Financial Economics
Financial economics is the branch of economics that focuses specifically on financial markets, institutions and decisions, applying economic theory and quantitative methods to understand how prices are formed, how risk is managed, how capital is allocated and how financial institutions function within the broader economy. It combines the rigorous analytical methods of economics with the practical orientation of finance, producing graduates who can work at the intersection of theory and professional financial practice.
At Birkbeck College this programme is studied part-time, making it accessible to students who are working in financial services or other fields while developing their qualifications. You will build a rigorous and applicable foundation in financial economics, developing extensive knowledge of the financial sector alongside the research and data analysis skills needed for careers in finance, economic analysis and related professions. The programme combines economic theory, quantitative methods, financial modelling and data analysis, giving you both the conceptual understanding and the practical tools that employers in finance and economic research consistently seek.
Financial economics graduates work across investment banking, asset management, corporate finance, risk management, central banking, economic research, financial regulation, consulting and the growing range of roles in financial technology where economic reasoning and quantitative skills are central. Many graduates pursue professional qualifications in investment analysis, financial risk or actuarial science, building on the academic foundation the degree provides. Others go on to postgraduate study in economics, financial economics, econometrics or related quantitative fields, developing deeper expertise for research or senior analytical roles in finance and economic institutions.
The combination of economic rigour and financial knowledge makes financial economics graduates attractive to a wide range of employers in both the private and public sectors.