Economics and Finance

Economics and finance together address the theoretical and applied foundations of how individuals, firms and governments make decisions about resources, investment and risk. Economics provides the analytical framework for understanding how markets work, how incentives shape behaviour, how macroeconomic conditions evolve and what policies might improve outcomes for different groups. Finance applies these insights and the tools of quantitative analysis to the management of financial assets, the valuation of investment opportunities and the management of risk within organisations and financial markets.

At the University of Bedfordshire this programme includes a professional practice year, which extends the full course to four years full time and gives you a structured period of professional experience in a finance, economics or business environment during your studies. This direct engagement with professional practice is an increasingly valued part of economics and finance education, allowing you to apply your academic knowledge in real organisational settings and to develop the professional skills and awareness that employers consistently look for in graduates.

You will study microeconomics, macroeconomics, financial markets and institutions, corporate finance, investment analysis, quantitative methods and the policy dimensions of economic and financial decision-making. You will develop skills in economic modelling, financial analysis, data interpretation and professional communication, building the analytical toolkit that underpins a wide range of careers in business and finance.

Graduates from economics and finance programmes move into careers in financial analysis, banking, investment management, financial planning, economic consultancy, corporate finance and the public sector. Many also pursue professional qualifications in accounting, finance or economics. The professional practice year is a particularly valued element for graduate employers who want to see that candidates have already demonstrated their ability to contribute in real working environments.

Postgraduate study in economics, finance or business administration is also a well-established route.