- UCAS course code
- L102
- UCAS institution code
- M20
Bachelor of Science (BSc)
BSc Economics
- Typical A-level offer: AAA including Mathematics
- Typical contextual A-level offer: ABB including A in Mathematics
- Refugee/care-experienced offer: ABC including A in Mathematics
- Typical International Baccalaureate offer: 36 points overall with 6,6,6 at HL including Mathematics
Overview
Course overview
- Learn about economic principles, mathematical modelling and econometric techniques.
- Develop analytical reasoning and quantitative techniques that prepare you for the world of work.
- Explore the opportunity of study abroad in Year 3.
- Our Economics department has been home to four Nobel Laureates. Our latest Nobel Prize winner, Simon Johnson, received his award in 2024 for his groundbreaking research into understanding wealth disparities between different nations.
A study experience that makes a difference
We place social responsibility at the heart of your learning which means you can take advantage of unique ways to make a difference while studying with us, through your course or through extra-curricular activities.
- Complete our Ethical Grand Challenges to learn how you can create a better world and become more socially responsible.
- Work with an external organisation to tackle real-world sustainability problems through our University Living Lab.
- Discover subjects that broaden your horizon with our interdisciplinary learning opportunities.
Every course at Manchester contributes towards the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, so no matter what you're studying you'll be playing an active role in the protection of people and planet.
You will explore the following goals in your course:
- Goal 8: Decent work and economic growth
Open days
We are pleased to announce that we are returning to hosting on-campus open days in the summer and autumn.
Please see open days for the dates, registration, and other information.
If you're a prospective student, you can also find out more about student life by chatting with our student ambassadors at a time that suits you, and ask any questions you may have about life at Manchester.
Please check our Coronavirus FAQs for the most up to date information regarding events.
You can also look at our virtual open day content to help you learn more about the University.
Contact details
- School/Faculty
- School of Social Sciences
- Contact name
- School of Social Sciences Admissions Office
- Telephone
- +44 (0) 161 306 0100
- socialsciences@manchester.ac.uk
- Website
- http://www.socialsciences.manchester.ac.uk/economics/
- School/Faculty overview
-
See: School Subjects
Courses in related subject areas
Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.
Compare this course
Entry requirements
A-level
- AAA, including A level Maths.
- We do not accept two A/S Levels grades in place of one A Level.
- We accept native language A Levels providing they are taken in the same sitting as your other subjects. We will not accept the combination of Mathematics, Further Mathematics and a native language.
-
We accept the Level 3 Diploma in Financial Studies (DipFS) as equivalent to an A-level if taken alongside A-level Mathematics at grade A and one more A-level from the list acceptable subjects above.
Contextual offer
ABB
Refugee/care-experienced offer
Applicants who have been in local authority care for more than three months or have refugee status may be eligible for an offer three grades below the standard requirements.
AS-level
Unit grade information
The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit information where available. Like all other information provided by applicants this may be taken into consideration when assessing your application. Unit grades will not normally form part of an offer conditions.
GCSE
International Baccalaureate
36 points overall, 6,6,6 at Higher Level to include Mathematics.
For this programme of study we will accept: Mathematics: analysis and approaches or Mathematics: applications and interpretation.Other international entry requirements
We accept a range of qualifications from different countries. For detailed information please refer to our country-specific requirements and requirements for foundation years .
For general requirements not listed above see Accepted entry qualifications from your country .
Still need help? Email us at socialsciences@manchester.ac.uk .
Scottish requirements
We accept Scottish Advanced Highers and Highers in one of the following combinations:
Three Advanced Highers at grades ABB, including Mathematics at grade A.
or
Two Advanced Highers at grades AA (to include Mathematics), plus two additional Highers at grades BB.
Applicants taking a different combination of Highers and Advanced Highers should contact socialsciences@manchester.ac.uk for further advice. Applicants not taking English language or Mathematics at Higher level must achieve grade C in English language and Grade B in Mathematics at SCQF Level 5.
Welsh Baccalaureate
The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate and usually requires two A Levels or equivalentto be included within this.
Weconsider theWelsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificateas equivalent to an A-level on a grade-for-grade basis, but itwill not be considered in place of A-level Mathematics.
European Baccalaureate
The University of Manchester welcomes applicants with the European Baccalaureate. Acceptable on its own or in combination with other qualifications, applications from students studying for this qualification are welcome and all applicants will be considered on an individual basis.
We typically require 80% overall in the European Baccalaureate.
AQA Baccalaureate
The University recognises the benefits of the AQA Baccalaureate and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills.
In making offers, the University will focus on the three A Levels taken within the AQA Baccalaureate. Students need to check the standard A Level requirements for their chosen course.
The units of broader study, enrichment activities and the Extended Project are considered to be valuable elements of the AQA Baccalaureate and we would therefore strongly encourage students to draw upon these experiences within their personal statement.
Foundation year
The University recognises a number of foundation programmes as suitable for entry to this undergraduate programme:
Applicants completing the INTO Manchester in partnership with The University of Manchester international foundation programme are required to achieve AAA in academic subjects, including Mathematics, and grade B in the EAP with writing and speaking grade B and listening and reading grade C.
Applicants completing the NCUK International Foundation year are required to achieve AAA in academic subjects, including Mathematics, and grade B in the EAP with writing and speaking grade B and listening and reading grade C.
For all other foundation programmes please see our full list of approved UK foundation programmes . If you have any questions please email us on socialsciences@manchester.ac.uk .
Pearson BTEC qualifications
The School accepts Pearson BTEC Level 3 qualifications for entry as long as it is in a relevant subject and taken alongside A-levels. The A-level you are taking must be included in the list of subjects found in the A-level entry requirements above.
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma - accepted with grades DDM in combination with A-level Mathematics at grade A .
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma - accepted with grades D*D in combination with A-level Mathematics at grade A .
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma - accepted with grade M in combination with two A-levels at grade AA , including Mathematics A-level .
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate - accepted with grade D in combination with two A-levels at grade AA , including Mathematics A-level .
We do not accept the Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Certificate.
The University of Manchester welcomes applications from students who have achieved legacy BTEC qualifications (pre-2016) such as the BTEC Extended Diploma, BTEC Diploma and BTEC Subsidiary Diploma. The grades required are likely to be the same or vary similar to the new BTEC qualifications (first teaching 2016, awarded 2018). Please contact the Academic School for clarification.
OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications
The School accepts OCR Cambridge Technical (CTEC) Level 3 qualifications for entry as long as it is in a relevant subject and taken alongside A-levels. The A-level you are taking must be included in the list of subjects found in the A-level entry requirements above.
Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma - accepted with grades DDM in combination with A-level Mathematics at grade A .
Cambridge Technical Diploma - accepted with grades D*D in combination with A-level Mathematics at grade A .
Cambridge Technical Foundation Diploma - accepted with grades MM in combination with two A-levels at grades AA , including Mathematics A-level .
Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate - accepted with grade D in combination with two A-levels at grades AA , including Mathematics A-level .
We do not accept the Cambridge Technical Certificate.
The University of Manchester welcomes applications from students who have achieved legacy CTEC qualifications (pre-2016) such as the CTEC Extended Diploma, CTEC Diploma, and CTEC Subsidiary Diploma. The grades required are likely to be the same or vary similar to the new CTEC qualifications (first teaching 2016, awarded 2018). Please contact the Academic School for clarification.
Access to HE Diploma
We require a QAA-recognised Access to HE Diploma (a minimum of 60 credits overall with at least 45 at Level 3), with merit or distinction in a subject area relevant to the chosen course.
- Typical applicant - A mature student returning to education after a number of years.
- Typical offer - Pass Access to HE Diploma with 45 level 3 credits (45Distinctions).
- Applicants must also have a grade A at A-level Maths.
- Minimum grade C in GCSE English Language.
Cambridge Pre-U
We consider the Cambridge Pre-U when offered alongside Mathematics A-level. We require a Diploma in a relevant subject at grades D3 and D3, as well as A-level Mathematics at grade A.
T Level
Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)
Core Maths
The University welcomes and recognises the value of Level 3 core mathematics qualifications (e.g. AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies).
Core Mathematics is not a compulsory element of post-16 study and as a result we will not normally include it in the conditions of any offer made to the student.
A Core Maths qualification does not satisfy the requirement of achieving A-level Mathematics for the School of Social Sciences.
Home-schooled applicants
Non-standard educational routes
Mature students are some of our most well-equipped learners, bringing skills and attributes gained from work, family and other life experiences. Students come from a whole array of backgrounds, study every kind of course, undertake full-time and part-time learning and are motivated by career intentions as well as personal interest. There is no such thing as a typical mature student at Manchester.
The application process is the same as for other prospective undergraduates. If you require further clarification about the acceptability of the qualifications you hold please contact the academic School(s) you plan to apply to. Further information for mature students can be found here .
English language
All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency. The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either:
- GCSE/iGCSE English Language grade C.
- IELTS 6.5 overall with no lower than 6 in any component.
- TOEFL (IBT) 90 overall with minimum of 20 in each subset.
- iGCSE English (Second Language) grade B
- An acceptable equivalent qualification.
Please note that if you hold English as a second language iGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications or achieve a higher grade in your iGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the academic School for clarification.
The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires that every student from outside the UK and the EU must show evidence of a minimum level of English Language in order to be granted a UK visa (Tier 4 visa) to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level. This level is often referred to as the 'B2 level'.
Additionally, our individual Schools may ask for specific English Language proficiency levels that are necessary for their academic programmes. In most cases these requirements are likely to be higher than the B2 level. Further information about our English Language policy, including a list of some of the English Language qualifications we accept, can be found here .
English language test validity
Fees and funding
Fees
Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2025 will be £9,535 per annum (subject to Parliamentary approval). Tuition fees for international students will be £31,500 per annum. For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.
Policy on additional costs
All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).
Scholarships/sponsorships
Scholarships and bursaries, including the Manchester Bursary , are available to eligible home/EU students.
Some undergraduate UK students will receive bursaries of up to £2,000 per year, in addition to the government package of maintenance grants.
You can get information and advice on student finance to help you manage your money.
Application and selection
How to apply
Advice to applicants
Applicants submitting mitigating circumstances
If you are submitting information about mitigating circumstances that have affected, or are likely to affect, your academic performance, you should include this in the referee's report.
We cannot take into account information that is supplied after an adverse decision has been made on an application.
(Examples of mitigating circumstances include family illness, problems with school facilities or an unusual curriculum followed by your school of college.)
How your application is considered
Interview requirements
Returning to education
Overseas (non-UK) applicants
Deferrals
NB Some English Language test results, such as IELTS of TOEFL, are only valid from two years from the test date.
Policy for applicants who resit their qualifications
Contact: socialsciences@manchester.ac.uk
Re-applications
If you applied in the previous year and your application was not successful you can apply again. Your application will be considered against the standard course entry criteria for that year of entry.
In your new application you should demonstrate how your application has improved. We may refer back to previous applications or registrations at the University.
If you are applying for a place for the same year of entry through UCAS Extra, you should include additional evidence of your suitability for the course.
If you are applying through clearing you will need to meet the clearing requirements. In both UCAS Extra and clearing places will be subject to availability.
Course details
Course description
I enjoy studying Econometrics the most, I believe it's the most practical application of Economics in real-life scenarios.
More so, I like the use of programming languages in analysing data in Econometrics.
Aryaman Talukdar / BSc Economics
The BSc Economics course is for quantitative economics specialists with a strong mathematical background.
You will discover a range of economics branches before specialising, benefitting from an engaging and interactive learning experience at one of the UK's most historic centres for economic study.
You will also receive training for the compulsory stream units in economic principles, mathematical modelling and econometric techniques.
Modern professional economists need to have a clear understanding of economic principles in order to recognise and model relevant economic problems.
We will ensure you'll be equipped with the mathematical and econometric tools to solve and analyse such problems.
Our carefully designed degree combines compulsory units in core economics and quantitative methods and the opportunity to specialise in a particular area of interest through optional course units.
Employers look for candidates who can produce sound and clear reports that make sense of the available data using advanced quantitative skills in analysis and modelling.
The analytical reasoning, essay writing and quantitative techniques we'll provide you with will give you the best employment prospects and a healthy start in your career. These skills can be developed and sharpened by choosing an optional dissertation in Year 3.
Aims
The BSc Economics is a quantitative economics degree designed for those who have already chosen to specialise in economics and have a good mathematical background.
Modern professional economists need skills in economic principles, mathematical modelling and econometric analysis of economic data, together with a detailed knowledge of their chosen specialism.
In line with this requirement, the BSc Economics degree has at its core a compulsory stream of courses in economic principles and quantitative methods.
Together with a range of optional courses this allows students to develop their specialist interests in most areas of modern economics.
Specifically the main aims of the BSc Economics degree are:
- to provide a specialist training in the approach and methods of modern economics;
- to develop the skills necessary to apply a quantitative perspective to the analysis of economic and business problems;
- to equip students with the expertise necessary to develop an understanding of contemporary economic issues;
- to help students develop a range of skills including communication, numeracy, computer literacy, problem-solving, analytical ability and logical argument;
- to provide a sound preparation for a subsequent career in economics (whether in the public or private sector) or business;
- to provide a sound preparation for further study in economics or related areas.
Special features
World-leading research and teaching in economics has been at the heart of higher education in Manchester since the early days of the University.
Manchester professor William Stanley Jevons (1835-1882) helped build the foundations of modern economics.
Three winners of the Nobel Prize in Economics have worked at Manchester:
- Sir John Hicks (1904-1989) wrote his most important works on welfare economics during his time at Manchester.
- Sir Arthur Lewis (1915-1991) for his pioneering work in development economics.
- Joseph Stiglitz (Nobel Prize winner 2001) has led the Brooks World Poverty Institute.
We are proud to be a leading centre for economic research, scholarship and research-led teaching in all areas of the discipline, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, financial economics, environmental and resource economics, development economics and industrial/business economics.
Study abroad
Apply in Year 2 to spend Year 3 studying overseas at one of our partner universities. Consult with your Academic Exchange Advisor to create a study program that complements your Manchester studies. Return for Year 4 and graduate with a degree title including “with International StudySee The University of Manchester Study Abroad pages for more information, including eligibility criteria, destinations, costs and funding.
Professional Experience Year
In addition to its regular curriculum, this course also offers an exciting option for a professional experience year. Imagine spending 9 to 12 months immersed in a real-world work environment, applying your classroom knowledge, and gaining practical skills. As a result, you’ll build connections, enhance your resume, and stand out to potential employers.
Teaching and learning
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.
Coursework and assessment
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.
Course content for year 1
In Year 1 you will follow a highly structured course with 90 out of 120 credits being specially tailored core units, including:
- Principles of Microeconomic Theory and Macroeconomic Analysis;
- Advanced Mathematics;
- Advanced Statistics;
- Applied Economics;
- Studying Economics;
- Introduction to Mathematical Economics.
Further options include units in Social Sciences, Business and Finance.
Course units for year 1
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
Studying Economics | ECON10011 | 10 | Mandatory |
Advanced Mathematics | ECON10071A | 10 | Mandatory |
Advanced Statistics | ECON10072A | 10 | Mandatory |
Applied Economics | ECON10162 | 10 | Mandatory |
Principles of Microeconomic Theory 1: Consumers, Welfare, Production and Costs | ECON10171 | 10 | Mandatory |
Principles of Microeconomic Theory 2: Markets, Prices and Strategy | ECON10172 | 10 | Mandatory |
Macroeconomic Analysis 1 | ECON10181 | 10 | Mandatory |
Macroeconomic Analysis 2 | ECON10182 | 10 | Mandatory |
Introduction to Mathematical Economics | ECON10192 | 10 | Mandatory |
Financial Decision Making | BMAN10522 | 10 | Optional |
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Course content for year 2
- Intermediate Microeconomic Theory and Macroeconomic Analysis;
- Econometrics;
- Mathematical Economics.
You also have 40 credits to pursue interests including further Economics units and units in Social Sciences, Business and Finance.
Upon completing your training in the core of Economics, you are ready to pursue your interests in a more specialised way in Year 3.
Course units for year 2
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
Mathematical Economics I | ECON20120 | 20 | Mandatory |
Intermediate Microeconomic Theory 1 | ECON20501 | 10 | Mandatory |
Intermediate Microeconomic Theory 2 | ECON20512 | 10 | Mandatory |
Macroeconomic Analysis 3 | ECON20521 | 10 | Mandatory |
Macroeconomic Analysis 4 | ECON20532 | 10 | Mandatory |
Investment Analysis | BMAN20072 | 10 | Optional |
Financial Markets and Institutions | BMAN21011 | 10 | Optional |
Foundations of Finance A | BMAN23000A | 20 | Optional |
Environmental Economics | ECON20101 | 10 | Optional |
Development Economics: Growth, Capital Accumulation and Structural Change | ECON20321 | 10 | Optional |
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Course content for year 3
In Year 3 there are no compulsory units.
You choose from a range of specialised course units, including the option to produce a dissertation in applied economics.
Course units for year 3
The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.
Title | Code | Credit rating | Mandatory/optional |
---|---|---|---|
International Finance | BMAN30060 | 20 | Optional |
Financial Derivatives | BMAN30091 | 10 | Optional |
Advanced Corporate Finance | BMAN30111A | 20 | Optional |
Financial Engineering | BMAN30242 | 10 | Optional |
Corporate Contracting and Managerial Behaviour | BMAN30702 | 10 | Optional |
Financial Market Microstructure | BMAN31792 | 10 | Optional |
Applied Practical Investing | BMAN32082 | 10 | Optional |
Advanced Microeconomics | ECON30001 | 20 | Optional |
Advanced Macroeconomics | ECON30002 | 20 | Optional |
Topics in Inequality & Poverty | ECON30041 | 20 | Optional |
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Course content for year 4
Disability support
Careers
Career opportunities
We offer you a high-quality, research-led student experience that prepares you for a career as a professional economist, employment in a range of economics-related areas, or further study in economics, business and finance.
Our graduates have gone on to successful careers in areas including accountancy and professional services, finance and banking, and government. Other avenues include journalism and the media, charities, consultancy, civil service, finance, marketing and PR, social work, teaching, law and postgraduate study (including all of the top 10 universities in the UK).
Another popular option is postgraduate study, we offer a variety of specialist taught master's courses. For more information, see careers and employability
The University also has its own dedicated Careers Service that you will have full access to as a student and for two years after you graduate. You will have access to a number of opportunities to help boost your employability
By joining BSc Economics, you also become a member of the BSc Economics Society. The BSc Economics Society provides a platform to interact with students in all years of their degree. Various social events and other activities are arranged throughout the course.
The Society encourages engagement with current affairs, economic discussions and debates and organises events to connect with employers, including prestigious BSc Economics Alumni now placed in economic, finance and consulting careers.
Many Economics students are also members of the Manchester University Trading and Investment Society (MUTIS) - a large society dedicated to understanding financial investment and developing careers in that area.