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.

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.