BSc Economics and Mathematics (LG11)

2027 entry | view 2026 entry

Course summary

This joint honours degree combines advanced mathematics with a technically rigorous economics programme that emphasises the use of mathematical tools, including econometrics; the statistical methods economists use to analyse data and estimate economic models.

This degree will give you an edge in applying the rigour and logic of mathematics to a wide range of economic phenomena. For example, you'll learn how to use advanced linear algebra to analyse high-dimensional economic data or how to use the mathematical structure of complex networks to model strategic interactions. This combination of disciplines equips you with powerful analytical skills that are highly valued in both academic and professional settings.

Teaching is informed by the latest developments and cutting-edge research. Our research ranks in the top ten in the UK for economics and econometrics and top five for mathematics (THE analysis of REF 2021). The school is also home to the Economics Network, which improves the teaching and learning of economics in universities throughout the UK and Europe.

You will build strong foundations in both subjects, studying core material in applied analysis, probability and statistics, microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics. A broad range of optional units allows you to shape the degree around your interests. Recent options include data science, behavioural economics, financial mathematics, machine learning, time series analysis and international trade.

In your final year, you may also undertake a dissertation in economics, giving you the opportunity to explore a specialist topic in depth and further develop your research and analytical skills.

Bristol graduates are highly sought after. On average, Bristol economics graduates earn 10% more than other UK economics graduates 15 months after graduation, with typical salaries between £31,000 and £44,000 in that year (discoveruni.gov.uk, graduates from 2022-23).

Recent BSc Economics and Mathematics graduates have secured roles such as Data Analyst, Proprietary Trader, Audit Associate and Environmental Advisor, working in organisations including JP Morgan, Amazon, PwC and Scotiabank.

Accreditations

Our Economics and Mathematics BSc is accredited by IFoA.

Course structure

In the first two years, you will take mandatory economics units in areas such as microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics. These provide a strong analytical foundation and prepare you to specialise in the economic topics that interest you most through optional modules in years two and three. Recent economics options have included behavioural economics, data science, international trade, history of economic thought, industrial economics and more.

Alongside your economics training, you will study core mathematics units in probability and statistics, applied analysis and linear algebra. You will also have the opportunity to explore optional mathematics topics, which recently have included complex networks, financial mathematics, time series analysis, machine learning, Bayesian modelling and others.

In your final year, you may further enhance your research skills by undertaking an optional applied economics dissertation, working independently on a topic of your choice under academic supervision.

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*A*A including A* in Mathematics and A in another mathematics-related subject, or A*AA including A*A (in any order) in Mathematics and Further Mathematics. Mathematics-related subjects include Biology; Chemistry; Computer Science; Economics; and Physics. STEP paper achievement may be included as part of an alternative offer.
D*D*D 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
40 points overall with 18 at Higher Level, including 7 at Higher Level in Mathematics (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) and 6 at Higher Level in another mathematics-related subject. Mathematics-related subjects include Biology; Chemistry; Computer Science; Economics; and Physics. STEP paper achievement may be included as part of an alternative offer.
36 points overall with 18 at Higher Level, including 6, 6 at Higher Level in Mathematics (either Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretations) and another mathematics-related subject. Mathematics-related subjects include Biology; Chemistry; Computer Science; Economics; and Physics. STEP paper achievement may be included as part of an alternative offer.

Find out if you are eligible for a contextual offer
Advanced Higher: AA in Mathematics and another mathematics-related subject (including Mathematics of Mechanics), and Standard Higher: AAAAA. Mathematics-related subjects include Biology; Chemistry; Computer Science; Economics; and Physics. STEP paper achievement may be included as part of an alternative offer.
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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