BSc Economics and Data Science (L1G1)

2027 entry | view 2026 entry

Course summary

This innovative degree brings together the core analytical tools of economics with the programming, data visualisation and data-handling skills used by modern data scientists

Employability is central to the programme. Today's economists work extensively with data; they collect and clean datasets, apply statistical and computational methods, and communicate insights to policymakers, businesses and the public. These skills are in strong and growing demand across many roles and sectors.

You will build a solid foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, mathematics, statistics and data science, alongside hands-on training in modern programming languages. Throughout, the focus is on applying computational and quantitative techniques to real economic problems.

In your final year, you will undertake a substantial research project in which you apply your skills to a real-world data challenge. This will allow you to build and demonstrate your research, analysis, and team working abilities. Your project might include working with an industry partner, such as an external business or public sector organisation, providing direct industry experience and valuable professional insight.

You will be able to tailor your degree to suit your interests and career ambitions with optional units exploring topics ranging from behavioural economics to international business, industrial economics to health economics, and much more.

You'll benefit from teaching that's informed by the latest developments in economics and our cutting-edge research; ranked in the top ten for economics and econometrics among UK universities (THE analysis of REF 2021). We are also home to the Economics Network, which improves the teaching and learning of economics in universities throughout the UK and Europe.

By graduation, you will be ready for a successful career. On average, Bristol economics students earn 10% more than other UK economics graduates 15 months after graduation (discoveruni.gov.uk, 2025).

The in-demand skills you'll gain on our BSc Economics and Data Science will make you well-placed for a role in data or quantitative analysis in public and private institutions, such as the Government Economic Service, consulting firms, and firms in the technology and financial sectors.

Accreditations

Our Economics and Data Science BSc is accredited by CIMA.

Course structure

Across all three years, you will develop the core skills of an economist and the applied data-science methods used in economic analysis.

Mandatory units cover coding for economics and data analysis, machine learning, econometrics, mathematics, and micro- and macroeconomics.

In your final year, you will be able to choose topics that interest you from a wide range of optional modules within the School of Economics.

Previous optional topics have included behavioural economics, applied economics, industrial economics, international trade, health economics, environmental economics, communicating economics and more.

Your final year will also see you work on an applied research project, potentially collaborating with an industry partner, to solve a real-world problem.

Full details about the course structure and units for this course can be viewed in the programme catalogue.

Go to programme catalogue

Entry requirements

We accept a wide variety of qualifications and welcome applications from students of all backgrounds. Below is a guide to the typical offers for this course.

A*AA including Mathematics
D*DD in any Applied General BTEC National Level 3 Extended Diploma, and A in mathematics at A-level (or equivalent)

Find out more about BTEC entry requirements
38 points overall with 18 at Higher Level, including Mathematics with either 6 at Higher Level (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) or 7 at Standard Level (Analysis and Approaches)
34 points overall with 17 at Higher Level, including Mathematics with either 5 at Higher Level (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) or 7 at Standard Level (Analysis and Approaches)

Find out if you are eligible for a contextual offer
Advanced Higher: AA including Mathematics, and Standard Higher: AAAAA
Access to HE Diploma in Engineering, Science, or Computing (or similar titles). The 45 graded Level 3 credits must include: at least 30 credits at Distinction and 15 at Merit or above; and at least 15 credits from Mathematics units, of which at least 12 (including algebra, calculus and trigonometry) must be at Distinction. Or Access to HE Diploma in Business, Humanities, Social Sciences, Psychology, Law or History (or similar titles), with the 45 graded Level 3 credits including at least 30 credits at Distinction and 15 at Merit or above, plus A in A-level Mathematics.

More about Access to HE entry requirements
Requirements are as for A-levels, where you can substitute a non-subject specific grade for the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales or the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate at that grade.
Requirements for principal subjects are as for A-level, where D1/D2 is A*, D3 is A, M1/M2 is B, and M3 is C.
The University of Bristol welcomes applications from international students, and we accept a wide range of qualifications for undergraduate and postgraduate study.

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