Economist : Entry requirements

Entry is possible with a degree in economics (2:1 or above) or a joint degree including the following combinations:

• economics and/with management studies;
• economics and/with law;
• economics and/with politics;
• economics and/with finance;
• economics and/with mathematics;
• international economics.

Graduates completing joint degrees should ensure that the majority of their degree modules are in economics and that they have studied both microeconomics and macroeconomics. A good honours degree in another subject may allow entry to the profession but only after completing a postgraduate economics qualification. Some employers will also look for good A-level results.

Entry is not possible without a degree or with an HND/foundation degree only. A pre-entry postgraduate qualification is desirable. A Masters degree in economics may improve your chances. A number of universities run Masters degree courses specifically in business economics or in business administration (MBA).

Potential candidates will also need to show evidence of the following:

• well-developed research skills including the ability to extract and analyse relevant data to make sound judgements;
• skill with statistical information;
• excellent written and spoken communication skills to convey complex ideas to people with varying levels of economic expertise;
• the ability to build productive working relationships and work within a team;
• excellent organisational and time management skills;
• the ability to work alone under pressure, often to tight deadlines;
• accuracy and attention to detail;
• the ability to juggle and prioritise different tasks;
• a genuine interest in economics;
• self-reliance and motivation;
• good IT skills.

Foreign language skills can be helpful, especially for economists considering secondments abroad. In general, competition for posts is fierce and candidates should apply in the early autumn of their final year as soon as the recruitment cycle begins.

Join student industrial societies and organisations such as the Society of Business Economists  or the Royal Economic Society  to demonstrate your interest in economics and to make contacts. Work experience (during university holidays), particularly in an economics department, will improve your employment prospects.

Speculative approaches can be worthwhile in addition to applying to advertised vacancies and the Civil Service. Many employers value the skills and qualities gained from previous experience, particularly from the accountancy or finance sectors.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.