Economics and Politics

Economics and politics is a pairing that reflects the deep interdependence of these two disciplines in the real world. Economic policies are made by governments, shaped by political institutions, and contested through political processes. Political behaviour, in turn, is profoundly influenced by economic conditions, interests, and ideologies.

Studying economics and politics together allows you to understand both the mechanisms by which resources are allocated and the political processes through which the rules governing that allocation are set and contested, a combination that is unusually powerful for understanding how the world actually works.

At Aston University, this four-year programme develops your knowledge and analytical skills in both disciplines. In the economics strand, you will study micro and macroeconomics, developing the quantitative and theoretical tools needed to analyse markets, incentives, and policy effects. In the politics strand, you will explore political institutions, comparative government, international relations, and political theory, developing the qualitative and critical thinking skills that political science demands.

The combination means you can engage seriously with both the economic logic of policy choices and the political realities that shape which policies are actually adopted. The programme includes a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to study in a different national context, which is particularly valuable for a degree focused on how economies and political systems vary across countries.

Graduates from economics and politics programmes are well placed for careers in the civil service, international organisations, financial services, consultancy, think tanks, and journalism. Many UK civil service fast-stream entrants have studied economics or politics, and the combination is particularly strong preparation for roles at the economic policy interface. International organisations including the United Nations, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund, as well as EU institutions, recruit graduates with this profile.

Financial services firms, particularly those working on emerging markets, geopolitical risk, or economic research, are further destinations. Some graduates continue to postgraduate study in economics, public policy, or international relations.