You do not need any prior training in the subject. The Economics course at Birkbeck, University of London will give you a thorough grounding in the fundamental ideas and methods of modern economics, and you will learn to apply economic reasoning to practical problems. Crucially, you will also develop the necessary mathematical and statistical toolkit for studying economics. This rigorous and intensive training, spread over one or two years, will enable you to compete on equal terms with students graduating with undergraduate degrees in economics.
We now also offer the Graduate Diploma in Economics through online study, supported by handouts and video recording of classroom lectures via our online platform, Moodle. The course structure and assessment methods are identical to those for students who take the course face-to-face, with written examinations either in Birkbeck, or, by arrangement, at a wide range of sites throughout the world.
To succeed as an online student, you must be well organised, highly motivated and proactive in tracking the material. Access to your instructors is the main asset we offer, so you should be ready to actively maintain contact with your lecturers and class teachers via email or Skype.
The Graduate Diploma is an undergraduate-level qualification. Upon completing the programme, a significant proportion of students exit directly to the job market. Other students use this programme as a preparation for an MSc in economics or related disciplines.
The one-year full-time route offers rapid progression to a high degree of economic literacy and has been specifically designed for people working full-time; students who prefer to spread the course over a longer period should apply for the two-year part-time route which has a lighter workload.
Graduates can pursue a career in banking and finance, the public sector, industry, and research and analysis. Possible professions include economist, financial risk analyst, statistician, or management consultant. This degree can also be useful in becoming an actuary, Civil Service fast streamer or local government officer.
Courses include:
Starting in
Always verify the dates on the programme website. programme website.
You need the following IELTS score:
Minimum required score:
The IELTS – or the International English Language Test System – tests your English-language abilities (writing, listening, speaking, and reading) on a scale of 1.00–9.00. The minimum IELTS score requirement refers to which Overall Band Score you received, which is your combined average score. Read more about IELTS.
Schedule IELTSYou need the following GPA score:
Applicants for graduate programs must have the equivalent of a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA equivalent to Upper Second Class on the UK Honour scale. Admitted applicants typically have an undergraduate GPA of or better on the UK Honour scale. No exam grade should be lower than 4.5 (European grade scale) or D (American grade scale).
Your GPA (Grade Point Average) is calculated using the grades that you received in each course, and is determined by the points assigned to each grade (e.g. for the US grading scale from A-F).
The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.
Check the programme website for information about funding options.
Studyportals Tip: Students can search online for independent or external scholarships that can help fund their studies. Check the scholarships to see whether you are eligible to apply. Many scholarships are either merit-based or needs-based.
Together with the ISIC Association and British Council IELTS, Studyportals offers you the chance to receive up to £10000 to expand your horizon and study abroad. We want to ultimately encourage you to study abroad in order to experience and explore new countries, cultures and languages.
