Economics and Finance (Industry) Lancaster University

BSc Economics and Finance (Industry) combines the broad sweep and critical thinking of economics with a focus on markets and investing from finance, providing comprehensive training in the core theoretical models and empirical techniques of both disciplines and preparing you for a wide range of careers.

As a BSc Economics and Finance student, you will explore a wide array of topics at the intersection between the complex worlds of economics and finance. You will develop the analytical skills and intellectual toolbox to help answer questions such as: How do financial markets work? What is the link between interest rates and exchange rates? What are the main causes of economic recessions and financial crises?

Why study Economics and Finance BSc at Lancaster University?

Throughout this course, you will thoroughly explore the core concepts, practices, and techniques of modern economics and their applications to financial systems, institutions, and organisations. You will also learn about advanced financial techniques such as portfolio management and asset pricing. You will gain analytical, quantitative, computing, and other transferable skills, preparing you for a variety of exciting careers in the private and public sectors. You will develop your ability to critically analyse economic environments and their impact on financial markets.

How is the Economics and Finance (Industry) degree structured?

At the start of the course, you will learn about the fundamentals of economics and the foundations of finance theory and methodology. The first-year modules will introduce you to both fields' core concepts and key principles and are designed to give you a solid foundation for the remainder of your degree.

In your second year, you will explore microeconomic and macroeconomic analysis more deeply and learn about econometrics, corporate finance, and asset pricing, among other subjects.

Your third year is spent in industry. You’ll be supported in securing a placement, with past students joining companies such as IBM, Lloyds Bank, Microsoft, PwC and the Bank of England. Roles on offer range from project management and logistics to investment, business development and risk. Most placements are in the UK, but there are some options overseas.

In year four, you will enhance your knowledge, develop your skills further and tailor your studies to your career aspirations by focusing on areas that interest you the most. Specialisations within the course include options such as:

• Econometrics and data science in economics

• Banking and behavioural finance

• Fintech and market microstructure

• Public policy analysis

Throughout your studies, you will be taught by academics at the frontier of economic and financial research. We have developed strong links with the Bank of England, top asset management companies, financial regulators, and economists worldwide. These close links allow us to deliver joint conferences and seminars, providing you with insights from both top academics and industry professionals.

Entry requirements

These are the typical grades that you will need to study this course. This section will tell you whether you need qualifications in specific subjects, what our English language requirements are, and if there are any extra requirements such as attending an interview or submitting a portfolio.

A levels

AAB. This should include Mathematics.

Access to HE Diploma

Our typical entry requirement would be 36 Level 3 credits at Distinction plus 9 Level 3 credits at Merit, but you would need evidence that you had the equivalent of A level Mathematics grade B.

Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales

We accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level, or equivalent qualification, as long as any subject requirements are met.

BTEC Extended Diploma

DDD accepted alongside A level Mathematics grade B

BTEC in combination with A levels

A level at grade B plus BTEC(s) at DD, or A levels at grade AB plus BTEC at D. This should include A level Mathematics grade B.

International Baccalaureate

35 points overall with 16 points from the best 3 HL subjects, including 6 in Mathematics HL (either analysis and approaches or applications and interpretations)

Scottish Highers and Advanced Highers

We are happy to admit applicants on the basis of five Highers, but where we require a specific subject at A level, we will typically require an Advanced Higher in that subject. If you do not meet the grade requirement through Highers alone, we will consider a combination of Highers and Advanced Highers in separate subjects. Please contact the Admissions team for more information.

T levels

Only accepted alongside A level Mathematics grade B

GCSE requirements

English Language grade 4/C.

We will also look at your overall GCSE profile when considering your application as a whole.

We do have flexibility when considering GCSE requirements. Go to our GCSE information for more details.

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, we require an IELTS score of 6.5 overall with at least 5.5 in each component for this programme. English language qualifications for undergraduate study.