Stuff I wish I knew about LSE before I came, Academics & Accommodation
I’m currently a first year student at LSE, in the midst of completing my first year exams. I study an Economics joint hons degree and I live in halls currently. Here’s everything I wish I knew about LSE before I arrived:
Academics:
- LSE is really hard, there’s no two ways about it. I would highly recommend you do NOT take EC1A3 or EC1B3 if you can avoid it, both of them have extremely high fail rates (between 30 and 40% completely fail, and 80% get a 2.2 and below). If you can’t avoid taking it, be prepared to dedicate every weekend during first year to understanding the content. The maths isn’t that hard, but it is difficult conceptually and you need to know EVERYTHING said in the course, from tiny bulletpoints — there just isn’t any skipping it.
- Most courses operate this way: you have between 1-3 lectures per week for each module/half module, one class of around 10-15 people where you discuss the homework/text you were supposed to read that cover’s that week’s content. Classes can range from going over homework, doing past paper questions, a chance to ask questions about that week’s content, group presentations or just covering that week’s content. LSE makes PhD students to get their MRes while they complete their post-grad degree, so you will almost always be taught be a 25-28 year old who just want’s to focus on their PhD. Oftentimes, it can be their first time teaching the course, which can be difficult for both parties. Additionally, because LSE is such an international university, they may not speak English very well. Naturally, this makes learning difficult; if you can, find out who the good teacher’s are early on and try to switch into their class.
- LSE’s campus is in one concentrated area in Holborn, and is not spread out — I don’t really understand when people say “it doesn’t have a campus vibe” because imo it very much does does!
Accomodation:
- LSE catered halls that aren’t intercollegiate are the best way to surround yourself with people and make friends.
- Bankside is very large, which is kind of conducive for making friends. The whole space gives hotel vibes — with the large entryways, and large no. Of lifts etc. If this is your vibe then that’s fine. It’s very close to Ministry which is good for nights out, and everyone I’ve met who lived there only has good things to say about it.
- Passfield is where all the indie kids with Polaroid cameras seem to live — it seems to have a present alternative scene (idk if this is just for the 24/25 academic year though). It’s in Bloomsbury, but again, is in a very residential area. The kitchens for all catered accomodation are very small and very basic — no oven, just four hobs. They can be shared for up to 30 people.
- Carr-Saunders is the clubbing/very social accomodation — people seemed to go out every week during freshers and first term, which is also helped by the fact Carr Saunders is very well located (smack bang in the middle of Central London, right off Oxford Street). Is also right next to a 24/7 Tesco, a PureGym, a Boots, and some other handy shops. It’s close to Soho which is very trendy neighbourhood for young people. My friend who lived there said the toilets flood on a termly basis which mean they are shut down quite often. Also the toilets and kitchen are shared between a lot of people, which could cause issues.
- Rosebery seems kind of irrelevant imo, never met anyone who lived there.
- Sidney Webb as an actual accomodation is quite nice — you get your own bathroom which is a TOTAL plus, and a reasonably sized shared kitchen — but is very very far away from anything, and is in a completely residential area. Expect to spend at least 30 mins on a bus commuting to uni. There are zero shops near it except from a Sainsbury’s opposite.
- Intercollegiate hall seemed to have quite a close knit community, which is great if this is your vibe, but on the outside it looks very run down.
- Garden Halls is very clean, modern, and spacious, but it’s evident through the prices. Everyone I’ve met who lived there has had no problem with the hall itself, but have said that the people are very snobby/all seem to know each other on the first day/unsocial and don’t really want to make friends. Of course take this with a grain of salt, there will be great people wherever you live and I know people who have formed tight knit friendship groups in Garden halls.
Academics:
- LSE is really hard, there’s no two ways about it. I would highly recommend you do NOT take EC1A3 or EC1B3 if you can avoid it, both of them have extremely high fail rates (between 30 and 40% completely fail, and 80% get a 2.2 and below). If you can’t avoid taking it, be prepared to dedicate every weekend during first year to understanding the content. The maths isn’t that hard, but it is difficult conceptually and you need to know EVERYTHING said in the course, from tiny bulletpoints — there just isn’t any skipping it.
- Most courses operate this way: you have between 1-3 lectures per week for each module/half module, one class of around 10-15 people where you discuss the homework/text you were supposed to read that cover’s that week’s content. Classes can range from going over homework, doing past paper questions, a chance to ask questions about that week’s content, group presentations or just covering that week’s content. LSE makes PhD students to get their MRes while they complete their post-grad degree, so you will almost always be taught be a 25-28 year old who just want’s to focus on their PhD. Oftentimes, it can be their first time teaching the course, which can be difficult for both parties. Additionally, because LSE is such an international university, they may not speak English very well. Naturally, this makes learning difficult; if you can, find out who the good teacher’s are early on and try to switch into their class.
- LSE’s campus is in one concentrated area in Holborn, and is not spread out — I don’t really understand when people say “it doesn’t have a campus vibe” because imo it very much does does!
Accomodation:
- LSE catered halls that aren’t intercollegiate are the best way to surround yourself with people and make friends.
- Bankside is very large, which is kind of conducive for making friends. The whole space gives hotel vibes — with the large entryways, and large no. Of lifts etc. If this is your vibe then that’s fine. It’s very close to Ministry which is good for nights out, and everyone I’ve met who lived there only has good things to say about it.
- Passfield is where all the indie kids with Polaroid cameras seem to live — it seems to have a present alternative scene (idk if this is just for the 24/25 academic year though). It’s in Bloomsbury, but again, is in a very residential area. The kitchens for all catered accomodation are very small and very basic — no oven, just four hobs. They can be shared for up to 30 people.
- Carr-Saunders is the clubbing/very social accomodation — people seemed to go out every week during freshers and first term, which is also helped by the fact Carr Saunders is very well located (smack bang in the middle of Central London, right off Oxford Street). Is also right next to a 24/7 Tesco, a PureGym, a Boots, and some other handy shops. It’s close to Soho which is very trendy neighbourhood for young people. My friend who lived there said the toilets flood on a termly basis which mean they are shut down quite often. Also the toilets and kitchen are shared between a lot of people, which could cause issues.
- Rosebery seems kind of irrelevant imo, never met anyone who lived there.
- Sidney Webb as an actual accomodation is quite nice — you get your own bathroom which is a TOTAL plus, and a reasonably sized shared kitchen — but is very very far away from anything, and is in a completely residential area. Expect to spend at least 30 mins on a bus commuting to uni. There are zero shops near it except from a Sainsbury’s opposite.
- Intercollegiate hall seemed to have quite a close knit community, which is great if this is your vibe, but on the outside it looks very run down.
- Garden Halls is very clean, modern, and spacious, but it’s evident through the prices. Everyone I’ve met who lived there has had no problem with the hall itself, but have said that the people are very snobby/all seem to know each other on the first day/unsocial and don’t really want to make friends. Of course take this with a grain of salt, there will be great people wherever you live and I know people who have formed tight knit friendship groups in Garden halls.
Reply 1
So are you saying you wish you hadn't gone there?
Reply 2
this is so incredibly helpful, thank you! i have a few questions if you don't mind? don't worry about answering them all- literally any info is greatly appreciated!!
1- i've booked carr-saunders, i've heard that its very social but do you know what type of people it tends to attract? or is it a mix of lots of different types? oh and do yk if it has many 2nd/3rd years?
2- would you say it is easy to make friends (if you put yourself out there ofc)?
3- do you recommend joining a sports soc?
4- are there any specific bars/clubs that are the 'go to's for lse students on a night out?
5- you mentioned the fail rate for some ec modules, is there a spreadsheet/database where i can see these for other modules? or was it a rough estimate?
thank you!!
1- i've booked carr-saunders, i've heard that its very social but do you know what type of people it tends to attract? or is it a mix of lots of different types? oh and do yk if it has many 2nd/3rd years?
2- would you say it is easy to make friends (if you put yourself out there ofc)?
3- do you recommend joining a sports soc?
4- are there any specific bars/clubs that are the 'go to's for lse students on a night out?
5- you mentioned the fail rate for some ec modules, is there a spreadsheet/database where i can see these for other modules? or was it a rough estimate?
thank you!!
Reply 3
Original post by Anonymous
I’m currently a first year student at LSE, in the midst of completing my first year exams. I study an Economics joint hons degree and I live in halls currently. Here’s everything I wish I knew about LSE before I arrived:
Academics:
- LSE is really hard, there’s no two ways about it. I would highly recommend you do NOT take EC1A3 or EC1B3 if you can avoid it, both of them have extremely high fail rates (between 30 and 40% completely fail, and 80% get a 2.2 and below). If you can’t avoid taking it, be prepared to dedicate every weekend during first year to understanding the content. The maths isn’t that hard, but it is difficult conceptually and you need to know EVERYTHING said in the course, from tiny bulletpoints — there just isn’t any skipping it.
- Most courses operate this way: you have between 1-3 lectures per week for each module/half module, one class of around 10-15 people where you discuss the homework/text you were supposed to read that cover’s that week’s content. Classes can range from going over homework, doing past paper questions, a chance to ask questions about that week’s content, group presentations or just covering that week’s content. LSE makes PhD students to get their MRes while they complete their post-grad degree, so you will almost always be taught be a 25-28 year old who just want’s to focus on their PhD. Oftentimes, it can be their first time teaching the course, which can be difficult for both parties. Additionally, because LSE is such an international university, they may not speak English very well. Naturally, this makes learning difficult; if you can, find out who the good teacher’s are early on and try to switch into their class.
- LSE’s campus is in one concentrated area in Holborn, and is not spread out — I don’t really understand when people say “it doesn’t have a campus vibe” because imo it very much does does!
Accomodation:
- LSE catered halls that aren’t intercollegiate are the best way to surround yourself with people and make friends.
- Bankside is very large, which is kind of conducive for making friends. The whole space gives hotel vibes — with the large entryways, and large no. Of lifts etc. If this is your vibe then that’s fine. It’s very close to Ministry which is good for nights out, and everyone I’ve met who lived there only has good things to say about it.
- Passfield is where all the indie kids with Polaroid cameras seem to live — it seems to have a present alternative scene (idk if this is just for the 24/25 academic year though). It’s in Bloomsbury, but again, is in a very residential area. The kitchens for all catered accomodation are very small and very basic — no oven, just four hobs. They can be shared for up to 30 people.
- Carr-Saunders is the clubbing/very social accomodation — people seemed to go out every week during freshers and first term, which is also helped by the fact Carr Saunders is very well located (smack bang in the middle of Central London, right off Oxford Street). Is also right next to a 24/7 Tesco, a PureGym, a Boots, and some other handy shops. It’s close to Soho which is very trendy neighbourhood for young people. My friend who lived there said the toilets flood on a termly basis which mean they are shut down quite often. Also the toilets and kitchen are shared between a lot of people, which could cause issues.
- Rosebery seems kind of irrelevant imo, never met anyone who lived there.
- Sidney Webb as an actual accomodation is quite nice — you get your own bathroom which is a TOTAL plus, and a reasonably sized shared kitchen — but is very very far away from anything, and is in a completely residential area. Expect to spend at least 30 mins on a bus commuting to uni. There are zero shops near it except from a Sainsbury’s opposite.
- Intercollegiate hall seemed to have quite a close knit community, which is great if this is your vibe, but on the outside it looks very run down.
- Garden Halls is very clean, modern, and spacious, but it’s evident through the prices. Everyone I’ve met who lived there has had no problem with the hall itself, but have said that the people are very snobby/all seem to know each other on the first day/unsocial and don’t really want to make friends. Of course take this with a grain of salt, there will be great people wherever you live and I know people who have formed tight knit friendship groups in Garden halls.
Academics:
- LSE is really hard, there’s no two ways about it. I would highly recommend you do NOT take EC1A3 or EC1B3 if you can avoid it, both of them have extremely high fail rates (between 30 and 40% completely fail, and 80% get a 2.2 and below). If you can’t avoid taking it, be prepared to dedicate every weekend during first year to understanding the content. The maths isn’t that hard, but it is difficult conceptually and you need to know EVERYTHING said in the course, from tiny bulletpoints — there just isn’t any skipping it.
- Most courses operate this way: you have between 1-3 lectures per week for each module/half module, one class of around 10-15 people where you discuss the homework/text you were supposed to read that cover’s that week’s content. Classes can range from going over homework, doing past paper questions, a chance to ask questions about that week’s content, group presentations or just covering that week’s content. LSE makes PhD students to get their MRes while they complete their post-grad degree, so you will almost always be taught be a 25-28 year old who just want’s to focus on their PhD. Oftentimes, it can be their first time teaching the course, which can be difficult for both parties. Additionally, because LSE is such an international university, they may not speak English very well. Naturally, this makes learning difficult; if you can, find out who the good teacher’s are early on and try to switch into their class.
- LSE’s campus is in one concentrated area in Holborn, and is not spread out — I don’t really understand when people say “it doesn’t have a campus vibe” because imo it very much does does!
Accomodation:
- LSE catered halls that aren’t intercollegiate are the best way to surround yourself with people and make friends.
- Bankside is very large, which is kind of conducive for making friends. The whole space gives hotel vibes — with the large entryways, and large no. Of lifts etc. If this is your vibe then that’s fine. It’s very close to Ministry which is good for nights out, and everyone I’ve met who lived there only has good things to say about it.
- Passfield is where all the indie kids with Polaroid cameras seem to live — it seems to have a present alternative scene (idk if this is just for the 24/25 academic year though). It’s in Bloomsbury, but again, is in a very residential area. The kitchens for all catered accomodation are very small and very basic — no oven, just four hobs. They can be shared for up to 30 people.
- Carr-Saunders is the clubbing/very social accomodation — people seemed to go out every week during freshers and first term, which is also helped by the fact Carr Saunders is very well located (smack bang in the middle of Central London, right off Oxford Street). Is also right next to a 24/7 Tesco, a PureGym, a Boots, and some other handy shops. It’s close to Soho which is very trendy neighbourhood for young people. My friend who lived there said the toilets flood on a termly basis which mean they are shut down quite often. Also the toilets and kitchen are shared between a lot of people, which could cause issues.
- Rosebery seems kind of irrelevant imo, never met anyone who lived there.
- Sidney Webb as an actual accomodation is quite nice — you get your own bathroom which is a TOTAL plus, and a reasonably sized shared kitchen — but is very very far away from anything, and is in a completely residential area. Expect to spend at least 30 mins on a bus commuting to uni. There are zero shops near it except from a Sainsbury’s opposite.
- Intercollegiate hall seemed to have quite a close knit community, which is great if this is your vibe, but on the outside it looks very run down.
- Garden Halls is very clean, modern, and spacious, but it’s evident through the prices. Everyone I’ve met who lived there has had no problem with the hall itself, but have said that the people are very snobby/all seem to know each other on the first day/unsocial and don’t really want to make friends. Of course take this with a grain of salt, there will be great people wherever you live and I know people who have formed tight knit friendship groups in Garden halls.
Hi 2nd year finance and banking student going into 3rd year soon. I don’t got to LSE, but I will say, what did you expect? The content is going to be very vigours mathematically, formatting, and like most top RGs/ non RGs (St.Andrews) they do expect you to know things that others in universities don’t. Even in economics, you need a very good foundation on the finance element if you are going to do well in this field (might be something you invest time into). I also did Economics modules (maybe not as vigours as LSE might be) but I can 100% assure you that having a good grip on finance will help you 100%. However, back to the original point, what did you expect? LSE isn’t the best in the world for finance/business/Econ for nothing 🤣, if you wanted more social life so you’re not studying all the time then, picking LSE was your own fault. But I do wish you all the best
Reply 4
Original post by frazlle
this is so incredibly helpful, thank you! i have a few questions if you don't mind? don't worry about answering them all- literally any info is greatly appreciated!!
1- i've booked carr-saunders, i've heard that its very social but do you know what type of people it tends to attract? or is it a mix of lots of different types? oh and do yk if it has many 2nd/3rd years?
2- would you say it is easy to make friends (if you put yourself out there ofc)?
3- do you recommend joining a sports soc?
4- are there any specific bars/clubs that are the 'go to's for lse students on a night out?
5- you mentioned the fail rate for some ec modules, is there a spreadsheet/database where i can see these for other modules? or was it a rough estimate?
thank you!!
1- i've booked carr-saunders, i've heard that its very social but do you know what type of people it tends to attract? or is it a mix of lots of different types? oh and do yk if it has many 2nd/3rd years?
2- would you say it is easy to make friends (if you put yourself out there ofc)?
3- do you recommend joining a sports soc?
4- are there any specific bars/clubs that are the 'go to's for lse students on a night out?
5- you mentioned the fail rate for some ec modules, is there a spreadsheet/database where i can see these for other modules? or was it a rough estimate?
thank you!!
I don’t go to LSE, but I can offer you some insight on your 5th point. Fail rate sheet won’t do you any good 🤣 everyone’s strengths are different, and fail rates change every year. (This wouldn’t be widely available online, normally things like this are kept within the uni). Obvs I high fail rate isn’t a good thing, but it’s not a bad thing either! Your other points suggest you’re actually quite social. I would say if you’re looking for a thriving social life LSE isn’t for you! Especially in economics! You will need to be studying practically every day, you will be stressed, you will be challenged and most importantly you might be learning complex concepts/models you haven’t learnt before. That doesn’t mean you can’t have a social life, but it’s definitely not something you can do often! Unless you’re some genius that can remember things quite easy and not just “book smart”. Thought I would add this info in before you end up like many others who go to LSE, Oxford, Cambridge etc, these types of universities ain’t for the light hearted, you won’t have a thriving social life, your lover would be the library 🤣. I do wish you all the best and good luck
Reply 5
Original post by Anonymous
I’m currently a first year student at LSE, in the midst of completing my first year exams. I study an Economics joint hons degree and I live in halls currently. Here’s everything I wish I knew about LSE before I arrived:
Academics:
- LSE is really hard, there’s no two ways about it. I would highly recommend you do NOT take EC1A3 or EC1B3 if you can avoid it, both of them have extremely high fail rates (between 30 and 40% completely fail, and 80% get a 2.2 and below). If you can’t avoid taking it, be prepared to dedicate every weekend during first year to understanding the content. The maths isn’t that hard, but it is difficult conceptually and you need to know EVERYTHING said in the course, from tiny bulletpoints — there just isn’t any skipping it.
- Most courses operate this way: you have between 1-3 lectures per week for each module/half module, one class of around 10-15 people where you discuss the homework/text you were supposed to read that cover’s that week’s content. Classes can range from going over homework, doing past paper questions, a chance to ask questions about that week’s content, group presentations or just covering that week’s content. LSE makes PhD students to get their MRes while they complete their post-grad degree, so you will almost always be taught be a 25-28 year old who just want’s to focus on their PhD. Oftentimes, it can be their first time teaching the course, which can be difficult for both parties. Additionally, because LSE is such an international university, they may not speak English very well. Naturally, this makes learning difficult; if you can, find out who the good teacher’s are early on and try to switch into their class.
- LSE’s campus is in one concentrated area in Holborn, and is not spread out — I don’t really understand when people say “it doesn’t have a campus vibe” because imo it very much does does!
Accomodation:
- LSE catered halls that aren’t intercollegiate are the best way to surround yourself with people and make friends.
- Bankside is very large, which is kind of conducive for making friends. The whole space gives hotel vibes — with the large entryways, and large no. Of lifts etc. If this is your vibe then that’s fine. It’s very close to Ministry which is good for nights out, and everyone I’ve met who lived there only has good things to say about it.
- Passfield is where all the indie kids with Polaroid cameras seem to live — it seems to have a present alternative scene (idk if this is just for the 24/25 academic year though). It’s in Bloomsbury, but again, is in a very residential area. The kitchens for all catered accomodation are very small and very basic — no oven, just four hobs. They can be shared for up to 30 people.
- Carr-Saunders is the clubbing/very social accomodation — people seemed to go out every week during freshers and first term, which is also helped by the fact Carr Saunders is very well located (smack bang in the middle of Central London, right off Oxford Street). Is also right next to a 24/7 Tesco, a PureGym, a Boots, and some other handy shops. It’s close to Soho which is very trendy neighbourhood for young people. My friend who lived there said the toilets flood on a termly basis which mean they are shut down quite often. Also the toilets and kitchen are shared between a lot of people, which could cause issues.
- Rosebery seems kind of irrelevant imo, never met anyone who lived there.
- Sidney Webb as an actual accomodation is quite nice — you get your own bathroom which is a TOTAL plus, and a reasonably sized shared kitchen — but is very very far away from anything, and is in a completely residential area. Expect to spend at least 30 mins on a bus commuting to uni. There are zero shops near it except from a Sainsbury’s opposite.
- Intercollegiate hall seemed to have quite a close knit community, which is great if this is your vibe, but on the outside it looks very run down.
- Garden Halls is very clean, modern, and spacious, but it’s evident through the prices. Everyone I’ve met who lived there has had no problem with the hall itself, but have said that the people are very snobby/all seem to know each other on the first day/unsocial and don’t really want to make friends. Of course take this with a grain of salt, there will be great people wherever you live and I know people who have formed tight knit friendship groups in Garden halls.
Academics:
- LSE is really hard, there’s no two ways about it. I would highly recommend you do NOT take EC1A3 or EC1B3 if you can avoid it, both of them have extremely high fail rates (between 30 and 40% completely fail, and 80% get a 2.2 and below). If you can’t avoid taking it, be prepared to dedicate every weekend during first year to understanding the content. The maths isn’t that hard, but it is difficult conceptually and you need to know EVERYTHING said in the course, from tiny bulletpoints — there just isn’t any skipping it.
- Most courses operate this way: you have between 1-3 lectures per week for each module/half module, one class of around 10-15 people where you discuss the homework/text you were supposed to read that cover’s that week’s content. Classes can range from going over homework, doing past paper questions, a chance to ask questions about that week’s content, group presentations or just covering that week’s content. LSE makes PhD students to get their MRes while they complete their post-grad degree, so you will almost always be taught be a 25-28 year old who just want’s to focus on their PhD. Oftentimes, it can be their first time teaching the course, which can be difficult for both parties. Additionally, because LSE is such an international university, they may not speak English very well. Naturally, this makes learning difficult; if you can, find out who the good teacher’s are early on and try to switch into their class.
- LSE’s campus is in one concentrated area in Holborn, and is not spread out — I don’t really understand when people say “it doesn’t have a campus vibe” because imo it very much does does!
Accomodation:
- LSE catered halls that aren’t intercollegiate are the best way to surround yourself with people and make friends.
- Bankside is very large, which is kind of conducive for making friends. The whole space gives hotel vibes — with the large entryways, and large no. Of lifts etc. If this is your vibe then that’s fine. It’s very close to Ministry which is good for nights out, and everyone I’ve met who lived there only has good things to say about it.
- Passfield is where all the indie kids with Polaroid cameras seem to live — it seems to have a present alternative scene (idk if this is just for the 24/25 academic year though). It’s in Bloomsbury, but again, is in a very residential area. The kitchens for all catered accomodation are very small and very basic — no oven, just four hobs. They can be shared for up to 30 people.
- Carr-Saunders is the clubbing/very social accomodation — people seemed to go out every week during freshers and first term, which is also helped by the fact Carr Saunders is very well located (smack bang in the middle of Central London, right off Oxford Street). Is also right next to a 24/7 Tesco, a PureGym, a Boots, and some other handy shops. It’s close to Soho which is very trendy neighbourhood for young people. My friend who lived there said the toilets flood on a termly basis which mean they are shut down quite often. Also the toilets and kitchen are shared between a lot of people, which could cause issues.
- Rosebery seems kind of irrelevant imo, never met anyone who lived there.
- Sidney Webb as an actual accomodation is quite nice — you get your own bathroom which is a TOTAL plus, and a reasonably sized shared kitchen — but is very very far away from anything, and is in a completely residential area. Expect to spend at least 30 mins on a bus commuting to uni. There are zero shops near it except from a Sainsbury’s opposite.
- Intercollegiate hall seemed to have quite a close knit community, which is great if this is your vibe, but on the outside it looks very run down.
- Garden Halls is very clean, modern, and spacious, but it’s evident through the prices. Everyone I’ve met who lived there has had no problem with the hall itself, but have said that the people are very snobby/all seem to know each other on the first day/unsocial and don’t really want to make friends. Of course take this with a grain of salt, there will be great people wherever you live and I know people who have formed tight knit friendship groups in Garden halls.
I'm not an LSE student, but just out of curiosity what are the two modules that you mentioned? Econometrics and something else maybe?
Reply 6
Original post by SiberianLIGER
I'm not an LSE student, but just out of curiosity what are the two modules that you mentioned? Econometrics and something else maybe?
Here is a break down to what they cover (this is subject to change, but it’s pretty much the same each year)
EC1A3 – Introductory Microeconomics
Topics Covered:
• Supply & demand analysis
• Consumer theory: preferences, utility, budget constraints
• Firm behavior: cost structures, profit maximization
• Market structures: perfect competition, monopoly, oligopoly
• Market failure: externalities, public goods, government intervention
Maths Used:
• Basic algebra
• Graphs and curve shifts
• Optimisation (verbally and with simple equations)
• Marginal analysis (cost/benefit)
EC1B3 – Introductory Macroeconomics
Topics Covered:
• National income accounting (GDP, GNP)
• Aggregate demand and supply
• IS-LM model (goods and money markets)
• Unemployment & inflation
• Fiscal and monetary policy
• Economic growth (e.g. Solow model basics)
• Exchange rates and open economy concepts
Maths Used:
• Algebraic equations for macro models
• Graphs (IS-LM, AD-AS curves)
• Growth rates and percentage changes
• Some simple calculus (optional or intuitive use)
To be honest pretty decent stuff for first year Economics, but by no means is this “extremely hard” if you took A level maths or further maths (which is mandatory for LSE). If this has a very high fail rate in first year, I would tend to disagree, and say the person who made this thread is probably overestimating it, or that year was just not as engaged. Is it hard? Yes, is it the hardest out of the first year modules No!. I will add though, that everyone strengths are different, but realistically if you pay attention to the lectures, use resources well, then by no means should it have a fail rate of 40-50%, that’s a huge fail rate especially for first year. It’s more like 10-15% realistically, if it goes any higher, for first year, the university would be sending loads of emails to the head of Economics 🤣.
Also, the modules named are not core modules for LSE, they are usually targeted towards international students, and are by no means “difficult” these modules are normally quite easy compared to EC100/102. Plus that claim of constant 30-40% is very high, this would trigger an “academic review” so this is very exaggerated. Most should be passing! The pass rate for these modules should be around 80%+, the fail rate I would say between 0-20%, 20% is definitely still high considering the module outline.
(edited 2 weeks ago)
Reply 7
Original post by Rhewer1
Here is a break down to what they cover (this is subject to change, but it’s pretty much the same each year)
EC1A3 – Introductory Microeconomics
Topics Covered:
• Supply & demand analysis
• Consumer theory: preferences, utility, budget constraints
• Firm behavior: cost structures, profit maximization
• Market structures: perfect competition, monopoly, oligopoly
• Market failure: externalities, public goods, government intervention
Maths Used:
• Basic algebra
• Graphs and curve shifts
• Optimisation (verbally and with simple equations)
• Marginal analysis (cost/benefit)
EC1B3 – Introductory Macroeconomics
Topics Covered:
• National income accounting (GDP, GNP)
• Aggregate demand and supply
• IS-LM model (goods and money markets)
• Unemployment & inflation
• Fiscal and monetary policy
• Economic growth (e.g. Solow model basics)
• Exchange rates and open economy concepts
Maths Used:
• Algebraic equations for macro models
• Graphs (IS-LM, AD-AS curves)
• Growth rates and percentage changes
• Some simple calculus (optional or intuitive use)
To be honest pretty decent stuff for first year Economics, but by no means is this “extremely hard” if you took A level maths or further maths (which is mandatory for LSE). If this has a very high fail rate in first year, I would tend to disagree, and say the person who made this thread is probably overestimating it, or that year was just not as engaged. Is it hard? Yes, is it the hardest out of the first year modules No!. I will add though, that everyone strengths are different, but realistically if you pay attention to the lectures, use resources well, then by no means should it have a fail rate of 40-50%, that’s a huge fail rate especially for first year. It’s more like 10-15% realistically, if it goes any higher, for first year, the university would be sending loads of emails to the head of Economics 🤣.
Also, the modules named are not core modules for LSE, they are usually targeted towards international students, and are by no means “difficult” these modules are normally quite easy compared to EC100/102. Plus that claim of constant 30-40% is very high, this would trigger an “academic review” so this is very exaggerated. Most should be passing! The pass rate for these modules should be around 80%+, the fail rate I would say between 0-20%, 20% is definitely still high considering the module outline.
EC1A3 – Introductory Microeconomics
Topics Covered:
• Supply & demand analysis
• Consumer theory: preferences, utility, budget constraints
• Firm behavior: cost structures, profit maximization
• Market structures: perfect competition, monopoly, oligopoly
• Market failure: externalities, public goods, government intervention
Maths Used:
• Basic algebra
• Graphs and curve shifts
• Optimisation (verbally and with simple equations)
• Marginal analysis (cost/benefit)
EC1B3 – Introductory Macroeconomics
Topics Covered:
• National income accounting (GDP, GNP)
• Aggregate demand and supply
• IS-LM model (goods and money markets)
• Unemployment & inflation
• Fiscal and monetary policy
• Economic growth (e.g. Solow model basics)
• Exchange rates and open economy concepts
Maths Used:
• Algebraic equations for macro models
• Graphs (IS-LM, AD-AS curves)
• Growth rates and percentage changes
• Some simple calculus (optional or intuitive use)
To be honest pretty decent stuff for first year Economics, but by no means is this “extremely hard” if you took A level maths or further maths (which is mandatory for LSE). If this has a very high fail rate in first year, I would tend to disagree, and say the person who made this thread is probably overestimating it, or that year was just not as engaged. Is it hard? Yes, is it the hardest out of the first year modules No!. I will add though, that everyone strengths are different, but realistically if you pay attention to the lectures, use resources well, then by no means should it have a fail rate of 40-50%, that’s a huge fail rate especially for first year. It’s more like 10-15% realistically, if it goes any higher, for first year, the university would be sending loads of emails to the head of Economics 🤣.
Also, the modules named are not core modules for LSE, they are usually targeted towards international students, and are by no means “difficult” these modules are normally quite easy compared to EC100/102. Plus that claim of constant 30-40% is very high, this would trigger an “academic review” so this is very exaggerated. Most should be passing! The pass rate for these modules should be around 80%+, the fail rate I would say between 0-20%, 20% is definitely still high considering the module outline.
Thanks for the reply.
This seems like standard first year macro and micro, no? Perhaps they teach it in more detail. It would be interesting to know what the compulsory macro and micro modules are if these are optional ones.
Reply 8
Original post by SiberianLIGER
Thanks for the reply.
This seems like standard first year macro and micro, no? Perhaps they teach it in more detail. It would be interesting to know what the compulsory macro and micro modules are if these are optional ones.
This seems like standard first year macro and micro, no? Perhaps they teach it in more detail. It would be interesting to know what the compulsory macro and micro modules are if these are optional ones.
Yes correct.
No they don’t, these modules are meant to be way easier than EC100/102 which most “non international” students (year abroad at LSE) would take. If you’re not an international student or part time student (failed to mention that in my original post), then the EC100/102 will be in more depth, not just 1 term, it will be spread throughout the full year. The EC100/102, is way more rigours and mandatory for full time students attending the LSE Bsc Economics course. The course outlined in the original thread is only offered for part time/international students (year abroad studying at LSE). Any more questions about econ, finance etc I’ll gladly answer
(edited 2 weeks ago)
Reply 9
Original post by SiberianLIGER
Thanks for the reply.
This seems like standard first year macro and micro, no? Perhaps they teach it in more detail. It would be interesting to know what the compulsory macro and micro modules are if these are optional ones.
This seems like standard first year macro and micro, no? Perhaps they teach it in more detail. It would be interesting to know what the compulsory macro and micro modules are if these are optional ones.
Mandatory First-Year Modules for BSc Economics at LSE:
1.
EC102 – Economics A
•
Core introductory economics module.
•
Covers both micro and macro in significant depth.
•
Highly mathematical — uses calculus, algebra, and formal models.
•
Prepares students for second-year intermediate economics (EC201 and EC202).
2.
MA100 – Mathematical Methods
•
Covers topics like:
•
Functions, sequences, limits
•
Differential and integral calculus
•
Matrices and linear algebra
•
Essential for modeling in economics and econometrics.
3.
ST102 – Elementary Statistical Theory
•
Introduction to probability and statistics.
•
Topics include:
•
Descriptive statistics
•
Probability distributions
•
Hypothesis testing
•
Regression basics
•
Strong mathematical component — proofs and derivations expected.
4.
LSE100 – The LSE Course (now phased out or optional)
Interdisciplinary course (used to focus on big global issues from multiple disciplines).
•
Not always credit-bearing.
•
Often replaced with an approved outside option in later years.
Reply 10
Original post by Rhewer1
Yes correct.
No they don’t, these modules are meant to be way easier than EC100/102 which most “non international” students (year abroad at LSE) would take. If you’re not an international student or part time student (failed to mention that in my original post), then the EC100/102 will be in more depth, not just 1 term, it will be spread throughout the full year. The EC100/102, is way more rigours and mandatory for full time students attending the LSE Bsc Economics course. The course outlined in the original thread is only offered for part time/international students (year abroad studying at LSE). Any more questions about econ, finance etc I’ll gladly answer
No they don’t, these modules are meant to be way easier than EC100/102 which most “non international” students (year abroad at LSE) would take. If you’re not an international student or part time student (failed to mention that in my original post), then the EC100/102 will be in more depth, not just 1 term, it will be spread throughout the full year. The EC100/102, is way more rigours and mandatory for full time students attending the LSE Bsc Economics course. The course outlined in the original thread is only offered for part time/international students (year abroad studying at LSE). Any more questions about econ, finance etc I’ll gladly answer
do you know how people find the EC1A5 and EC1B5 modules? im not good at nor do i enjoy maths and havent taken maths or econ for a level but i really want to learn about economics just because i think its really important knowledge to have. the module guide says its a conceptual introduction with minimal maths, do you know how true that is? do people without maths skills really struggle in these modules?
Reply 11
Original post by Anonymous
do you know how people find the EC1A5 and EC1B5 modules? im not good at nor do i enjoy maths and havent taken maths or econ for a level but i really want to learn about economics just because i think its really important knowledge to have. the module guide says its a conceptual introduction with minimal maths, do you know how true that is? do people without maths skills really struggle in these modules?
Anything “economics” at university level with be heavily mathematical and analytical. However if you just want to know about “financial economics, development economics” get a firm grip of finance in general before even considering anything economical. My advice would be to go on YouTube type in “LIBF Certificate in financial studies” (u don’t get the certificate) but they break down exam questions, and sometimes other YouTube channels cover content about LIBF. Like yourself I didn’t do A level maths or economics. But this course I took at A level (Diploma and Certificate) let’s just say I was outclassing most people even in mathematical modules, because I knew the finance and they didn’t. That would be my advice, learn the finance first before learning anything about uni/a level grade economics. Any more questions feel free to ask
Reply 12
Original post by Rhewer1
Yes correct.
No they don’t, these modules are meant to be way easier than EC100/102 which most “non international” students (year abroad at LSE) would take. If you’re not an international student or part time student (failed to mention that in my original post), then the EC100/102 will be in more depth, not just 1 term, it will be spread throughout the full year. The EC100/102, is way more rigours and mandatory for full time students attending the LSE Bsc Economics course. The course outlined in the original thread is only offered for part time/international students (year abroad studying at LSE). Any more questions about econ, finance etc I’ll gladly answer
No they don’t, these modules are meant to be way easier than EC100/102 which most “non international” students (year abroad at LSE) would take. If you’re not an international student or part time student (failed to mention that in my original post), then the EC100/102 will be in more depth, not just 1 term, it will be spread throughout the full year. The EC100/102, is way more rigours and mandatory for full time students attending the LSE Bsc Economics course. The course outlined in the original thread is only offered for part time/international students (year abroad studying at LSE). Any more questions about econ, finance etc I’ll gladly answer
Ah. That makes more sense.
From the sounds of it you're a student yourself? If so, any thoughts on the course and how it's taught? What do you think about the quality of lectures and classes?
As an outsider I have the (admittedly biased) impression that LSE's culture has a sort of corporate feel to it. When I think of an LSE student I think of people who have started applying for spring weeks and internships before they've even enrolled (in contrast, I didn't even know what spring weeks were). I haven't had the chance to ask someone actually doing LSE Econ about their take.
Reply 13
Original post by SiberianLIGER
Ah. That makes more sense.
From the sounds of it you're a student yourself? If so, any thoughts on the course and how it's taught? What do you think about the quality of lectures and classes?
As an outsider I have the (admittedly biased) impression that LSE's culture has a sort of corporate feel to it. When I think of an LSE student I think of people who have started applying for spring weeks and internships before they've even enrolled (in contrast, I didn't even know what spring weeks were). I haven't had the chance to ask someone actually doing LSE Econ about their take.
From the sounds of it you're a student yourself? If so, any thoughts on the course and how it's taught? What do you think about the quality of lectures and classes?
As an outsider I have the (admittedly biased) impression that LSE's culture has a sort of corporate feel to it. When I think of an LSE student I think of people who have started applying for spring weeks and internships before they've even enrolled (in contrast, I didn't even know what spring weeks were). I haven't had the chance to ask someone actually doing LSE Econ about their take.
I’m not a student myself I’m afraid, I am a student but not at LSE. So I can only give you how my course is taught (Non Rg) versus a top RG. Likewise I can’t give you how it is to study econ at LSE. However, I can give you how it is to study econ, finance etc at uni, if that’s what you want to know mainly. Also, everyone’s experiences are different, you might find someone on here studying at LSE, their view, or how they might look at a course maybe entirely different to another. (Thought I should point that out)
Reply 14
Original post by SiberianLIGER
Ah. That makes more sense.
From the sounds of it you're a student yourself? If so, any thoughts on the course and how it's taught? What do you think about the quality of lectures and classes?
As an outsider I have the (admittedly biased) impression that LSE's culture has a sort of corporate feel to it. When I think of an LSE student I think of people who have started applying for spring weeks and internships before they've even enrolled (in contrast, I didn't even know what spring weeks were). I haven't had the chance to ask someone actually doing LSE Econ about their take.
From the sounds of it you're a student yourself? If so, any thoughts on the course and how it's taught? What do you think about the quality of lectures and classes?
As an outsider I have the (admittedly biased) impression that LSE's culture has a sort of corporate feel to it. When I think of an LSE student I think of people who have started applying for spring weeks and internships before they've even enrolled (in contrast, I didn't even know what spring weeks were). I haven't had the chance to ask someone actually doing LSE Econ about their take.
Thought I should add there is no need to get political here 🤣 LSE isn’t the top in the world for business and finance for nothing. They attract big money, high class (corporate guys), rich daddy student money. But don’t be mistaken, although that might be the case 30-40 years ago, it’s definitely not that anymore. The same concept to could be applied to any university! That’s just how things was run back then, no need to hate on it, because quite frankly, without that, research wouldn’t be as big (less innovation, medicine) So it’s all good to form a political idea of top unis like LSE, Oxford, Cambridge etc, but don’t put a figure on students, cause the majority don’t come from money and have worked their backside off to get it, it’s insulting to them. I would say more but I do want to stay respectful, but even I found what u said insulting and I’m not even a student at LSE.
Reply 15
Original post by Rhewer1
Thought I should add there is no need to get political here 🤣 LSE isn’t the top in the world for business and finance for nothing. They attract big money, high class (corporate guys), rich daddy student money. But don’t be mistaken, although that might be the case 30-40 years ago, it’s definitely not that anymore. The same concept to could be applied to any university! That’s just how things was run back then, no need to hate on it, because quite frankly, without that, research wouldn’t be as big (less innovation, medicine) So it’s all good to form a political idea of top unis like LSE, Oxford, Cambridge etc, but don’t put a figure on students, cause the majority don’t come from money and have worked their backside off to get it, it’s insulting to them. I would say more but I do want to stay respectful, but even I found what u said insulting and I’m not even a student at LSE.
Apologies. I didn't mean to be disrespectful, and I'm an econ student myself. I just thought I'd take the opportunity to get someone else's view.
I've got nothing against students at LSE. I just thought that the culture doesn't mesh well with me specifically. I don't doubt that they're great people (hell, I know many people like that in my own course, and they're great too).
Please don't take offence. But if anyone else does want to share their point of view, then I'm open ears!
Reply 16
Original post by Rhewer1
Yes correct.
No they don’t, these modules are meant to be way easier than EC100/102 which most “non international” students (year abroad at LSE) would take. If you’re not an international student or part time student (failed to mention that in my original post), then the EC100/102 will be in more depth, not just 1 term, it will be spread throughout the full year. The EC100/102, is way more rigours and mandatory for full time students attending the LSE Bsc Economics course. The course outlined in the original thread is only offered for part time/international students (year abroad studying at LSE). Any more questions about econ, finance etc I’ll gladly answer
No they don’t, these modules are meant to be way easier than EC100/102 which most “non international” students (year abroad at LSE) would take. If you’re not an international student or part time student (failed to mention that in my original post), then the EC100/102 will be in more depth, not just 1 term, it will be spread throughout the full year. The EC100/102, is way more rigours and mandatory for full time students attending the LSE Bsc Economics course. The course outlined in the original thread is only offered for part time/international students (year abroad studying at LSE). Any more questions about econ, finance etc I’ll gladly answer
I cannot find any reference to EC100/102 for UBEC (BSc Eco). Infact the regulations refer to the same EC1A1 and EC1B1.
Reply 17
Original post by Anonymous
I am referring to LSE Programme Regulations on this link
I cannot find any reference to EC100/102 for UBEC (BSc Eco). Infact the regulations refer to the same EC1A1 and EC1B1.
I cannot find any reference to EC100/102 for UBEC (BSc Eco). Infact the regulations refer to the same EC1A1 and EC1B1.
Only just saw u meant EC1A1 and EC1B1. Yes you would be correct, like stated before the EC100/102 modules, are just these modules. Sorry for any confusion, but you’re correct those are the updated course modules names, and took away 1.0 credit modules for this course. So they do not have a full year, they do it by semester where as before it was first year of study which meant 1/2 big exams, now it’s by semester. (Hope that clears it up abit)
(edited 2 weeks ago)
Reply 18
Original post by SiberianLIGER
Apologies. I didn't mean to be disrespectful, and I'm an econ student myself. I just thought I'd take the opportunity to get someone else's view.
I've got nothing against students at LSE. I just thought that the culture doesn't mesh well with me specifically. I don't doubt that they're great people (hell, I know many people like that in my own course, and they're great too).
Please don't take offence. But if anyone else does want to share their point of view, then I'm open ears!
I've got nothing against students at LSE. I just thought that the culture doesn't mesh well with me specifically. I don't doubt that they're great people (hell, I know many people like that in my own course, and they're great too).
Please don't take offence. But if anyone else does want to share their point of view, then I'm open ears!
Reply 19
Original post by Rhewer1
Well actually I have a mate who I regularly talk to who goes to LSE, so I could maybe answer some of your questions or even ask him the questions u asked me and I could get back to you. I have taken no offence to that, but as an economics student, I expected better understanding of the framework of how universities was run, and how the shift between academia is universal not just rich daddy money 🤣
No, it's cool. I might make a new post in the LSE topic soon. I'm actually thinking about taking up a postgrad place there, but I don't know if I'd like a London uni. Thanks regardless.
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