TEF Gold Undergraduate course

BSc (Hons)

Economics with Foundation Year

Prepare for success as a financial analyst, consultant, policymaker, or entrepreneur with our modern economics course. Our foundation year will help to build your skills, knowledge and oconfidence ready to take on the full BSc (Hons) degree.

Our typical offer

32+ UCAS points

Outstanding student satisfaction

Ranked top-ten nationally in multiple areas of student experience, including engaging teaching, fair assessment and mental health support (National Student Survey 2024*).

Gain hands-on experience with industry tools 

Train on cutting-edge platforms like Bloomberg and DataStream, so you can step into your career with practical skills that finance employers value from day one. 

Flexible and personalised study

Tailor your degree to match your interests and career goals with diverse electives and the option to specialise in financial economics – whether you're aiming for a future in international trade, finance, or broader economic fields.

About

Study a dynamic and career-focused course designed to equip you with the analytical skills and practical experience needed to thrive as a professional economist. 
With a strong emphasis on real-world application, our modules integrate theory with evidence-based analysis, supported by opportunities such as field trips, placement years, and micro-credentialing. You’ll benefit from flexible study pathways, including a financial economics specialisation, and a wide range of contemporary electives tailored to your interests. 
Our inclusive learning community is backed by outstanding student satisfaction, top-ranked IT facilities including the Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite, and national recognition for engaging teaching, fair assessment, and mental health support. 
Business leader woman. 1403918089 Getty,
 

Business of Success Scholarship (BOSS)

This exclusive scholarship offers £2,000 to help you reach the top. BOSS is designed to recognise and support 50 aspiring Business School students who are ready to make their mark.
BOSS scholarship badge

What is a foundation year?

A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don’t need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
 
Why choose a degree with a foundation year?
  • To build your confidence to study at university level.
  • To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
  • Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
  • You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven’t prepared you for.
  • You may have thought university wasn’t an available option for you.
  • You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you’d like.
 
 

This course is for you if...

Business of Success Scholarship (BOSS)

This exclusive scholarship offers £2,000 to help you reach the top. BOSS is designed to recognise and support 50 aspiring Business School students who are ready to make their mark.
you want to understand how the world operates economically and explore related issues
Calculator
you enjoy challenges, solving complex problems and making sense of data.
Hand holding two cogs
you like working with professional finance resources
icon representing testing model
you are aiming for an exciting career in finance, consultancy and beyond
Two business people standing together holding briefcases

Details

Foundation year

In this year, you’ll experience a supportive environment to assist in the transition to successful study in higher education. You will learn about academic writing, critical thinking skills and begin to develop your research skills, as well as develop your knowledge and understanding through an introduction to key aspects of business, accounting and economics. You’ll also have the opportunity to do independent research into an area of your studies that interests you, with a supervisor to guide and support you through the process.
°µÍø½âÃÜ Business School Students working in shared working space in eth Fitzroy Building.

Core modules

ACF3001
Financial Literacy for Business

Confused by finance? This module makes finance simple and practical. You’ll learn how money flows through a business, how to read key financial information, and how to make data-driven decisions. Through hands-on tasks and real examples, you’ll build confidence in budgeting, analysing performance, and communicating financial insights, so you can understand the language of business and use it in your studies and career.

BUSM3001
Academic Skills for Success

This module prepares you for success at university and in your future career. You’ll build key communication, digital, and professional skills through practical workshops and real-world tasks. Learn to work across cultures, write and present confidently, use digital tools to collaborate, and reflect on your strengths to grow and excel in your studies and the workplace.

BUSM3002
Contemporary Work and Organisations

Explore the changing world of work and what drives organisations. From start-ups and global brands to remote teams and green careers, you’ll discover the global trends that shape how people work and lead. You’ll also build the essential skills for success at university and beyond: thinking critically, communicating clearly, and understanding how to make an impact in today’s diverse, digital, and dynamic workplaces.

BUSM3003
Digital Skills for Business

Get hands-on with the digital tools that power modern business. You’ll explore how technology supports everything from marketing and finance to teamwork and project management. Learn how to find and use business information, present data clearly, and collaborate using digital platforms. Through practical activities, you’ll gain confidence, creativity and digital know-how, equipping you with the skills employers look for.

BUSM3004
Business Project

Turn your ideas into action in this hands-on module. You’ll work in a team to plan, deliver, and evaluate a real business or community project while developing an entrepreneurial mindset. Gain practical experience in project management, teamwork, communication, and leadership, building the confidence and skills to make an impact in any professional setting.

ECN3101
Understanding Business in Practice

Discover how the business world really works. This module introduces key ideas, structures and forces shaping modern organisations, from start-ups to global corporations. You’ll learn how businesses form, compete, and respond to global challenges. Through real examples and activities, you’ll develop an understanding of how business functions connect and how economic, ethical, and global factors influence success.

Year 1

Lay the foundations for future study by building a comprehensive overview of core economic theory and its use. 
Female student using smart phone watch bigdata in screen. Getty 2157108832

Core modules

ECN4002
Economics in Society 20 credits

In this module you will consider a range of contemporary issues within society and explores how the basic tools of economic analysis can be used to gain insight and understanding of those issues.

100% Coursework

ECN4004
Microeconomics and Macroeconomics 20 credits

This module will provide you with an introduction to the theories and concepts of modern microeconomics and macroeconomics techniques, applying them to a range of contemporary issues.

50% Coursework

50% Examinations

ACF4002
Preparing for the Professional World

You will be introduced to the professions of accountancy, economics and finance, focusing on developing essential academic, digital and employability skills whilst exploring graduate roles in business and other organisations. Through teamwork, reflection and real-world case studies, you will build your professional identity and understand how the discipline contributes to organisational and economic decision-making.

ACF4003
Principles of Finance

This module introduces finance and provides insight into the world of finance, from financial markets and instruments to risk and return. This module introduces the tools and concepts used by investors and businesses to make informed financial decisions and manage financial risk.

ECN4006
Principles of Economics

This module introduces key principles of economic thinking, including how economies function and how decisions respond to scarcity and incentives. You will study core micro- and macroeconomic concepts, apply models to real-world situations, and build analytical skills through problem-solving, data analysis, and use of mathematical techniques.

ECN4007
Data Analytics: From Data to Decisions

This module introduces data analytics and its practical application in business decision-making. Students will learn to use accounting, economic, and financial data with analytical frameworks to inform managerial choices. Emphasis is placed on applying decision-making processes, models, and introductory statistical techniques to real-world business and investment decisions.

Year 2

Study micro- and macroeconomics in depth and improve your quantitative and analytical skills with the study of econometrics and research methods. You can add to this, an elective module or choose to specialise in financial economics by selecting it as a pathway. 
°µÍø½âÃÜ Business School Students working in shared working space in Fitzroy Building

Core modules

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.

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.

ECN5016
Sustainable Futures in Economics and Finance

This module explores the challenges of responsible management and ethics in economics, accounting and finance. You will examine sustainable business and finance through applied case studies, developing critical skills to make responsible, evidence-based decisions that balance growth, equity and environmental protection, while considering regulation, governance and ethical professional practice.

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

ECN5018
The Economics of Business Organisations

Elevate your business acumen by analysing firm behaviour, market structures and strategic decision-making in a complex economic landscape. This module strengthens your ability to apply microeconomic theory, assess diverse information and form evidence-based judgements. You’ll develop analytical skills to evaluate business strategies and the economic factors influencing them, preparing you for professional success.

Optional placement year

Get paid for hands-on work experience and develop your economic flair. We support you to find the most suitable private or public sector placement. Apply and deepen your knowledge to develop a range of skills that will be invaluable to your future career. 
Shahana BSc (Hons) Economics student

Core modules

PBS600PLC
Placement Year

The placement year consists of an extended period of appropriate professional experience in a business or organisation. It allows the student to gain relevant experience to consolidate their studies and prepare for final stage study and employment after graduation. Students on BA International Business may also or alternatively undertake a study placement at an approved partner institution.

Final year

Learn more about the global economy and specialise in business, finance, environmental or economics topics of your choice, including economic modelling and game theory. 
Bloomberg Interactive Suite

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.

PBS6002
Final Year Dissertation

The module builds upon research and study skills developed in earlier modules. Students are required to undertake supervised independent research into a field of their choice that is relevant to their degree. Use should be made of appropriate research qualitative and/or quantitative methodologies.

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

ECN6011
The Economics of Business Organisations

This module critically examines a range of approaches within the field of industrial organisation after applying concepts from microeconomic theory. The module provides students with a solid understanding on the behaviour of firms, industries and markets. Market structures, business decision making, strategic interaction, competition and government policies are examined based on recent theoretical advances and empirical evidence coming from relevant microeconomic topics.

 
 
 

Progression routes

This foundation year is an integral part of the extended degree and you will benefit from experienced university lecturers.
Whilst successful completion of the foundation year (Year 0) will not lead to a separate award or qualification in its own right, you will be able to confidently progress onto Year 1 of BSc (Hons) Economics , or one of the following programmes within °µÍø½âÃÜ Business School:

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.

Experience

 
 

Explore °µÍø½âÃÜ Business School

We aim to provide our graduates with a memorable and exceptional student experience, enabling them to maximise their success in their chosen career.
°µÍø½âÃÜ Business School is an enterprising environment driving sustainable prosperity.
  
 
 
 

Success stories that started here

Our school's graduates make their mark around the world. From global financial hubs to innovative start-ups and international NGOs, our alumni are thriving across industries and continents. With a strong foundation in business and the confidence to lead, they’ve gone on to become accountants, consultants, analysts, entrepreneurs, and more.
Arts and media graduation

A new home to cultivate business leaders

Our Fitzroy Building has been transformed, becoming the new home of the °µÍø½âÃÜ Business School and providing specialist facilities and social learning spaces. Among these spaces for business, management, accounting, finance and marketing students, you'll find the Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite for tracking stock markets and The Cube – support for our student and graduate entrepreneurs, as well as a Maritime Suite and a Language Lab.
Watch our video visualising what the new building looks like.
 
 
 
 

Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite

The Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite offers °µÍø½âÃÜ Business School students the opportunity to learn how to analyse the markets, assess economic scenarios and interpret key news developments that might impact the global economy.
Boost your CV by undertaking an optional online Bloomberg course awarded by the Bloomberg Institute. At the end of the course you will be provided with a certificate of completion.
Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite/Students using the suite/Bloomberg training
 
 
 

Meet your expert teaching staff

We’re Team °µÍø½âÃÜ. As one of our team, we’re here to help you succeed. Our expert lecturers and your own personal tutor will be with you every step of the way.
Dr Steven Brand Honorary Associate Professor


Honorary Associate Professor

Dr Alexander Haupt Honorary Associate Professor


Honorary Associate Professor

Mr Andrew Hunt Associate Head of School (Undergraduate)


Associate Head of School (Undergraduate)

Show all
 
 
 

Elevate your studies with Accounting and Finance Society

Join a vibrant community of students passionate about numbers, money, and the forces shaping the financial world. The Accounting and Finance Society offers networking events, application advice and skills workshops that deepen your understanding of the industry and support your academic journey. Whether you're aiming for a career in banking, auditing, financial planning or beyond, this is your go-to space to connect, learn and grow professionally, while having fun along the way.
Exterior of UPSU - Students' Union
 
 
 

Life in °µÍø½âÃÜ

°µÍø½âÃÜ's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
 

The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.

Jenna
Current student

Careers

Shahana Hannan

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. °µÍø½âÃÜ was the best choice for me due to the quality of the course content as well as its flexible structure of optional modules, which allowed me to carve a personal pathway towards graduation and beyond.

Shahana
BSc (Hons) Economics graduate

 
 

Your gateway to a high-impact economics career

BSc (Hons) Economics equips you for a wide range of careers in both the public and private sectors – from policy analysis and consultancy to finance, research, and international trade. You’ll graduate with in-demand skills, including data-driven economic analysis, critical thinking, and practical experience using industry-standard tools like Bloomberg. 
With flexible pathways and contemporary electives, you can tailor your studies to match your interests, whether in financial economics, global development, or market strategy. Supported by integrated communication and language development, international students gain a professional edge in diverse, client-facing environments. No matter where your ambition lies, this course prepares you to make a meaningful impact.
 
 
 

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

 
 
 
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in
2026-2027.
Full-time study
£5,760 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£480 per 10 credits
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,955
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,465
 
 
 

Tuition fee price changes

The Government has announced that tuition fees from Academic Year 28/29 onwards will be subject to automatic annual inflationary increases, which we believe will be at a similar rate to the recent annual increases to fees, and may continue to be inflation based. The University may increase annual tuition fees in line with the Student Contract and the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government from time to time.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies and we advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
More information about fees and costs of studying .
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,150 per year
Optional placement year completed in the UK
£1,955
 
Optional placement year completed outside the UK
£1,465
 

Tuition fee price changes

Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fund your studies

As an undergraduate at °µÍø½âÃÜ, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
 

Business of Success Scholarship (BOSS)

This exclusive scholarship offers £2,000 to help you reach the top. BOSS is designed to recognise and support 50 aspiring Business School students who are ready to make their mark.

Supporting students with the cost of living

The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
 
Careers Hub

Apply

 
 
 
 
 
 

Entry requirements

Our typical offer
32+ UCAS points

You may be eligible for a contextual offer

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

A Levels

32+ UCAS tariff points.

BTEC National Extended Diploma

PPP
If you hold a BTEC qualification it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.

Access to HE Diploma

Pass a named Access to Higher Education Diploma. 

T Levels

Pass in any subject.

International Baccalaureate

24 points.

Other qualifications

Other combinations and non-A level qualifications also considered. 

Extended entry requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary. Please contact the Admissions Team with any queries - admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.

Ready to apply?

All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
 
UCAS course code
L105
Institution code
P60
Duration

4 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
°µÍø½âÃÜ
 

Entry requirements

We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
 
Our typical offer
32+ UCAS points
 
 

BSearch entry requirements for your country

Candidates whose first language is not English require IELTS 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element) or equivalent.

English language requirements

To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification. 
 

Ready to apply?

As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
 
Short of the entry requirements for this course? Don’t worry you may be eligible for a foundation year to prepare you for possible entry onto this course for the following year.

Need support with your application?

  • Personal statement guidance
  • student visa support
  • travel and arrival information
  • and more.
 
UCAS course code
L105
Institution code
P60
Duration

4 years
(+ optional placement)

Course type

Full-time

Study location
°µÍø½âÃÜ
 
 
 

Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day

Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the °µÍø½âÃÜ.
 
Book your place
Man sitting outside with surrounded by friends
 
 
 
The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.