Economics with Foundation Durham University

Overview

The Economics with Foundation Year at Durham University is a four-year full-time undergraduate programme that begins with a foundation year designed to prepare students who don’t yet meet direct entry requirements for degree study. The foundation year focuses on developing academic skills, independent learning and subject knowledge in areas relevant to economics, giving you a strong base before progressing to Year 1 of the BSc Economics degree. Once you complete the foundation year successfully, you move on to study core economic topics such as economic theory, decision-making by individuals and businesses, and the impact of those decisions on society.

Why Economics with Foundation at Durham University?

Durham University is recognised for its academic excellence, being named University of the Year by The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026. It ranks 5th in the Guardian University Guide 2026 and is listed among the world’s top 100 universities in the QS World University Rankings 2026. The university's strong reputation is bolstered by its extensive partnerships and state-of-the-art facilities, which foster a conducive learning environment. The Economics with Foundation programme is tailored for students from under-represented groups in higher education. It aims to support those who may have faced educational disadvantages, providing them with the opportunity to develop the skills necessary for success in their academic journey. The foundation year focuses on enhancing students’ understanding of economic principles as they are applied in real-world contexts, preparing them for further study in economics.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

For home students, the tuition fee is £9,535 per year. Please note that fees for international, European, and local students are not available at this time. Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The Foundation Programme comprises various modules designed to build essential academic skills and subject-specific knowledge. Students will engage in the following areas:

• Understanding economic theory and its applications
• Developing metacognitive skills
• Independent learning techniques
• Core general academic skills

This structured approach ensures that students are well-prepared for the transition to undergraduate study in Economics.

Careers with Economics with Foundation

Graduates of the Economics with Foundation programme benefit from impressive career prospects. Many of them secure positions in prestigious companies across diverse industries, thanks to Durham’s strong reputation among employers. According to the HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey, 87% of students who graduated in 2020-21 were either employed or pursuing further studies, with 92% of those employed in high or medium-skilled roles. The average salary for graduates is approximately £30,000, reflecting the programme's effectiveness in preparing students for the job market.