Money makes the world go round, as the saying goes, and economics is the fascinating study of how money, resources, and decisions shape our lives and societies. It’s a broad, dynamic subject that’s arguably more relevant today than ever before, influencing everything from your weekly shop to global trade policies.
Choosing to study economics at university opens doors to a vast range of rewarding career paths. If you're considering an economics degree, you'll want to know which institutions offer the best teaching, resources, and opportunities. Luckily, the UK is home to some world-leading universities for this subject… Let's dive into the best economics universities the UK has to offer!
The study of economics
So, what exactly is economics? At its core, economics explores how individuals, businesses, and governments make choices about allocating scarce resources – like time, money, and materials – to satisfy their needs and wants. From inflation and interest rates to global trade and inequality, economics touches almost every part of our daily lives: the price of petrol, the availability of jobs, the interest rate on your savings account, the cost of your food, and the taxes you pay.
Economics is generally split into two main branches:
Macroeconomics: This looks at the bigger picture – the performance, structure, behaviour, and decision-making of an economy as a whole. Think national income, inflation, unemployment rates, government spending, monetary policies, and international trade. It helps us understand how countries manage their economies and respond to global challenges.
Microeconomics: This zooms in on the behaviour of individual economic agents – like households, firms, buyers, and sellers – and how their decisions impact supply and demand in specific markets. It covers topics like pricing, consumer behaviour, market structures, and the impact of regulations on businesses.
Studying economics at university provides you with powerful analytical tools and a unique lens through which to understand how the modern world works, from local markets to complex global systems. It's a truly fascinating field!
What careers use an economics degree?
An economics degree is highly valued by employers across many sectors because it equips graduates with strong analytical, quantitative, problem-solving, and communication skills. The career options are incredibly diverse, extending far beyond traditional finance roles.
Here are just some of the career paths and specific job roles you could pursue:
Economist: Working for government departments (like the Treasury or the Bank of England), international organisations (like the IMF or World Bank), consultancies, financial institutions, or think tanks, analysing economic data and trends to provide advice and forecasts.
Banking and Finance: Roles such as Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, Portfolio Manager, Risk Manager, or Financial Planner within commercial banks, investment firms, insurance companies, and other financial institutions.
Business and Management Consultancy: Advising companies on business strategy, market entry, pricing, efficiency improvements, and economic impact assessments. Job titles might include Management Consultant or Business Analyst.
Government and Public Sector: Working as a Policy Advisor, Social Researcher, or Statistician, helping to shape public policy on issues like taxation, healthcare, education, and transport.
Data Analysis and Actuarial Science: Using statistical skills to analyse large datasets (Data Scientist/Analyst) or assess financial risks, particularly in the insurance industry (Actuary).
International Trade and Development: Roles in international organisations, NGOs, or multinational corporations focusing on global economic issues, trade policy, or economic development projects.
Market Research: Analysing consumer behaviour and market trends to help businesses make informed decisions about products and marketing (Market Research Analyst).
Journalism and Communications: Specialising in financial or business reporting, explaining complex economic issues to the public.
Essentially, the rigorous training in logical thinking and data analysis you receive at university makes you a valuable asset in almost any field that involves decision-making and resource allocation.
The best universities for economics in the UK
If you've decided that economics is the path for you, the next big question is: where should you study? Choosing the right university is a crucial step. To help you decide, we've looked at the latest Complete University Guide's 2025 Subject League Table for Economics.
Keep in mind that entry requirements differ between universities and specific courses, and some institutions offer foundation years or alternative pathways that might make entry more accessible.
Here are the top 10 universities for economics in the UK according to their rankings:
1. University of Cambridge
Subject League Table: 1st
University League Table: 1st
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 152-160 UCAS points
It’s no surprise to see the University of Cambridge topping the list. With a world-renowned reputation, its Faculty of Economics offers a prestigious and rigorous BA (Hons) Economics degree. The course provides a deep understanding of economic theory, applied economics, and quantitative methods. Cambridge offers exceptional teaching quality, small-group supervisions, and access to incredible resources.
Cambridge itself is a beautiful, historic city brimming with character. It's relatively compact and easy to get around (especially by bike!), offering a fantastic student experience with numerous societies, events, and green spaces. Being relatively close to London also provides excellent networking and career opportunities.
2. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
Subject League Table: 2nd
University League Table: 3rd
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 144-152 UCAS points
London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) is a global centre for social sciences and its Department of Economics is consistently ranked among the very best in the world. Specialising solely in social sciences means LSE offers an unparalleled focus and depth in economics. They offer a BSc Economics programme alongside various joint degrees. Students benefit from teaching by leading economists and exposure to cutting-edge research in a truly international environment.
Located in the heart of London, studying at LSE puts you right at the centre of the UK's financial and political hub. While the cost of living is higher, the opportunities for internships, networking, and experiencing city life are immense.
3. University of Oxford
Subject League Table: 3rd
University League Table: 2nd
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 96-165 UCAS points
Another globally prestigious institution, the University of Oxford, offers highly regarded economics programmes, often combined with other subjects like Management, History, or Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE). Oxford's tutorial system provides personalised teaching and fosters critical thinking. The Department of Economics is known for its research excellence and distinguished faculty.
Oxford is a stunning city steeped in history and academic tradition. Like Cambridge, it revolves around its university colleges, offering a unique student experience. It boasts beautiful architecture, museums, parks, and a lively atmosphere, combining old-world charm with modern amenities.
4. University of St Andrews
Subject League Table: 4th
University League Table: 4th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 38-160 UCAS points
Scotland's oldest university, St Andrews, consistently ranks among the UK's elite institutions. Its School of Economics & Finance offers a range of flexible MA (Hons) and BSc (Hons) degrees, allowing students to study economics alongside subjects like Finance, Management, Mathematics, or Sustainable Development. It's known for its excellent teaching quality and strong sense of community.
St Andrews is a charming coastal town in Fife, known for its historic university, beautiful beaches, and world-famous golf courses. It offers a unique, close-knit student experience in a stunning setting, though it's smaller than the cities housing other top universities. Edinburgh is easily accessible for a bigger city fix.
5. University of Warwick
Subject League Table: 5th
University League Table: 10th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: Typically A*A*A at A-Level, including A* in Mathematics or equivalent
The University of Warwick has rapidly established itself as a powerhouse, particularly in economics. Its Department of Economics is one of the largest and most respected in the UK, offering BSc Economics and joint degrees like Economics, Politics and International Studies (EPAIS) or Mathematics and Economics (MathsEco). Warwick is known for its research-led teaching and strong links with industry.
Located on a modern campus on the outskirts of Coventry, Warwick offers a self-contained student environment with excellent facilities. While the campus provides plenty, the nearby cities of Coventry and Leamington Spa offer more extensive shopping, nightlife, and cultural attractions.
6. University College London (UCL)
Subject League Table: 6th
University League Table: 9th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 144-168 UCAS points
University College London (UCL) is another top London university with a highly-rated Department of Economics. It offers a BSc Economics programme and variants like Economics with a Year Abroad or Economics and Statistics. UCL prides itself on its research-intensive environment and its location in Bloomsbury, central London, provides access to numerous academic and cultural resources, as well as excellent career opportunities.
Being a large, multi-faculty university in the capital, UCL offers a diverse and vibrant student experience. Students benefit from being close to major institutions, libraries, and the buzz of London life.
7. Durham University
Subject League Table: 7th
University League Table: 7th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 152-168 UCAS points
Durham is a prestigious collegiate university (like Oxford and Cambridge) in the North East of England. Its Economics department, part of the Durham University Business School, offers BA Economics degrees, often combined with subjects like Finance, Management, Politics, or Philosophy. Durham is known for its strong academic reputation, excellent teaching, and supportive college system.
Durham is a beautiful, historic city dominated by its cathedral and castle (a UNESCO World Heritage site). The collegiate system provides a strong sense of community and pastoral support. While smaller than some cities on this list, it offers a friendly atmosphere and good student facilities, with Newcastle nearby for more extensive amenities.
8. King's College London (KCL)
Subject League Table: 8th
University League Table: 24th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 93-152 UCAS points
King's College London (KCL) is another well-regarded London university with a strong offering in economics, often within its Business School or Department of Political Economy. Programmes like BSc Economics and BSc Economics & Management provide a solid grounding in the subject, benefiting from King's research strengths and central London location across several campuses.
Studying at King's offers the advantages of being in the capital – access to internships, cultural institutions, and a diverse environment. Its location near the Thames provides iconic surroundings for study.
9. University of Bath
Subject League Table: 9th
University League Table: 8th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 112-152 UCAS points
The University of Bath consistently ranks highly for student satisfaction and graduate prospects. Its Department of Economics offers BSc Economics, BSc Economics and Mathematics, and BSc Economics and Politics, with a strong emphasis on quantitative skills and placement opportunities. Many courses include the option of a professional placement year or study abroad.
Bath is a beautiful, historic city (another World Heritage site!) in the South West. The university is located on a modern campus overlooking the city, known for its excellent sports facilities and friendly atmosphere. Bath offers a great quality of life with good shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
10. University of Leeds
Subject League Table: 10th
University League Table: 24th
Undergraduate Entry Requirements: 128-198 UCAS points
Rounding out the top 10 is the University of Leeds, a popular choice known for its vibrant campus and strong academic reputation. Leeds University Business School offers BSc Economics as well as numerous joint honours programmes combining economics with subjects like Finance, Geography, History, Management, or Politics. It has a large and active student union.
Leeds is a major city in West Yorkshire, offering a fantastic student experience. It's known for its great nightlife, shopping, music scene, and cultural diversity. With excellent transport links, it's a lively and affordable place to study.
How to choose the best university for economics?
While league tables provide a useful starting point, they aren't the only factor to consider when choosing where to study economics. The 'best' university for you depends on your individual priorities, learning style, and career aspirations.
Remember that rankings can change, and different league tables sometimes produce different results. For instance, league tables from The Guardian's Best UK Universities for Economics 2025 rankings highlight other excellent institutions like London South Bank University, University of Essex, Heriot-Watt University, and the University of Liverpool in their top spots, showcasing the breadth of quality across the UK. There are many fantastic universities in the UK offering economics degrees beyond the top 10 lists!
Here are some key things to think about:
Course Content and Structure: Look closely at the modules offered. Do they cover areas of economics you find particularly interesting (e.g. behavioural economics, development economics, econometrics)? Is there flexibility to choose modules or combine economics with another subject?
Teaching and Learning Style: Do you prefer lectures, seminars, tutorials, or group work? Research the department's approach. Some universities might focus more on mathematics, while others might emphasise applied economics or policy.
Entry Requirements: Be realistic about your predicted grades and check the specific requirements for each course, including any prerequisites like A-Level Mathematics (which is common for top economics courses).
Location and Campus: Do you want a bustling city experience or a quieter town? Do you want to stay in university halls of residence, private shared student accommodation, or a self-contained flat? Consider the cost of living, transport links, and the general atmosphere. Visit universities on open days if you can!
University Reputation and Graduate Prospects: While specific rankings fluctuate, consider the overall reputation of the university and the economics department, and look into their graduate employment statistics if available.
Student Life and Accommodation: Think about societies, sports facilities, and the overall student vibe. Crucially, if you plan to live away from home, research the availability and cost of student accommodation nearby. Ensure there are safe, comfortable, and convenient options like those offered by Sanctuary Students!
Do your research thoroughly. Read course descriptions, look at student reviews, attend virtual or in-person open days, and maybe even reach out to university departments with specific questions.
Conclusion
Studying economics in the UK offers a pathway to understanding the forces that shape our world and opens doors to a huge variety of interesting and well-paid careers. The top UK universities for economics provide exceptional teaching, cutting-edge research, and stimulating environments to develop your skills.
From the historic colleges of Oxford and Cambridge to the bustling city campuses of London and Leeds, there's a fantastic range of options among the best economics universities UK-wide. By considering the course details, teaching styles, location, and your own preferences alongside rankings, you can find the perfect place to embark on your economics journey. Don't forget to factor in practicalities like finding great student accommodation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable university experience! Good luck with your applications!