Economics and Econometrics

Economics and econometrics is a degree for those who want not only to understand economic principles but to develop the quantitative methods needed to test theories against data and to measure economic relationships with precision. Econometrics applies statistical and mathematical methods to economic data, allowing economists to move beyond verbal reasoning to empirical analysis of questions about how markets work, how policies affect behaviour, and what drives economic growth and inequality. The combination of economic theory and econometric method is the standard approach of professional economists in academia, government, and the private sector.

At Bristol, this three-year degree develops the analytical and quantitative skills that are applicable across a wide range of careers in economics and beyond. You will study microeconomics and macroeconomics in depth, developing formal models of economic behaviour alongside intuitive understanding of economic processes. Econometrics modules will develop your ability to work with data using statistical methods, teaching you to estimate economic relationships, to test hypotheses rigorously, and to interpret results critically.

Bristol's research strength in economics and econometrics ensures that your teaching is informed by work at the frontier of the discipline. The mathematical rigour of the programme prepares you exceptionally well for further study at the graduate level or for quantitative professional roles.

Economics and econometrics graduates are among the most employable of any discipline. Finance, economic consultancy, government economic service, central banking, and data science are all major destinations. The combination of economic reasoning and quantitative method is particularly valued by employers who need people who can both understand what economic data means and communicate it clearly.

Many graduates pursue postgraduate study in economics, econometrics, or finance, with doctoral programmes in these fields being highly competitive and professionally rewarding. Others move directly into careers where rigorous quantitative analysis of economic and market data is the primary professional activity.