You can pick from 4 final projects to complete your final year as an undergraduate. Traditional dissertation research involves presenting your research findings in writing. A business research Project, this is a Small scale piece of individual research. The Consultancy Project involves working with professionals, investigating a business project and producing a research based report. Finaly the Business creation project has you develop a full business proposal and plan.
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Professional Membership
We fund your membership of the Royal Economic Society, which opens up many new opportunities.
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Links with industry
Hear from guest speakers and build your professional network through our extensive industry links.
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Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME)
York Business School is one of only a few Business Schools to be a signatory of the United National Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME). All of our courses are aligned to these goals, and we also contribute to the goals through our research.
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Aimee Economics
The best thing about studying Economics is the passion which my lecturers have. I always feel enthused to participate in seminars and feel confident to speak up within lectures. Often my lecturers stop me in the corridor to ask how my day is. York St John is my second home. The community is very friendly and makes you feel accepted no matter your background.
Callum Economics
My favourite part of studying economics is that I am able to apply what I am learning within my course to events going on in the world. This gives me a greater understanding of both national and international economies. The support and feedback I have received from both my lecturers and fellow students have contributed a great deal to improving my confidence throughout my studies.
More to explore
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Join us in 2023
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Open Days
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