Course summary

This degree is designed for future economists, analysts, and finance professionals who want to understand how economies function and how to make informed decisions in business, policy, and financial contexts. Whether you choose to study economics or economics and finance, this course equips you with a deep understanding of economic theory, applied skills, and the analytical tools needed to solve real-world problems. You’ll explore topics such as micro and macroeconomics, data analysis, financial markets, public policy, and econometrics. From global economic systems to local business decisions, you’ll learn to: interpret data, evaluate options, and shape strategy using rigorous economic thinking. What sets this course apart is its strong emphasis on practical, industry-informed learning. Modules such as: Economics in Professional Contexts and the final-year challenge project connect theory to real-world application, through consultancy-style projects, data-led research, and problem-solving tasks. Upon course completion, graduates go on to careers in economic consultancy, financial services, data analytics, the public sector, and beyond. Roles include economic analyst, policy advisor, investment consultant, and business strategist. With the option to complete a placement year or study abroad, and a curriculum shaped by current industry needs, you’ll graduate with the confidence, experience, and credibility to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Why choose this course? Ranked 8th in the UK for economics (Guardian University Guide, 2024): This course offers a highly respected qualification with strong student satisfaction and teaching quality at its core. Connect theory to practice: Modules like Economics in Professional Contexts and the final-year challenge project will develop your skills in data-led research, applied problem-solving, and live case studies based on real-world economic and financial issues. Choose to specialise in economics or economics and finance: with the option to add a placement year, study abroad, or employment experience to boost your graduate prospects. Learn from experts: Our academics are active researchers and former practitioners in government, finance, and consultancy. Their expertise means you’ll study economic theory that’s backed by real-world insight and cutting-edge research. Graduate with clear evidence of your capabilities: Throughout your degree, you'll develop essential skills: data analysis, policy evaluation, and critical thinking, through the Skills for Practice module and co-curricular experience which will feed into your graduate success portfolio. Develop key transferable skills: The variety of modules will develop your critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, communication, and digital literacy, that are valued across every sector. Based just 25 minutes from central London: You’ll be ideally placed to access internships, networking events, and employment opportunities in the UK’s economic and financial hub. Strong employment prospects: 93% of Herts graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduation (Graduate Outcomes, 2021/22).