BSc Economics and Data Science (L1G1)
2026 entry
Course summary
Combine essential economics problem-solving and data analysis tools, with programming, data visualisation and data handling skills, on this innovative single-honours degree.
Employability sits at the heart of this programme, recognising that handling and managing data is a crucial part of any modern economist’s toolkit. Economists collect and analyse data, use it to answer key economic questions, and communicate the results to policymakers and industry stakeholders. These skills are in high demand across a range of roles and sectors.
You’ll build extensive core knowledge and practical skills in macro- and micro-economics, data science, econometrics, mathematics, and statistics, and receive hands-on training in modern programming languages – with applications focused on economic analysis.
In your final year, you will have the opportunity to engage in a research-based project that will enable you to apply your learning and tackle a real-world data challenge of interest to you, as you hone your research, analysis, and team working abilities. This might include working with an industry partner from a potential future employer, such as an external business or public sector organisation.
You’ll also be able to tailor your degree to suit your interests and career ambitions with optional modules – 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 – research which ranks in the top 5 for economics and econometrics amongst UK universities (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 the end of the programme, you’ll be prepared for a successful and prosperous career. On average, Bristol economics students earn 26% more than other UK economics graduates within 5 years of graduation – typically enjoying salaries between £42,500 and £77,500 per year (discoveruni.gov.uk, 2024).
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.
Course structure
You’ll develop the core skills of an economist and learn key applications of data science to economics, across all three years of this single-honours degree.
Mandatory topics include coding for economics and data analysis, machine learning, econometrics, micro- and macroeconomics, and mathematics.
In your final year, you’ll 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.
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.
Find out more about BTEC entry requirements
Find out if you are eligible for a contextual offer
More about Access to HE entry requirements
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Selection process
- Regulations and codes of conduct we abide by to create a positive environment for learning and achievement are found in the University admissions policies and procedures.
- If applying with extenuating circumstances please see our policy.
- The admissions statement above relates to 2025 entry. The statement for 2026 entry will be available in summer 2025.