BSc (Hons) Business Economics with a Placement Year
Course
options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- L11P
- Typical Offer
- ABB General Studies not accepted.
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2026
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Why you should choose us
82%
Of graduates go on to work and/or study within 15 months after the course
Graduate Outcome Survey 2020Course Overview
Our BSc in Business Economics with a Placement Year offers a solid foundation in economic analysis, equipping you with the tools and insights to thrive in today’s fast-paced business environment.
You’ll learn how to leverage economic insights to help companies maximise profits, enhance consumer satisfaction, and navigate regulatory landscapes. You’ll also develop expertise in economic and financial modelling, as well as statistical analysis. You’ll study microeconomics, macroeconomics, economic modelling, and statistics, and gain specialised knowledge in corporate finance. At UEA, you’ll benefit from our leading expertise in industrial organisation and competition policy. You can tailor your studies to your interests by exploring areas such as behavioural finance, competition in the digital age, and the economics and business of sport.
In your third year, you’ll gain invaluable industry experience through a full-time work placement lasting 9-12 months, helping you build professional connections and develop your employability skills. Throughout your degree, you’ll receive personalised support from your academic adviser and benefit from our STEPS (Support, Training, Employability, Progression, and Skills) module. Additionally, our Learning Enhancement team is on hand to support you with mathematics, writing, critical thinking, and time management, ensuring you’ve the tools to excel.
Beyond the classroom, our vibrant academic community offers plenty of opportunities for you to get involved. Through the School Experience Partnership, you can collaborate with staff to help shape teaching and strategy. Norwich Economic Publications - a student-led journal and podcast - provides a platform to share your passion for economics. Meanwhile, the student-run Economics Society is the perfect place to network, exchange ideas, and socialise with like-minded peers.
Our curriculum is designed to boost your employability by integrating real-world examples and practical applications. You’ll have the opportunity to attend interesting guest lectures and employability events featuring industry professionals and successful economics graduates, providing you with valuable insights into business, economics, finance, and beyond.
Placement Year
On this course, in your third year you’ll engage for 9-12 months in a full-time work placement, gaining invaluable work experience and employability skills in a relevant field of your choice.
Study and Modules
Structure
Your first year will lay the groundwork for your future studies, equipping you with essential knowledge and skills. You’ll explore microeconomics, focusing on decision-making by individuals and firms, and macroeconomics, where you’ll examine the effects of government fiscal and monetary policies on the broader economy. Additionally, you’ll develop key mathematical and statistical skills to understand and analyse economic models. Throughout the year, you’ll apply economic principles to real-world situations, gaining insights into the decision-making processes of managers, workers, consumers, and governments.
If you don't have an A-level in mathematics or an equivalent qualification, a specially designed introductory mathematics module will provide you with a solid foundation in the mathematical techniques needed for success in your other modules.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your first year, you'll attend large group lectures designed to provide a solid foundation in economics and business strategies. Interactive tools like Wooclap will engage you during lessons, helping to track your progress and deepen your understanding. You'll also have access to additional resources, including lecture notes, pre-recorded videos, and online platforms for practice, supporting your independent study.
Smaller seminar groups and workshops will allow you to apply economic concepts in real-world contexts. In IT labs, you'll develop your data analysis skills using software such as Excel. Group presentations and discussions, guided by your lecturers, will enhance your teamwork, critical thinking, and communication abilities. Peer-Assisted Learning sessions will offer further support, where students from previous years help you review material and reinforce your understanding.
Assessment
In your first year, assessment will be a balanced mix of coursework, tests, and exams. Coursework will include tasks such as essays, presentations, and group projects, all designed to help you develop essential workplace skills. These assessments will not only boost your employability but also provide tangible evidence of your abilities for potential employers.
You’ll also complete formative assessments, which won’t count towards your final mark but will offer valuable feedback to help you monitor your progress and refine your skills.
Structure
In your second year, you’ll deepen your understanding of microeconomics and macroeconomics while enhancing your ability to manage and analyse real-world data. You’ll study the financial decision-making of firms and explore the economics of corporate finance.
You can also choose to broaden your knowledge in areas such as behavioural economics, global trade, game theory and strategy, as well as mathematical economics, and programming. This flexibility allows you to tailor your studies to match your specific interests and career goals.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your second year, you'll experience a wider variety of teaching methods and learning environments. While continuing with large-core modules, you'll also enrol in smaller, more specialised modules tailored to your academic interests and career goals. You'll gain practical experience with specialist statistical software, applying it to data-driven assignments that’ll enhance your analytical skills and prepare you for more advanced economics and business topics.
Assessment
In your second year, assessments will continue to include a combination of coursework, tests, and exams. The coursework will become more varied, encompassing essays, presentations, group projects, technical exercises, and research-driven data analysis tasks. These assessments will help you build a broad range of skills, preparing you for advanced topics in economics and business.
Structure
Your third year will be spent gaining practical experience with a full-time work placement lasting 9-12 months. While you’ll be responsible for securing your placement, the school and careers service will support you throughout the process of searching, applying for, and securing a position.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
During your work placement, you’ll acquire valuable professional experience and develop key skills that’ll support your future career. The placement team and careers service specialists will provide guidance to help you maximise this opportunity.
Assessment
During your placement year, you’ll have a meeting with your line manager and a representative from the placement team. As part of the assessment, you’ll submit a report evaluating your placement experience, which will be presented in a format assessed on a pass/fail basis. You’ll also have the opportunity to present your findings to prospective students upon returning for your final year.
Structure
In your final year, you'll specialise in industrial organisation and competition economics, gaining an in-depth understanding of market dynamics and firm competition. You’ll also have the flexibility to complement your studies with advanced modules in macroeconomics, microeconomics, and econometrics.
You’ll have the option to write a dissertation on a topic of your choice or undertake a consulting project in collaboration with an external organisation. Additionally, you’ll choose from further modules in areas such as competition and public policy, the economics and business of sport, financial markets, behavioural finance, financial risk management, alternative investments, and development or environmental economics.
Your academic adviser, alongside a module-choice fair, will guide you in selecting the modules that best align with your academic interests and career aspirations.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 100)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
In your final year, you'll have a wide selection of optional modules, allowing you to tailor your studies to your specific interests. Depending on your choices, your learning experience will blend technical training through lectures and hands-on practice with specialised software and programming, as well as more conceptual topics that focus on group work, debates, and collaborative projects. You’ll also refine your writing skills, including drafting policy briefs, business reports, and creating blog posts—skills that’ll prepare you for both academic and professional success in the business world.
Assessment
In your final year, assessment methods will expand further. While coursework and tests will remain, you'll have more freedom to explore your interests through case studies, business reports, and creative presentations, including poster displays. You’ll also have the option to complete a dissertation on a topic of your choice or undertake a consulting project with an external organisation. Throughout the year, you’ll develop and refine your ability to present your arguments effectively and confidently across a variety of formats.
Employability
After the Course
Your degree will equip you with a strong combination of analytical and interpersonal skills, making you highly attractive to employers globally. The diverse teaching and assessment methods will ensure that you develop the abilities most in demand in the workplace.
You'll also have access to a variety of employability-focused opportunities, including guest lectures from industry professionals, networking events, and alumni sessions. Additional opportunities such as one-on-one meetings with top professionals, job coaching, national competitions, internships, consulting projects, and mentoring from former students will further enhance your career prospects.
These opportunities will position you well for a wide range of career paths, including roles in business consulting, economic and financial analysis, and other professional and managerial positions.
Careers
Example of careers that you could enter include:
- Business and Economics Consulting
- Financial Services, Accounting and Auditing
- Investment Banking and Risk Analysis
- Asset Management and Corporate Finance
- Data and Business Analytics
- International Organisations and Think-tanks
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
Entry Requirements
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language at minimum grade C or grade 4 and Mathematics at minimum grade B or grade 5.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Contextual Offers
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
Contextual offer: BBC
We do not accept General Studies A-levels.
BTEC
Level 3 Extended Diploma: DDM
Contextual offer: DMM
BTEC in Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration are all excluded from our BTEC offers.
Access to HE Diploma
Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 30 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 15 credits at Level 3
Contextual Offer: Pass Access to HE Diploma with Merit in 30 credits at Level 3 and pass in 15 credits at Level 3
T levels
Obtain an overall Merit.
- Further Examples of Typical Entry Requirements
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall
Irish Leaving Certificate
3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3
Scottish Highers
AAABB or above.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
Scottish Advanced Highers
BCC or above.
A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
- This course is open to
UK and International fee-paying students. Choose UK or International above to see relevant information. The entry point is in September each year.
We welcome and value a wide range of qualifications, and we recognise that some students might take a mixture of different qualifications. We have listed typical examples that we accept for entry.
You should hold or be working towards the specified English and Mathematics requirements and one of the examples of typical entry qualifications listed below. If your qualifications aren’t listed, or if you are taking a combination of qualifications that isn’t specified, please contact Admissions.
- English and Mathematics
All applicants must hold or be working towards GCSEs in English Language at minimum grade C or grade 4 and Mathematics at minimum grade B or grade 5.
We accept a wide range of English Language qualifications, please see our English Language equivalencies page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
We do not accept General Studies A-levels.
International Baccalaureate
32 points overall
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students.
- UEA International Study Centre
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, UEA International Study Centre offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
-
IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, UEA International Study Centre offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
-
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
- Progression
Once enrolled onto a course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement, or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
You’re eligible for reduced fees during your placement year. Further details are available on our Tuition Fees website.
Extra costs, related to items such as your travel and accommodation, will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information: