Economics and Statistics
Economics and statistics is one of the most powerful quantitative combinations available at undergraduate level, pairing the discipline most concerned with how economies and markets function with the mathematical framework most used to test economic hypotheses, build predictive models, and draw rigorous inferences from data. Together they train you to not only ask the right questions about economic phenomena but to answer them with the kind of statistical precision that distinguishes serious analysis from informed speculation.
At the University of St Andrews, this four-year programme carries a typical entry tariff of 232 points, reflecting the demanding academic standards of one of the UK's most selective universities, and includes a year abroad. You will develop a structured, cumulative foundation in economic concepts, principles, and quantitative methods, building your analytical and decision-making abilities through rigorous training in model-based analysis. The statistics strand gives you a deep understanding of probability, inference, regression, time series analysis, and the computational tools that economists and data scientists use to analyse large and complex datasets.
The combination makes you exceptionally well equipped for roles in which economic reasoning and quantitative skill are both required, a profile that is increasingly valued across finance, policy, and the technology sector.
The year abroad gives you the opportunity to study in a partner institution in another country, developing your comparative perspective on economic institutions and statistical methods in different national contexts.
Graduates from this programme are among the most employable in any discipline, moving into financial services, quantitative research, central banking, economic consultancy, government economic services, data science, and academic research. Postgraduate study in economics, statistics, econometrics, or finance is a natural next step for those who wish to develop further expertise in either direction.