Study economics
Economics is the study of money and the choices individuals and societies make when spending it. At the University of Sheffield, you will learn about the management of this limited resource.
Study the effects of money on the world around you
Economics at the University of Sheffield
One of the few standalone economics departments in the north of England, the University of Sheffield’s Department of Economics is a small and friendly department where you will get one-to-one support from tutors and form strong bonds with your coursemates.
The Department of Economics conducts leading research which influences and forms real economic policy, even advising government departments.
Economics degree options at the University of Sheffield
Undergraduate degrees
International Foundation Year students can progress to degrees including:
- BA (Hons) Accounting & Financial Management and Economics
- BA (Hons) Business Management and Economics
- BA (Hons) Economics
- BA (Hons) Economics and Politics
- BSc (Hons) Economics
- BSc (Hons) Economics and Mathematics
- BSc (Hons) Economics with Finance
Postgraduate degrees
Pre-Masters students can progress to degrees including:
- MSc Economics
- MSc Business Finance and Economics
- MSc Finance and Accounting
- MSc Financial Economics
- MSc Money, Banking and Finance
Places are limited on some degree courses, so you are advised to apply and confirm your place as soon as possible.
Degree preparation at the International College
The University of Sheffield International College offers specialist university preparation for international students. On our pathway programmes, you will study key subject modules to prepare you for your degree, while also building confidence in your English language and study skills. Whether you are aiming for undergraduate or postgraduate study, you will have the confidence to succeed once you progress to the University of Sheffield.
Why study economics?
Economics is a broad field that will help you develop a broad range of transferrable skills for your career. Some of the benefits include:
Communication skills
Studying economics, you will learn to work as part of a team, develop your leadership skills and build confidence in presenting ideas.
Problem solving
Economics is all about the study of a central problem: money is a finite resource and there is insufficient money to satisfy all human wants and needs. Economics students consider how best to allocate resource when it is scarce.
Project management
You will develop your research skills and learn to look deeper into some of life's biggest questions.
What can I do with an economics degree?
When you graduate from the University of Sheffield Department of Economics, you’ll have an exciting choice of career or further study options. Sheffield is in the top 15 of universities targeted by top employers (High Fliers Graduate Market Research 2021).
Economics careers include:
- chartered accountant
- data analyst
- economist
- financial risk analyst
- stockbroker.
Related careers include:
- actuary
- business development manager
- management consultant
- policy officer
- quantity surveyor.
Economics FAQs
What is the study of economics?
Economics is the study of production, distribution and consumption of money. Learn about the economic choices made by normal people every day and how these feed into wider economies. Find out how governments and organisations choose to spend money and the implications this has on different societies.
How can I study economics?
To study an economics degree at university you will need to meet certain entry requirements that vary depending on the institution. A Level requirements are typically high, with the minimum entry typically being BBC, but with some universities asking for AAA. If you want to study economics in the UK as an international student, you can study the International Foundation Year in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities which will prepare you for a degree in economics at the University of Sheffield.
How much money can you make with an economics degree?
Graduating with an undergraduate degree in economics means you can pursue a variety of careers, all with varying salaries. You could become an economist and expect a starting salary up to £35,000, rising to in excess of £75,000 at a senior level. You could also become an investment analysis where with substantial experience, you could earn between £65,000 and £100,000. Alternatively, you could follow a more finance-based career such as a chartered accountant where salaries can reach £84,500 with large yearly bonuses.
How long is an economics degree?
An undergraduate economics degree typically lasts three years. Some universities other dual honours degrees with economics and another subject, which can last four years.
What subjects do I need to study economics?
Most universities do not have specific subject requirements to study economics. However, there are a number of subjects that will be beneficial to students applying for an economics degree; such as Economics, Maths, History and Statistics.
Do you need maths for economics?
You do not typically need a maths qualification to study economics at university however it can be beneficial as it will be used throughout the degree.
What skills do you gain from economics?
The key skills you will develop from studying an economics degree include:
- Data analysis
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Time management
- Logical and critical thinking
- Problem-solving
- Simplify complex issues
Born in Taiwan. Made in Sheffield.
I really became more responsible here. I didn't know I could be such a hardworking student before. I like the way that I’ve become more responsible for myself. Here they give out the information, the support, but you have to catch it.
Jennifer from Taiwan
Studied International Foundation Year in Business, Law, Social Sciences and Humanities
Progressed to BSc (Hons) Economics with Finance
Note: Salary information is sourced externally. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the salary ranges.