Economics and Mathematics BSc

2024-25 entry
Department of Economics
School of Mathematics and Statistics

This dual honours degree combines advanced mathematical and technical skills with the opportunity to apply these to real-world economic policy.

Key details

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    Course description

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    Combine advanced mathematical and technical skills with the opportunity to apply these to real-world economic issues.

    Economics and mathematics complement one another perfectly, giving you the chance to develop the analytical skills that support sound economic reasoning – and the highly effective problem solving of a mathematician.

    In your first year you will focus primarily on the mathematics modules, while also gaining a foundational knowledge of microeconomic and macroeconomic analysis and their roles in economic policy making and analysis.

    In your second and third years, you’ll choose from modules across both subjects to find a balance that suits you. You’ll also have the chance to do a year-long work placement, starting after your second year. This is a great opportunity to get paid work experience with employers in the UK.

    Why study this course?

    • Research-informed teaching - you’ll be taught by mathematics experts and economists whose modules are informed by their latest research.
    • Variety, choice and flexibility - from a broad grounding in economic theory and analysis, this course allows you to specialise in your area of interest.
    • Placement opportunities - this degree comes with the chance to do a year-long paid work placement, starting after your second year, with an employer in the UK.
    • Excellent career prospects - 93.8% of economics students who graduated in 2020 were in employment or further study 15 months after leaving university (2020-21 Graduate Outcomes Survey, UK undergraduates).

    Dual and combined honours degrees

    Photo of undergraduate lecture

    Modules

    Our degrees are structured around two pathways that allow you the flexibility to explore the methodological and applied approaches to economics. Throughout your levels of study, these pathways will help guide you through your learning so that you can develop your skills and knowledge and specialise in your chosen pathway in your final year.

    Methodological pathway

    These modules will train you in theoretical, mathematical and statistical methods and you will learn how to to use these tools to analyse economics issues.

    Applied pathway

    These modules provide you with the skills to analyse the economic issues that you're most interested in, whether related to individuals, firms or governments, using the methodological tools you have learned throughout your degree programme. In your final year, you will have the option to specialise in this applied pathway and change your degree to BA Economics.

    Title: Economics and Mathematics BSc course structure
    UCAS code: LG11
    Years: 2022, 2023, 2024
    First year

    Economics core module:

    Economic Analysis and Policy

    This is a compulsory module for all single and dual honours students in Economics. The module provides students with an introduction to microeconomic and macroeconomic analysis together with examples of their application in order to develop students' understanding of the roles of both in economic policy making.

    40 credits

    Mathematics core modules:

    Mathematics Core 1

    The module explores topics in mathematics which will be used throughout many degree programmes. The module will consider techniques for solving equations, special functions, calculus (differentiation and integration), differential equations, Taylor series, complex numbers and finite and infinite series.

    20 credits
    Mathematics Core II

    The module continues the study of core mathematical topics begun in MS4F1015, which will be used throughout many degree programmes. The module will discuss 2-dimensional co-ordinate geometry, discussing the theory of matrices geometrically and algebraically, and will define and evaluate derivatives and integrals for functions which depend on more than one variable, with an emphasis on functions of two variables.

    20 credits
    Introduction to Probability and Statistics

    The module provides an introduction to the fields of probability and statistics, which form the basis of much of applicable mathematics and operations research. The theory behind probability and statistics will be introduced, along with examples occurring in diverse areas. Some of the computational statistical work may make use of the statistics package R.

    20 credits
    Numbers and Groups

    The module provides an introduction to more specialised Pure Mathematics. The first half of the module will consider techniques of proof, and these will be demonstrated within the study of properties of integers and real numbers. The second semester will study symmetries of objects, and develop a theory of symmetries which leads to the more abstract study of groups.

    20 credits

    The content of our courses is reviewed annually to make sure it's up-to-date and relevant. Individual modules are occasionally updated or withdrawn. This is in response to discoveries through our world-leading research; funding changes; professional accreditation requirements; student or employer feedback; outcomes of reviews; and variations in staff or student numbers. In the event of any change we'll consult and inform students in good time and take reasonable steps to minimise disruption.

    Learning and assessment

    Learning

    We provide students with a varied and interactive learning experience. You'll learn by attending lectures and seminars, interactive workshops, tutorials and computer labs. We also incorporate online resources into our teaching, such as online videos, to enhance your studies.

    We invest to create the right environment for you. That means outstanding facilities, study spaces and support, including 24/7 online access to our online library service.

    Study spaces and computers are available to offer you choice and flexibility for your study. Our five library sites give you access to over 1.3 million books and periodicals. You can access your library account and our rich digital collections from anywhere on or off campus. Other library services include study skills training to improve your grades, and tailored advice from experts in your subject.

    Learning support facilities and library opening hours

    Assessment

    This degree is primarily exam-based, however you'll also be assessed by written coursework, computer-based assignments, research projects, presentations and reports to assess the range of knowledge and skills that an economist needs.

    Programme specification

    This tells you the aims and learning outcomes of this course and how these will be achieved and assessed.

    Find programme specification for this course

    Entry requirements

    With Access Sheffield, you could qualify for additional consideration or an alternative offer - find out if you're eligible.

    Standard offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    AAB
    including A in Maths

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB including A in Maths + B in a relevant EPQ (relevant research topics include Economics, Statistics, Maths or Business); ABB, including A in Maths + B in A Level Further Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    34, with 6 in Higher Level Maths
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDM in a relevant subject + A in A Level Maths
    BTEC Diploma
    DD + A in A Level Maths
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AAABB + A in Maths
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AA, including Maths
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 36 at Distinction (to include Maths units), and 9 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • Native Language A Levels can be accepted if taken alongside an acceptable A Level subject

    Access Sheffield offer

    The A Level entry requirements for this course are:
    ABB
    including Maths

    A Levels + a fourth Level 3 qualification
    ABB including A in Maths + B in a relevant EPQ (relevant research topics include Economics, Statistics, Maths or Business); ABB, including A in Maths + B in A Level Further Maths
    International Baccalaureate
    33, with 5 in Higher Level Maths
    BTEC Extended Diploma
    DDM in a relevant subject + A in A Level Maths
    BTEC Diploma
    DM + A in A Level Maths
    Scottish Highers + 1 Advanced Higher
    AABBB + B in Maths
    Welsh Baccalaureate + 2 A Levels
    B + AB, including Maths
    Access to HE Diploma
    Award of Access to HE Diploma in a relevant subject, with 45 credits at Level 3, including 30 at Distinction (to include Maths units), and 15 at Merit
    Other requirements
    • Native Language A Levels can be accepted if taken alongside an acceptable A Level subject

    English language requirements

    You must demonstrate that your English is good enough for you to successfully complete your course. For this course we require: GCSE English Language at grade 4/C; IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component; or an alternative acceptable English language qualification

    Pathway programme for international students

    If you're an international student who does not meet the entry requirements for this course, you have the opportunity to apply for an International Foundation Year in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Sheffield International College. This course is designed to develop your English language and academic skills. Upon successful completion, you can progress to degree level study at the University of Sheffield.

    If you have any questions about entry requirements, please contact the department.

    Graduate careers

    Skills for employment

    Employment skills and personal development are embedded throughout our curriculum. All students receive employability sessions in their first year, considering issues such as finding placements or internships, and what jobs you can do with an economics degree. Our courses have a strong emphasis on data analysis from year one, where you will learn to analyse real data using software including Excel and Stata.

    You will also have the opportunity to get involved in the Sheffield Economics Employability Development (SEED) which is a series of careers events and opportunities to develop your skills for employment.

    Department of Economics

    Some of our graduates become professional economists in government, industry or the City. Others enter related professions - banking, ‭insurance, accountancy, sales and marketing, and ‭retail management.

    Recent graduates are now working for the Bank of England, HM Treasury, the European Parliament, PwC, Deloitte, IBM and Rolls Royce. Some prefer to advance their knowledge by studying economics at postgraduate level.

    School of Mathematics and Statistics

    Strong mathematics skills open all kinds of doors for our graduates: from banking, insurance and pensions, to software development at tech companies and encryption services at security agencies. They also work for businesses with vast amounts of data to process and inform new products and services.

    Organisations that have hired Sheffield maths graduates include AstraZeneca, BAE Systems, Barclays, Bet365, Dell, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs, GSK, HSBC, IBM, Lloyds, PwC, Unilever, the Civil Service and the NHS. Lots of our students also go on to do PhDs at world top 100 universities.

    Your career in mathematics and statistics

    Department of Economics

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    We have an international reputation for practical and real-world economics.

    You'll be taught by some of the top economic experts in their field and you'll receive the latest cutting-edge teaching from people who care passionately about their subject.

    Our staff advise government departments in the UK such as the Department for Work and Pensions, the Department for Education, as well as advisory bodies such as the Low Pay Commission. Their research helps shape government policies and aims to improve people's lives. This research also informs what you will be taught in your modules.

    The Department of Economics is based in Elmfield building, close to The Wave, the new home for the Faculty of Social Sciences. The Wave features state-of-the-art collaborative lecture theatres, study spaces and seminar rooms.

    Teaching may take place in Elmfield, The Wave, or in other buildings across campus, many of which are close together so it’s easy to walk between them and it’s a great way to get to know the city. You will also be close to our Students' Union and central libraries.

    Facilities

    Our state-of-the-art classrooms are in the same building as our staff offices. You'll also have your own social space with computer access.

    Department of Economics

    School of Mathematics and Statistics

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    Why study mathematics and statistics?

    When new students join the School of Mathematics and Statistics, we want them to feel part of a community. At the heart of this is the Sheffield University Mathematics Society, or SUMS, who organise activities throughout the academic year – from charity fundraisers to nights out. Our students also take part in pizza lectures, rocket engineering projects, international maths challenges, and an LGBT+ support group for maths students.

    Staff in the School of Mathematics and Statistics work on a wide range of topics, from the most abstract research in areas like algebraic geometry and number theory, to the calculations behind animal movements and black holes. They’ll guide you through the key concepts and techniques that every mathematician needs to understand and give you a huge range of optional modules to choose from.

    The department is based in the Hicks Building, which has classrooms, lecture theatres, computer rooms and social spaces for our students. It’s right next door to the Students' Union, and just down the road from the 24/7 library facilities at the Information Commons and the Diamond.

    School of Mathematics and Statistics

    Why choose Sheffield?

    The University of Sheffield

      Number one in the Russell Group
    National Student Survey 2023 (based on aggregate responses)

      92 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent
    Research Excellence Framework 2021

      Top 50 in the most international universities rankings
    Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2023

      Number one Students' Union in the UK
    Whatuni Student Choice Awards 2023, 2022, 2020, 2019, 2018, 2017

      Number one for teaching quality, Students' Union and clubs/societies
    StudentCrowd 2023 University Awards

      A top 20 university targeted by employers
    The Graduate Market in 2023, High Fliers report


    Department of Economics

    94% of economics students who graduated in 2020 were in employment or further study 15 months after leaving university

    2020-21 Graduate Outcomes Survey, UK undergraduates

    School of Mathematics and Statistics

    96 per cent of our research is rated as world-leading or internationally excellent

    Research Excellence Framework 2021

    Fees and funding

    Fees

    Additional costs

    The annual fee for your course includes a number of items in addition to your tuition. If an item or activity is classed as a compulsory element for your course, it will normally be included in your tuition fee. There are also other costs which you may need to consider.

    Examples of what’s included and excluded

    Funding your study

    Depending on your circumstances, you may qualify for a bursary, scholarship or loan to help fund your study and enhance your learning experience.

    Use our Student Funding Calculator to work out what you’re eligible for.

    Placements and study abroad

      Placement

    You may have the opportunity to add an optional placement year as part of your course, converting the three year course to a four-year Degree with Placement Year. 

    A placement year will help you to:

    • gain an insight into possible careers
    • develop a range of transferable skills
    • build a professional network
    • get a feel for what you do and don’t like doing
    • add valuable work experience to your CV
    • gain experience of applying for jobs and interview practice
    • apply elements of academic learning in the workplace

    Recent placements have been with the Bank of England, Lloyds Bank, IBM, ASOS and Mercedes-Benz.

    Study abroad

    Spending time abroad during your degree is a great way to explore different cultures, gain a new perspective and experience a life-changing opportunity that you will never forget.

    You can apply to extend this course with a year abroad, usually studying abroad between the second and third year at Sheffield. Or you can apply to replace a year of your time at Sheffield with a period abroad without adding an additional year to your course. 

    We have over 250 University partners worldwide. Popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Hong Kong. 

    Find out more on the Global Opportunities website.

    Visit

    University open days

    We host five open days each year, usually in June, July, September, October and November. You can talk to staff and students, tour the campus and see inside the accommodation.

    Open days: book your place

    Subject tasters

    If you’re considering your post-16 options, our interactive subject tasters are for you. There are a wide range of subjects to choose from and you can attend sessions online or on campus.

    Upcoming taster sessions

    Offer holder days

    If you've received an offer to study with us, we'll invite you to one of our offer holder days, which take place between February and April. These open days have a strong department focus and give you the chance to really explore student life here, even if you've visited us before.

    Campus tours

    Our weekly guided tours show you what Sheffield has to offer - both on campus and beyond. You can extend your visit with tours of our city, accommodation or sport facilities.

    Campus tour: book your place

    Apply

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    The awarding body for this course is the University of Sheffield.

    Recognition of professional qualifications: from 1 January 2021, in order to have any UK professional qualifications recognised for work in an EU country across a number of regulated and other professions you need to apply to the host country for recognition. Read information from the UK government and the EU Regulated Professions Database.

    Any supervisors and research areas listed are indicative and may change before the start of the course.

    Our student protection plan

    Terms and Conditions upon Acceptance of an Offer

    2024-2025

    Make sure you've done everything you need to do before you apply.

    How to apply When you're ready to apply, see the UCAS website:
    www.ucas.com

    Not ready to apply yet? You can also register your interest in this course.

    This dual honours degree combines advanced mathematical and technical skills with the opportunity to apply these to real-world economic policy.