BSc (Hons) Business Economics with integrated Foundation (3-year degree)
BSc in Business Economics with Foundation is designed for students who have a passion for business giving additional preparation for undergraduate study.
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Course overview
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18 January 2025
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Jan 2025 (Full-time)
| Module | Type | Credits | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Advanced Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Digital Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Enterprise in Business | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Global Perspectives | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Financial Studies | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Quantitative Methods | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Key Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Research Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| The Economic Environment of Business | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Understanding Business in a Global World | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Marketing Fundamentals | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Principles of Macroeconomics | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Principles of Microeconomics | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Quantitative Methods 1 | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Understanding Business and Management with Embedded Academic Skills | Core | 30.00 | 4 |
| Behaviour in Organisations | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Macroeconomic Policy | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Macroeconomic Theory | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Marketing Management | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Mathematics for Economists | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Microeconomic Policy | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Microeconomic Theory | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Quantitative Methods 2 | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Sustainable Operations | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Cross-cultural Management | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Globalisation and International Business | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Behavioural Economics | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Corporate Strategy and Strategic Management | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Dissertation (Business Economics ) | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| History of Economic Thought | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Industrial Organisation and Strategy | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| International Economics | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Economics of the Labour market | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Issues in Developing Economies and the MENA region | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Managing People and Change | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Psychology of Work | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Welfare Economics | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
Sep 2025 (Full-time)
| Module | Type | Credits | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Advanced Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Digital Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Enterprise in Business | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Global Perspectives | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Financial Studies | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Quantitative Methods | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Key Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Research Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| The Economic Environment of Business | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Understanding Business in a Global World | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Marketing Fundamentals | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Principles of Macroeconomics | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Principles of Microeconomics | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Quantitative Methods 1 | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Understanding Business and Management with Embedded Academic Skills | Core | 30.00 | 4 |
| Behaviour in Organisations | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Macroeconomic Policy | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Macroeconomic Theory | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Marketing Management | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Mathematics for Economists | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Microeconomic Policy | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Microeconomic Theory | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Quantitative Methods 2 | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Sustainable Operations | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Cross-cultural Management | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Globalisation and International Business | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Behavioural Economics | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Corporate Strategy and Strategic Management | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Dissertation (Business Economics ) | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| History of Economic Thought | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Industrial Organisation and Strategy | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| International Economics | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Economics of the Labour market | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Issues in Developing Economies and the MENA region | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Managing People and Change | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Psychology of Work | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Welfare Economics | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
Jan 2026 (Full-time)
| Module | Type | Credits | Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Academic Writing Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Advanced Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Critical Thinking | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Digital Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Enterprise in Business | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Global Perspectives | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Financial Studies | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Introduction to Quantitative Methods | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Key Academic Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Research Skills | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| The Economic Environment of Business | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Understanding Business in a Global World | Core | 10.00 | 3 |
| Marketing Fundamentals | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Principles of Macroeconomics | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Principles of Microeconomics | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Quantitative Methods 1 | Core | 15.00 | 4 |
| Understanding Business and Management with Embedded Academic Skills | Core | 30.00 | 4 |
| Behaviour in Organisations | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Macroeconomic Policy | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Macroeconomic Theory | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Marketing Management | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Mathematics for Economists | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Microeconomic Policy | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Microeconomic Theory | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Quantitative Methods 2 | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Sustainable Operations | Core | 15.00 | 5 |
| Cross-cultural Management | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Globalisation and International Business | Optional | 15.00 | 5 |
| Behavioural Economics | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Corporate Strategy and Strategic Management | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Dissertation (Business Economics ) | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| History of Economic Thought | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Industrial Organisation and Strategy | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| International Economics | Core | 15.00 | 6 |
| Economics of the Labour market | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Issues in Developing Economies and the MENA region | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Managing People and Change | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Psychology of Work | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
| Welfare Economics | Optional | 15.00 | 6 |
The BSc Business Economics (with integrated foundation) is designed for students who need additional preparation prior to undergraduate level study. The first year of the programme is intended to provide a foundation in both knowledge and academic skills for the more specialist subjects in years two and three.
How will the rise of digital currencies affect international business? How will disruptions to international supply chains affect businesses post-pandemic? How will remote working impact the management of businesses?
Our Business Economics programme will explore these topics and many others. The course is designed to equip students with the quantitative and analytical skills to progress into economics and management related jobs in finance, business and consulting, as well as preparing them for master’s level study.
On this course, we blend business management, business strategy, macro and micro-economics, financial markets and consumer behaviour, together with practical real-world analysis and applications. There are many optional choices built into the programme so you can tailor your degree towards economics or business to suit your career or academic preferences.
We regularly host events and seminars where we discuss the latest research from our academics and invite speakers from the world of business and entrepreneurship.
Our academics offer a supportive, diverse and creative environment for you to explore your interests and ensure a successful educational experience. You will join an international community of students, staff and alumni.
A dedicated professional development course runs through the degree covering academic and job market skills. You will also benefit from internships and research opportunities in the Vinson Centre for Economics and Entrepreneurship.
Our graduates continue their studies with us at master’s level or go on to careers in business management, financial markets, corporate finance and economic/business consultancy.
We are the beneficiaries of a substantial endowment from Nobel prize-winning economist Ronald Coase and offer several generous scholarships for students with a passion for Economics. We especially encourage women and ethnic minorities to apply. Coase Scholarship details and eligibility criteria.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must have a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grades 4-9, including English and Maths, or their international equivalents. In addition, applicants must have one of the following qualifications or their international equivalents:
- A Levels with minimum grades of DD
- BTEC National Diploma with minimum grades of MPP
- Other Level 3 qualifications equivalent to at least 48 UCAS points
International Applicants: We welcome equivalent qualifications from around the world. However, you must also demonstrate your English language proficiency by achieving an IELTS score of 6 with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component, or another approved language test.
UCAS applications
You may apply either through the national UCAS university admissions system or at any time directly to the University using our own online application form. Our UCAS code is B90.
Mature students
The age range of our student body varies from those who have recently completed A-levels (or equivalent) to more mature students. Age is no barrier to learning and we welcome all applications from suitably qualified students.
International students
We are happy to consider all international applications and if you are an international student, you may find it useful to visit our international pages for details of entry requirements from your home country.
The University is a UKVI Student Sponsor.
Selection process
Wherever possible, you will be invited to the University to meet the Admissions Tutor for an informal interview and to have a tour of our campus. If you are an international applicant, it may not be possible for you to visit in person, so if the Admissions Tutor has any queries about your application you may be contacted by Microsoft Teams, email or phone.
Our Admissions Team will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Call us on +44 (0)1280 820227 or via our online form.
Student Contract for prospective students
When you are offered a place at the University you will be notified of the student contract between the University and students on our courses of study. When you accept an offer of a place on the course at the University a legal contract is formed between you and the University on the basis of the student contract in your offer letter. Your offer letter and the student contract contain important information which you should read carefully before accepting an offer. Read the Student Contract.
Teaching & Assessment
Quality teaching
We offer high quality, traditional Oxbridge-style teaching, which leads to our degrees being recognised around the world. The standards of degrees and awards are safeguarded by distinguished external examiners – senior academic staff from other universities in the UK – who approve and moderate assessed work.
Teaching methods
Teaching is carried out through a combination of lectures supported by seminars and tutorials. A key feature of the Buckingham teaching method is the use of small tutorial groups which provide the most effective means of ensuring that the students benefit from the academic expertise at their disposal. It is also the philosophy of Buckingham’s faculty to be available to students outside the scheduled tutorial times and to encourage good working relationships between staff and students.
Assessment methods
The assessment of individual modules within each course varies according to the subject. Assessment is usually by examination, assessed coursework, or a combination of the two. Please check module information for more details.
Preparation for work
All our degree courses combine academic challenge with the transferable skills that will stand you in good stead for future employment. Many of our more vocationally-focused degrees offer the opportunity of work placements and experience in industry.
After Your Course
Graduate employment
Our graduates have gone on to further study at most of the world’s leading universities, including Harvard, London, Oxford and Cambridge and secured jobs in senior positions around the world. Among our alumni we have a graduate who became the head of his country’s civil service and one who became a leading Formula One motor-racing driver. Another secured a position as the Minister of Sabah and one female law graduate became the first British lawyer to become a French Advocate.
Fees & Scholarships
The fees for this course are:
| Start | Type | First Year | Total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
Jan 2025 Full-time (3 Years) | UK | £9,250 | £37,000 |
| INT | £14,800 | £59,200 | |
Sep 2025 Full-time (3 Years) | UK | £9,250 | £37,000 |
| INT | £14,800 | £59,200 | |
Jan 2026 Full-time (3 Years) | UK | £9,250 | £37,000 |
| INT | £14,800 | £59,200 |
The University reserves the right to increase course fees annually in line with inflation linked to the Retail Price Index (RPI). If the University intends to increase your course fees it will notify you via email of this as soon as reasonably practicable.
Course fees do not include additional costs such as books, equipment, writing up fees and other ancillary charges. Where applicable, these additional costs will be made clear.
Scholarships
Details of our scholarships can be found on our Bursaries and Scholarships page.
Discounts
Students who graduate from the University and plan to continue their studies with a postgraduate degree at Buckingham can benefit from a very generous automatic discount on their fees:
- 33%, those with a first class honours degree from Buckingham
- 25%, those with a Second Class Honours, Upper Division (2:1) degree from Buckingham
Accommodation
On-campus accommodation
We guarantee on-campus accommodation to all new students for their first four terms of study, as long as it is booked and paid for in good time, so you’re assured of a safe and secure home from home when you arrive at the University. Most new students choose this option.
Living on campus enables you to become involved in University activities, make friends, and integrate with the University community. For some of you this will be your first time in the UK; for others it will be the first time living away from home – and independence brings its challenges as well as its excitements. Whatever your circumstances, we know how important it is for you to feel comfortable in your accommodation.
What’s included?
All our study bedrooms are fully furnished, centrally heated, and connected to the internet. With few exceptions they have a wash basin and small refrigerator. We have a large number of ensuite rooms, and are upgrading more rooms each year. There are shared kitchens for when you wish to cook for yourself.
Find out more
If you’d like to find out more, visit our Accommodation pages or get in touch with our Accommodation Team.
We recommend that all prospective students visit our campus if they are able to, at one of our open days or a Campus Tour, campus tours include a typical student room.
How To Apply
We welcome applications in two different ways – directly via our online application form or through UCAS.
Apply directly
Apply online via our course pages:
- Most flexible option
- Apply until shortly before the course starts
- No application fees
- You can apply to us as an extra option alongside your UCAS choices
You can apply directly through our website by clicking the ‘apply’ button at the bottom of the course page.
Apply via UCAS
You can easily make Buckingham one of your UCAS choices:
- You can apply to up to 5 choices
- The application and decision deadlines are set by UCAS
- There is an application fee to UCAS
Our UCAS code is B90.
If you’re interested in transferring to Buckingham from another university then please get in touch to talk through your options.