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Economics Uni Bsc Kcl or UoBristol

I’ve applied for economics bsc course and to decide between firming Bristol or KCl . Unsure as to what would be better for graduate prospectus but also have a good student life. I love the city London but have heard mixed opinions on going to uni in London. I wasn’t that fussed with Bristol the city but I think it would have a good student vibe.

If anyone could offer any recommendations or opinions they would be appreciated

:smile:

Reply 1

Graduate prospects are equal, both semi targets for IB and solid targets for cooperate banking etc… (Neither uni would give you the leg up compared to the other) KCL is in London which may make networking easier.

I’m very familiar with the Bristol economics course and know it’s very well wounded and highly quantitative if you pick the right modules.

For being a student the city of Bristol is hard to beat, London will feel extremely soulless and impersonal. Not to mention the extremes cost of living in London.

Additional KCL has sort of been on a decline with many students complaining about lectures only really caring about research etc.. again this is just reviews I’ve seen so I can’t vouch for the credibility.

I’d personally choose Bristol as I think it offers an equally strong degree and a much more enjoyable uni experience.

Any more specific questions you have I’d be happy to answer

Reply 2

Original post
by Fesdces1
Graduate prospects are equal, both semi targets for IB and solid targets for cooperate banking etc… (Neither uni would give you the leg up compared to the other) KCL is in London which may make networking easier.
I’m very familiar with the Bristol economics course and know it’s very well wounded and highly quantitative if you pick the right modules.
For being a student the city of Bristol is hard to beat, London will feel extremely soulless and impersonal. Not to mention the extremes cost of living in London.
Additional KCL has sort of been on a decline with many students complaining about lectures only really caring about research etc.. again this is just reviews I’ve seen so I can’t vouch for the credibility.
I’d personally choose Bristol as I think it offers an equally strong degree and a much more enjoyable uni experience.
Any more specific questions you have I’d be happy to answer

Thank you this is really helpful. I’m mostly worried that if I don’t pick the higher ranked university I will be held back. Do you have any ideas on companies or interneships available at Bristol ??? Any more information would be much appreciated!

🙂

Reply 3

A valid concern, for ranking etc… id say these two institutions are placed as equal worth by employers. Both will be heavily targeted, for specifics on internships, spring weeks and more it’s best to have a look at people’s profile on linked in and see what they are up too.

My understanding of how employees will see unis is

Targets

Oxbridge, UCL, ICL, Warwick LSE

Semi targets

Durham, kings, Bristol, bath, Nottingham,

As both are in semi targets neither will hold you back more than the other if that makes sense. Which is why it’s important to pick the place you deep down think is your best fit, as it will mean you might be more likely to get a 1st, more likely to network and step out of your comfort zone etc…

Genuinely either university will set you up nicely and graduates will be sort after from either.

I’d ask yourself these two questions and that should be the differentiator for which you pick to go to.

1. Which course specification do you prefer
2. What city would you prefer to live in


Additional WSO is amazing for this kinda of information. Would definitely have at look at some previous posts debating between semi targets.

Hope this helps

Reply 4

King’s College London (KCL) is sometimes perceived as being overrated in certain academic areas. While it has a strong reputation in health-related disciplines—particularly nursing and medical sciences—it is generally not considered a first-choice institution for subjects such as economics or engineering. In these fields, universities such as Oxford, Cambridge, Imperial College London, Bristol, Manchester, and Bath are typically regarded as stronger options due to their academic depth, research output, and industry reputation.

Reply 5

Several of the supposedly 'prestigious' London Unis do not have a good reputation for the way they treat their Undergrad students, and are not always the best choices academically. You will be invited to Offer Holder visit days, usually in the spring term, and these are a good opportunity to look around more critically, find out more detailed course information, and think carefully about the reality of being there.

PS. Bristol is an amazing place to be a student - Visit Bristol - The official tourist guide to Bristol

Reply 6

Hey there! That's a tough choice! Both are great universities. For grad prospects, both have strong reputations, so look at the specific economics modules offered and see which aligns better with your interests. Student life is crucial too. London can be amazing but expensive. Bristol is definitely known for its student vibe. Maybe try imagining yourself exploring both cities for a year - would you rather be navigating the bustling streets, or shredding the slopes on during a study break in a quieter place? Good luck deciding!

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