Course summary

This degree is designed for future economists, financial analysts, and policy professionals who want to understand how markets operate and how to make data-driven decisions in both the public and private sectors. Whether you follow the Economics or Economics and Finance route, you'll gain a solid grounding in economic theory, quantitative techniques, and financial systems, alongside real-world application. You’ll study a wide range of topics including microeconomics, macroeconomics, financial markets, public policy, behavioural economics, and econometrics. From understanding inflation and interest rates to analysing global trade and investment patterns, you’ll learn to use economic models and financial tools to evaluate decisions and guide strategic thinking. This course stands out for its emphasis on practical, career-focused learning. Modules such as Finance in Professional Contexts and the final-year Challenge Project enable you to work on real data, tackle policy issues, and complete consultancy-style briefs that mirror professional work. Graduates progress into roles across economic consultancy, banking, asset management, policy research, and analytics. Job titles include economic analyst, investment associate, policy advisor, and financial strategist. 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. Gain industry recognised knowledge and skills: You’ll learn how to translate economic theory into real-world application with modules like Economics in Professional Contexts and the final-year Challenge Project connect theory to practice through data-led research, applied problem-solving, and live case studies based on real-world economic and financial issues. Tailor your course: 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. Build your portfolio: Throughout your degree, you'll develop essential skills, data analysis, policy evaluation, and critical thinking, through the Personal and Professional Development module and co-curricular experiences. These feed into your graduate success portfolio, helping you graduate with clear evidence of your capabilities. 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).