Economics with a Placement Year BSc (Econ)

This programme combines a rigorous foundation in economic theories and quantitative tools with opportunities to consider real-world problems using evidenced-based economic analysis. Our highly regarded department will support you in your search for a placement. In the event you cannot secure a placement, you will be able to request to switch to the three-year Economics BSc (Econ), subject to meeting any progress requirements for that degree.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 15 or 30 credits, adding up to a total of 120 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 30-credit module 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. Alongside credit-bearing modules you can get involved with our optional not-for-credit series of Skills Lab modules that run in each year and help you learn independent study and research skills.

In the first year you'll take compulsory modules in economics, applied economics, mathematics and statistics, as well as optional modules.

You can find an updated list of modules on the department's website.

In your second year, principles of model-building, problem-solving and quantitative techniques are emphasised, and you will take compulsory core modules. Students apply for placements in the second year. Support in applying and preparing for placements is available. A placement cannot be guaranteed. If you are not successful in obtaining a placement, having demonstrated efforts to apply, and you meet requirements for L100 you may be switched to the three-year degree.

Assuming you have been successful in securing an approved work placement, your third year will be in an organisation on a minimum 36-week placement. To connect your academic studies with the placement, you will need to demonstrate engagement by submitting reflective learning logs, attending seminars and submitting a draft dissertation proposal.

In your final year you can choose from a wide range of optional modules. Most final-year modules introduce you to research papers and current research, including that of staff members, and require you to independently consider how to combine all that you have learnt across the degree to different areas of economics. Placement students will also complete a compulsory undergraduate dissertation linking their experience in the workplace with academic enquiry and embed employability skills in the Advanced Skills Lab module.

Upon successful completion of 360 credits, you will be awarded a BSc (Econ) (Hons) in Economics with a Placement Year.