BSc (Hons) Economics with a Placement Year
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- L10P
- Typical Offer
- AAB
- Contextual Offer
- BBB
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2025
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
How do the choices of individuals and firms combine to shape the modern global economy? And how can we best align this economy with human goals? On our flagship degree in economics with a placement year, you'll develop an understanding of the economic forces that govern our world. You’ll explore the impact of economic policies on societal change and begin to develop your own ideas on how to make the world a better place. 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 careers in business, finance, and other related fields.
Economics is a far broader and varied subject than many realise, and our BSc Economics with a Placement Year degree enables you either to enjoy the full breadth of the discipline or to develop your own area of interest. You'll explore the economy from both microeconomic and macroeconomic perspectives. You'll also learn how to use economic models and real-world data to gain deep insights into the operations of businesses, governments and the financial sector. You may find your passion is for finance and investments, or behavioural economics, or for data analysis and programming, or any one of the other specialisms we offer.
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 equip you with a strong base in both microeconomics, where you'll investigate how individuals and firms make decisions, and macroeconomics, where you'll examine the impact of governments' fiscal and monetary policies on the economy. You'll also receive instruction in mathematical and statistical methods crucial for economists' modelling techniques. Additionally, you'll begin to apply economic principles to real-world issues and discover how behavioural insights deepen our understanding of decision-making processes among consumers, workers, and managers.
For students without an A-level in mathematics or equivalent qualifications, a tailored introductory mathematics module will provide you with a solid grounding in the mathematical techniques essential for pursuing a career in economics.
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 first year, you'll attend lectures mainly conducted in large group settings, where novel concepts, ideas, and arguments are introduced. To ensure your engagement and allow the lecturer to track your progress, these sessions will frequently utilise audience response systems and other technologies. Scheduled breaks for group discussions will be a regular occurrence.
Workshops will offer practical experience, with teachers guiding you through hands-on activities in groups to apply the new methods learned in lectures. Additionally, you'll engage in small group discussions and debates led by academics. These activities are complemented by additional study skills and support sessions.
Assessment
In your first year, you'll undergo assessment through a well-balanced combination of coursework and tests. The coursework is intentionally diverse and may involve essays, presentations, and group tasks.
You'll engage in formative assessments, which are ungraded but assist in evaluating your learning needs and academic progress. This allows you to utilise ongoing feedback to better prepare for graded coursework and tests.
Having a variety of assessments is crucial for improving your employability prospects. We aim to consistently equip you with a wide range of workplace skills and provide you with the evidence you need to demonstrate these skills to potential employers.
Structure
In your second year, you'll have the chance to tailor your course based on your own interests, focusing on areas that you deem especially pertinent for your future career or further studies.
Whether you're intrigued by finance, behavioural economics, global trade, mathematical economics, or programming, there are modules available to cater to your preferences.
Moreover, you'll continue to enhance your comprehension of microeconomics and macroeconomics, while honing your abilities in managing and analysing real-world data through two econometrics modules. Here, you'll apply statistical methods to explore economic inquiries.
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 encounter an extensive variety in teaching methods and classroom environments. While you'll continue with large-cohort core modules, you'll also enrol in smaller, specialised modules tailored to your personal goals and interests. During this period, you'll be introduced to more advanced statistical software and might choose to undertake your own data-driven research project.
Assessment
In your second year, assessment continues through coursework, tests, and exams. The range of coursework broadens and may encompass essays, presentations, group tasks, 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 the supervisor, placement student and representative from the placement team. As a placement student, 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
Your final year brings with it an even wider range of optional modules – and we’ll encourage you to follow your own interests. You'll have the opportunity to continue your study of microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics. You’ll have the option to write a dissertation on a topic of your choice or develop a consulting project in collaboration with an external organisation. And you’ll choose further optional modules in areas such as, 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
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 60, Max 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 last year, the number of optional modules expands even further. This means that the teaching methods you'll encounter will also vary depending on your preferences. Technical training will be provided through a combination of traditional lectures and practical sessions, using specialised software and programming. Learning more discursive and conceptual subjects will focus on group work, debates, and collaborative projects, allowing you to practice various forms of writing, from policy briefs to collections on Twitter and blogs.
Assessment
In your final year, the range of assessment methods widens even further. You have the option to write a dissertation on a topic of interest or participate in a consulting project with external organisations. While a mix of coursework and tests remains, you'll enjoy increased flexibility to choose your own subjects and develop original submissions through case studies, projects, and poster presentations. You'll be urged to discover your own voice and effectively present arguments with confidence and precision across various scenarios.
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.
- 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 accept: Digital Business Services, Digital Support Services, Science, Accounting, Finance and Management and Administration.
- 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.
- 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 International Entry Requirements
A levels
AAB
We do not accept General Studies A-levels.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma:
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 Fee website.
There may be extra costs related to items such as your travel and accommodation, which 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
As you graduate from the School of Economics, you'll have the ideal blend of analytical and interpersonal skills highly prized by employers. This will put you in a strong position for a diverse array of career paths, including roles as an economist, analyst, or manager in economics or business consulting. You could also explore opportunities as a civil servant or in sectors like 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
- Data Research
- Discover more on our Careers webpages.