If you enjoy numbers and want to understand how markets, policy and money shape the world, economics could be the right degree for you. Universities for economics in the UK offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses covering economic theory, statistics, econometrics and data analysis. Most bachelor’s degrees in England, Wales and Northern Ireland take three years, while many master’s courses take one year.
Which UK Universities Stand Out for Economics?
The best economics universities in the UK include specialist social science institutions and universities with established economics departments.
| University | Location | What stands out |
| London School of Economics (LSE) | London | Specialist social science university with extensive economics courses |
| University of Warwick | Coventry | Ranked 1st in the UK for Economics in the Good University Guide 2025 and 2026 |
| University of Nottingham | Nottingham | Top 10 in the UK for Economics in the Good University Guide 2026 |
| University of Hertfordshire | Hatfield | 1st in the UK for Economics student satisfaction in the Complete University Guide 2027 |
Rankings refer to the editions stated and can change between years.
Economics Courses in the UK
Economics courses in the UK universities are available at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Options include:
- BSc Economics: Covers microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics and quantitative methods.
- Joint degrees: Economics can be combined with finance, management, data science or politics.
- Mathematical economics: LSE’s BSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics provides a highly quantitative option.
A UK economics degree can develop skills in economic modelling, data analysis and applying economic theory to business and policy decisions.
Master’s in Economics in the UK
A master’s in the UK can provide Indian students with advanced training in economics and quantitative methods. Options include:
- MSc Economics: Usually a one-year programme for students with an appropriate economics background.
- Two-year MSc Economics: LSE’s two-year programme provides additional training in economic theory and quantitative techniques.
- Specialist MSc courses: These can combine economics with areas such as data science.
Warwick’s MSc Economics students also complete an introductory Mathematics and Statistics course before the main programme.
How Much Does It Cost to Study Economics in the UK?
Tuition fees are a major part of the cost of studying in the UK for Indian students. Students should also budget for accommodation, food, transport and other living expenses.
For Student visa applications from 30 November 2026, students generally need to show £1,570 per month for living costs in London or £1,203 outside London, for up to nine months.
| University | BSc Economics | MSc Economics |
| LSE | £41,900 (2027/28) | £43,100 (2027/28) |
| University of Warwick | £35,530 (2026/27) | £32,960 |
| University of Nottingham | £26,800 (2026/27) | £31,700 (2027/28) |
| University of Hertfordshire | £17,450 (2026/27) | No MSc Economics listed |
Fees can change for future intakes, so check the university’s latest course page before budgeting.
Scholarships for Economics Students
Scholarships can help reduce postgraduate costs. Options include Chevening Scholarships, GREAT Scholarships and university-specific awards. GREAT Scholarships offer at least £10,000 towards eligible one-year postgraduate courses at participating universities. Warwick also offers Economics-specific scholarships for eligible MSc applicants.
What Are the Admission Requirements for Economics in the UK?
Economics involves mathematics and quantitative analysis, so academic preparation is important. Requirements vary by university and course.
- Undergraduate applicants: Strong Class 12 results and mathematics preparation are important. LSE requires the TMUA for its BSc Economics, while Warwick currently lists it as optional.
- Postgraduate applicants: Warwick and Nottingham generally require a relevant degree equivalent to at least a UK 2:1. LSE expects a First-class degree or equivalent for its one-year MSc Economics.
- GRE: LSE requires the GRE for one-year MSc Economics applicants without a UK undergraduate degree in economics. It requires the GRE for all applicants to its two-year MSc Economics and typically expects a quantitative score of 164 or above.
- English language: Requirements vary, with Warwick and Nottingham listing IELTS 6.5 overall and no component below 6.0 for relevant economics courses.
How Indian Students Can Apply
The application process generally involves:
- Shortlisting courses based on your academic background and career goals.
- Checking whether the course requires the TMUA, GRE or another test.
- Applying through UCAS for undergraduate courses or directly to universities for postgraduate courses.
- Accepting your offer and completing the university’s CAS requirements.
- Applying for your Student visa with your CAS and required financial evidence.
At NewStrides Consulting Pvt Ltd, we help students shortlist courses and build their applications.
What Careers Can Economics Graduates Pursue in the UK?
An economics degree can support careers in finance, consulting, policy, research and data. Common roles include:
- Economist or economic analyst
- Financial or investment analyst
- Management or economic consultant
- Policy and research professional
- Data analyst
Recent MSc Economics graduates from Warwick’s 2023/24 cohort have joined employers including the Bank of England, Grant Thornton, CRISIL and ITC.
The Graduate Route generally allows eligible graduates to remain in the UK for two years if they apply on or before 31 December 2026, and 18 months for applications from 1 January 2027. Doctoral graduates can receive a longer period.
Conclusion
The UK offers economics courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, from traditional Economics degrees to quantitative and specialist programmes. Fees, entry requirements and course structures vary, so Indian students should compare these factors with their academic background, budget and career plans. NewStrides Consulting Pvt Ltd can help students shortlist courses and navigate the application process.
FAQs
Which are some UK universities for economics for Indian students?
LSE, Warwick, Nottingham and Hertfordshire all offer economics-related undergraduate study. Students should compare their courses, fees and entry requirements.
How much does it cost to study economics in the UK for Indian students?
Published international undergraduate fees among the listed universities range from £17,450 to £41,900 for the academic years stated. Postgraduate fees vary by university and course.
What are the entry requirements for an economics degree in the UK?
Requirements vary. Strong mathematics preparation matters, and some courses require or recommend the TMUA. Postgraduate courses generally require a relevant degree.
Can Indian students study a Master’s in Economics in the UK?
Yes. Indian graduates can apply for postgraduate Economics programmes if they meet the academic and English-language requirements.
What jobs can I get after studying economics in the UK?
Graduates can pursue roles as economists, financial analysts, consultants, policy researchers and data analysts.
Priya Kaur is an Assistant Vice President at NewStrides Consulting Pvt. Ltd. With over 18 years of experience in overseas education, she specializes in counseling students for UK and Ireland education. She has visited universities and explored these countries to provide prospective students with insightful guidance and accurate information to make informed decisions for their educational journeys. Her career reflects a commitment to excellence in consulting.
