Undergraduate

Part I provides an introduction to the subject, a common core of knowledge which can subsequently be extended. There are five compulsory papers:

• Microeconomics
• Macroeconomics
• Quantitative Methods in Economics
• Political and Sociological Aspects of Economics
• British Economic History

Through these papers you cover topics such as supply and demand, the role of prices and markets, employment, inflation, the operation of financial institutions and monetary policy. The Quantitative Methods paper provides an introduction to the use of mathematical and statistical techniques in economics, and is assessed by a combination of a written exam and project work.

Part IIA consists of three compulsory papers

• Microeconomics
• Macroeconomics
• Theory and Practice of Econometrics

You also take one optional paper, chosen from:

• Economic Development
• Modern Societies
• Mathematics for Economists and Statisticians
• Labour
• Analysis of Modern Politics
• International Relations

Through these papers you acquire a knowledge and understanding of a range of key topics and analytical techniques in microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, develop knowledge of key econometric techniques, and learn the IT skills needed to undertake a project in applied econometrics. An optional paper in a supporting discipline enables you to undertake more advanced papers in Part IIB.

The final year consists of two compulsory papers:

• Microeconomic Principles and Problems
• Macroeconomic Principles and Problems

In addition, you take two optional papers and write a compulsory dissertation of 7,500 words.

One of the objectives of the final year is to extend your knowledge of economic theory and train you to apply this theory to practical issues and public policy. Therefore, the optional papers available can vary from year to year but recent examples include:

• Economic Theory and Analysis
• Banking, Money and Finance
• Public Economics
• The Economics of Developing Countries
• Industry
• Theory and Practice of Econometrics
• World Depression in the Interwar Years

Essential A Level/IB Higher Level Mathematics
Desirable A Level/IB Higher Level Economics
Useful A Level Business Studies/IB Higher Level Business and Management, if Economics is unavailable

Given the increasingly technical nature of economic theory, it is now essential that applicants have A Level Mathematics (or equivalent). Economics and Further Mathematics are considered useful preparation but are not essential. A Level Business Studies can be helpful if you are unable to take Economics.

Check College websites for College-specific requirements. See also Entrance requirements and our Subject Matters leaflet for additional advice about general requirements for entry, qualifications and offers.

The table below sets out the ways in which each College assesses applicants for this subject. For more information about these methods of assessment and why we use them, see the main Admissions tests and written work page.

If you are interested in applying for this course, please see our Applying section for more details.