BSc Economics and Mathematics (LG11)

2026 entry | view 2025 entry

Course summary

This joint honours degree combines high-level mathematics with a technically rigorous economics programme that emphasises the use of mathematical tools, including econometrics – the application of statistical methods to data to 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.

You'll benefit from teaching that's informed by the latest developments and cutting-edge research. Our research ranks in the top five amongst UK universities for economics and econometrics as well as for mathematics (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.

You'll build a solid grounding in the fundamentals of both disciplines, including applied analysis, probability and statistics, micro- and macroeconomics, and econometrics. You'll also be able to tailor your degree to suit your interests and career ambitions with optional modules – exploring topics ranging from data science to behavioural economics, financial mathematics to machine learning, time series analysis to international trade, and more.

The option to undertake a final year dissertation also gives you the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills in a specialist area of economics, as you hone your research and analysis capabilities exploring a question of particular interest to you.

By the end of the programme, you'll be well-prepared for a successful career. On average, Bristol economics students earn 26% more than other UK economics graduates within five years of graduation – typically enjoying salaries between £42,500 and £77,500 per year (discoveruni.gov.uk, 2024).

Recent BSc Economics and Mathematics graduates have gone on to roles such as Data Analyst, Proprietary Trader, Audit Associate, and Environmental Advisor. They work at globally renowned organisations including JP Morgan, Amazon, PwC, and Scotiabank.

Accreditations

Our Economics and Mathematics BSc is accredited by .

Course structure

The first two years of this joint honours degree include mandatory economics modules in topics including econometrics, and micro- and macroeconomics.

This lays the foundations for specialising in the areas of economics that most interest you through optional modules in years two and three. Previous optional topics have included behavioural economics, data science, international trade, economic thought, industrial economics, and more.

Mandatory mathematics modules include probability and statistics, applied analysis, and linear algebra. Previous optional topics include complex networks, financial mathematics, time series analysis, machine learning, Bayesian modelling, and more.

There is also the possibility to further enhance your research skills, by undertaking an optional applied economics dissertation in your final year.

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.
AAA including Mathematics and another mathematics-related subject, or AAB including AA 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.

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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 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
90% overall, with 9.0 in Mathematics and 8.5 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.
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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