Plymouth Business School

BSc (Hons) Financial Economics

UCAS course code L113
Institution code P60
Duration

1 year
Course type

Full-time
Study location Plymouth
Register for open day
Apply at UCAS.com

Build on your existing knowledge of economics and become a Financial Economist with our modern and skills-focused course. The core syllabus stresses the integration of theory and evidence in economic analysis and research. The course emphasises the continuous acquisition of key analytical, numerical and independent research skills.

Careers with this subject
Our courses offer a fantastic way to kick-start your career, increasing your value as an employee in your chosen field, and can also open the door to postgraduate study.
Our students graduate ready to take on all sorts of finance and economics roles – from industry economist to financial risk analyst.

Real experience every step of the way

As well as expert-led teaching, all undergraduate modules within Plymouth Business School have integrated CV building activity, for example, through micro-credentialing, problem-based learning, or embedded direct employer activity.
We have ensured every module contains a real world problem-based exercise. We have reached out to employers directly to involve real business in our assessments. You will experience real world employee engagement every month.
We know this is key to student academic and graduate success.

Careers service

The University of Plymouth has a dedicated careers service supporting you from the moment you start your degree, to three years after graduation.
Careers advice is embedded into your academic programme through workshops, events, placements, networks - working with the academic staff teaching on your course. We also offer materials, networks and resources online through our 24/7 portal, and a wide-range of activities, opportunities and support centrally in the Careers Service space within the Student Hub.
We are here to help you to explore, connect and succeed.

Key features
  • This course lasts for one or two years and is designed as a 'top-up' if you have already successfully completed study equivalent to a Foundation Degree, HND or an equivalent professional qualification. At the end of the course you will be eligible to receive a full honours degree. Students studying over two years have the opportunity to undertake a placement between their first and second year. We also offer a three year BSc (Hons) Economics course.
  • A syllabus integrating both theoretical and evidence-based economic analysis and research across micro- and macroeconomic, theory, policy and more key areas.
  • In order to support the development of our students as professional economists we frequently deliver topics using a real world application-based approach integrating theoretical and evidence-based economic analysis.
  • Engage with current and past students through our Economics Society, and hear talks from visiting academics and professionals.
  • The Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite allow students to research fields such as corporate finance, derivative markets, portfolio and risk analytics, real-time data and investment simulations.

Course details

  • Year 1

  • This course offers a wide ranging economics core in Level 5 with a strong focus on a range of financial topics in Level 6. Level 5 entrants can undertake an optional placement year between Levels 5 and 6. You can focus on different areas of the subject by choosing your own project area and supervisor.

    Core modules

    PBS500CPD
    Careers and Professional Development 0 credits

    This module is aimed at enhancing students employability skills and knowledge especially those who will be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their degree. It is designed to build on skills learned in Stage 1 and helps students in their search for a placement, and in their preparation for the placement itself.

    ECN5011
    Intermediate Microeconomics

    You will explore the concepts and theories of microeconomics at an intermediate level and apply them to the analysis of real world issues such as education choice, imperfect competition and industrial strategy, and risk and insurance. In this context, you will analyse the effects of policy interventions.

    ECN5012
    Intermediate Macroeconomics

    You will explore the concepts and theories of macroeconomics at an intermediate level and apply them to the analysis of real-world issues including monetary policy, fiscal policy, central banking, macroeconomic stability and financial crises.

    ECN5013
    Research Methods and Artificial Intelligence in Economics

    This module covers the philosophical foundations of social science research, contextualising to different schools of economic thought. It critically examines the research methods of both orthodox and heterodox economists, with a particular emphasis on how AI is transforming research tools, highlighting benefits, ethical concerns, and limitations. Practical uses of AI in economics research are considered.

    ECN5014
    Econometrics and Data Analytics

    This module introduces students to the field of econometrics and data analytics. The emphasis is on learning through the application of econometric and data analytic techniques to real world problems and data. The module considers how AI can facilitate and extend the application of traditional econometric approaches.

    Optional modules

    ECN5004
    Financial Markets and Decision Making 20 credits

    The objective of this module is to give you an understanding of the structural organisation of financial markets, and the role they play in the economy and to introduce the basic concepts in modern finance. You will undertake a detailed study of financial markets, e.g. the stock market, the bond market, the derivative markets and analyses financial decision-making through different models of stock and bond valuation and uses of financial derivatives. You will examine different ways of assessing risk, different ways of putting risk and return together, and portfolio building. The course considers theory, empirical evidence and practical application.

    50% Coursework

    50% Remotely delivered assessments

    ECN5005
    International Economics: Trade and Finance 20 credits

    In this module you will explore the economic implications of globalisation by investigating current trends in international trade and international finance.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    PBS5003C
    The Challenge Module: Responsible Entrepreneurship in Action 20 credits

    Through this module you can develop an understanding of the big challenges business and society are facing today, in the context of entrepreneurship. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy and will be informed by established business theories. You will develop and reflect on a business idea which has sustainability at its core.

    100% Coursework

    PBS5002C
    The Challenge Module: Sustainable Supply Chains for Global Trade 20 credits

    In this module, you will be challenged to evaluate the sustainability of the globalised business world. You will assess conflicting viewpoints and present balanced arguments for the environmental, social and economic sustainability of the supply chains that support global trade.

    100% Coursework

    PBS5001C
    The Challenge Module: Sustainable Business 20 credits

    Through this module you can select from a choice of topics related to the big challenges business and society are facing today. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy.

    100% Coursework

  • Year 2

  • Core modules

    ECN6001
    Advanced Economic Theory and Policy 20 credits

    This module explores the application of advanced economics to a range of contemporary theoretical and applied policy related issues in economics.

    65% Coursework

    35% Examinations

    ECN6007
    Game Theory and Strategic Behaviour 20 credits

    In this module you will explore ideas in game theory, applying them to the analysis of strategic behaviour and decision making in contemporary economic, business, political and social life. You will also investigate the challenges that arise from strategic interactions and potential solutions.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

    ECN6008
    Professional Practice for Economists 20 credits

    This module will advance your capacity to apply and critically evaluate a range of economic methodologies commonly used by professional economists. You will also develop further your skills in reporting economic analysis in a professional manner.

    80% Coursework

    20% Practicals

    PBS600CPD
    Continued Careers and Professional Development 0 credits

    The Continued Career and Professional Development module is a development scheme designed to enhance students’ employability and builds on the stage 2 module. The stage 3 module focuses on providing students with information on graduate options and equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary for articulating and recording achievement and applying for graduate positions. The module also includes a number of workshops and events designed to develop students’ skills and knowledge, with the purpose of filling gaps in their CV’s and enhancing their employability.

    ECN6009
    Researching for Business

    This module will empower you to understand the practical relevance of research methods for managing businesses by bringing the theory, philosophy and techniques of research to life. It will provide you with a comprehensive overview of research approaches in business to use when planning or undertaking a qualitative and/or quantitative research report.

    Optional modules

    ECN6004
    Financial Markets and Decision Making 20 credits

    The objective of this module is to give you an understanding of the structural organisation of financial markets, and the role they play in the economy and to introduce the basic concepts in modern finance. You will undertake a detailed study of financial markets, e.g. the stock market, the bond market, the derivative markets and analyses financial decision-making through different models of stock and bond valuation and uses of financial derivatives. You will examine different ways of assessing risk, different ways of putting risk and return together, and portfolio building. The course considers theory, empirical evidence and practical application.

    50% Coursework

    50% Remotely delivered assessments

    ECN6005
    International Economics: Trade and Finance 20 credits

    In this module you will explore the economic implications of globalisation by investigating current trends in international trade and international finance.

    50% Coursework

    50% Examinations

The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.

Entry requirements

Contextual offers: Typically, the contextual offer for this course is 8 points below the advertised tariff. A contextual offer is an offer to study at university that takes into account individual circumstances that are beyond your control, and that can potentially impact your learning and your exam results, or your confidence in applying to university.

Check your eligibility for a contextual offer

This course lasts for one year and is designed as a 'top-up' if you have already successfully completed study equivalent to a Foundation Degree, HND or an equivalent professional qualification. At the end of it you will be eligible to receive a full honours degree.
You will also need IELTS of 6.0 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking and writing). If you have an IELTS of 5.0 or 5.5 you will need to attend a short course before the degree starts to improve your English and study skills.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications.
Please contact the Admissions Team with any queries.

Fees, costs and funding
New student 2024-2025 2025-2026 *
Home £9,250 £9,535
International £17,100 £17,600
Part time (Home) £770 £795
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

* UK Government announcement on tuition fees

On Monday 4 November 2024, the UK Government announced a proposal to increase tuition fees for home undergraduate students from £9,250 to £9,535 per annum from September 2025 onwards. The University of Plymouth intends to apply this new fee from September 2025. However, implementation of this increase will be subject to parliamentary procedure. This change applies to new students starting their studies in September 2025. For current and returning students, the University is reviewing fees and will update you as soon as possible.

Additional costs

This course is delivered by the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page: Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business additional costs .

How to apply
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service).
UCAS will ask for the information contained in the box at the top of this course page including the UCAS course code and the institution code.
To apply for this course and for more information about submitting an application including application deadline dates, please visit the UCAS website.
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office via our how to apply webpage or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Meet our experts

  • Associate Professor (Senior Lecturer) in Economics
    Expert in regional economics, economics of sport, betting and foreign investment
  • Associate Professor (Reader) in Economics
    Expert in public and environmental economics
  • Associate Head of School (Undergraduate)
    Expert in regional economic development and entrepreneurship
  • Lecturer in Finance and Economics
    Expert in dynamic macroeconomics and international finance
  • Lecturer in Finance
    Qualified Chartered Manager and Fellow Member of the Higher Education Academy
  • Lecturer in Economics
    Experienced in international micro- and macroeconomics and trade applications
  • Emeritus Professor
    Specialist in credit management, management accounting and corporate finance
  • Professor of Finance
    Expert in international and financial economics and trade
Student blogs Shahana
Shahana, BSc (Hons) Economics student
“I have always had a real passion for numbers and having an answer for everything – mathematics is the subject I have found the most fulfilling.

I identified early that economics would build upon my love of mathematics and that it was important for me to find a course that would enable me to channel my interest in the humanities, having studied history and geography at A level.

After considering multiple options, Plymouth remained the best choice for me due to the quality of the BSc (Hons) Economics course content as well as the course’s flexible structure of optional modules, which will allow me to carve a personal pathway that will guide me towards graduation and beyond.”

Plymouth Business School

  • ?Accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)

  • ?Committed to social, economic and environmental responsibility

  • ?Supporting the internationally recognised focus on sustainability and social purpose of the University

  • ?Leading business ready graduates onto a successful career and happy life

  • ?Supporting graduates to make informed choices based on current economic and market trends

  • ?Building students resilience and confidence

  • ?Promoting practical skills development

Fitzroy Building

The University of Plymouth is creating an exciting new space for the Plymouth Business School in which current and future students can foster the knowledge and enthusiasm that they will need to achieve their ambitions. Work is underway at the heart of our city centre campus.
Watch our video visualising what the new building will look like.