Modules

Year 1
Core modules:
Principles of Economics provides a sound foundation for modules in micro- and macroeconomics. You will cover areas including methodology of economics, supply and demand, consumer spending choices, competition and growth theories.

Global Economic History provides knowledge and understanding of the features of different types of economy, and of world trade and the international financial system. You will learn about international trade theory, economic growth and cover some of the key concepts relating to developments and crises in the world economy using real-world case studies.

Calculus builds on ideas of differentiation and integration in A level mathematics. The module begins with functions of a single variable before moving on to functions of several variables. Topics include methods of solving ordinary and partial differential equations, and an introduction to Taylor series, Fourier series and Fourier transforms.

Linear Algebra presents mathematical ideas, techniques in linear algebra and develops the geometric intuition and familiarity with vector methods you will need for more challenging material later in the course.

Probability introduces mathematical ideas on probability in preparation for more demanding material later in the course. The module builds problem solving skills through the exploration of a mathematical subject of relevance to the real world (applied) that is based on rigorous mathematical foundations (pure).

Statistics introduces frequentist and Bayesian approaches and demonstrates the relevance of these principles and procedures using real problems. This introductory module lays the foundations for all subsequent study of statistics.

In recent years, option modules have included:
The Economics of Sustainability
Introduction to the History of Economic Thought
Programming and Dynamics.
Year 2
Core modules:
Economic Theory develops an intermediate knowledge and understanding of the essential components of microeconomic and macroeconomic theory and an understanding of policies and empirical applications of economic theory.

Econometrics equips you with the skills to understand the type of empirical analysis used in economic literature. You will also write a report based on econometric analysis.

In recent years, option modules have included:
Macroeconomics*
Microeconomics*
Behavioural and Experimental Economics
Intermediate Methods for Economics
Microeconomic Applications and Policy
Macroeconomic Applications and Policy
Statistical Inference
Data Science and Statistical Computing
Markov Chains
Probability
Statistical Modelling
Mathematical Modelling.
* These may replace Economic Theory. When combined, the two modules develop advanced knowledge and understanding of microeconomic and macroeconomic theory. If they are selected there will be no opportunity for any other Economics option modules in Year 2.

Year 3 (Year 4 if undertaking a placement or year abroad)
In the final-year you will either undertake a Dissertation, a detailed and critical examination of a relevant area of economics. Alternatively, you could choose to investigate a statistical topic of interest or perform an in-depth analysis of a data set using the tools acquired earlier in the course.

You may also take our Enterprise module working in groups to develop a business plan to bid for research funding for a mock applicable innovation.

In recent years, option modules have included:
Advanced Macroeconomic Theory
Advanced Microeconomic Theory
Applied Econometrics
Developmental Economics
Environmental Economics and Policy
International Economics
Monetary Economics
Labour Economics
Game Theory and Applications
Advanced Statistical Modelling
Bayesian Computation and Modelling
Decision Theory
Machine Learning and Neural Networks
Mathematical Finance
Operations Research
Stochastic Processes.

Assessment methods

The majority of modules are assessed entirely by examination, while others also include an element of continuous assessment including online tests, presentations and project reports.

The final-year Dissertation is an opportunity to bring your prior learning to an area of economics or mathematics of your choice. The Dissertation, completed under the supervision of an academic from your chosen subject area, makes up one-third of your final-year marks.

Tuition fees

Select where you currently live to see what you'll pay:

Extra funding

We're committed to supporting the best students irrespective of financial circumstances. https://www.durham.ac.uk/study/scholarships/