Economics and Finance

Economics and finance is a degree that develops analytical depth in both the science of how economies work and the practice of how capital is managed. Economics provides the theoretical frameworks and empirical methods to understand production, distribution, consumption, and the macro and microeconomic forces that shape business environments. Finance applies rigorous quantitative analysis to investment decisions, risk management, pricing of financial instruments, and the structure of capital markets.

Together they equip you to undertake economic research and analysis, handle complex financial datasets, and make the strategic decisions that applied economists and financial analysts face.

At the University of Derby, this three-year full-time programme has professional accreditations and strong employer input, ensuring the degree remains aligned with what the accounting, economics, and financial professions actually need. A foundation year is available for students who need to build their mathematical and analytical foundations before the main degree begins. A sandwich year places you in a professional environment for a sustained period, a year abroad broadens your understanding of different economic and financial systems, and work placement experience is integrated throughout the programme.

Graduates from economics and finance programmes are well placed for careers in financial analysis, investment management, economic consultancy, banking, government economics departments, international organisations, and management in finance-intensive businesses. Professional qualifications in economics, accounting, and financial analysis are often pursued alongside careers, and many graduates proceed to postgraduate study in economics, finance, and data analytics. The combination of economic rigour and financial analysis skills is particularly valued by employers in roles where markets, data, and strategic decision-making intersect.