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What triggers 'credit crunches', and how do their consequences ripple through the economy? What factors influence the exchange rate between Pound Sterling and currencies like the US Dollar or Euro? How do fluctuations in stock markets impact other asset values? Financial developments consistently dominate news cycles, with repercussions stretching well beyond banking sectors to influence nearly all facets of everyday living - from earnings and jobs to consumer prices, real estate values, and home loan costs. Our program grounds itself in fundamental economic theories, applying these principles to examine financial entities (such as commercial banks), trading platforms (like stock markets), and financial products. Students gain comprehensive training in economic theory, mathematical foundations, and quantitative research methodologies. The curriculum covers mathematical and statistical approaches to economic challenges, alongside the mechanics of financial systems. Students can select from diverse financial economics topics including: - Accounting essentials - Competitive business strategies - Functioning of capital markets - Emerging financial technologies and payment systems - Debt instruments and contractual agreements Our department ranks 4th nationally for research strength in economics and econometrics (Times Higher Education's Research Excellence Framework 2021 assessment). Finance profoundly influences individuals, corporations, and governments. This program builds from core economic principles to deliver specialized knowledge of financial mechanisms and their societal impacts. Graduates emerge with rigorous training in financial economic analysis. International Study Opportunities We encourage students to broaden their horizons through study abroad programs at partner institutions. Our four-year degree option includes a third year abroad or an international placement, mirroring the three-year curriculum structure otherwise. Overseas study cultivates cultural awareness, linguistic skills, and academic growth while demonstrating to future employers your adaptability, organizational abilities, and global perspective. Full-year participants pay only 15% of standard Essex tuition fees, with no additional charges at host universities. Professional Placement Option Alternatively, students may undertake a third-year placement with external organizations, gaining practical industry experience, applying classroom knowledge in professional settings, and exploring potential career paths. While students secure their own placements, they receive support from both academic departments and the university's career services. Placement participants pay just 20% of regular tuition fees during their practical year.
GCSE: Mathematics B/5.
A-levels: BBB - BBC or 120 - 112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 full A-levels.
BTEC: DDM - DMM or 120 - 112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of the equivalent of 2 full A-levels.
Combined qualifications on the UCAS tariff: 120 - 112 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 full A levels or equivalent.
IB: 30 - 29 points or three Higher Level certificates with 555-554. Our Maths requirement can be met with either: 5 in Standard level Maths; 3 in Higher level Maths; or 5 in IB Middle Years Maths.
IB Career-related Programme: We consider combinations of IB Diploma Programme courses with BTECs or other qualifications.
QAA-approved Access to HE Diploma: 6 level 3 credits at Distinction and 39 level 3 credits at Merit, depending on subject studied - advice on acceptability can be provided
T-levels: We consider T-levels on a case-by-case basis, depending on subject studied. The offer for most courses is Distinction overall. Depending on the course applied for there may be additional requirements, which may include a specific grade in the Core.
IELTS - 6.0 overall TOEFL IBT - 76 overall, with a minimum of 18 in reading, 17 in listening, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing