BSc (Hons) Business Economics with a Placement Year
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- L11P
- Typical Offer
- AAB
- Contextual Offer
- BBB
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
BSc Business Economics with a Placement Year will give you a thorough training in economic analysis, focusing on business strategies in today’s marketplace. You’ll discover how insights from economics can guide both companies and regulators to increase profits and better serve the interests of consumers. You’ll become an expert in economic and financial modelling techniques, as well as statistical analysis. In your third year, you'll spend from nine to twelve months on a full-time placement, gaining invaluable work experience and enhancing your employability skills in a relevant area of your choice. Our graduates go on to rewarding and exciting careers in finance, business, and a wide range of other fields.
You’ll study economics with a focus on market environments and business strategy. You’ll explore microeconomics, macroeconomics, economic modelling and statistics, and acquire specialist knowledge in industrial organisation and the economics of corporate finance. You’ll benefit from UEA’s particular expertise in industrial organisation and competition policy. And you can also tailor your degree to your interests, choosing modules that explore areas such as competition in the digital age, or the business and economics of sport, for example.
At UEA, you’ll receive the very best support and guidance through a dedicated module called STEPS (Skills, Training, Employability, Progression, and Support), as well as through your academic adviser. A university-wide Learning Enhancement team is also on hand to help you with mathematics, writing, critical-thinking, revision, and time management skills.
Our curriculum prioritises employability, offering you a syllabus rich in real world examples and practical applications. Guest lectures by employers as well as numerous employability events, including: workshops, networking and alumni events, one-on-one meetings with top professionals, job coaching and training, nationwide competitions, internships and consulting opportunities, and mentoring by former alumni.
Our dynamic community offers you plenty of opportunities to connect and get involved. The student-led Economics Society is the perfect place for you to network and socialise with fellow students, whilst our Staff-Student Liaison Committee gives you a say in the future direction and every-day running of the School. The Norwich Economic Publications (a combination of a journal and a Podcast run by students) and the ECO Blog are outlets where you can share your enthusiasm about what you study.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
On this course, in your third year you’ll engage for nine to 12 months in a full-time work placement, gaining invaluable working experience and employability skills in a relevant field of your choice.
Study and Modules
Structure
Your first year is designed to give you a solid foundation in microeconomics, in which you’ll explore how individuals and firms make decisions, and macroeconomics, in which you’ll learn about governments’ fiscal and monetary policies and their impact on the economy. A focus on mathematical and statistical methods will equip you with essential modelling techniques economists use. You’ll also start applying economic principles to real world issues and learn how behavioural insights deepen our understanding of consumers, workers and managers’ decision-making processes.
For students without an A-level in mathematics or equivalent maths qualifications, a tailored introductory mathematics module will equip you with a solid foundation in the mathematical techniques essential to becoming an economist.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your first year, lectures will be predominantly delivered in a large group setting where new concepts, ideas and arguments are presented. To keep you engaged and inform the lecturer about your progress, these sessions will make often use of audience response systems and other technologies. Breaks for group discussions will be a regular feature. Workshops will provide hands-on experience: working in groups, with your teachers by your side, practicing and applying the new methods you’ve learned in the lectures. You’ll also participate in small group discussions and debates moderated by an academic. These events are complemented by additional study skills and support sessions.
Assessment
In your first year, you'll be assessed through a balanced mix of coursework and tests. Coursework is deliberately varied and can include essays, presentations, and group work.
You’ll take part in ‘formative assessments’, which don’t carry any marks, but help evaluate your learning needs and academic progress. This ensures you can use this ongoing feedback to prepare more effectively for graded coursework and tests.
Assessment variety is key to enhancing your employability prospects. We aim to constantly provide you both with a broad range of workplace skills, and with the evidence you’ll need to demonstrate these skills to potential employers.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of microeconomics and macroeconomics, whilst building up your skills in the management and analysis of real-world data in an econometrics module, in which you’ll apply statistical methods to the investigation of economic questions. Additionally, you’ll examine the financial decisions of firms in a specialised module focused on the economics of corporate finance.
Finally, you can choose to enhance you understanding in areas such as behavioural economics, global trade, game theory and strategy, as well as mathematical economics and programming.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your second year, you’ll experience an even greater diversity in teaching styles and class settings. Whilst you continue with large-cohort core modules, you’ll also embark on smaller specialised modules that align with your own goals and interests. In this year, you’ll be introduced to more advanced statistical software and may decide to conduct your own data-driven research project.
Assessment
In your second year, assessment continues via coursework, tests and exams. The variety of coursework widens and may include essays, presentations, group work, technical exercises, research projects, and data analysis assignments.
Structure
In your third year, you’ll spend between nine and twelve months in a full-time work placement. Although you’ll be responsible for securing your own work placement, the School and the Careers Service will offer dedicated support to assist you throughout the process of searching, applying for, and ultimately gaining a position. Additionally, you’ll be given assistance during your placement and upon your return for the completion of your studies in the fourth and final year.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
During your work placement, you’ll receive dedicated support from the Placement Team within the School and specialists from the Careers Service.
Assessment
During your placement year there will be a placement meeting / visit involving yourself, your supervisor, and a representative from the placement team. You’ll be required to submit an evaluative report in the form of a presentation, which will be assessed on a pass or fail basis. There will be an opportunity for you to present this report to prospective students when you return in your final year.
Structure
In your final year, you’ll specialise in industrial organisation and competition economics to understand market and firm competition dynamics.
You can complement this with advanced macroeconomic, microeconomic and econometric modules. You’ll also have the opportunity to write a dissertation on a topic of your choice or develop a consulting project in collaboration with an external organisation. Additionally, you can select from a list of other optional modules that focus on competition or public policy, development or environmental economics, financial markets or behavioural finance, financial risk management, alternative investments, and the economics and business of sport, among many others.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 100)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your final year, the list of optional modules increases even more. This means that the range of teaching styles you’ll experience will also depend on your preferences. Technical training will be delivered through a mix of traditional lectures and hands-on practice, utilising specialised software and programming. The learning of more discursive and conceptual subjects will centre on group work, debates, and collaborative projects, in which you'll practice various forms of writing, from policy-briefs to twitter collections and blogs.
Assessment
By your final year, the range of assessment types expands even more. You may opt to write a dissertation on a topic of interest or undertake a consulting project in collaboration with external organisations. A balance of coursework and tests remains, but you’ll have more freedom to choose your own topics and develop original submissions through case studies, projects, and poster presentations. You’ll be encouraged to find your own voice and to articulate arguments competently and rigorously across various contexts.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language at minimum grade C or grade 4 and Mathematics at minimum grade B or grade 5.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB
Contextual offer: BBB
We do not accept General Studies A-levels.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDD
Contextual offer: DDM
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Extended Diploma: DDD
Diploma: DD plus B at A level.
Contextual Offer: DD plus C at A level.
Extended Certificate: D plus AB at A level.
Contextual Offer: D plus BB at A level.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3
T levels
Obtain an overall Pass including a A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. We do not accept Business and Administration Diploma courses.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall
Irish Leaving Certificate
4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AAAAA
Scottish Advanced Highers
BBC
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language at minimum grade C or grade 4 and Mathematics at minimum grade B or grade 5.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB
We do not accept General Studies A-levels.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDD
Combinations of BTEC and A levels
Extended Diploma: DDD
Diploma: DD plus B at A level.
Extended Certificate: D plus AB at A level.
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
International Baccalaureate
33 points overall
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
- INTO UEA
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study.
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You’re eligible for reduced fees during your placement year. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees website.
Extra costs, related to items such as your travel and accommodation, will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
Graduating from the School of Economics, you’ll be equipped with the right combination of analytical and interpersonal skills highly valued by employers. You’ll be competitively positioned for a wide range of career paths, such as economist, analyst, or managerial roles within economics or business consulting. You could also work as a civil servant or focus in sectors such as investment banking and finance, accounting and auditing, insurance and actuarial work, retail, and international think-tanks and organisations.
Careers
Example of careers that you could enter include:
- Economic analysis
- Management and Economics Consulting
- Government and Policy advising
- Investment Banking and Risk analysis
- Financial Services
Discover more on our Careers webpages.