Optional pathways
Completion of this top-up programme may lead to entry on a masters degree in a variety of business and finance areas.
Undergraduate course
BSc (Hons)
Financial Economics
Advance your economics expertise with a modern, skills-based course that blends theory and evidence. Develop key analytical, numerical and research abilities to become a confident and capable financial economist.Fast-track your journey to a full Honours degree
Whether you're topping up from a Foundation Degree, HND or equivalent, this flexible one or two-year course gets you industry-ready with the opportunity for placement experience along the way.
Gain real-world economic expertise
Dive into a curriculum that blends micro and macroeconomic theory, policy and analysis, taught through applied, evidence-based approaches that reflect today’s economic challenges and financial markets.
Immerse yourself in cutting-edge finance facilities
Explore corporate finance and investment simulation using the Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite, and connect with fellow economists through the active Economics Society and inspiring talks from industry experts.
About
Designed as a one- or two-year top-up route for students with prior qualifications such as a Foundation Degree or HND, this course leads to a full honours degree. It blends rigorous theoretical frameworks with practical, evidence-based analysis across micro- and macroeconomics, financial policy, and corporate strategy.
Students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools via the Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite, and develop professional insight through real-world applications, networking opportunities within the Economics Society, and guest lectures from leading academics and professionals.
Whether you're aiming for further study, policy work, or a career in financial markets, this course equips you with the tools and mindset of a modern economist.
This course is for you if...
you want to fast-track your way to a full honours degree
you want to learn economics the way professionals use it in boardrooms and beyond
you wish to build on your technical skills and sharpen your knowledge in finance, accounting, or business
you get a buzz from solving problems and analytical thinking
Details
Year 1
Explore a wide ranging economics core with the freedom to tailor your learning through your chosen project and supervisor. You'll engage with key areas such as micro and macroeconomic theory, policy analysis, econometrics, and the evolving role of AI in economic research. Optional modules allow you to deepen your understanding of financial markets, global trade, and sustainable business practices – connecting economic thinking to real-world challenges.
Core modules
PBS500CPD
Careers and Professional Development
0 credits
This module is aimed at enhancing students employability skills and knowledge especially those who will be undertaking an industrial placement in the third year of their degree. It is designed to build on skills learned in Stage 1 and helps students in their search for a placement, and in their preparation for the placement itself.
ECN5011
Intermediate Microeconomics
You will explore the concepts and theories of microeconomics at an intermediate level and apply them to the analysis of real world issues such as education choice, imperfect competition and industrial strategy, and risk and insurance. In this context, you will analyse the effects of policy interventions.
ECN5012
Intermediate Macroeconomics
You will explore the concepts and theories of macroeconomics at an intermediate level and apply them to the analysis of real-world issues including monetary policy, fiscal policy, central banking, macroeconomic stability and financial crises.
ECN5013
Research Methods and Artificial Intelligence in Economics
This module covers the philosophical foundations of social science research, contextualising to different schools of economic thought. It critically examines the research methods of both orthodox and heterodox economists, with a particular emphasis on how AI is transforming research tools, highlighting benefits, ethical concerns, and limitations. Practical uses of AI in economics research are considered.
ECN5014
Econometrics and Data Analytics
This module introduces students to the field of econometrics and data analytics. The emphasis is on learning through the application of econometric and data analytic techniques to real world problems and data. The module considers how AI can facilitate and extend the application of traditional econometric approaches.
Optional modules
ECN5004
Financial Markets and Decision Making
20 credits
The objective of this module is to give you an understanding of the structural organisation of financial markets, and the role they play in the economy and to introduce the basic concepts in modern finance. You will undertake a detailed study of financial markets, e.g. the stock market, the bond market, the derivative markets and analyses financial decision-making through different models of stock and bond valuation and uses of financial derivatives. You will examine different ways of assessing risk, different ways of putting risk and return together, and portfolio building. The course considers theory, empirical evidence and practical application.
50% Coursework
50% Remotely delivered assessments
ECN5005
International Economics: Trade and Finance
20 credits
In this module you will explore the economic implications of globalisation by investigating current trends in international trade and international finance.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
PBS5003C
The Challenge Module: Responsible Entrepreneurship in Action
20 credits
Through this module you can develop an understanding of the big challenges business and society are facing today, in the context of entrepreneurship. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy and will be informed by established business theories. You will develop and reflect on a business idea which has sustainability at its core.
100% Coursework
PBS5002C
The Challenge Module: Sustainable Supply Chains for Global Trade
20 credits
In this module, you will be challenged to evaluate the sustainability of the globalised business world. You will assess conflicting viewpoints and present balanced arguments for the environmental, social and economic sustainability of the supply chains that support global trade.
100% Coursework
PBS5001C
The Challenge Module: Sustainable Business
20 credits
Through this module you can select from a choice of topics related to the big challenges business and society are facing today. These might be drawn from the UN Sustainable Development Goals or a country’s industrial strategy.
100% Coursework
Year 2
Focus on a range of financial topics including financial markets, international trade, and strategic decision-making. You’ll explore advanced economic theory and policy, apply game theory to real-world scenarios, and develop professional research and reporting skills used by economists in business and policy environments.
Core modules
ECN6001
Advanced Economic Theory and Policy
20 credits
This module explores the application of advanced economics to a range of contemporary theoretical and applied policy related issues in economics.
65% Coursework
35% Examinations
ECN6007
Game Theory and Strategic Behaviour
20 credits
In this module you will explore ideas in game theory, applying them to the analysis of strategic behaviour and decision making in contemporary economic, business, political and social life. You will also investigate the challenges that arise from strategic interactions and potential solutions.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
ECN6008
Professional Practice for Economists
20 credits
This module will advance your capacity to apply and critically evaluate a range of economic methodologies commonly used by professional economists. You will also develop further your skills in reporting economic analysis in a professional manner.
80% Coursework
20% Practicals
PBS600CPD
Continued Careers and Professional Development
0 credits
The Continued Career and Professional Development module is a development scheme designed to enhance students’ employability and builds on the stage 2 module. The stage 3 module focuses on providing students with information on graduate options and equips them with the knowledge and skills necessary for articulating and recording achievement and applying for graduate positions. The module also includes a number of workshops and events designed to develop students’ skills and knowledge, with the purpose of filling gaps in their CV’s and enhancing their employability.
ECN6009
Researching for Business
This module will empower you to understand the practical relevance of research methods for managing businesses by bringing the theory, philosophy and techniques of research to life. It will provide you with a comprehensive overview of research approaches in business to use when planning or undertaking a qualitative and/or quantitative research report.
Optional modules
ECN6004
Financial Markets and Decision Making
20 credits
The objective of this module is to give you an understanding of the structural organisation of financial markets, and the role they play in the economy and to introduce the basic concepts in modern finance. You will undertake a detailed study of financial markets, e.g. the stock market, the bond market, the derivative markets and analyses financial decision-making through different models of stock and bond valuation and uses of financial derivatives. You will examine different ways of assessing risk, different ways of putting risk and return together, and portfolio building. The course considers theory, empirical evidence and practical application.
50% Coursework
50% Remotely delivered assessments
ECN6005
International Economics: Trade and Finance
20 credits
In this module you will explore the economic implications of globalisation by investigating current trends in international trade and international finance.
50% Coursework
50% Examinations
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![IACBE logo]( "Accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education")
Plymouth Business School is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) – the only UK university to have this status *
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![Teaching Excellence Framework Gold]( "Teaching Excellence Framework All Gold")
Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Triple Gold 2023 – the University holds an overall Gold rating and Gold for student experience and student outcomes
Plymouth Business School is accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE) – the only UK university to have this status *
Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) Triple Gold 2023 – the University holds an overall Gold rating and Gold for student experience and student outcomes
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Explore Plymouth Business School
We aim to provide our graduates with a memorable and exceptional student experience, enabling them to maximise their success in their chosen career.
Plymouth Business School is an enterprising environment driving sustainable prosperity.
Be inspired
“I have always had a real passion for numbers and having an answer for everything – mathematics is the subject I have found the most fulfilling. I identified early that economics would build upon my love of mathematics and that it was important for me to find a course that would enable me to channel my interest in the humanities, having studied history and geography at A level.
After considering multiple options, Plymouth remained the best choice for me due to the quality of the BSc (Hons) Economics course content as well as the course’s flexible structure of optional modules, which will allow me to carve a personal pathway that will guide me towards graduation and beyond.”
Success stories that started here
Our school's graduates make their mark around the world. From global financial hubs to innovative start-ups and international NGOs, our alumni are thriving across industries and continents. With a strong foundation in business and the confidence to lead, they’ve gone on to become accountants, consultants, analysts, entrepreneurs, and more.
A new home to cultivate business leaders
Our Fitzroy Building has been transformed, becoming the new home of the Plymouth Business School and providing specialist facilities and social learning spaces. Among these spaces for business, management, accounting, finance and marketing students, you'll find the
Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite
for tracking stock markets and
The Cube
– support for our student and graduate entrepreneurs, as well as a
Maritime Suite
and a Language Lab.
Watch our video visualising what the new building looks like.
Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite
The Bloomberg Interactive Learning Suite offers Plymouth Business School students the opportunity to learn how to analyse the markets, assess economic scenarios and interpret key news developments that might impact the global economy.
Boost your CV by undertaking an optional online Bloomberg course awarded by the Bloomberg Institute. At the end of the course you will be provided with a certificate of completion.
Meet your expert teaching staff
We’re Team Plymouth. As one of our team, we’re here to help you succeed. Our expert lecturers and your own personal tutor will be with you every step of the way.
Professor Peijie Wang
Professor of Finance
Expertise in international economics and trade
Dr Steven Brand
Honorary Associate Professor
Expertise in regional economics
Dr Alexander Haupt
Honorary Associate Professor
Expertise in public and environmental economics
Elevate your studies with Accounting and Finance Society
Join a vibrant community of students passionate about numbers, money, and the forces shaping the financial world. The Accounting and Finance Society offers networking events, application advice and skills workshops that deepen your understanding of the industry and support your academic journey. Whether you're aiming for a career in banking, auditing, financial planning or beyond, this is your go-to space to connect, learn and grow professionally, while having fun along the way.
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Life in Plymouth
Plymouth's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what Plymouth and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
Your gateway to high-impact careers in finance and economics
The advanced skills, analytical mindset and financial expertise you gain from this top-up degree open doors to graduate-level careers in banking, corporate finance, economic consultancy, risk analytics, data modelling, and beyond.
If you're driven to understand how economies work and want to support people in professional settings, roles in HR or economic policy might be a perfect match. If you prefer influencing society, the public and charity sectors value economists who use financial insight to drive change. Or if you're commercially minded, sales and client-facing roles in financial services could suit your ambitions.
Whether you're interested in investment, business strategy or forecasting, this course equips you with both theory and applied skills – plus real-world tools like Bloomberg – making you highly competitive in the evolving financial sector.
Inspiring student and graduate entrepreneurs
From an idea to a fully-fledged business, the Cube offers advice, funding and support at every stage of your entrepreneurial journey. The Cube can develop your creative skills and business acumen to maximise your future career.
“On my placement I ran my own business and got support from the Cube. They helped my business model and refine my skills.”
Samuel Jaffe
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
Full-time study
ÂŁ9,535 per year
ÂŁ9,535 per year
Part-time study
ÂŁ795 per 10 credits
ÂŁ795 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
ÂŁ17,600 per year
ÂŁ17,600 per year
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
ÂŁ18,150 per year
ÂŁ18,150 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to placement or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
This course lasts for one year and is designed as a 'top-up' if you have already successfully completed study equivalent to a Foundation Degree, HND or an equivalent professional qualification. At the end of it you will be eligible to receive a full honours degree.
Entry to Level 5: Applicants should possess a commensurate level 4 financial economics qualification.
Entry to Level 6: Applicants should possess a commensurate level 5 financial economics qualification.
You will also need IELTS of 6.0 overall (with a minimum of 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking and writing). If you have an IELTS of 5.0 or 5.5 you will need to attend a short course before the degree starts to improve your English and study skills.
To check the academic suitability of your qualification, please contact the Admissions Team – admissions@plymouth.ac.uk
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. Please contact the Admissions Team with any queries – admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
Short of the entry requirements for this course? Don’t worry you may be eligible for a
foundation year
to prepare you for possible entry onto this course for the following year.
UCAS course code
L113
L113
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
UCAS points
UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
Candidates whose first language is not English require IELTS 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element) or equivalent.
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Short of the entry requirements for this course? Don’t worry you may be eligible for a
foundation year
to prepare you for possible entry onto this course for the following year.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
L113
L113
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the University of Plymouth.
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The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.