Undergraduate Course

BSc Economics with Data Science

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Overview

The details

Course: Economics with Data Science

UCAS code: LG01

Start date: October 2025

Study mode: Full-time

Duration: 3 years

Location: Colchester Campus

Based in: Economics

Want to build a successful career in economics and finance? In our modern society computing and programming skills have become essential for economists. Our BSc Economics with Data Science course allows you to build a comprehensive knowledge of economics whilst developing relevant computing and programming skills. Through exploring these two subject areas you apply your computing skills to the real world economic and financial problems and perform complex analysis on individuals' economic behaviour.

Economics at Essex is not only about stocks, shares and financial markets; it is concerned with the material wellbeing of human societies. Our course gives a thorough introduction to all aspects of economics, including micro and macro-economics, whilst also introducing you to programming languages and algorithms.

You're supported by both our Department of Economics and School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering, and will explore a wide range of topics from both subject areas, including:

Mathematical methods for solving economic and financial problems
Object-oriented programming using java
Commonly used algorithms
How to apply macro-economic analysis to macro-policy issues

Our Department of Economics is ranked 4th in UK for research power in economics and econometrics (Times Higher Education research power measure, Research Excellence Framework 2021). You also study within our School of Computer Science and Electronic Engineering who play a leading role in technological research and development.

Your education is inspired and informed by our pioneering research, so that you graduate with a strong training in economics and computing skills.

Why we're great.

You gain a solid understanding in both economics and computing, which is a combination highly valued by employers
Get hands-on experience in the world of investment banking with the Student Investment and Trading Fund (SIT Fund) - a unique initiative in the East of England. Participate in an investment bootcamp run by Essex alumni who are now investment bankers, before pitching your investment recommendations and monitoring their success.
We're 7th in the UK and 1st for value-added for economics in the Guardian University Guide 2024

Study abroad

Your education extends beyond the university campus. We support you in expanding your education through offering the opportunity to spend a year or a term studying abroad at one of our partner universities.

Studying abroad allows you to experience other cultures and languages, to broaden your degree socially and academically, and to demonstrate to employers that you are mature, adaptable, and organised.

If you spend a full year abroad you'll only pay 15% of your usual tuition fee to Essex for that year. You won't pay any tuition fees to your host university.

Placement year

Alternatively, you can spend your third year on a placement year with an external organisation, where you learn about a particular sector, company or job role, apply your academic knowledge in a practical working environment, and receive inspiration for future career pathways. You will be responsible for finding your placement, but with support and guidance provided by both your department and our Employability and Careers Centre.

If you complete a placement year you'll only pay 20% of your usual tuition fee to Essex for that year.

Our expert staff

Study and work alongside some of the most prominent economists and computer scientists of our time. Our economics researchers are at the forefront of their field and have even received MBEs, with students coming from across the globe to study, research or work with us. Our Department of Economics is a richly diverse home to staff and students from all over the world who have a strong sense of belonging and want to think, learn and change the world together.

Many of our researchers also provide consultancy services to businesses in London and other major financial centres, helping us to develop research for today's society as well as informing our teaching for the future.

Specialist facilities

Take advantage of our extensive learning resources to assist you in your studies.

Our facilities and tools include:

Extensive software for quantitative analysis, which is available in all computer labs across the University
Access a variety of economics databases as well as multiple copies of textbooks and e-books in our Albert Sloman Library
We have six laboratories that are exclusively for computer science and electronic engineering students. Three are open 24/7, and you have free access to the labs except when there is a scheduled practical class in progress
All computers are dual boot Windows 10 and Linux. Apple Mac computers are dual boot MacOS and Windows 10
Software includes Java, Prolog, C++, Perl, Mysql, Matlab, DB2, Microsoft Office, Visual Studio, and Project

Your future

Many employers want economists with computing skills who can tackle large data sets and real- world problems. Our course helps you to become more employable and takes you closer to that dream job or postgraduate study when you graduate.

Our students are in demand from a wide range of employers in a host of occupations, including financial analysis, management, public administration and accountancy.

Our recent graduates have gone on to work for a wide range of high-profile companies including:

Bank of England
Barclays Capital
Citigroup
Deloitte
Ernst and Young
Morgan Stanley
Bank of New York
Santander

We also work with the University's Student Development Team to help you find out about further work experience, internships, placements, and voluntary opportunities.

Entry requirements

Clearing entry requirements

We currently have places available in Clearing across a range of courses, with most offers at BBC–CCD (112–88 UCAS tariff points) or equivalent. Grade requirements may be lower in some cases, and some courses may also have subject specific requirements. We consider each application individually so get in touch if your grades are below those outlined here. .

Sign-up to for exclusive Clearing guidance and advice

English language requirements

English language requirements for applicants whose first language is not English: IELTS 6.0 overall, or specified score in another equivalent test that we accept.

Details of English language requirements, including component scores, and the tests we accept for applicants who require a Student visa (excluding Nationals of Majority English Speaking Countries) can be found here

If we accept the English component of an international qualification it will be included in the academic levels listed above for the relevant countries.

English language shelf-life

Most English language qualifications have a validity period of 5 years. The validity period of Pearson Test of English, TOEFL and CBSE or CISCE English is 2 years.

If you require a Student visa to study in the UK please see our immigration webpages for the latest Home Office guidance on English language qualifications.

Pre-sessional English courses

If you do not meet our IELTS requirements then you may be able to complete a pre-sessional English pathway that enables you to start your course without retaking IELTS.

Pending English language qualifications

You don’t need to achieve the required level before making your application, but it will be one of the conditions of your offer.

If you cannot find the qualification that you have achieved or are pending, then please email ugquery@essex.ac.uk .

Requirements for second and final year entry

Different requirements apply for second and final year entry, and specified component grades are also required for applicants who require a visa to study in the UK. Details of English language requirements, including UK Visas and Immigration minimum component scores, and the tests we accept for applicants who require a Student visa (excluding Nationals of Majority English Speaking Countries) can be found here

Additional Notes

If you’re an international student, but do not meet the English language or academic requirements for direct admission to this degree, you could prepare and gain entry through a pathway course. Find out more about opportunities available to you at the University of Essex International College

Structure

Course structure

Our research-led teaching is continually evolving to address the latest challenges and breakthroughs in the field. The following modules are based on the current course structure and may change in response to new curriculum developments and innovation.

We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision for you. We'll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities as described on our website and in line with your contract with us. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to significant disruption, we'll let our applicants and students know as soon as possible.

Components and modules explained

Components

Components are the blocks of study that make up your course. A component may have a set module which you must study, or a number of modules from which you can choose.

Each component has a status and carries a certain number of credits towards your qualification.

Status	What this means
Core	You must take the set module for this component and you must pass. No failure can be permitted.
Core with Options	You can choose which module to study from the available options for this component but you must pass. No failure can be permitted.
Compulsory	You must take the set module for this component. There may be limited opportunities to continue on the course/be eligible for the qualification if you fail.
Compulsory with Options	You can choose which module to study from the available options for this component. There may be limited opportunities to continue on the course/be eligible for the qualification if you fail.
Optional	You can choose which module to study from the available options for this component. There may be limited opportunities to continue on the course/be eligible for the qualification if you fail.

The modules that are available for you to choose for each component will depend on several factors, including which modules you have chosen for other components, which modules you have completed in previous years of your course, and which term the module is taught in.

Modules

Modules are the individual units of study for your course. Each module has its own set of learning outcomes and assessment criteria and also carries a certain number of credits.

In most cases you will study one module per component, but in some cases you may need to study more than one module. For example, a 30-credit component may comprise of either one 30-credit module, or two 15-credit modules, depending on the options available.

Modules may be taught at different times of the year and by a different department or school to the one your course is primarily based in. You can find this information from the module code. For example, the module code HR100-4-FY means:

100

The department or school the module will be taught by.

In this example, the module would be taught by the Department of History.

The module number.

The UK academic level of the module.

A standard undergraduate course will comprise of level 4, 5 and 6 modules - increasing as you progress through the course.

A standard postgraduate taught course will comprise of level 7 modules.

A postgraduate research degree is a level 8 qualification.

The term the module will be taught in.

AU: Autumn term
SP: Spring term
SU: Summer term
FY: Full year
AP: Autumn and Spring terms
PS: Spring and Summer terms
AS: Autumn and Summer terms

COMPONENT 01: CORE

Introduction to Economics

(30 CREDITS)

How do consumers make decisions? Or firms conduct different market strategies? What impact does government policy have on inflation? Or unemployment? Develop your knowledge of economics in relation to a range of contemporary issues. Learn how to apply both micro and macroeconomic principles to the analysis of such problems.

View Introduction to Economics on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 02: CORE

Introduction to Programming

(15 CREDITS)

The aim of this module is to provide an introduction to the fundamental concepts of computer programming. After completing this module, students will be expected to be able to demonstrate an understanding of the basic principles and concepts that underlie the procedural programming model, explain and make use of high-level programming language features that support control, data and procedural abstraction. Also, they will be able to analyse and explain the behaviour of simple programs that incorporate standard control structures, parameterised functions, arrays, structures and I/O.

View Introduction to Programming on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 03: CORE

Introduction to Databases

(15 CREDITS)

Databases are everywhere. They are employed in banking, production control and the stock market, as well as in scientific and engineering applications. For example, the Human Genome Project had the goal of mapping the sequence of chemical base pairs which make up human DNA. The result is a genome database. This module introduces the underlying principles of databases, database design and database systems. It covers the fundamental concepts of databases, and prepares the student for their use in commerce, science and engineering.

View Introduction to Databases on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 04: COMPULSORY

Introduction to Quantitative Economics

(30 CREDITS)

What are the main sources of economic data? And how is data used in economics? Study the methods of quantitative economics, looking at how economic data is described and analysed. Learn to read, understand and manipulate data from both a theoretical and empirical perspective.

View Introduction to Quantitative Economics on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 05: COMPULSORY

Methods of Economic Analysis

(30 CREDITS)

What mathematical techniques are required for a modern economics degree? Do you have the mathematical tools to attack economic problems? If you are worried that your mathematical background could hold you back, then learn the mathematical skills needed when studying problems of economic interest.

View Methods of Economic Analysis on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 06: COMPULSORY

Career Skills in Economics

(0 CREDITS)

Are you ready for graduate employment? Like to improve your core skills? Need to know more about the working world? Attend workshops, events and activities to build your knowledge, abilities and experience with this compulsory, zero credit module that runs during your three years of undergraduate study.

View Career Skills in Economics on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 01: COMPULSORY

Macroeconomics (Intermediate)

(30 CREDITS)

What tools can you use for macroeconomic analysis? And how can these then be applied to macro-policy issues? Learn how to build alternative macroeconomic models and apply analytical reasoning. Examine real-life macroeconomic questions, on topics such as government budgets or wage-price flexibility, and critically evaluate macroeconomic policies.

View Macroeconomics (Intermediate) on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 02: COMPULSORY

Microeconomics (Intermediate)

(30 CREDITS)

How do consumers behave in a competitive market? And what about producers? How do various imperfections affect the outcome of decentralised markets? Study the fundamental concepts and methods in microeconomics. Understand the tools and methods of analysis for economic reasoning, and develop your critical approach to economic issues and policies.

View Microeconomics (Intermediate) on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 03: COMPULSORY

Mathematical Methods in Economics

(15 CREDITS)

What mathematical methods can analyse economic problems? And what mathematical tools are needed to understand economic models? Gain an introduction to the mathematical methods commonly used in economics, build your knowledge of mathematical tools for work in economics and develop your understanding of the mathematical language used in economic literature.

View Mathematical Methods in Economics on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 04: COMPULSORY

Introduction to Econometric Methods

(15 CREDITS)

Which econometric methods can analyse economic data? How do you critically assess applied economic literature? Learn how to carry out statistical and econometric calculations, plus gain experience of using the Stata software package. Demonstrate your subsequent understanding of the linear regression model with your own investigation on an empirical issue.

View Introduction to Econometric Methods on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 05: COMPULSORY

Databases and Information Retrieval

(15 CREDITS)

The aim of this module is to build on the foundations of data and information systems laid down in the first year, learn how to design and manage fully structured data repositories and explore the rather different principles and techniques involved in representing, organising and displaying unstructured information.

View Databases and Information Retrieval on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 06: COMPULSORY

Introduction to Data Science

(15 CREDITS)

This module is designed to provide an introduction to the statistical principles used in data science and their applications, and the use of practical programming packages for data analysis and visualisation. You will also study data analysis techniques, including causal inference, correlation, classification, regression, and clustering.

View Introduction to Data Science on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 07: COMPULSORY

Career Skills in Economics

(0 CREDITS)

View Career Skills in Economics on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 01: COMPULSORY WITH OPTIONS

(30 CREDITS)

COMPONENT 02: COMPULSORY

Information Retrieval

(15 CREDITS)

This module offers you an understanding of standard IR models, of their merits and limitations, and teaches you how to design and implement a standard information retrieval system. Discover the essential foundations of information retrieval and gain solid, applicable knowledge of state-of-the-art search technology. Explore advanced concepts of search applications such as personalisation, profiling and contextual search.

View Information Retrieval on our Module Directory

COMPONENT 03: COMPULSORY WITH OPTIONS

(15 CREDITS)

COMPONENT 04: OPTIONAL

(30 CREDITS)

COMPONENT 05: OPTIONAL

(30 CREDITS)

COMPONENT 06: COMPULSORY

Career Skills in Economics

(0 CREDITS)

View Career Skills in Economics on our Module Directory

Placement

On a placement year you gain relevant work experience within an external business or organisation, giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market and providing you with key contacts within the industry. The rest of your course remains identical to the three-year degree.

Year abroad

On your year abroad, you have the opportunity to experience other cultures and languages, to broaden your degree socially and academically, and to demonstrate to employers that you are mature, adaptable, and organised. The rest of your course remains identical to the three-year degree.

Teaching

Undergraduate students in the Department of Economics typically attend a two-hour lecture and a one-hour class for each module per week.
Teaching is arranged to allow freedom in how you organise your learning experiences
Optional support classes

Assessment

You are assessed each year through a mixture of coursework and end-of-year examinations
The balance is set at 50% coursework and 50% exam
For many of your second- and final-year modules, coursework takes the form of an extended essay
Complete your final year project in consultation with a personal supervisor

Fees and funding

Home/UK fee

£9,535 per year

International fee

£21,525 per year

Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

Home/UK fees and funding information

International fees and funding information

What's next

Our events are a great way to find out more about studying at Essex. We run a number of Open Days throughout the year which enable you to discover what our campus has to offer. You have the chance to:

tour our campus and accommodation
find out answers to your questions about our courses, student finance, graduate employability, student support and more
meet our students and staff

Check out our Visit Us pages to find out more information about booking onto one of our events. And if the dates aren’t suitable for you, feel free to book a campus tour here.

2025 Open Days (Colchester Campus)

Saturday 16 August 2025 - Colchester Clearing Open Day

Saturday 20 September 2025 - September Open Day

Saturday 8 November 2025 - November Open Day

Find out more

How to apply during Clearing

Once you’ve checked that we have the right course for you, applying couldn’t be simpler. Fill in our quick and easy Clearing application form with as much detail as you can. We’ll then take a look and get back to you with a decision.

Find out more about Clearing

Interviews

We don’t interview all applicants during Clearing, however, we will only make offers for the following courses after a successful interview:

BA Multimedia Journalism
BSc Nursing (Adult)
BSc Nursing (Mental Health)
BA Social Work

The interview allows our academics to find out more about you, and in turn you’ll be able to ask us any questions you might have. Further details will be emailed to you if you are shortlisted for interview.

Apply now

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Set within 200 acres of award-winning parkland - Wivenhoe Park and located two miles from the historic city centre of Colchester – England's oldest recorded development. Our Colchester Campus is also easily reached from London and Stansted Airport in under one hour.

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If you live too far away to come to Essex (or have a busy lifestyle), no problem. Our 360 degree virtual tours allows you to explore our University from the comfort of your home. Check out our Colchester virtual tour and Southend virtual tour to see accommodation options, facilities and social spaces.

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