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Business Economics

Why study Economics?

Knowledge of economics is indispensable to those interested in current affairs, particularly now and in recent years.  It is also an ideal complement for many other disciplines including but not limited to accountancy, business and management, law, psychology, sociology and statistics.  Why Study Economics? is a useful web site which provides information about applying to study economics and what to expect when you begin as well as a blog highlighting topical issues. 

Economics students will be numerate and acquire skills in research, communication, team working, analysis, decision making and problem solving.  You will be in a strong position facing the graduate job market with average starting salaries that are higher than many other social sciences subjects.  The Complete University Guide in association with The Independent places Economics fourth in its graduate earnings table (May 2010).  Prospects cites the Destinations of Leavers from Higher Education (DLHE) survey, which found that the average salary for 2005 graduates, who were in full-time employment in the UK six months following graduation was, £17,715. Economics graduates commanded a well-above average salary, at £21,118 – the highest of the social sciences subject surveyed (Geography, Law, Politics, Psychology, Sociology).

Economists find themselves working in a range of related and unrelated sectors: business, finance, accountancy, the civil service, management consultancy, retailing and charities. Our recent Honours graduates are:

  • participating in graduate training programmes with banks, accountancy firms, management consultancies, finance companies, oil companies and government departments
  • working towards professional qualifications
  • undertaking postgraduate study
  • employed in the banking and finance sector, by charities and NGOs, local and national government, in IT and teaching.

Prospects has a useful section on job opportunities and destinations for Economics students.

And why study economics at Glasgow?

  • Our research is the best in Scotland (RAE 2008) with staff publishing in international, peer-reviewed journals and advising local and national/international governments on current policy issues.
  • We have a highly international academic staff, who bring perspectives from across the globe, informed further by their research.
  • Glasgow is a Russell Group research-led University where academic research findings are at the core of the teaching programme, ensuring you are provided with an up-to-date curriculum, which touches on the key theoretical and policy issues of the day.
  • Our student body is diverse, with more than 900 undergraduate students, many of whom come from outwith Scotland and the UK.  You can watch short videos of some of our students talking about their studies and life at Glasgow.
  • In recent years, the Business School has been listed in the top 20 UK Universities for Economics.  The University is in the world’s top 1%, has been voted Scottish University of the Year as well as best student campus; has come third for best student experience and is currently third for best international student support.  The 2010 National Student Survey found that 90% of Glasgow students are satisfied with their courses, exceeding the national average (80%).