Economics shapes almost every major issue of the 21st century, from global politics and public policy to wealth distribution and social change. Studying economics at a UK university gives you the tools to understand how the world works, analyse complex problems, and interpret the forces that drive economies and societies.
The UK is home to some of the world’s leading universities for economics, offering academically rigorous programmes that develop analytical thinking, quantitative skills, and commercial awareness. These skills are highly transferable, opening doors to a wide range of careers across business, finance, government, and international organisations.
Search Economics degrees
Economics combines the strengths of both the sciences and the arts, making it one of the most versatile degrees available. It consistently ranks among the top subjects for graduate starting salaries in the UK, with more than 60% of graduates entering professional roles immediately and a further 21% progressing to postgraduate study.
Ready to study economics in the UK? Explore the top universities for economics in the 2026 Guardian University Guide below and begin your application by arranging a free consultation with StudyIn today.
10 Best UK Universities for Economics 2026
The University of Oxford has taught economics for over a century and is globally recognised for its academic excellence and influential research. With a permanent faculty of around 50 academics, including leading professors and early‑career researchers, students benefit from world‑class teaching and a rich intellectual environment.
Popular programmes include Economics and Management (E&M), a three‑year undergraduate degree combining economics, management, and social sciences. Students can also pursue joint honours options, allowing them to study economics alongside subjects such as mathematics, politics, or history.
- Course to consider: BA (Hons) Economics and Management
- Entry requirements: A*AA including Mathematics; IB: 39 points with 7,6,6 at Higher Level.
The School of Economics and Finance at the University of St Andrews is one of the strongest in the UK, known for outstanding graduate outcomes and high student satisfaction. Alumni progress into careers in banking, finance, consultancy, government, and research, and consistently rank among the highest‑earning graduates in the country.
Undergraduate programmes cover core areas such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and development economics. Students can also specialise through joint degrees, including International Relations and Economics or Sustainable Development and Economics.
- Course to consider: BSc Economics
- Entry requirements: IB: 36–38 points; A‑level: AABB or equivalent.
The University of Cambridge is internationally renowned for its rigorous economics programme and influential academic community. Economics at Cambridge can be combined with related disciplines such as law or management, and the department has produced several Nobel Prize winners in economics.
Students develop strong analytical, mathematical, and research skills through a curriculum that blends theory, quantitative methods, and applied economics.
- Course to consider: BA Economics
- Entry requirements: A*A*A at A‑level; IB: 40–42 points with 7,7,6 at Higher Level.
The London School of Economics is one of the world’s leading institutions for the study of economics, attracting top students and academics from around the globe. LSE’s economics programmes emphasise analytical rigour, quantitative skills, and real‑world application, preparing graduates for careers in finance, policy, research, and international organisations.
Students benefit from LSE’s central London location, extensive research centres, and strong employer connections across the public and private sectors.
- Course to consider: BSc Economics
- Entry requirements: A‑level: A*AA including Mathematics; IB: 38 points with 7,6,6 at Higher Level including Maths.
Durham University is a leading centre for economic research and teaching, known for its strong academic reputation and collaborative research culture. The department’s work spans economic growth, behavioural economics, financial economics, and environmental policy, influencing both national and international decision‑making.
Postgraduate and undergraduate programmes combine core economic theory with optional modules and research training, equipping students with the analytical and quantitative skills needed for modern economic careers.
- Course to consider: MSc Economics
- Entry requirements: A UK upper second‑class degree (or international equivalent) in Economics or a closely related quantitative discipline.
The University of Warwick is a globally respected institution known for its rigorous economics programmes and strong links with industry. Warwick consistently ranks among the UK’s top universities, offering students a challenging academic environment supported by world‑leading research. Courses are regularly updated to reflect the evolving nature of economics and prepare graduates for careers in finance, policy, consultancy, and research.
- Course to consider: Economics BSc
- Entry requirements: A*A*A including A* in Mathematics; IB: 39 points with 6,6,6 at Higher Level including Mathematics.
Heriot‑Watt University is recognised for its strong quantitative focus and industry‑aligned economics teaching. The programme emphasises analytical skills, economic modelling, and applied problem‑solving, preparing students for careers in finance, consultancy, and government. With a reputation for high student satisfaction and strong graduate outcomes, Heriot‑Watt offers a practical and research‑informed approach to studying economics.
- Course to consider: MA (Hons) Economics
- Entry requirements: A‑level: AAB including Mathematics; IB: 32 points with Higher Level Maths recommended.
The University of Brighton offers an applied and contemporary economics curriculum that explores how economic principles shape global and societal challenges. Core modules include microeconomics, macroeconomics, and quantitative methods, with optional topics such as game theory and globalisation. Brighton’s Business School is AACSB‑accredited, placing it among the top business schools worldwide, and the university is highly rated for teaching quality and student satisfaction.
- Course to consider: BSc (Hons) Economics
- Entry requirements: IB: 26 points with three Higher Level subjects; A‑level: BBC or equivalent.
The University of Essex is a major centre for economic research and teaching, known for its strengths in public policy, behavioural economics, and quantitative analysis. Essex ranks highly for research power and value‑added performance, offering students a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. The department’s focus on real‑world challenges equips graduates with the skills needed to address global economic issues.
- Course to consider: MSc Economics
- Entry requirements: A 2:2 degree in Economics or a related quantitative discipline such as Mathematics, Engineering, Finance, or Physics.
The University of Stirling offers a well‑rounded economics programme that blends theory, quantitative skills, and applied learning. Students explore key areas such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, with opportunities to specialise in fields like behavioural economics or environmental policy. Stirling is known for strong teaching quality, supportive staff, and a student‑centred learning environment.
- Course to consider: BSc (Hons) Economics
- Entry requirements: A‑level: BBB or equivalent; IB: 30 points with at least one Higher Level subject in a relevant discipline.
Study Economics in the UK
If you wish to study economics in the UK, arrange a free consultation today. Our UK university application experts will ensure your application is ready and submitted without error.
FAQ
What qualifications do I need to study economics in the UK?
You typically need A-levels or equivalent qualifications to study economics in the UK. Students generally need strong grades in subjects like mathematics or economics, which are often preferred.
Which universities in the UK have the highest acceptance rate for economics?
Universities like London South Bank University, the University of East London, and the University of Derby are known for relatively higher economic acceptance rates.
How can I get a full scholarship to study economics in the UK?
Getting full scholarships for economics in the UK is not very common. To increase your chances, excel in academics, demonstrate financial need, and actively seek scholarship opportunities from universities, government programmes, and private organisations.
