Studying economics abroad
What is economics?
Economics is the study of how people, businesses, and governments make choices about resources. It examines how goods and services are produced, distributed, and consumed, and looks at the factors that influence markets, employment, and wealth. The subject also explores challenges such as inflation, inequality, global trade, and financial crises.
Economics draws on knowledge from mathematics, statistics, history, and social sciences. As an economics student, you will investigate how markets operate, how policies affect economies, and how decisions can lead to growth or problems. Your studies may include classroom lessons, data analysis, and case studies from different countries and sectors.
Why study economics abroad?
Studying economics in another country gives you the chance to experience different economic systems first-hand. You could visit financial centres, analyse local business strategies, or explore how developing economies manage growth and social challenges. These experiences help you understand complex economic concepts in a practical way.
Learning in an international environment also allows you to compare policies and practices across countries. You will improve your skills in communication, teamwork, and cross-cultural understanding, and you can form connections with students, professors, and industry professionals from around the world.
What you will study
Economics degrees often mix theory with practical work. Key areas of study can include:
- Microeconomics – understanding the behaviour of individuals and firms in markets.
- Macroeconomics – studying overall economic activity, growth, and unemployment.
- Econometrics and Data Analysis – using statistics to analyse economic trends and policies.
- International Economics – exploring trade, investment, and global markets.
- Development Economics – examining strategies to improve living standards in less wealthy regions.
- Public Policy and Finance – evaluating government decisions and financial systems.
Many courses also offer internships, research projects, and visits to businesses, government agencies, or international organisations.
Related subjects you might also like:
- Finance
- Business Studies
- Political Economy
- International Relations
- Social Sciences
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At undergraduate level, you may graduate with a Bachelor of Science (BSc) or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Economics, or in a related field such as Business Economics or International Economics.
Postgraduate options include a Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Research (MRes) in Economics, Applied Economics, or Financial Economics. Specialisations may focus on areas such as economic policy, development, or international finance. A PhD is generally required for careers in research or academia.
Some regions also offer professional accreditation for economists, financial analysts, or policy advisors through recognised industry organisations.
Careers
A degree in economics can lead to careers in research, policy, finance, and business. Graduates may work as economic analysts, policy advisors, financial consultants, or market researchers.
Other roles include working in government departments, central banks, international organisations, or non-governmental organisations, helping to design policies, evaluate programmes, and solve economic problems. Research opportunities are available in universities, think tanks, and consultancy firms.
Economics graduates may also become educators, journalists, or advisors for international agencies. The skills you gain are valuable worldwide, giving you the chance to contribute to economic development and informed decision-making on a global scale.