Economics

Economics is the social science concerned with how individuals, firms and societies make decisions about scarce resources, and with the consequences of those decisions for welfare, efficiency and distribution. It encompasses both the rigorous mathematical modelling that characterises modern academic economics and the applied analysis of real economic problems in areas ranging from labour markets and housing to international trade and financial regulation. A degree in economics develops strong analytical and quantitative skills alongside the ability to engage with complex policy questions.

At Birkbeck College, the BSc Economics is designed to be technically rigorous and applications-oriented, equipping you with the skills and knowledge needed to compete effectively in the graduate labour market. Birkbeck is London's evening university, and its programmes are specifically designed for students who are in work or who have other daytime commitments that make conventional full-time study impossible. The part-time mode of study reflects Birkbeck's distinctive mission of providing serious academic education to those who need to earn while they learn.

You will study microeconomics and macroeconomics at a rigorous level, developing your ability to work with mathematical and statistical models, to interpret economic data and to apply economic frameworks to contemporary policy questions. The degree's emphasis on applications ensures that the analytical skills you develop are grounded in the real economic questions that matter to businesses, governments and individuals.

Graduates of economics degrees work across a very wide range of sectors, including finance, the civil service, international organisations, consultancy, the technology sector, research and academia. Economics is recognised by the Government Economic Service, and a strong economics degree is particularly valued in government and policy roles. Postgraduate study in economics, finance, data science or public policy is a common next step.