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Plymouth Business School

BSc (Hons) Economics

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UCAS tariff 112 - 128 Contextual offers
A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes personal circumstances that may affect grades into account.
UCAS course code L101
Institution code P60
Duration

3 years

(+ optional placement)
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth

Financial analyst, consultant, policymaker, entrepreneur, market researcher, academic – every organisation needs an economist. Our modern and skills-focused economics course will prepare you for success. The core syllabus stresses the integration of theory and evidence in economic analysis and research. This course also emphasises the continuous acquisition of key analytical, numerical and independent research skills. An optional financial pathway is available.

Did you know, that our economics degree is ranked top 10 for:
  • engaging lectures
  • assessing students fairly
  • welcoming feedback from students
  • building on previous learning
  • providing support for mental health and well-being.
Bloomberg interactive learning suite

Careers with this subject
Competition for graduate jobs is fierce. The combination of academic excellence and practical knowledge we encourage on this course will help you stand out when it comes to entering the world of work.
Our students graduate ready to take on all sorts of finance and economics roles – from industry economist to financial risk analyst.

Real experience every step of the way

As well as expert-led teaching, all undergraduate modules within Plymouth Business School have integrated CV building activity, for example, through micro-credentialing, problem-based learning, or embedded direct employer activity.
We have ensured every module contains a real world problem-based exercise. We have reached out to employers directly to involve real business in our assessments. You will experience real world employee engagement every month.
We know this is key to student academic and graduate success.

Careers service

The University of Plymouth has a dedicated careers service supporting you from the moment you start your degree, to three years after graduation.
Careers advice is embedded into your academic programme through workshops, events, placements, networks - working with the academic staff teaching on your course. We also offer materials, networks and resources online through our 24/7 portal, and a wide-range of activities, opportunities and support centrally in the Careers Service space within the Student Hub.
We are here to help you to explore, connect and succeed.

Key features
  • We emphasise a real-world application based approach in many modules which integrates theoretical and evidence based analysis in order to best support your development as a professional economist.
  • We recognise that our students are diverse with different backgrounds and interests. Our course offers contemporary electives enabling you to tailor your degree to your personal interests. In addition to our flexible economics pathway we offer a financial economics pathway that allows you to specialise in international trade and finance.
  • Get off to a flying start - our first year students will have the option to attend a three day field trip in semester one.
  • Enhance your employability by completing a placement year between your second and final year. You will be supported by the University's excellent careers service and dedicated placement preparation sessions.
  • A course not only designed to develop your skills and capabilities as an economist but also to offer numerous opportunities to build your CV in other ways for example through opportunities for micro-credentialing, engaging in real world problem based learning and active researching. We do this because we know it is key to student academic and graduate success.

Our excellent National Student Survey results for 2024:

  • We’re very proud of our facilities for economics at Plymouth. Our students have ranked us third in the country for our IT facilities. The Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite allows students to research fields such as corporate finance, derivative markets, portfolio and risk analytics, real-time data and investment simulations.
  • You’re in safe hands with economics at Plymouth. Our students have ranked us third in the country for assessing our students fairly and we’re in the top quartile for providing helpful feedback.
  • When you join economics at Plymouth you can be assured that you will join an inclusive community of staff and students. We are ranked in the top-ten nationally for welcoming feedback from students and valuing their opinions.
  • Our final year students have let us know that the economics course at Plymouth is well organised by ranking us in the top-ten nationally for introducing subjects and skills in a way that builds on what they have already learned.
  • We’re delighted that our final year students find our lecturers engaging. We ranked in the top-ten in the country for delivering economics in an engaging manner.
  • Our economics staff are here to help and support you. We are ranked fifth in the country for communicating with our students on mental health and wellbeing support.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • Lay the foundations for future study by building a comprehensive overview of core economic theory and its use.

    Core modules

    ECN4001
    Principles of Economics and Finance 40 credits

    This module provides an introduction to core principles of both economics and finance. It explores some basic concepts and techniques involved in economic and financial analysis at an introductory level and considers the relevance of economics and finance to broad areas such as business decision-making and risk management.

    50% Tests

    30% Coursework

    20% Practicals

    ECN4002
    Economics in Society 20 credits

    In this module you will consider a range of contemporary issues within society and explores how the basic tools of economic analysis can be used to gain insight and understanding of those issues.

    100% Coursework

    ECN4004
    Microeconomics and Macroeconomics 20 credits

    This module will provide you with an introduction to the theories and concepts of modern microeconomics and macroeconomics techniques, applying them to a range of contemporary issues.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    ECN4005
    Business Data, Decisions and Behaviour 40 credits

    The module introduces the area of data analytics and the role of data in business decision making. You will explore the use of accounting, economic and financial data and common decision making/analytical frameworks in informing business decisions. You will go on to examine major themes of management decision making (i.e. processes, models and analytical methods) and basic statistical analysis in the context of supporting and informing a number of key business decisions (e.g. pricing, investment).

    80% Coursework

    20% Practicals

  • Year 2

  • Study micro- and macroeconomics in depth and improve your quantitative and analytical skills with the study of econometrics and research methods. You can add to this, an elective module or choose to specialise in financial economics by selecting it as a pathway.

    Core modules

    PBS500CPD
    Careers and Professional Development 0 credits

    This module is aimed at enhancing students employability skills and knowledge especially those who will be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their degree. It is designed to build on skills learned in Stage 1 and helps students in their search for a placement, and in their preparation for the placement itself.

    ECN5011
    Intermediate Microeconomics

    You will explore the concepts and theories of microeconomics at an intermediate level and apply them to the analysis of real world issues such as education choice, imperfect competition and industrial strategy, and risk and insurance. In this context, you will analyse the effects of policy interventions.

    ECN5012
    Intermediate Macroeconomics

    You will explore the concepts and theories of macroeconomics at an intermediate level and apply them to the analysis of real-world issues including monetary policy, fiscal policy, central banking, macroeconomic stability and financial crises.

    ECN5013
    Research Methods and Artificial Intelligence in Economics

    This module covers the philosophical foundations of social science research, contextualising to different schools of economic thought. It critically examines the research methods of both orthodox and heterodox economists, with a particular emphasis on how AI is transforming research tools, highlighting benefits, ethical concerns, and limitations. Practical uses of AI in economics research are considered.

    ECN5014
    Econometrics and Data Analytics

    This module introduces students to the field of econometrics and data analytics. The emphasis is on learning through the application of econometric and data analytic techniques to real world problems and data. The module considers how AI can facilitate and extend the application of traditional econometric approaches.

    Optional modules

    ECN5003
    Environmental and Resource Economics 20 credits

    Modern economies heavily depend on natural resources and substantially affect the natural environment. This module develops and applies eco¬nomic theories and concepts relevant to the analysis of environmental and resource issues, exploring environmental and resource policies at the national and international stage.

    100% Coursework

    ECN5004
    Financial Markets and Decision Making 20 credits

    The objective of this module is to give you an understanding of the structural organisation of financial markets, and the role they play in the economy and to introduce the basic concepts in modern finance. You will undertake a detailed study of financial markets, e.g. the stock market, the bond market, the derivative markets and analyses financial decision-making through different models of stock and bond valuation and uses of financial derivatives. You will examine different ways of assessing risk, different ways of putting risk and return together, and portfolio building. The course considers theory, empirical evidence and practical application.

    50% Coursework

    50% Remotely delivered assessments

    ECN5005
    International Economics: Trade and Finance 20 credits

    In this module you will explore the economic implications of globalisation by investigating current trends in international trade and international finance.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    PBS5001C
    The Challenge Module: Sustainable Business 20 credits

    Through this module you can select from a choice of topics related to the big challenges business and society are facing today. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy.

    100% Coursework

    PBS5002C
    The Challenge Module: Sustainable Supply Chains for Global Trade 20 credits

    In this module, you will be challenged to evaluate the sustainability of the globalised business world. You will assess conflicting viewpoints and present balanced arguments for the environmental, social and economic sustainability of the supply chains that support global trade.

    100% Coursework

    PBS5003C
    The Challenge Module: Responsible Entrepreneurship in Action 20 credits

    Through this module you can develop an understanding of the big challenges business and society are facing today, in the context of entrepreneurship. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy and will be informed by established business theories. You will develop and reflect on a business idea which has sustainability at its core.

    100% Coursework

  • Optional placement year

  • Get paid for hands-on work experience and develop your economic flair. We support you to find the most suitable private or public sector placement. Apply and deepen your knowledge to develop a range of skills that will be invaluable to your future career.

    Core modules

    PBS600PLC
    Placement Year

    The placement year consists of an extended period of appropriate professional experience in a business or organisation. It allows the student to gain relevant experience to consolidate their studies and prepare for final stage study and employment after graduation. Students on BA International Business may also or alternatively undertake a study placement at an approved partner institution.

  • Final year

  • Learn more about the global economy and specialise in business, finance, environmental or economics topics of your choice, including economic modelling and game theory.

    Core modules

    ECN6001
    Advanced Economic Theory and Policy 20 credits

    This module explores the application of advanced economics to a range of contemporary theoretical and applied policy related issues in economics.

    65% Coursework

    35% Examinations

    ECN6007
    Game Theory and Strategic Behaviour 20 credits

    In this module you will explore ideas in game theory, applying them to the analysis of strategic behaviour and decision making in contemporary economic, business, political and social life. You will also investigate the challenges that arise from strategic interactions and potential solutions.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    ECN6008
    Professional Practice for Economists 20 credits

    This module will advance your capacity to apply and critically evaluate a range of economic methodologies commonly used by professional economists. You will also develop further your skills in reporting economic analysis in a professional manner.

    80% Coursework

    20% Practicals

    PBS600CPD
    Continued Careers and Professional Development 0 credits

    The Continued Career and Professional Development module is a development scheme designed to enhance students’ employability and builds on the stage 2 module. The stage 3 module focuses on providing students with information on graduate options and equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary for articulating and recording achievement and applying for graduate positions. The module also includes a number of workshops and events designed to develop students’ skills and knowledge, with the purpose of filling gaps in their CV’s and enhancing their employability.

    PBS6001
    Final Year Dissertation 40 credits

    The module builds upon research and study skills developed in earlier modules. Students are required to undertake supervised independent research into a marketing or economics field of their choice. Use should be made of appropriate research qualitative and / or quantitative methodologies.

    100% Coursework

    Optional modules

    ECN6003
    Environmental and Resource Economics 20 credits

    Modern economies heavily depend on natural resources and substantially affect the natural environment. This module develops and applies eco¬nomic theories and concepts relevant to the analysis of environmental and resource issues, exploring environmental and resource policies at the national and international stage.

    100% Coursework

    ECN6004
    Financial Markets and Decision Making 20 credits

    The objective of this module is to give you an understanding of the structural organisation of financial markets, and the role they play in the economy and to introduce the basic concepts in modern finance. You will undertake a detailed study of financial markets, e.g. the stock market, the bond market, the derivative markets and analyses financial decision-making through different models of stock and bond valuation and uses of financial derivatives. You will examine different ways of assessing risk, different ways of putting risk and return together, and portfolio building. The course considers theory, empirical evidence and practical application.

    50% Coursework

    50% Remotely delivered assessments

    ECN6005
    International Economics: Trade and Finance 20 credits

    In this module you will explore the economic implications of globalisation by investigating current trends in international trade and international finance.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Entry requirements

UCAS tariff

112 - 128

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

A level: 112 - 128 points from a minimum of 2 A levels. This course considers general studies.
BTEC:18 Unit BTEC Extended Diploma: DMM-DDM in any subject.
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application
Access: Pass a named Access to HE Diploma in any subject with at least 33 credits at merit/distinction.
T levels: Merit in any subject.
IB: 28 - 32 overall to include 4 at any subject at Higher Level.
English and Maths accepted within: Higher Level = 4 Standard Level = 5
All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) mathematics and English at grade 4/C or above.
Short of the entry requirements for this course? Don’t worry, you may be eligible for a foundation year to prepare you for possible entry onto this course for the following year.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary.

Fees, costs and funding
2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £17,100 £17,600
Part time (Home) £770 £795
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

*UK Government announcement on tuition fees

Following an announcement in November, the government has confirmed its intention to increase undergraduate tuition fees for the 2025/26 academic year.

Subject to final Parliamentary approval (expected in early March 2025), the tuition fee for UK students is increasing to a maximum of £9,535 from 1 August 2025. This change applies to current and new students at the University of Plymouth. The Student Loans Company (SLC) has confirmed loans for tuition fees will be increased accordingly.

Undergraduate scholarships for international students

To reward outstanding achievement the University of Plymouth offers scholarship schemes to help towards funding your studies.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business additional costs .

Tuition fees for optional placement years

The fee for all undergraduate students completing any part of their placement year in the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,850.
The fee for all undergraduate students completing their whole placement year outside the UK in 2024/2025 is £1,385.
 Learn more about placement year tuition fees

How to apply
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Progression routes

International progression routes

The University of Plymouth International College (UPIC) offers foundation, first-year and pre-masters programmes that lead to University of Plymouth degrees. Courses are specially designed for EU and international students who are missing the grades for direct entry to the University, and include full duration visa sponsorship. You can start in January, May or September, benefitting from small class sizes, top-quality tuition and 24/7 student support.
Find out more at plymouth.ac.uk/upic or contact our team at info@upic.plymouth.ac.uk

Tailor your degree to suit your career goals: choose your pathway

Our standard pathway

This pathway offers you a core curriculum combined with the widest choice of elective modules and free choice over your final year dissertation / project module. This could include areas such as environmental economics and international economics. The choice is yours.
Economics

Financial focus pathway

Aimed at students who know that they want to specialise and pursue career opportunities or postgraduate study in the broad areas of finance, banking and investment. You'll take modules in the area of financial economics and write a dissertation / project supervised by an expert in financial economics.
Business Economics

Meet our experts

  • Associate Professor (Senior Lecturer) in Economics
    Expert in regional economics, economics of sport, betting and foreign investment
  • Associate Professor (Reader) in Economics
    Expert in public and environmental economics
  • Associate Head of School (Undergraduate)
    Expert in regional economic development and entrepreneurship
  • Lecturer in Finance and Economics
    Expert in dynamic macroeconomics and international finance
  • Lecturer in Finance
    Qualified Chartered Manager and Fellow Member of the Higher Education Academy
  • Lecturer in Economics
    Experienced in international micro- and macroeconomics and trade applications
  • Emeritus Professor
    Specialist in credit management, management accounting and corporate finance
  • Professor of Finance
    Expert in international and financial economics and trade
Student blogs Shahana
Shahana, BSc (Hons) Economics Student
“I have always had a real passion for numbers and having an answer for everything – mathematics is the subject I have found the most fulfilling.

I identified early that economics would build upon my love of mathematics and that it was important for me to find a course that would enable me to channel my interest in the humanities, having studied history and geography at A level.

After considering multiple options, Plymouth remained the best choice for me due to the quality of the BSc (Hons) Economics course content as well as the course’s flexible structure of optional modules, which will allow me to carve a personal pathway that will guide me towards graduation and beyond.”

Plymouth Business School

  • ?Accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)

  • ?Committed to social, economic and environmental responsibility

  • ?Supporting the internationally recognised focus on sustainability and social purpose of the University

  • ?Leading business ready graduates onto a successful career and happy life

  • ?Supporting graduates to make informed choices based on current economic and market trends

  • ?Building students resilience and confidence

  • ?Promoting practical skills development

A new home to cultivate business leaders

Our Fitzroy Building has been transformed, becoming the new home of the Plymouth Business School, providing students with specialist facilities and social learning spaces.
Among these spaces for business, management, accounting, finance and marketing students, you'll find the Bloomberg Interactive Suite for tracking stock markets and The Cube - support for our student and graduate entrepreneurs, as well as a Maritime Suite and a Language Lab.
Watch our video visualising what the new building looks like.