)
Economics at UEA
Find out more about studying Economics at UEA, and browse our other courses.
Find out moreBSc (Hons) Business Economics with a Placement Year
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- L11P
- Typical Offer
- ABB
- Contextual Offer
- BBC
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2027
Other Course Options
Other Start Dates
Chat to us on Unibuddy
Any questions? Chat online with current students, staff and experts. This is your chance to ask anything about UEA, university life, Norwich and more.
Other Start Dates
Scroll For More
91%
Of graduates go on to work and/or study within 15 months after the course
Graduate Outcomes Survey 2022-23Course Overview
Why BSc Business Economics with a Placement Year at UEA?
Develop a strong understanding of how businesses make strategic decisions in complex, competitive and fast changing environments, while gaining substantial professional experience. Our Business Economics degree places firm decision making and market dynamics at the centre of your studies.
Why choose UEA?
- Business strategy: Analyse how businesses compete, respond to regulation, take decisions and adapt to digital markets and technological change
- Impactful research: Study in a school closely linked to the Centre for Competition Policy, a world leading centre for research in competition, regulation and consumer policy
- Professional placement: Spend 9 to 12 months in full time employment, applying economic and financial analysis in a professional setting before returning for your final year
What is BSc Business Economics with a Placement Year?
In a changing global economy shaped by technological innovation and digital transformation, you'll explore how firms make strategic and financial decisions and how markets operate under competition and regulation. You'll apply economic reasoning to business challenges, examining pricing, investment, corporate strategy and firm behaviour in dynamic environments.
You'll engage in lectures, seminars, workshops and IT lab sessions, applying economic concepts to data, case studies and contemporary business issues. Throughout your degree, you'll be supported by your academic adviser and a dedicated skills and development module, and you'll complete a range of assessments designed to strengthen your analytical thinking, quantitative capability and communication skills.
A distinctive feature of this course is the opportunity to undertake a full-time placement, typically lasting 9 to 12 months. This experience enables you to apply economic and financial analysis in practice, develop professional confidence, build networks and gain insight into organisational decision making before returning to your final year of study.
You'll take part in practical activities that bring Economics to life, including working with LSEG powered data facilities and Bloomberg terminals, while exploring emerging tools such as LLMs and engaging with employers through guest talks and events. There are also opportunities to join student-staff partnership initiatives that help shape teaching and strengthen student voice within the school, contribute to Norwich Economic Publications and participate in societies and skills workshops that support networking and hands on experience.
)
Placement Year
In your third year, you'll undertake a full-time placement lasting 9 to 12 months, gaining professional experience in a field aligned with your career ambitions.
This is an opportunity to apply the economic and analytical skills developed in your degree within a real organisational setting. You may work in areas such as finance, consultancy, government, business analytics or related sectors.
The placement year allows you to build workplace confidence, develop commercial awareness, strengthen your CV and establish valuable professional networks before returning for your final year.
Careers
Career Pathways
As a BSc Business Economics with a Placement Year graduate, you'll be well prepared for roles that combine economic reasoning with strategic and financial decision making, including:
- Business or economic consultant: Analyse markets, assess competition and provide strategic recommendations to firms and organisations
- Corporate finance analyst: Evaluate investments, assess financial performance and support strategic financial decisions
- Data or business analyst: Work with datasets to generate insights that inform pricing, operations and strategic planning
- Competition or regulatory analyst: Examine market structure and firm behaviour to support policy or regulatory decision making
- Investment or financial analyst: Build financial models, assess risk and support investment decisions in banking or asset management
Career Support
You'll strengthen your employability through applied learning and varied assessment, including data analysis projects, business focused reports, presentations and collaborative work. You'll gain experience using specialist software such as Stata, Python, and R, alongside access to LSEG and Bloomberg data in dedicated facilities.
Employer engagement, guest speakers and targeted workshops provide practical guidance, from application support to understanding emerging analytical tools such as LLMs. Your placement year will enable you to gain extended professional experience, apply economic and financial analysis in a workplace environment and return to your final year with greater professional confidence and clarity about your career direction.
Discover more on our Careers webpages.
After the Course
After graduation, you'll be equipped to assess business environments, interpret economic and financial evidence and communicate strategic insights effectively. You'll be well prepared for careers in consulting, corporate finance, financial services, regulation and data driven business roles. Many graduates also progress to postgraduate study in areas such as economics, finance, management or data science. Your academic training, combined with substantial workplace experience gained during your placement year, will enhance your competitiveness in graduate recruitment and support progression into demanding professional roles.
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you'll develop a strong foundation in economic reasoning and evidence-based analysis. You'll explore how individuals and firms make decisions, how governments influence economic outcomes through fiscal and monetary policy and how markets function at national and global level. Alongside core theory, you'll begin applying economic ideas to real data and practical case studies, strengthening your ability to interpret evidence and evaluate arguments.
You'll also build the quantitative skills that underpin economic analysis, developing confidence in mathematical reasoning and structured problem solving. If you do not have an A-level in mathematics or an equivalent qualification, a tailored introductory mathematics module will provide the techniques needed to succeed in your studies.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
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.
Structure
In your second year, you'll extend your knowledge of microeconomic and macroeconomic analysis while strengthening your empirical skills through applied data work. You'll learn how to test economic relationships using real world data, interpret statistical results and assess competing explanations.
A distinctive feature of this course is its emphasis on financial decision making within firms. You'll examine how organisations evaluate investments, manage risk and respond to competitive pressures. At this stage, you can begin tailoring your degree around your interests, selecting from subjects that may include behavioural economics, trade, strategy, programming or applied data analysis.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Credits: 20)Important Information
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.
Structure
Your third year is spent on a full-time professional placement, typically lasting between 9 and 12 months. This provides the opportunity to apply economic and financial analysis in a workplace setting, gaining first-hand experience of business decision making, strategic planning and organisational environments.
While you’re responsible for securing your placement, the school and UEA’s Careers Service provide dedicated guidance throughout the search and application process. This year enables you to build industry experience and return to your final year with clearer career focus and enhanced employability.
Compulsory Modules
Important Information
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.
Structure
In your final year, you'll take a more independent and research informed approach to your studies, shaping your pathway around your developing interests. A central focus is the analysis of firm behaviour, market structure and competition, including in digital and technology driven industries. You'll examine how regulation, innovation and strategic interaction influence business performance in complex and evolving environments.
You'll also have the opportunity to complete an independent research dissertation or consulting project, applying economic reasoning and data analysis to a substantial business or policy question and demonstrating the analytical and strategic skills developed throughout your degree.
Your academic adviser and a module choice fair will support you in selecting options aligned with your academic interests and career plans.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional D Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 20)Important Information
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, and Assessment
Teaching and Learning
Your studies will take place through lectures, seminars, workshops and IT lab sessions that link economic theory to practical business and policy contexts. Sessions are led by research active staff who bring contemporary evidence and policy discussion into the classroom. Industry speakers contribute additional professional perspectives across finance, corporate strategy and the public sector. Digital learning resources, specialist software and structured academic guidance support your progression and help you develop confidence and independence throughout the programme.
In year one, you'll establish core economic knowledge through lectures and seminars, applying concepts in workshops and introductory data sessions. Academic skills support and peer engagement assist your transition into university level study.
You'll deepen your analytical expertise in year two, through econometrics and more specialised areas of study, gaining extensive experience working with statistical software and real-world datasets.
During your placement year, in year three, your learning will take place within a professional environment. You'll be supported by the placement and careers teams to ensure you gain maximum benefit from the experience and reflect on your development.
In year four, you'll return to advanced, discussion led study and independent research. Specialist teaching and dissertation supervision will support you as you develop deeper subject expertise and professional readiness.
Assessment
Assessment consists of a combination of examinations, coursework and applied assignments, providing multiple ways to demonstrate analytical, quantitative and communication skills. From the first year onwards, you'll complete written reports, presentations, group activities and data analysis exercises alongside formal assessments. Ongoing formative and summative feedback will help you refine your work and track your progress. This varied assessment approach prepares you for both academic achievement and professional environments.
In year one, you'll complete coursework, presentations, collaborative exercises and examinations that establish strong academic foundations.
Assessment becomes increasingly technical and applied in year two, incorporating analytical reports, data-based projects and software driven tasks.
Your placement, in year three, is assessed on a pass or fail basis through a reflective presentation, supported by engagement with your line manager and the placement team.
In year four, you'll complete advanced coursework and presentations, with the option to undertake a dissertation or consulting project demonstrating independent research and applied analysis.
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(opens in a new window) 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(opens in a new window).
- Typical UK Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
Contextual offer: BBC
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(opens in a new window) page.
- Typical International Entry Requirements
A levels
ABB
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. For specific details about your country, view our information for International Students(opens in a new window).
- 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(opens in a new window) 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(opens in a new window) 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: (opens in a new window)
English language at UEA International Study Centre(opens in a new window)
-
- 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 for the Academic Year 2027/28 are:
-
UK Students: £10,050
-
International Students: £24,250
We estimate living expenses at £1,171 per month.
Further Information on tuition fees can be found here(opens in a new window).
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(opens in a new window) 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 Fee website.
There may be extra costs related to items such as your travel and accommodation, which will vary depending on location.
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
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: