Rejected by Bristol for Economics.

Special features

* All of our degrees have a strong quantitative element, emphasising the statistical methods used to apply economics in practice, with the necessary mathematical and computing skills. That is why maths is an entrance requirement for all of our programmes, at the equivalent of A Level. Our graduates probably have stronger quantitative skills than those of any other British university (as employers recognise)

General Skills:
You will gain the analytical, quantitative, and computing skills that are in demand by a wide range of employers. You will also develop: problem solving ability; strategic planning skills; time management and self-organisation; communication skills (written and oral); and teamworking skills.

Entry statistics
55 places (for L100, L101, L140). Typical offer: A Level AAA-ABB including Mathematics.

Application and selection
Is the course right for me?

* All our programmes require a combination of skills in the humanities and strong quantitative ability, both demanded by employers.

What skills, qualities, and experience do I need?

1) * You'll need to demonstrate an interest in and commitment to the subject. Do you have a keen interest in current affairs (particularly economic and political issues)? Have you tried to find out more about the subject by reading any relevant texts? What aspects of the subject are you particularly interested in? Please note that Economics A Level is not a requirement.

2) * Our degree programmes place an emphasis on the importance of mathematical and statistical methods in modern economics. We require A Level Mathematics or Pure Mathematics at grade A for L140 Economics and Econometrics, LG11 Economics and Mathematics and VL51 Philosophy and Economics, and at grade B or better for our other programmes.


3) * We will want to see that you have skills in the humanities as well as a strong mathematical ability. We are unlikely to make you an offer if you are studying Maths, Further Maths and only one other subject, especially if that subject is a science and your GCSEs are weak in the humanities. We do not accept A Level General Studies or Critical Thinking.


4) * In order to succeed on the course you will need to be able to think clearly. Do you enjoy thinking of potential solutions to problems? Are you willing to see things from different perspectives, and not just look for an easy answer?


* You'll need to be prepared to work independently, but will also need to work well with other students in classes.


* Do you have excellent written English skills? These can be usefully demonstrated by your personal statement.


* We're also interested to hear about your non-academic achievement and experience, any extracurricular activities, voluntary and paid work, and positions of responsibility. What skills have you gained by these activities? How have you contributed to your community?


How to apply

Tips for your application

* We'll be looking to see that your personal statement explains your interest in the subject, how you possess the desirable skills (above), and how the course is appropriate to your future plans.


* We expect the reference to provide: predictions of examination marks and explanation of less common qualifications such as Access courses and Foundation Years; an overall assessment of the candidate and their suitability for further study; a discussion of earlier exam results and any exceptional circumstances; a discussion of the candidate's intellectual curiosity, interests and suitability for the subject; discussion of extracurricular interests.


The selection process

* UCAS forms are assessed by at least two members of the admissions team. We aim to process all forms within three weeks of our receipt of the form.


*0) We are initially concerned to check that you have A Level Mathematics (or equivalent), and that you are predicted or have achieved A Level ABB for Economics courses (or BBC for Accounting courses) in subjects that are accepted by the department (i.e. not A Level General Studies or Critical Thinking).


* We will then evaluate your UCAS form taking account of:
1) the mix of A-level subjects you are offering we prefer you to have at least one essay-based A Level (my bold)
2) A Level performance/ prediction; the reference
3) GCSE performance
4) the personal statement:
4i) (evidence of interest in and commitment to the subject
4ii) evidence of clear thinking and understanding
4iii) intellectual curiosity
4iv) reading or research beyond the A Level syllabus
4v) a high standard of written English
4vi) skills and interest in foreign language and culture (if applying to study abroad);
4vii) non-academic achievement or experience
4viii); positions of responsibility
4ix), interest in hobbies or pastimes
4x) voluntary work
4xi) work experience.

In all cases we attempt to take account of the opportunities available to candidates