Business Economics BSc (Hons)
Subject and course type
- Business, management and marketing
- Economics
- Undergraduate
Begin your exciting journey with Business Economics BSc at Kingston University. Here you will learn a variety of financial, organisational, market issues and environmental topics which affect businesses on a global scale.
This course is in Clearing.
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Take your first steps towards a career in business economics with our Business Economics BSc (Hons) degree course.
Join a diverse, inclusive and friendly department which introduces you to a variety of ways to study Economics. If you’re not sure which area of economics you want to pursue, our flexible structure means you can transfer between our three Economics courses at the end of your first year.
No matter what you decide, we will teach you a wide range of skills, theories and methods to prepare you for employment and empower you to shape the economies of tomorrow.
Economics at Kingston University
Economics at Kingston starts with an interest in the real world. Hear how our students are fine-tuning their decision making and resource allocation skills as part of their course.
Why choose this course
This course has a unique pluralistic approach. You'll discover a wide variety of economic thought and theories, and therefore learn to understand and address problems from a range of perspectives. You'll study why businesses, people and governments make decisions and the consequences of these decisions.
This course focuses on the real-life application of economics. You'll explore how businesses operate in the economy, and can choose to study the financial aspects of business and specialist aspects of economics.
You'll use industry-standard IT facilities and develop many further skills highly valued by employers. These include analytical, numerical, data analysis and problem-solving skills, and the use of specialist statistical software. In addition, you will have free access to the Financial Times and Economist. We are also one of only a few UK universities to have a state-of-the-art Bloomberg Trading Room for you to use.
Prepare for global impact
Kingston School of Law, Social and Behavioural Sciences offers courses in economics, law, psychology and criminology. Our degrees are underpinned by a vibrant research culture and delivered by a blend of practitioners and academics who are dedicated to equipping you with the employability skills to thrive in your career.
Course content
This course builds your knowledge of core topics and different schools of thought in economics. Our Business Economics BSc (Hons) concentrates on how economics can be applied to business. You will focus on economic analysis of business activities and understand how businesses operate in the economy. You can also choose to study the financial aspects of business and specialist aspects of economics.
Foundation Year in Social Sciences
If you would like to study this degree at Kingston University but are not yet ready to join the first year of a BSc (Hons) course, you may want to consider studying this course with a foundation year.
Year 1
Year 1 provides a historical background to modern economics, whilst exploring a range of economic principles and perspectives. You will also begin to study the mathematical and statistical foundations essential to the study of economics.
Core modules
30 credits
The module will help you develop many of the basic skills used in the discipline of economics. The module explores and covers a variety of study and research techniques. You will develop skills in the use of language, writing, ICT usage, data collection, data interpretation and group work. Key threshold economic concepts will also be incorporated. Particular emphasis will be placed on small-group learning and personal development planning.
30 credits
In this module, you are introduced to the techniques of model building and analytical reasoning used in microeconomics. Some of these techniques are then used as an input into the analysis of economics at the macroeconomic level. In the early phase of the module, you are taught about microeconomic models and explore the application of these models to current economic issues. In the later phase, you learn about the main macroeconomic aggregates, the basic model of aggregate demand and supply and the importance of the time horizon in macroeconomics.
Throughout the course, there is an emphasis on highlighting and considering the pros and cons of the suggested solutions to real problems faced by market economies.
30 credits
This module provides an introduction to mathematical and statistical techniques. You will be prompted to appreciate how mathematical reasoning is used in economics and develop skills in the numerical, graphical and statistical analysis of economic data.
The module starts with a review of material that may have been encountered in your previous studies, such as mathematics at GCSE or IB level. It then moves on to developing your knowledge, your understanding and your ability to apply quantitative concepts. This is of particular relevance to microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics.
30 credits
This module is a core course for students pursuing full-field programmes in Economics.
This module offers a detailed survey of the origins and emergence of capitalism and the economic thinking that paralleled these developments. It will develop key aspects of the contemporary economy - firms and competition in the national and international environment and the role of the state in national and supra-national contexts. It will then proceed with an introduction to the role of finance in capitalism and the nature and causes of financial crises.
Year 2
Year 2 further develops your knowledge of microeconomics (individual or company decisions) and macroeconomics (national decisions). You'll consider mainstream and alternative approaches to economic modelling.
Core modules
30 credits
This module examines the nature of competition and the role of the firm in contemporary capitalism. It examines the different forces shaping market structure in order to clarify the ways in which a market structure is competitive or not – for example the role of barriers to entry, government policy or technology. The module explores different market structures, from monopolistic to highly competitive, throwing light on the conduct and performance of firms within these structures. The role, nature and aims of the firm are examined. The module also analyses how some firms are capable of imposing themselves on market structure and are not simply passive recipients. Different categories of firms – multinational, large, medium, small and micro – are outlined, to build a more complete picture of modern firm structure.
30 credits
This module will extend knowledge of mathematical and statistical techniques acquired at level 4 and will introduce you to multivariate techniques in mathematics and statistics.
It will assist your comprehension of Level 5 economics modules and encourage you to understand the benefits of using a mathematical and statistical vocabulary and reasoning to analyse economic models.
This module will equip you with sufficient quantitative techniques to be able to undertake any Level 6 module in economics requiring quantitative analysis.
30.00 credits
This module develops and builds mainly on knowledge acquired in the Economic Policy and Principles module at Level 4 but also the Introductory Mathematics and Statistics for Economics module at the same level. It provides fundamental knowledge on the key areas of macroeconomic theory and policy in the short-run and long-run and within both closed and open economy settings. Real world applications are signposted at the earliest opportunity.
On completion of this module, you will be able to comprehend key macroeconomic theories and policies and illustrate the application of macroeconomic models and principles in the context of policymaking.
30.00 credits
This module will develop the model building techniques encountered at level 4, and extend the scope of these models to a wider range of problems. It will show the use of microeconomic models in a problem solving context and provide an analytical basis for subsequent elective modules.
On completion of the module, you will have a good knowledge of the major techniques and issues in modern microeconomic theory and policy and how to apply this knowledge in the discussion and evaluation of contemporary microeconomic issues.
Optional year
You have the option to take an additional year to study abroad or to undertake a year-long work placement overseas (or even a mix of both.)
Professional placement year
This course has a professional placement year option which takes place between Year 2 and your Final Year. During this professional placement year you will take a placement within a relevant setting, ensuring you gain essential experience to add to your CV and help you secure a graduate job.
Final year
In the final year, Economics of Organisations and Strategy explores strategic decision-making in companies, economic analysis of organisational structures and the development of business organisations. In Working as an Economist you will focus on a topic in business economics, and develop your research, writing and communication skills. You will also study International Trade and Finance, and Development Economics, while developing your graduate attributes and preparing for your future career
Core modules
30 credits
The capstone module will further your skills in writing and presenting economic analysis, together with achieving a higher level of understanding in a chosen economic subject area. You will refine your ability to communicate economic subjects to a broad audience in an academically sound fashion.
30 credits
This module is a core requirement at Level 6 for students taking the BSc Business Economics. It develops pluralist approaches to understanding the aims, methods and outcomes of production and exchange organisations (businesses), with particular reference to the limitations as well as the possibilities of markets.
The core theme is the contrast between neo-classical and other perspectives, including the 'capabilities' approach, transaction cost economics and other heterodox schools of thought.
Particular themes include the aims and methods of business strategy, the 'make or buy' decision, the nature of relationships within and between businesses, and the costs and benefits of different systems of governance of economic exchange.
30 credits
The module analyses the essential theoretical and policy issues of international trade and finance. In doing so care is taken to link both international trade and finance theory with real world events.
15 credits
This module will introduce the economic structure of developing countries, the specific challenges they face and their position in world economy today. It will introduce students to issues of growth and development in lower-income countries and their significance for the world economy.
The module will start by introducing theories of economic development and measurement issues. It will examine some problems affecting all, or groups, of these countries, such as population growth, poverty, environment, income distribution, structural adjustment and volatile capital flows. It will also deal with policy issues specific to developing countries.
15 credits
This module gives you a dedicated opportunity to develop your Future Skills Graduate Attributes.
At the start of the module, you will be supported to self-assess your current skills profile. You will determine which attributes and skills you need to develop to support your career ambitions. In this process, you will be supported by a dedicated career coach, helping you explore a range of options that includes self-employment/freelancing, starting your own business, higher level study, and other professional graduate-level opportunities. Throughout the module, you will be given opportunities to engage with external mentors, to support reflection and to develop a professional network.
You will undertake a tailored series of activities and projects, aligned to your goals, from a menu of development options. This could include short courses, enrichment activities and experiential learning options such as micro-placements. You will also be able to reflect on activities outside the University that develop your graduate attributes, such as work or volunteering.
Discover the Department of Economics
Hear from our academics and find out what it's like to study in the department.
International students: direct application
Are you an international student? Have you decided Kingston is the place for you? If so, you can apply for this course directly, rather than having to go through UCAS.
What career opportunities does this course offer?
Graduates from our Business Economics BSc (Hons) course work as economists, analysts and consultants for both private and public sector businesses and organisations. Employers include the Bank of England, the Home Office, Deloitte, Goldman Sachs and Citigroup. Graduates often pursue careers in the City of London and the civil service.
Many graduates progress to job roles such as Area Manager, Consultant, Marketeer and Sales Consultant. Employers include Arcadia Group, Backstop, Edexcel, London Eye, Talarius and United Biscuits. Alternatively, they go on to postgraduate study.
You will take part in an Assessment Centre Experience, providing the opportunity to experience the pathway to employment with tailored feedback:
- develop your understanding of the jobs market, including current trends and opportunities, different recruitment processes and how to identify relevant roles
- receive personalised feedback reports to help you to improve and progress
- access additional webinars on top tips, employer expectations and best practice
Future Skills
Our Future Skills programme is embedded within all our undergraduate courses and throughout the whole Kingston experience. These skills will help you to become a future-proof graduate by equipping you with the skills most valued by employers, such as problem-solving, digital competency and adaptability.
As you progress through your degree, you'll learn to navigate, explore and apply these graduate skills. You’ll also understand how to demonstrate and articulate to employers how these future skills give you the edge.
Teaching and assessment
Scheduled learning and teaching on this course includes timetabled activities including lectures, seminars and small group tutorials.
Outside the scheduled learning and teaching hours, you will learn independently through self-study which will involve reading articles and books, working on projects, undertaking research, preparing for and completing your work for assessments. Some independent study work may need to be completed on-campus, as you may need to access campus-based facilities such as studios and labs.
Our academic support team here at Kingston University provides help in a range of areas.
When you arrive, we'll introduce you to your personal tutor. This is the member of academic staff who will provide academic guidance, support you throughout your time at Kingston and show you how to make the best use of all the help and resources that we offer at Kingston University.
A course is made up of modules, and each module is worth a number of credits. You must pass a given number of credits in order to achieve the award you registered on, for example 360 credits for a typical undergraduate course or 180 credits for a typical postgraduate course. The number of credits you need for your award is detailed in the programme specification which you can access from the link at the bottom of this page.
One credit equates to 10 hours of study. Therefore 120 credits across a year (typical for an undergraduate course) would equate to 1,200 notional hours. These hours are split into scheduled and guided. On this course, the percentage of that time that will be scheduled learning and teaching activities is shown below for each year of study. The remainder is made up of guided independent study.
- Year 1: 20% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 2: 20% scheduled learning and teaching
- Year 3: 17% scheduled learning and teaching
The exact balance between scheduled learning and teaching and guided independent study will be informed by the modules you take.
Your course will primarily be delivered in person. It may include delivery of some activities online, either in real time or recorded.
Types of assessment
- Year 1: Coursework 57%; exams 38%; practical 5%
- Year 2: Coursework 38%; exams 50%; practical 12%
- Year 3: Coursework 70%; exams 25%; practical 5%
Please note: the above breakdowns are a guide calculated on core modules only. If your course includes optional modules, this breakdown may change to reflect the modules chosen.
We aim to provide feedback to you on your assessments within 20 working days.
Your individualised timetable is normally available to students within 48 hours of enrolment. Whilst we make every effort to ensure timetables are as student friendly as possible, scheduled learning and teaching can take place on any day of the week between 9am and 6pm. For undergraduate students, Wednesday afternoons are normally reserved for sports and cultural activities, but there may be occasions when this is not possible. Timetables for part-time students will depend on the modules selected.
Fees and funding
| Fee category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| £10,050* | |
| Foundation Year: | £5,760 |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2027/28): | £20,500 |
| Year 2 (2028/29): | £21,300 |
| Year 3 (2029/30): | £22,100 |
| Year 4 (2030/31): | £22,900 |
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student.
Please visit the Fees and Funding page for more information.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
*For full-time programmes lasting more than one academic year, a tuition fee is payable for each academic year of the course.
Your annual tuition fee covers your first attempt at all modules required for that academic year. Any re-study or repeat of modules will incur additional charges, calculated according to the number of credits taken.
Home students (UK): Tuition fees are subject to inflation-linked increases in line with government policy. Updated fees will be confirmed in line with the maximum fee cap set by the Government or the Office for Students (OfS) for each academic year. This means your fee may increase for each academic year of study, but only up to the maximum amount permitted for that year.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
International students: Full-time taught international student fees are subject to an annual increase, which is published in advance for the full duration of your programme.
| Fee category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| £9,790* | |
| Foundation Year: | £5,760 |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2026/27): | £19,200 |
| Year 2 (2027/28): | £19,900 |
| Year 3 (2028/29): | £20,700 |
| Year 4 (2029/30): | £21,500 |
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student.
Please visit the Fees and Funding page for more information.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
*For full-time programmes lasting more than one academic year, a tuition fee is payable for each academic year of the course.
Your annual tuition fee covers your first attempt at all modules required for that academic year. Any re-study or repeat of modules will incur additional charges, calculated according to the number of credits taken.
Home students (UK): Tuition fees are subject to inflation-linked increases in line with government policy. Updated fees will be confirmed in line with the maximum fee cap set by the Government or the Office for Students (OfS) for each academic year. This means your fee may increase for each academic year of study, but only up to the maximum amount permitted for that year.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
International students: Full-time taught international student fees are subject to an annual increase, which is published in advance for the full duration of your programme.
| Fee category | Annual Fee |
|---|---|
| Home (UK students) | |
| £9,535* | |
| Foundation Year: | £5,760 |
| International | |
| Year 1 (2025/26): | £18,500 |
| Year 2 (2026/27): | £19,200 |
| Year 3 (2027/28): | £19,900 |
| Year 4 (2028/29): | £20,700 |
The tuition fee you pay depends on whether you are assessed as a 'Home' (UK), 'Islands' or 'International' student. In 2025/26 the fees for this course are above.
Please visit the Fees and Funding page for more information.
For courses with Professional Placement, the fee for the placement year can be viewed on the undergraduate fees table. The placement fee published is for the relevant academic year stated in the table. This fee is subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body.
* For full-time programmes of a duration of more than one academic year, the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the programme. Your annual tuition fees cover your first attempt at all of the modules necessary to complete that academic year. A re-study of any modules will incur additional charges calculated by the number of credits. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full-time taught International fees are subject to an annual increase and are published in advance for the full duration of the programme.
Eligible UK students can apply to the Government for a tuition loan, which is paid direct to the University. This has a low interest-rate which is charged from the time the first part of the loan is paid to the University until you have repaid it.
Additional course costs
Some courses may require additional costs beyond tuition fees. When planning your studies, you’ll want to consider tuition fees, living costs, and any extra costs that might relate to your area of study.
Your tuition fees include costs for teaching, assessment and university facilities. So your access to libraries, shared IT resources and various student support services are all covered. Accommodation and general living expenses are not covered by these fees.
Where applicable, additional expenses for your course may include:
Our libraries have an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as open-access computers and laptops available to rent. However, you may want to buy your own computer or personal copies of key textbooks. Textbooks may range from £50 to £250 per year. And a personal computer can range from £100 to £3,000 depending on your course requirements.
While most coursework is submitted online, some modules may require printed copies. You may want to allocate up to £100 per year for hard-copies of your coursework. It’s worth noting that 3D printing is never compulsory. So if you choose to use our 3D printers, you’ll need to pay for the material. This ranges from 3p per gram to 40p per gram.
Kingston University will pay for all compulsory field trips. Fees for optional trips can range from £30 to £350 per trip.
Your tuition fees don’t cover travel costs. To save on travel costs, you can use our intersite bus service. This route links the campuses and halls of residence with local train stations - Surbiton, Kingston upon Thames and Norbiton.
If you choose to do a placement year, travel costs will vary depending on your location. These costs could be up to £2,000.
Scholarships and bursaries
For students interested in studying this course at Kingston, there are several opportunities to seek funding support.
Course changes and regulations
The information on this page reflects the currently intended course structure and module details. To improve your student experience and the quality of your degree, we may review and change the material information of this course. Find out more about course changes
Programme Specifications for the course are published ahead of each academic year.
Regulations governing this course can be found on our website.
What our students and graduates say
I did a placement year in the civil service. I was a student economist at the Department for International Trade. I was based in the Chief Economist's office where I assisted the Chief Economist in a range of tasks, including producing macroeconomics briefings and working on strategic trade papers.
I plan on becoming an economist in the future, which is a very theoretical and analytical career. I think my course will help me develop these necessary skills to become a competent economist.
Key information
The scrolling banner below displays some key factual data about this course (including different course combinations or delivery modes of this course where relevant).
