Course overview

Economics and Mathematics at Keele gives you the opportunity to develop your understanding and skills in two fascinating subjects.

In economics you will improve your knowledge of the different economic decisions families, companies and governments must make, and examine how economic markets function and the impact of fiscal and monetary policies.

Mathematics can be related to almost every aspect of the world we live in. Our curriculum is carefully designed to ensure you have a solid grasp of the fundamentals of the discipline, so you can apply these principles to the real world.

Throughout this Economics and Mathematics BSc, microeconomics and macroeconomics are thoroughly explored, giving you an insight into how consumers and organisations make decisions, and how prices and quantities of goods are established, complemented by looking at living standards and growth, unemployment, inflation, public policies and public finance.

You will build essential quantitative techniques for developing models and presenting data, carefully exploring the core areas of mathematics including calculus and algebra. As you progress in your studies you will increase your practical skillset using Bloomberg Terminal software, a widely used tool in the financial industry, focussing on different methods for solving differential equations.

A variety of optional modules in both subjects throughout years two and three offer you the flexibility to tailor your degree to your career aspirations and interests. This includes our Financial Mathematics module which highlights the natural connection between economics and mathematics and tackles the modelling of various financial instruments likes derivatives, futures and options, and how to manage their risk.

Gain experience using industry software

You will have access to a range of I.T. platforms during your studies. Keele Business School is home to the Bloomberg Lab which can be utilised to replicate a trading environment. Bloomberg Professional Service, also known as the Terminal is software widely used in the financial industry and gives you access to economic, financial and business information. We utilise Bloomberg in our teaching, and you can also use it in your own time to refine your skillset and to acquire information to use in your studies.

There is also the opportunity to complete the Bloomberg Market Concepts, a free e-learning course available to Keele Business School students which will demonstrate to future employers that you have enhanced your learning about the financial markets.

In your second year there is an optional module, Computational Mathematics, which teaches the Python programming language using a cloud based "Jupyterhub" server. In the module you will learn how to solve mathematical problems which are intractable using traditional "pen and paper" techniques. Python is a highly valued skill by employers across a wide range of sectors.

Teaching related module

If you are interested in entering the teaching profession after graduation, our 'Introduction to Mathematics Teaching' third-year optional module will provide you with the principles of the teaching of mathematics linked to current educational practice (includes time spent in school on work placement)*.

*subject to availability

Strengthening your employability

Work Placement Year*

In an increasingly competitive job market, employers are seeking to recruit employees who have high-level knowledge, skills and an understanding of the workplace. Choosing a work placement year between your second and third year, is a fantastic way to gain industry experience. It can provide a valuable insight into what working in a specific area of business is like, gives you the chance to familiarise yourself with the professional working environment and develop professional networks, and provides the opportunity to apply the theory you’ve learnt on your degree course.

*Students who require a visa to study in the UK may be able to add in a work placement depending upon the programme. The ability to add a work placement is dependent upon the UK Immigration rules at the time of the request. It may be that for some programmes students will not have the option to request a placement period to be added to their programme before they arrive in the UK and would need to apply for a new visa. There is no guarantee that a placement will be provided and that students who have a visa are subject to a number of restrictions on the type of work, including placements they can undertake.

International Year

In between years two and three of your studies you can choose to spend a year studying abroad. This exciting opportunity enables you to understand your field from different cultural perspectives and to establish international networks.

It also shows you have the personal attributes to embrace new experiences which can enhance your employability. We offer exchange opportunities with a wide variety of partner institutions.

Entrepreneurship Year

An Entrepreneurship Year provides the opportunity for you to showcase your innovative abilities and ideas to develop your business aspirations. If you’ve ever wanted to establish your own start-up or have been inspired by your studies this entrepreneurship year is an amazing opportunity to develop your own business idea. You will undertake your entrepreneurship year working within Keele’s Smart Innovation Hub.

The Entrepreneurship pathway is available to UK and international students. For international students, the availability of the Entrepreneurship pathway is subject due to the latest visa regulations.

Student Support

To help you meet your academic and personal needs, we offer a multi layered support structure. You will have access to an academic mentor and member of staff from the Student Experience and Support team if you need any additional support, or someone to talk to, whether about your degree programme or life outside of your studies.

You will also have access to a mixture of advice and support services at Keele including;

• Learning Support and Academic Guidance
• Disability Services
• English Language Unit
• Student Advice at Keele (ASK)
• Student Support Services
• Occupational Health Department
• Keele Students' Union also offers support through their sabbatical officers.

Societies

We have a wealth of student-led societies here at Keele which cover a diverse range of interests. Joining a society related to economics or mathematics is a great opportunity to continue to develop your skills away from your studies. This is another excellent way of demonstrating your genuine interest for the area and can be beneficial when it comes to applying for graduate roles. It’s also a great way to make friends and share interests with fellow students.

Committed to equality, diversity and inclusion

As a university and as a school, we are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. This means we aim to create a diverse and inclusive culture in which you can thrive.

Our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) agenda is embedded throughout our programme, and The School of Computer Science and Mathematics are proud to hold a school-level Athena SWAN Bronze Award in recognition for activities in this area.