BAEcon Economics and Finance

The BA(Econ) in Economics and Finance is an interdisciplinary course allowing you to specialise in Economics, along with other social science units such as philosophy, politics and sociology.

You have the flexibility to either delve into technical units in Economics such as Econometrics and Mathematical Economics or combine Economics units covering inequality and climate change with social science units to develop a well-rounded understanding on social issues.

The Economics and Finance pathway in the BA(Econ) course features a broad range of internationally recognised and research-led teaching in accounting, finance, economics, and law.

You will develop an understanding of the relationship between economics, finance, and the social sciences.

You will benefit from experts in business and social sciences with this jointly delivered degree by Alliance Manchester Business School and the School of Social Sciences.

We are well connected with the three main accounting bodies (ICAEW, CIMA and ACCA), along with international businesses, such as PricewaterhouseCoopers, Kellogg's and Rolls Royce.

The course offers a flexible and relevant learning experience for anyone considering a career in finance, accounting or banking.

Pathways in BA(Econ) share a common first year, allowing you to switch to a different pathway after Year 1 if you want to.

Leading research

The Economics Department is proud to be a leading centre for economic research, scholarship and research-led teaching in all areas of the discipline, including financial economics, economic theory and econometrics.

The Manchester Accounting and Finance Group is one of the leading and largest accounting and finance units in Europe and rated among top three in the UK. We have strong links with the three main UK accounting bodies: ACCA, CIMA and ICAEW, as well as the 'Big 4' accounting companies.

Study abroad

If you would like to broaden your horizons and your degree, you can apply to study overseas for a year at one of our partner universities. You apply in Year 2 to spend a year abroad in Year 3.

If successful, you will put together a programme of study at the host university in consultation with your Academic Exchange Advisor, to complement your studies at Manchester.

You will then come back to Manchester to study for a fourth year and graduate with a degree title including 'with International Study'.

See The University of Manchester Study Abroad pages for more information, including eligibility criteria, destinations, costs and funding.

Professional Experience Year

You apply in Year 1 to boost your employability through a paid Professional Experience Year. If you meet the criteria, the Professional Experience Team and Careers Service will work with you to find a suitable placement in Year 2.

You will complete your Professional Experience Year in Year 3 extending your degree to four years, before returning to University to finish your final year.

Your degree title will include 'with Professional Experience', giving you an advantage of work experience when entering the graduate jobs market.

Course units feature formal lectures supported by smaller tutorials or seminars, where you explore the contents of lectures and recommended reading in greater depth. 

Tutorials and seminars are key in improving your written and oral communication skills through group discussions, essay-writing, and presentations. 

You are assigned an Academic Advisor who takes a friendly interest in your progress, and can advise you on selecting course units and career opportunities.

The way that you study and are assessed will depend on which course units you choose. Our methods are designed to promote in-depth learning and understanding, including: 

• essays, coursework, and other mid-term evaluations; 
• dissertations; 
• presentations; 
• group projects; 
• exams.