Economics and Finance

Economics and finance brings together two closely related disciplines whose combination is greater than the sum of its parts. Economics provides the theoretical and empirical tools for understanding how markets function, how incentives shape behaviour, and how macroeconomic forces determine growth, inflation, and employment. Finance extends this into the study of how capital is allocated, how financial instruments are valued, how risk is managed, and how investment decisions are made.

Together, they develop the analytical and quantitative fluency that modern financial practice and economic analysis both demand.

At Exeter this three-year full-time programme includes a sandwich year, a year abroad, and a work placement, giving you the opportunity to test your developing skills in real professional contexts during your studies. Exeter's Business School is consistently rated highly for both teaching and employability, and maintains strong connections with employers in financial services, consulting, and beyond. You will study micro and macroeconomic theory, econometrics, corporate finance, investment analysis, and the financial markets, building both the conceptual depth and the quantitative techniques that are essential for careers at the intersection of economics and finance.

The placement experience is a particular strength of the programme, offering hands-on engagement with the industry and the professional networks that support career entry, as students themselves consistently report.

Graduates in economics and finance find opportunities across financial services, investment banking, corporate finance, economic consultancy, asset management, and public policy. The quantitative and analytical skills the degree develops are also valued in data science, risk management, and technology roles where economic and financial understanding is an advantage. Many graduates pursue professional qualifications in finance or accountancy, or continue to postgraduate study in financial economics, investment management, or related fields.

The combination of academic rigour and professional experience the programme builds is particularly effective preparation for competitive graduate programmes.