Studying economics in the UK means learning with the world's best minds and studying at top ranking universities recognised globally for their award-winning research in economics and its related fields.
Economics is an extensive field often studied with other subjects such as business, management, finance, accounting and law. Undergraduate degrees in economics in the UK are usually for three years and may extend up to 4 years with a placement year. These are also offered as dual degrees or joint honours degrees. For instance, a BSc Economics degree could be combined with science-based subjects such as mathematics or statistics; a BA Economics degree is offered with disciplines such as politics or psychology.
Studying economics with business or other subjects is useful for analysing the interaction between markets and people and governments' role in managing an economy's business activities.
- Learn more: Economics subject guide
Find the top five UK universities for economics below, and if you want to apply for an economics degree in the UK, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK India today.
Top Five UK Universities for Economics
Below is the list of the top five universities in the UK for studying economics, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.
1. University of Oxford
The world’s oldest university in the Anglosphere, the University of Oxford is home to a globally renowned Economics department that offers a three-year bachelor’s degree in Economics and Management. The programme intends to help students get acquainted with management principles concerning economics. You will learn how consumers, firms, and governments make decisions about resource allocation.
Students will understand how companies effectively use raw materials and human resources to reach the defined objectives by engaging in several seminars and projects. The curriculum also covers strategic management, the economics of industries, and development economics. Graduates will also have a hang of government economic policies, business conduct, and the importance of relationship building.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Economics and Management
- Entry requirements: A*AA, including Mathematics at grade A or above.
- International fees: £38,550
2. University of St Andrews
The University of St Andrews is considered the most prestigious UK university for Economics. St Andrews’ BSc Economics is among the most sought-after degrees in the UK, thanks to its comprehensive coverage of several elements of economics and finance, including macroeconomic policy, behavioural economics, econometrics, and corporate finance. The four-year full-time programme is an ideal amalgamation of theoretical and practical teaching.
The programme's first two years are dedicated to building a solid foundation, including an introduction to microeconomics and macroeconomics. The next two years allow you to choose from various modules, such as Development Economics, Innovation Economics, Topics in Economic History, and International Trade. Students can undertake a dissertation or research project in the fourth year.
- Suggested course: BSc Economics
- Entry requirements: Standard entry grades: AAAAB and Minimum entry grades: AABB. For more details, visit here
- International fees: £30,160
3. University of Cambridge
The BA (Hons) in Economics at the University of Cambridge is a three-year programme designed by top economists. The course curriculum includes key topics, such as the theory and practice of econometrics, political economy, the economics of developing countries, and quantitative methods in economics. Students also engage in several project-based assessments, lectures, classes and supervision.
The degree helps you understand the role of supply and demand in defining the market mood. Subjects like global inflation, monetary policy, and the operation of financial institutions are covered through academics and practice. You will also get acquainted with the role of finance in solving international conflicts around the globe.
- Suggested course: BA (Hons) Economics
- Entry requirements: A Level: A*A*A, IB: 40-42 points, with 776 at the Higher Level
- International fees: £25,734
4. University of Brighton
The University of Brighton ranked second in the UK for teaching quality and student experience by the Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024, offers an AACSB-accredited economics programme. National Student Survey 2023 reports 100% positive feedback on academic support and 95% on teaching.
The three-year economics course covers introductory concepts, advanced macroeconomics and microeconomics and offers a paid placement year for practical experience. The curriculum expands into labour economics and contemporary issues, emphasising relevance through seminars, lectures, and workshops. Regular course reviews ensure alignment with employer expectations.
- Suggested course: Economics BSc (Hons)
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 26 points, with three higher-level subjects.
- International fee: £15,900
5. Durham University
The BA (Hons) Economics programme at the University of Brighton focuses on the critical role of economics in decision-making for individuals, businesses, and organisations. Designed to meet the demands of various industries, the degree cultivates critical and analytical skills applicable to finance, journalism, policy, and international development.
The curriculum includes expert lectures and projects on contemporary economic issues, emphasising real-world applications. Core modules in macroeconomics, microeconomics, and econometrics equip students with essential tools for economic analysis. Several optional modules allow customisation, and students can extend their degree with a year abroad or placement pathway.
- Suggested course: BA Economics
- Entry requirements: IB Diploma score – 38 with 666 in higher level subjects, including Mathematics.
- International fee: £27,600
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