Economics (Hons) Heriot-Watt University

Overview

The Economics (Hons) at Heriot-Watt University provides students with a deep understanding of how individuals, organisations, and governments distribute resources across society. This programme focuses on improving decision-making processes to address critical global issues such as inflation, poverty, and environmental sustainability. Students progress from fundamental principles to conducting technically complex analyses of modern economic policy.

Why Economics (Hons) at Heriot-Watt University?

Choosing this programme means learning from globally active researchers at the Edinburgh Business School, where the curriculum is informed by an Industry Advisory Board of business leaders. The university was ranked first in Scotland by the National Student Survey 2025 and fourth in the UK by the Daily Mail University Guide 2026 for this subject. Students benefit from a learning environment that blends academic rigour with practical case studies and guest lectures from industry CEOs and directors.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 21192 per year
• National fee: GBP 9535 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed to build specialist knowledge and research capabilities. Modules may include:

Year 1

• The Economy
• Critical Academic Skills
• Management in a Global Context
• Accounting
• Economic and Financial Analysis
• Sustainable Business

Year 2

• Intermediate Economics
• Data Analysis and Probability
• Contemporary Economic Policy and Institutions
• Statistical Techniques

Year 3

• Public Choice and Welfare Economics
• Advanced Economics
• Econometrics
• Games and Behaviour

Year 4

• Advanced Economic Policy
• Economics Dissertation
• Labour Economics
• Development Economics

Careers with Economics (Hons)

Graduates are highly sought after, with the university ranking first in Scotland for graduate prospects according to the HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey 2025. The programme prepares individuals for successful careers in financial services, public service, and the management of national or multinational organisations. Common roles for alumni include finance professionals, research associates, and business administrative professionals, with many progressing to senior leadership positions such as Managing Director or CEO.