BA (Hons) Business Economics

Due to the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic, examinations may be replaced by an alternative form of assessment during the academic year 2020/2021. Please refer to the Programme Specification on these pages for further details.

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98% of students are satisfied with the quality of the course -NSS 2019

This course includes the sandwich year options of:

Work Placement*

Study abroad*

*No fees are charged for this year


UCAS code	L112
Institution code	H36
School of study	Hertfordshire Business School
Course length	Full Time, 3 Years Part Time, 5 Years Sandwich, 4 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

Entry requirements

UCAS points A Level BTEC

112 BBC DMM

Additional requirements

GCSE: Grade 4/C in English and Mathematics
All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band.
If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.
For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.
Find out more about International Entry Requirements.
The University of Hertfordshire is committed to welcoming students with a wide range of qualifications and levels of experience. The entry requirements listed on the course pages provide a guide to the minimum level of qualifications needed to study each course. However, we have a flexible approach to admissions and each application will be considered on an individual basis.
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UCAS points	A Level	BTEC
112	BBC	DMM

Why choose this course?

To receive a broad intellectual learning experience by studying economic issues within the wider political and social environment;
to develop a critical understanding of the principles of economic theory;
for an appreciation of different approaches to economic problems and their relevance for real life circumstances;
to develop the ability to apply the theories of economics to a range of decision making problems in business;
to become equipped with a set of subject specific and transferable skills needed to pursue a successful career.

What's the course about?

Indicative course structure

Economics drives business, informs policy and affects everyone’s lives. With its applied business focus, this course emphasises the economic analysis of key business functions and the industrial structure of market economies and the global environment. It will give you a detailed understanding of the principles of economics and teach you how to apply these principles to support decision making. As well as developing an understanding of the nature of pricing, investment, employment and many other decisions businesses have to take, you’ll have the option to study modules in marketing, accounting finance and human resource management.

You can also study a language with this course. You can be awarded the degree ‘with language’ in the title if you choose to study a foreign language in all years of study.

What will I study?

You will be studying four 15 credit modules in each semester (this may vary between double modules) and your contact time varies between modules, but usually you will have two sessions per week for each module, a one-hour lecture following by a one-hour seminar/tutorial. Typically, a new topic or theory will be introduced in each lecture and will be followed up with class discussion and feedback in the subsequent seminar. In addition, as part of your study time, you will be collaborating with your peers on tasks and group assignments. Module leaders also offer weekly drop in and feedback sessions, usually 2 x 1 hours per module as well as revision sessions.

The University’s ‘online learning environment’ means you can access all your course resources, literature and timetables from anywhere in the world.

Usually, assessment is split between coursework and examinations. The style of coursework can vary from presentations to business reports, essays depending on the taught topics.

Level 4

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Introduction to Microeconomics	15 Credits	Compulsory
Microeconomics is concerned with the behaviour of individual firms, markets and consumers in their economic activity. Microeconomics considers choice-making within the context of a market mechanism. The module covers the nature of markets including the determinants of demand and supply and the competitive environment within industries. The role of the government in intervening in markets is also considered.
Introduction to Macroeconomics	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module aims to provide students with an introductory grounding in the principles and concepts of macroeconomic analysis, including consideration of: unemployment; inflation; money; banking; government policies in terms of taxes and interest rates, for example; and international trade. Indicative content: - Basic macroeconomic models - income - expenditure approach - Theories of consumption and savings - Aggregate demand and aggregate supply - Unemployment - Inflation - Money and banking - Fiscal and monetary policies - Introduction to open-economy macroeconomics
The Economics Professional	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module provides students with a series of academic skills and study strategies which will underpin their subsequent studies. The module is composed of several themes which will include communication, analytical thinking, research methods, IT-literacy and numeracy. These will allow students to effectively match problem-solving techniques to different scenarios. In doing so, students will be expected to operate in teams, reflect on their practice and recognise aspects for self-development and improvement. The module selects a series of issues that are pertinent to the economist, the economics' profession and economics' practice.
Economics Tools and Techniques	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module is an introduction to important mathematical and statistical techniques that are used in economics. The module covers, among others: basics of algebra, linear relationships in economic analysis, basic graphical analysis, simultaneous equations, differential calculus, optimisation, basics of probability theory, descriptive statistics, simple regression.
Economy and Society	15 Credits	Compulsory
This engaging contextual module showcases the scope and power of economics in understanding many of the key issues which face society. It explores globalisation, economic development and the onward march of the market in societies such as the UK and elsewhere. The module also considers the limits of the market and economic analysis itself, in considering some ethical and moral issues in contemporary business and the economy. The module will appeal to economics and non-economics students in considering the value of economics in tackling some of the big issues facing modern economies and societies, thus providing valuable context for the theory they will learn elsewhere. Topics will include: A brief economic history of the world economy Globalisation Important economic institutions – e.g. government, the legal system, WTO The market in modern society The limits of the market Financial crisis Can economics explain everything? Ethical considerations – environment, social responsibility
Principles of Marketing	15 Credits	Optional
This initial marketing module, which assumes no prior knowledge of marketing, aims to introduce students to some of the key ideas of marketing and is suitable for both marketing and non-marketing students. It examines the environment within which organisations operate and the role of marketing within the organisation so that students can understand the context within which marketing personnel work, and the different activities which are carried out under the umbrella term of 'marketing'. Concepts central to an understanding of marketing are considered - segmentation; targeting and positioning; the product life cycle; the 4Ps; buyer behaviour, etc.
Introduction to Business Operations	15 Credits	Optional
The module objective is to provide a comprehensive introduction to the key operations of the business. Real world examples will be used to develop the underlying business concepts. By the end of the module, the student should be able to describe and discuss the role of operations within a business across a range of industry sectors.
Accounting for Business	15 Credits	Optional
The module provides an introduction to accounting from the manager's viewpoint. Areas covered include the collection and reporting of accounting information to both internal and external users, as well as the use and interpretation of publicly available accounting information. The role of accounting in supporting the management functions of planning, control, and decision-making is also covered. Indicative topics include: - preparation and presentation of a simple income statement and balance sheet, including the need for adjustments such as depreciation, accruals, prepayments and bad debts; - the difference between profit and cash; - interpretation of an income statement and a balance sheet using ratio analysis; - costing: cost behaviour; marginal costing - methods and uses; absorption costing - methods and uses; - budgeting: nature and purpose of budgeting; its contribution to planning, control and motivation in an organisation; preparation of simple budgets.
Mandarin Route A - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in Mandarin Chinese at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be delivered via on-line materials, including video clips and Chinese websites.
Mandarin Route A - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in Mandarin Chinese at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading (pinyin) and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be delivered via on-line materials including video clips and Chinese websites.
French Route A - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in French at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route A - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate further in French at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about past and forthcoming events, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route B - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in French. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route B - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in French. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route A - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in German at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route A - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate further in German at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about past and forthcoming events, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route B - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in German. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route B - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in German through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route A - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in Japanese at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route A - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate further in Japanese at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about past and forthcoming events, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route C - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Spanish. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Spanish. The course will be based on selected, complex carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on social, economic and cultural issues. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied.
Spanish Route C - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Spanish. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Spanish. The module will be based on selected, more complex carefully graded texts and materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through Studynet. Students will participate in discussions on a variety of topics focusing on cultural issues, tourism and the world of work
Spanish Route A - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate in Spanish at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about themselves and their daily life, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route A - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will enable students to communicate further in Spanish at a basic level in a range of everyday social situations. Students will learn to talk about past and forthcoming events, carry out reading and listening tasks and write short texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route B - 4a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in Spanish. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route B - 4b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in Spanish through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route B-4A	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates your competence in Japanese. You will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials.
Japanese Route B-4B	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend your competence in Japanese through the introduction of more advanced language structures. You will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. You will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.

Level 5

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
International Trade and the Open Economy	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module builds on the foundation provided by the module Economic Growth, Aggregate Price and Income (macro principles), which develops macroeconomic tools of analysis in a closed economy. It introduces and develops the analytical apparatuses, such as the IS-LM-BP model and the AS-AD framework, that are employed to explain international economy and growth. It also provides an insight into some of the principal models that have been devised to explain macroeconomic events in an open economy and to predict the consequences of certain actions by economic agents. Finally, the module evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of the various models constructed to explain international trade and the development of an open economy.
Consumers, Firms and Markets	15 Credits	Compulsory
The modern capitalist economy can be viewed as an enormous collection of consumers and firms who engage in markets. How effective these markets are and what it means for society will, in large part, depend upon how consumers and firms actually behave. This module explores this behaviour, employing both standard economic analysis, ie how rational agents make decisions, as well as alternative approaches which acknowledge limits on rationality while also proposing a more realistic psychology. The impact upon decision-making is further considered. The success of the economy is reliant upon the efficiency of the markets within it. This crucial economic aspect will be explored for the different types of market structure. Further, the causes and consequences of market failures will also be addressed.
Skills for Economists	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to develop and enhance the student skill set with appropriate focus on academic, employability and research skills which will equip students both for continuing study and for future employment in a range of posts. It will harness and develop these skills in the context of key economic issues thus offering tangible application. It will build on skills introduced and developed in L4, particularly the Economics Professional. The following will be covered: The scope and method of the economist. The key academic skills. Employability skills and the graduate labour market. Developing and articulating the skills set and planning your personal development. Research skills for economists.
History of Economic Thought	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to chart out key figures and ideas from the history of economic thought from before Adam Smith to the current time. The variety of economic ideas and opinion is evident in much current debate, which itself is often revisiting events of the past where famous economists like Smith and Ricardo in the 18th and 19th centuries and Keynes and Friedman in the 20th centuries attempted to grapple with the key issues facing them and their economic environment. For example, how to deal with financial crises and depressions are problems which have stimulated much debate in the past as well as in the current day. Economic thought has a rich history to explore and much insight to offer. The dominant thinking before Adam Smith is considered, along with Malthus, Marx and Mill. Early economists who made their mark in the early twentieth century like Marshall, Veblen and Schumpeter are also discussed. The different schools of thought that have emerged in economics and their methodological character are explored.
Macroeconomics	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module builds on the foundation provided by the first year module Introduction to Macroeconomics to examine macroeconomic issues on a more rigorous basis. It introduces and develops the analytical apparatuses such as the IS-LM model and the AS-AD framework that are employed in macro analysis. It also provides an insight into some of the principal models that have been devised to explain macroeconomic events and to predict the consequences of certain actions by economic agents. Finally, the module evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of the various models in relation to macroeconomic developments that are necessary to understand the financial world.
Business Economics Techniques	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module examines how economic concepts, tools and techniques can be usefully applied to the analysis of business problems and issues, thus enabling effective business decision-making. Organisations ultimately survive according to the demand for their product or service, so estimating this is an essential prerequisite for other decisions such as those concerning investment. This module will explore what techniques and concepts the economist can apply in these and other important business scenarios. The following issues, inter alia, may be covered: The scope and method of business economics; Competition in industry; Tools and techniques of the business economist; Demand estimation; Investment appraisal; Cost-benefit analysis;
Techniques of Economic Analysis	15 Credits	Optional
Economic analysis in practice inevitably entails the identification, collection, interpretation and processing of empirical evidence in various forms. This module will, first of all, introduce students to a range of essential quantitative techniques for economic analysis, such as solving simultaneous equation systems, differentiation, optimisation, and solving growth, discounting and data envelopment analysis problems. The quantitative pre-requisites are limited to simple algebra and basic statistics. The module will then enable students to apply relevant techniques to the study of a range of economic issues concerning firms, markets and the macroeconomy using real world datasets.
Product Innovation	15 Credits	Optional
Winning and keeping customers is essential for success in markets be they consumer, industrial or not for profit. Development of a superior value proposition for customers is critical in achieving such success. This module provides students with the tools for identifying key customer values and developing innovative products and services to delight them, thereby creating and sustaining profitable long term relationships. Concepts will include the product life cycle strategies; product/service portfolio analysis; new product/service models; management of products and services; market and environmental analysis and types of product decisions, commercialisation and the influence of the consumer on the production innovation process.
Principles of Operations Management	15 Credits	Optional
The module is designed to provide a solid understanding of operations management methods. Students will gain experience together with knowledge of techniques and tools to support decisions made within the context of operations.
Management Accounting for Business Decisions	15 Credits	Optional
The module is aimed at prospective managers to enable them to understand the benefits and potential pitfalls of using management accounting information when making managerial decisions.
Labour Economics	15 Credits	Optional
This course will analyse topics of behaviour and outcomes in labour markets and other related markets. We will discuss the way in which labour markets are organised and what implications this has for individual outcomes. We begin by considering the behaviour of firms (labour demand) and workers (supply) and evaluate the concept of labour market equilibrium. We continue with a variety of topics including, inter alia, education and skills, labour mobility and segmentation, information approaches to recruitment and selection, incentive design, gender and racial discrimination, and unemployment (search and matching). The main analytical tools will be theoretical but we will also make use of real-world policy examples and applied techniques. This module will complement L5 microeconomics; basic competence in algebra and introductory econometrics will be developed, as required, within the module.
Financial Management	15 Credits	Optional
The module introduces students to the main theory and practice of the financing of companies, the allocation and management of financial resources within a company and the rewarding of the providers of a company's financing. Specific topics covered include: the financial environment; sources of business finance; capital budgeting; cost of capital and capital structure; dividend policy; investment risk, portfolio theory and the capital asset pricing model; valuation of assets, shares and companies; mergers and acquisitions.
Understanding Customers	15 Credits	Optional
The understanding of consumers and their buying and consuming behaviour will enable students to have a greater understanding of targeting customer groups, products, services and brand positioning for the development of new products and services, target marketing and tailored communication strategies. This module will equip students for a career in market and customer analysis and research, advertising and marketing communications.
Business Analysis Tools	15 Credits	Optional
The module will introduce students to a variety of business analysis techniques. Students will be guided into formulating business problems as models. These models will enable them to solve problems in an organisational context. Students will be introduced and encouraged to use appropriate software to solve the models (eg spreadsheets and specialist business analysis software). The main topics studied include: - Business analysis methodology - Project management - Scheduling and sequencing in business - Forecasting methods - Introduction to business simulation - Linear programming and business optimisation - Inventory models - Markov analysis
French Route A - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in French. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route A - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in French through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route A - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in Spanish through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route B - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at level 4 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken French Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route B - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at level 4 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken French Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route B - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at level 4 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Spanish. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route B - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Spanish. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route A - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in German through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route A - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in German. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route B - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at level 4 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken German. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route B - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced German. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route C - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the students' linguistic ability and knowledge through the in depth study of selected political, cultural, linguistic and economic topics relating to German speaking countries. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present their findings in class discussions.
German Route C - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge so as to equip them with the skills necessary to study and work in a German speaking country. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines and company websites. Students will research their own materials to be analysed and presented in class discussions.
Mandarin Route A - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in Mandarin Chinese. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. Chinese characters will be introduced. The module will be delivered via on-line materials including video clips and Chinese websites.
Mandarin Route A - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in Mandarin Chinese through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be delivered via on-line materials including video clips and Chinese websites.
French Route C - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the students' linguistic ability and knowledge through the in depth study of selected cultural, linguistic and economic topics on the French regions. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present their findings in class discussions.
French Route C - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge so as to equip them with the skills necessary to study and work in France and give them an understanding of demographic trends in Europe and France. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines and company websites. Students will research their own materials to be analysed and presented in class discussions.
Spanish Route C - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge so as to equip them with the skills necessary to study and work in Spain. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines and company websites. Students will research their own materials to be analysed and presented in class discussions.
Spanish Route A - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in Spanish. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route C - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the students' linguistic ability and knowledge through the in depth study of selected political, cultural, linguistic and economic topics of selected Spanish-speaking countries in Latin America. The module will be based on materials taken from written and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources such as online newspapers, magazines. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present their findings in class discussions.
Japanese Route A - 5b	15 Credits	Optional
This module will extend the students’ competence in Japanese through the introduction of more advanced language structures. Students will learn to discuss work and future plans, studying and living abroad. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route A - 5a	15 Credits	Optional
This module broadens and consolidates the students’ competence in Japanese. Students will learn to talk about student life and travel, carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including, for example, video clips, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route B-5A	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves your competence and confidence from study at levels 4 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Japanese. You will develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and you will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable you to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. You will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route B-5B	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables you to improve further your competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Japanese. You continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable you to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. You will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Economics of Strategy	15 Credits	Compulsory
This module aims to explore the contribution of economics to organisational strategy and decision-making. A rich and wide-ranging economics literature will be explored, including organisation theory, the economics of information, agency, and the economics of the firm (including Coasian, transaction cost, behavioural and managerial approaches). Students will evaluate a range of economic approaches to the governance and operation of firms and markets.
Industrial Organisation	15 Credits	Compulsory
The module has a special emphasis on imperfectly competitive markets and it will be covering in particular various aspects of monopolistic competition and oligopolistic industries, including price and quantity competition, collusion and cartel stability, entry deterrence and predation, product differentiation, and vertical relationships. Recent developments in industrial organisation and competition policy are incorporated into the material, including current cases.
HBS Placement	0 Credits	Compulsory
This activity is self-directed by the student and carries no credits. Students will be supported by the Professional Experience Module Leader, Professional Experience Visit Co-ordinator, an Academic Mentor and the Centre for Academic Skills Enhancement (CASE). Successful completion of the Professional Experience Module leads to the appropriate suffix on students’ degree title stated on the programme specifications.
Anatomy of Financial Crises	15 Credits	Optional
This module provides an opportunity to explore the major financial crises that took place across the globe since the early 20th century. It aims to reconstruct some of the financial theories on the basis of the empirical evidence as opposed to 'the theory first application later' approach.
Dissertation - Economics	30 Credits	Optional
The dissertation offers the opportunity to undertake an individual piece of work that is designed to develop research skills relevant to a specific area of study. Students will be allocated an academic supervisor who will meet with students on a regular basis. On completion of the research, students will be required to produce a dissertation of between 7,000 to 10,000 words. The dissertation will be assessed using the Business School dissertation criteria that cover the management of the dissertation, the methodology used, the intellectual quality and originality, and the structure and coherence of the report.
International Production and Governance	15 Credits	Optional
This module explores key changes in the global economy by examining recent trends in international trade, production, investment and labour. Theories of international production are examined alongside the competitive strategies of large transnational firms. There is focus on the changing patterns of governance with regards to different varieties of capitalism and the relationship between different levels of governance; the global, the national and the local. The module emphasises the way in which both academic and business literature offer competing interpretations on the nature of these changing trends, their outcomes and their implications for policy.
Employment Relations	15 Credits	Optional
The module encourages students to critically evaluate different theories and perspectives on employment relations. It also equips students to be able to practically undertake important aspects of the employment relationship such as bargaining and conflict resolution. The module considers the roles of the key actors in employment relations: management, trade unions and the State. The module evaluates different employment relations approaches and evaluates the design and application of processes, policies and procedures in areas such as: discipline and grievance, dismissal, collective bargaining, individual and collective negotiation, employee engagement, conflict and industrial sanctions, conciliation, mediation and arbitration and diversity management. The module also focuses on the impact of legislation, both European and domestic, on employment relations.
International Human Resource Management	15 Credits	Optional
The module provides contemporary, applied and critical insights into the management of people across borders and in multinational corporations (MNCs). The HR implications of managing international assignments are investigated, and in-depth exposition provided of HR contexts and features in major global regions. The module appears to students specialising in HRM and international business, and is also relevant to those working/planning to work in an international environment. The content includes an analysis of differences between national and international HRM, examines structures and strategies of MNC's and the ethical issues impinging upon international business in the field of employment. The module also considers the management of the expatriation cycle-recruitment, training, pay, performance management and repatriation. An analysis of industrial relations structures/systems for employee participation in north America, Europe and Australasia and an exploration of political/economic environments and major features of HR/employment practice in these continents and developing countries.
Global Marketing Ethics and Culture	15 Credits	Optional
Global marketing success is a function of perspective, opportunity, motivation, organisation, knowledge and skills. The challenge for today's global marketers is to identify those opportunities appropriate to the firm, to develop appropriate marketing strategies and build and sustain competitive advantages in co-operation with other members of the firm as well as external partners. To this end, the module will provide learning opportunities to appreciate current writings and perspectives on the global marketing environment. Opportunities will be given to analyse different global marketing organisations and their environments, suggest and implement realistic strategies and plans and control mechanisms. The module addresses global issues such as the macro environment, market entry strategies, communication, price, planning and control.
Forecasting Methods for Managers	15 Credits	Optional
The process of making decisions in organisations is based, in most cases, on future values of many variables. Therefore, it is vital that these future values are predicted in the most accurate possible ways. This module introduces students to a variety of forecasting techniques used to predict future values. Much of the module will be devoted to the use of software, especially spreadsheets, to calculate forecasts and their associated errors. A particular emphasis will be on the pitfalls associated with the application of different forecasting techniques. The module includes the following: the purpose of business forecasting; data collection and review; measuring the accuracy of forecasts; a range of methods presented for dealing with stationary time series, trend, seasonality and multi-variate models; demographics; communication of results to a business audience. Students use a calculator and computer to calculate forecasts and related error measures and statistics.
Money, Banking and Finance	15 Credits	Optional
The financial sector is a vital sector for any economy. It is a major and successful part of the UK economy. This module provides the techniques and concepts to analyse and understand this sector. The major theoretical underpinnings of the financial sector are explored. Thus, the module considers portfolio theory, the term structure of interest rates, demand and supply of money, monetary policy, exchange rate systems, insurance markets and the efficient markets hypothesis.
Management Science in Business	15 Credits	Optional
This module will develop knowledge and understanding of both classical and current management science techniques used in business today. Students will be guided into formulating business problems as models. They will be shown how to manipulate and solve these models, and interpret the solutions. They will learn to recognise difficulties and limitations associated with the results given by the models. Students will be encouraged to use appropriate computer software to solve the models.
Research Methods	0 Credits	Optional
This non-credit bearing module of study is designed to provide students with sufficient research skills in order to successfully undertake a dissertation and/or research project. Key themes covered by the module, include: Primary and secondary research Formulating the research objectives/questions Quantitative and qualitative research methods (inc. sampling) Writing the methodology chapter The need for a theoretical underpinning, and writing the literature review Ethics considerations and the approval process Presenting research findings.
Contemporary Issues in Economics	15 Credits	Optional
This module aims to enhance students' understanding of different theoretical frameworks and research methodologies in order for them to develop their understanding of how knowledge is created and develops in the area of economics. Students will then study selected key contemporary issues from an economic perspective. The exact topics will, by definition, change depending on the issues of the day, but, in all cases, students will be able to see the benefit of using appropriate tools of economic analysis. Issues will be evaluated on the basis of the quality of economic explanation offered, both in terms of theory and evidence. In this way, students can appreciate how theory can be effectively translated into real policy action.
Performance Strategy	15 Credits	Optional
The module deepens students’ prior knowledge and understanding of management accounting focuses on the role of the management accountant within the strategic planning process. Making use of relevant literature and case studies, the module explores strategic planning in the context of the management accounting information required to support this process. The module continues by considering performance management systems which have been developed to control the implementation of strategic plans. Indicative content may include: - The strategic process - Tools of strategic management accounting - The balanced scorecard - Innovations in management accounting - Innovations in performance management
Industry Practice for Economic Professionals	15 Credits	Optional
In this module students will assess, develop and evaluate their employability skills through work-based learning. Students will use the professional framework relevant to their specialism to demonstrate competencies. Through their work, students will have opportunities to apply and critically evaluate academic theories and current business school research. Work-based learning opportunities include: placement, part-time work, internship, project work, involvement in research or volunteering.
Corporate Financial Strategy	15 Credits	Optional
This single semester module is designed to provide an insight into the area of financial strategy. The module begins by examining the life cycle and the various sources of funding available at each stage and moves on an analysis of major business changes, eg restructuring, mergers/acquisitions. The module will enable students to build on their business analysis and reporting writing skills, and the knowledge gained about business should significantly enhance their employability.
Public Finance	15 Credits	Optional
The economics of public finance deals with some fundamental current economic issues. The module focuses on present-day debates on the subject of the provision of public goods and the role of the government in the economy. It provides a review of the principal theories of the effective provision of social services, welfare state, social security, national debt and pricing of public and merit goods. Opinion on these topics and the impact of government economic activities on the allocation of resources and on the distribution of income are divided and are a gulf apart. This module will offer students a deep understanding of public finance and the budgetary process, and the implications of government borrowing and expenditures on the economy. Students during the course of this module will discover the importance of the public sector in the economy. They will learn to recognize the part played by the public sector in the global financial crisis and the changes that globalization has brought in, raising tax revenue, due to global tax competition and mobility.
French Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken French. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced French. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Spanish. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Spanish Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Spanish. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
French Route B - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of French. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex French. The module will be based on selected, more complex carefully graded texts and materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through Studynet. Students will participate in discussions on a variety of topics focusing on cultural issues, tourism and the world of work.
French Route B - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of French. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex French. The course will be based on selected, complex carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on social, economic and cultural issues. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied.
Spanish Route B - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Spanish. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Spanish. The module will be based on selected, more complex carefully graded texts and materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through Studynet. Students will participate in discussions on a variety of topics focusing on cultural issues, tourism and the world of work
German Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken German. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced German. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
German Route B - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of German. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex German. The course will be based on selected, complex carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on social, economic and cultural issues. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied.
German Route B - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of German. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student's linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex German. The module will be based on selected, more complex carefully graded texts and materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through Studynet. Students will participate in discussions on a variety of topics focusing on cultural issues, tourism and the world of work
Mandarin Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Mandarin Chinese. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be delivered via on-line materials including video clips and Chinese websites.
Mandarin Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Mandarin Chinese. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be delivered via on-line materials including video clips and Chinese websites.
Spanish Route C - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability primarily through the study of selected themes taken from online newspapers,magazines,websites chosen specifically to illustrate contemporary issues in the Spanish-speaking world. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present them in discussions, analysing them and reflecting upon them. Complex and more subtle grammatical points will be analysed through the study of texts
Spanish Route C - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on improving the student’s linguistic ability primarily through the study of selected themes taken from online newspapers, magazines, websites chosen specifically to illustrate contemporary issues in the Spanish-speaking world. Students will be expected to research their own materials and present them in discussions, analysing them and reflecting upon them. Complex and more subtle grammatical points will be analysed through the study of texts.
Spanish Route B - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Spanish. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Spanish. The course will be based on selected, complex carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on social, economic and cultural issues. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied.
Japanese Route A - 6a	15 Credits	Optional
This module further improves the students’ competence and confidence from study at levels 4 and 5 in understanding and responding to more advanced written and spoken Japanese. Students develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially and will be exposed to a wider variety of contexts and language registers. The module will enable students to participate more fully in discussions and develop logical argument. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line TV news items, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route A - 6b	15 Credits	Optional
This module enables students to improve further their competence and confidence from the previous semester in understanding and responding to more advanced Japanese. Students continue to develop skills which will be of value both professionally and socially. The module will enable students to play a more active and spontaneous part in discussions and to use a wider range of phrases which express different shades of opinion in speaking and writing. They will carry out reading and listening tasks and write texts within the framework of the vocabulary and grammatical structures studied. The module will be largely course book based, supplemented by on-line materials including for example on-line news reports, blogs and magazine websites.
Japanese Route B 6a	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Japanese. A thematic approach to language learning will be used, complemented by grammatical instruction, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Japanese. The course will be based on a textbook and supplemented by selected, carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on issues encountered in the workplace and in everyday life in Japan. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied. Students will be exposed to varied teaching formats, including lectures, small group work and independent study in the digital language laboratory.
Japanese Route B 6b	15 Credits	Optional
Emphasis will continue to be placed on ensuring that students have a grammatically sound command of both the written and the spoken forms of Japanese. A thematic approach to language learning will be used complemented by grammatical instruction, improving the student’s linguistic ability and knowledge of more complex Japanese. The course will be based on a textbook and supplemented by selected, carefully graded texts, online and audiovisual materials compiled from a variety of sources made available to students through StudyNet. Typical themes of study will focus on issues students would encounter while working or studying in Japan. Student will be expected to take part in discussions on the various topics studied. Students will be exposed to varied teaching formats, including lectures, small group work and independent study in the digital language laboratory.

Study abroad

All students have the option to study either a semester or a year abroad at a number of institutions around the world including North and Latin America, Europe, Asia and Australia and many of our students benefit greatly from taking these development opportunities.

The reach of the Programme is global and our graduates will have the attributes, cultural sensitivity and aspiration to succeed everywhere. The Economics / Business Economics curricula have a strong global perspective, and the Business School has developed international partnerships and has a wide international alumni network.

Find out more about Study abroad opportunities
Work placement

We will very strongly urge all students to obtain relevant work experience in order to maximise their employability. Moreover, both the Economics and the Business Economics pathways allow, but do not require, all students to undertake a paid placement year on completion of the second year. If they complete this successfully they will qualify for the “Sandwich” award in their degree title. Additionally they will be eligible to attempt to obtain a City And Guilds qualification based on their placement portfolio. There are no fees for the placement year.

Check out our student blogs

Alumni Stories

Elizaveta Zaskalko

Meet Elizaveta Zaskalko who has explored the tourism industry and shared her passion for travel. She currently works at Expedia Inc as Associate Market Manager.

Current job role	Associate Market Manager
Year of graduation	2016
Course of study	BA (Hons) Tourism Management with French

A passion for travel

Elizaveta always had a passion for tourism and knew her career would be within the industry. She currently works at Expedia Inc as Associate Market Manager in the Join Expedia Team (JET) and is responsible for the acquisition of new hotels in Kent.

She started at Expedia straight after graduating from the University in 2016, in the role of Market Associate in the Account Management team. After a year in post she decided to step out of her comfort zone and apply for a promotion in the expanding JET team.

Studying at the University gave her a vast knowledge of the tourism industry which she previously lacked and prepared her for entering the sector. Tourism is a diverse and global industry with many career opportunities for new graduates.

She says, 'When I started my studies, I knew that I wanted to work in the tourism industry but had no idea which part of it. As I progressed, I learned about so many different branches of the industry and it really helped me to narrow it down to the one I actually really enjoyed.'

Strong employment links

'The best thing about my course is that it prepared us for the working world. The programme had a huge focus on employability, which I think was incredibly useful. Coming out of university I knew where I wanted to go, what I wanted to do and how to achieve it.'

The employment focus and links to industry embedded into Elizaveta's degree are what persuaded her to study at Herts. Our courses are designed to give students great opportunities, prepare them for professional life and provide them with direct access to their chosen profession through expert teaching and tangible industry connections.

Elizaveta says, 'An important factor for me choosing to study at the University was being able to do an industry placement year, as it's very hard to get a job without work experience nowadays. My placement year was very challenging but it was one of the most useful experiences I have had so far.'

The best thing about my course is that it prepared us for the working world. The programme had a huge focus on employability, which I think was incredibly useful. Coming out of university I knew where I wanted to go, what I wanted to do and how to achieve it.

What's next for my career?

An economist provides specialist advice based on economic theory and knowledge. They study data and statistics and carry out in-depth research, which enables them to be able to forecast future trends and make recommendations. Economists are employed in a variety of roles in both the public and private sectors, and they are highly sought after. Typical jobs relating to Economics include Financial Risk Analyst, Actuary or Statistician. Other options that use relevant skills such as analytical and problem-solving would be in sectors such as business intelligence, market research, retail merchandising and social research.

Our graduates have started their careers in roles such as emerging market analyst, fund manager’s assistant, management trainee, merchandise associate, pensions administrator, purchase ledger accountant, quality assurance analyst, settlements clerk, trainee accountant and trainee stockbroker. Recent destinations include Citibank, Friends Provident, HSBC, Royal Bank of Scotland, Tesco and Vauxhall.
View our Alumni profiles

Elizaveta Zaskalko
Key staff

Dr Frank Currie
Subject Group Leader – Economics & Business Economics
Mr Jon Easter
Head of Department - Accounting, Finance and Economics
Dr Tassos Patokos
Programme Leader – Economics & Business Economics
Find out more about Dr Tassos Patokos

Course fact sheets
BA (Hons) Business Economics	Download
Business Economics with an Eastern Language	Download
Business Economics with a European Language	Download

Programme specifications
BA (Hons) Business Economics	Download
Languages	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	Optional
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes

International applicants

Apply through our international application portal

Home and EU applicants

Apply using the links below:

2020

Start Date	End Date	Link
27/09/2020	24/05/2021	Apply online (Full Time)
27/09/2020	31/05/2021	Apply online (Part Time)
27/09/2020	24/05/2021	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)
27/09/2020	24/05/2021	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)

2021

Start Date	End Date	Link
27/09/2021	24/05/2022	Apply online (Full Time)
27/09/2021	31/05/2022	Apply online (Part Time)
27/09/2021	24/05/2022	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)
27/09/2021	24/05/2022	Apply online (Full Time/Sandwich)

Fees and funding
Fees 2020
UK/EU Students

Full time
- £9250 for the 2020/2021 academic year
Part time
- £1155 per 15 credits for the 2020/2021 academic year
International Students

Full time
- £13000 for the 2020/2021 academic year
Part time
- £1625 per 15 credits for the 2020/2021 academic year
*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

View detailed information about tuition fees

Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

Please note that some of the images and videos on our course pages may have been taken before social distancing rules in the UK came into force.

Apply through Clearing

Apply through Clearing

BA (Hons) Business Economics

This course includes the sandwich year options of:

Work Placement*

Study abroad*

Additional requirements

Why choose this course?

What's the course about?

Indicative course structure

What will I study?

Check out our student blogs

Student Blogs

My week at a glance

Student Blogs

Something interesting for a prospective student to consider

Student Blogs

What I love most about my course

Student Blogs

Alumni Stories

Meet Elizaveta Zaskalko who has explored the tourism industry and shared her passion for travel. She currently works at Expedia Inc as Associate Market Manager.

A passion for travel

Strong employment links

International applicants

Home and EU applicants

2020

2021

Fees 2020

UK/EU Students

Full time

Part time

International Students

Full time

Part time

Other financial support

Living costs / accommodation