Financial Economics

Financial economics sits at the intersection of two of the most analytically demanding social sciences, combining the rigorous study of economic principles with a focused engagement with financial markets, instruments, and institutions. It examines how financial assets are priced, how capital markets function, how exchange rates and interest rates are determined, and how financial decisions are made by individuals, firms, and governments. By grounding financial analysis in economic theory, it gives you a deeper and more transferable understanding of how money and markets work than finance alone typically provides.

At the University of Westminster this three-year full-time programme introduces you to financial economics while giving you a solid foundation in general economic concepts, principles, and quantitative methods. You will study the behaviour of financial markets, including equity, bond, and currency markets, alongside the macroeconomic forces that shape them. The programme includes a sandwich year and a year abroad, giving you the opportunity to gain professional work experience in a financial or economic setting and to study in an international context.

A work placement is integrated into the degree, ensuring you graduate with real employer experience alongside your analytical and theoretical training.

Graduates in financial economics are in demand across a wide range of financial and analytical roles. Investment banking, asset management, financial analysis, economic consultancy, central banking, and regulatory bodies all recruit graduates with a strong understanding of both economics and financial markets. The quantitative and analytical skills developed through the degree are also valued in data science, risk management, and technology-focused financial roles.

Many graduates continue to professional qualifications such as the CFA, or pursue postgraduate study in economics, finance, or related fields, often with a view to research or specialist practice careers.