Economics

Economics is the rigorous study of how choices are made under scarcity, how markets coordinate the behaviour of millions of individuals and firms, and how policy can improve or distort outcomes for societies. It is a discipline that combines formal mathematical reasoning with empirical analysis, theoretical model-building with attention to the real world, and technical sophistication with engagement with some of the most important questions of our time: how to achieve prosperity, reduce inequality, manage climate change, and sustain growth. At Heriot-Watt, the programme is underpinned by globally active researchers and a consistent focus on making economics relevant to real-world outcomes.

This four-year programme provides a thorough grounding in microeconomics and macroeconomics at a rigorous level, alongside econometrics and the quantitative methods needed to test economic theories against data. Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh Business School provides a research-active environment in which the teaching draws on current academic and applied work, and the programme's design reflects a commitment to both analytical depth and practical application. You will develop the capacity to formulate economic questions precisely, to gather and analyse relevant evidence, and to communicate findings clearly to both specialist and non-specialist audiences.

Economics graduates from Heriot-Watt are sought after across a wide range of sectors. Careers in financial services, the civil service, management consultancy, economic research, international organisations, and the technology sector are all natural routes. The quantitative and analytical skills the degree develops are valued virtually everywhere that evidence-based decision-making matters.

Many graduates continue to postgraduate study in economics, finance, or public policy, and some pursue doctoral research or careers in academic economics. Heriot-Watt's Edinburgh location provides excellent access to Scotland's financial and professional services sector.