Download a PDF course booklet - Kingston University

Economics BSc(Hons)
single honours
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
www.kingston.ac.uk/economics

Economics BSc(Hons)
single honours
Economics is concerned with the production,
consumption and distribution of wealth, and aims
to explain the reasons for, and consequences of,
decisions made by individuals, households, firms
and governments.
In studying economics, you will:
• explore why people make the decisions that
they do and what the consequences of those
decisions are;
• enhance your understanding of the real world by
developing appropriate economic theories;
• investigate the economic role of institutions such
as markets, productive enterprises, households
and government; and
• use quantitative methods to test the predictions
of economic theories.
This degree provides a thorough grounding in the
core topics of economics and is ideal if you plan
to study economics at postgraduate level.
Why study economics at
Kingston University?
• Kingston’s degree in Economics will provide
you with a strong foundation for a career as
an economist.
• The course also provides good preparation
for postgraduate study of economics.
• Core aspects of economics are developed
throughout the course.
• A wide choice of option modules in Years 2
and 3 enables you to tailor your studies to
your interests and career aspirations.
• You can choose from option modules in
business economics or financial economics.
• In the recent National Student Survey,
students reported that economics teaching
at Kingston is intellectually stimulating (76
per cent), and that they were taught by
staff who are good at explaining things (77
per cent) and were easily contacted when
needed (75 per cent).
Source: www.unistats.direct.gov.uk
Teaching, assessment and support
Kingston has a reputation for excellent teaching
quality, with the Economics department having
scored high marks in official inspections carried out
by the government’s Quality Assurance Agency.
Teaching methods include lectures, seminars and
workshops, group work, small group tutorials and
individual study. You will be assessed in a number
of different ways, including tests, exercise sheets,
essays and examinations.
You will have access to first-rate resources to help
you to study in greater depth:
• We will show you how to use information
technology to support your work as an economist.
• Course materials are accessible via the internet
using StudySpace, our web-based learning
management system.
• You will have access to excellent library and
computing facilities.
• We will help you develop the study skills needed
at university.
• Our arrangements for student support have
been officially awarded top marks.
Economics students finish their studies with
the Working as an Economist module, which is
designed to bring together all of the skills learnt
throughout the degree. Success in the module
signals your status as an independent learner, and
this work will occupy pride of place in the portfolio
of written pieces that you can use to demonstrate
your abilities when applying for jobs or for further
study. You will work both independently and
with others to research a chosen topic, and
will produce an individual report and prepare to
present your results to other students at a twoday
conference.
Employers tell us that the things they most
value in graduate recruits are skills in teamwork,
presentation, and giving and receiving feedback.
The Working as an Economist module develops all
these skills – skills that employers say are also the
hardest to find.
Personal Tutor Scheme
The teaching team is committed to providing
the support you need to facilitate your transition
to university life. We pride ourselves on our
approachability and readiness to help. The
personal tutor scheme, designed to help you from
your very first week, is the embodiment of this
commitment. As an integral part of your first year of
study, you will be placed in a small seminar group,
led by the same member of the teaching team
for the whole year. That seminar leader will also
be your personal tutor – not just for the first year,
but throughout your degree – providing support in
your learning, your personal development and in
developing your career aspirations.
Careers and employability
Studying economics will help you develop the
numeracy and literacy skills that employers value.
Economics graduates work in a wide variety
of sectors, including business and finance (for
example, as accountants and investment advisers);
marketing, sales and media; commercial, industrial
and public sector managers; science, engineering,
IT, healthcare and teaching.
Information and guidance on career and
postgraduate opportunities is available throughout
your time at Kingston.
What do our graduates do?
Our graduates find employment in a wide range
of occupations, such as economists in the City of
London, and in management positions nationally,
internationally and in the public sector. Many of
our students progress to study at postgraduate
level. Below are examples of the varied careers
followed by our graduates:
• Business forecaster
• Economist
• Director of a government agency
• Financial planner
• Investment manager
• Marketing brand manager
• Securities trader
• TV producer/director
• University lecturer

What you will study
Examples of the modules currently offered are shown below. The module list
can vary from year to year as the course structure is reviewed and refined.
Our programme
Kingston University’s Economics field enables
you to specialise in pure economics and will give
you a thorough grounding in the core topics of
economics and associated analytical skills. You will
be able to extend your knowledge in areas of your
choice by selecting option modules within the field.
Economics at Kingston enables you to develop
the depth and breadth of your knowledge of
economics in both its theory and applications. The
course will encourage you to consider issues that
affect the daily lives of us all, such as:
• What effect do professional sports teams have
on the local economy?
• Should entry to museums and galleries be free?
• Under what circumstances might the
introduction of minimum wage laws lead to
increased employment?
• What is the risk that government spending might
crowd out investment by private firms?
• What are the long term effects of population
growth and technological progress on economic
growth?
Kingston Language Scheme (KLS)
KLS enables you to learn a foreign language
alongside your programme of studies, completely
free of charge. You can choose modules in Arabic,
French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin
(Chinese) and Spanish, with or without prior
knowledge of the language.
Studying abroad
Subject to availability and academic performance,
you will have the chance to spend Year 2 of your
studies abroad, still completing your degree in three
years. Many current students have studied abroad
in Continental Europe, the United States, Australia
and New Zealand. Studying abroad helps students
to become more effective, independent learners,
and provides the opportunity for new experiences
and insights in different parts of the world.
Centre for Academic Skills
and Employability (CASE)
CASE offers students from the Faculty of Arts
and Social Sciences one-to-one help with
their studies, supporting both undergraduate
and postgraduate students with researching
and presenting, structuring and editing
traditional academic writing, structuring and
editing multimedia texts, and referencing.
In Year 1 you will study microeconomics
(concerned with the effects of individual decisions)
and macroeconomics (concerned with large-scale
or general economic factors, such as interest rates
and economic growth). A module in mathematics
and statistics provides the necessary quantitative
foundations for the study of economics, while the
Capitalism module develops the historical and
intellectual background to modern economics.
All students take a tutorial module that develops
study skills and personal development planning.
Year 2 includes the core module Contemporary
Issues in Economics. You will also study core
modules in microeconomics, macroeconomics
and mathematical and statistical techniques.
During your second year, you will have the
opportunity to spend a period of time abroad
at one of our prestigious partner universities in
Europe or further afield.
Year 3 sees a more advanced treatment of
macro- and microeconomic analysis in the
Advanced Economic Analysis module. The
module Working as an Economist will enable you
to focus on a detailed topic in core economic
policy and principles or to extend your interest
to related fields; the range of option modules
provides similar opportunities.
Year 1 modules
Becoming an Economist is designed to help
you develop many of the basic skills used in the
discipline of economics. The module explores
and covers a variety of study and research
techniques. You will develop skills in the use of
language, writing, ICT usage, data collection,
data interpretation and groupwork. Key threshold
economic concepts will also be incorporated.
Particular emphasis will be placed on small group
learning and personal development planning.
Economic Policy and Principles introduces
the techniques of model building and analytical
reasoning used in microeconomics. Some of
these techniques are then used as an input into
the analysis of economics at the macroeconomic
level. In the early phase of the module, you will
be taught about microeconomic models and
explore the application of these models to current
economic issues. In the later phase, you will learn
about the main macroeconomic aggregates,
the basic model of aggregate demand and
supply, and the importance of the time horizon in
macroeconomics. Throughout the course, there is
an emphasis on highlighting and considering the
pros and cons of the suggested solutions to real
problems faced by market economies.
Economics Quantitatively Treated 1 provides
an introduction to mathematical and statistical
techniques – you will be prompted to appreciate
how mathematical reasoning is used in economics,
and develop skills in the numerical, graphical and
statistical analysis of economic data. The module
starts with a review of material that may have been
encountered in your previous studies, such as
mathematics at GCSE or IB level, and moves on
to developing your knowledge, understanding and
ability to apply quantitative concepts – of particular
relevance for microeconomics, macroeconomics
and econometrics.
Capitalism offers a detailed survey of the origins
and emergence of capitalism and the economic
thinking that paralleled these developments. It will
then develop key aspects of the contemporary
economy – firms and competition in the national
and international environment and the role of the
state in national and supra-national contexts. It
will proceed with an introduction to the role of
finance in capitalism and the nature and causes of
financial crises.
CASE also provides a range of resources to
enhance employability, including help with
writing CVs, application forms and interview
preparation. Results show that students who
use the centre are significantly more likely
to complete their degrees. As students are
better equipped to act on feedback, they also
tend to do better in their studies.
„
Want to know more?
www.kingston.ac.uk/
economics

Year 2 modules
Contemporary Issues in Economics aims to
develop your ability to apply economic analysis to
a range of contemporary economic problems and
policies.
Economics Quantitatively Treated 2 will extend
the knowledge of mathematical and statistical
techniques acquired in Year 1, and will introduce
multivariate techniques in mathematics and
statistics. It will assist your comprehension of
Year 2 economics modules and encourage you to
understand the benefits of using a mathematical
and statistical vocabulary and reasoning to
analyse economic models. This module will equip
you with sufficient quantitative techniques to be
able to undertake any Year 3 module in economics
that requires quantitative analysis.
Macroeconomics aims to develop and build
mainly on knowledge acquired in the Economic
Policy and Principles module in Year 1, but
also on the Economics Quantitatively Treated
module. It provides fundamental knowledge on
the key areas of macroeconomic theory and
policy in the short run and long run, and within
both closed- and open-economy settings. Realworld
applications are signposted at the earliest
opportunity. On completion of the module you
will be able to comprehend key macroeconomic
theories and policies, and illustrate the application
of macroeconomic models and principles in the
context of policymaking.
Microeconomics will develop the model building
techniques encountered in Year 1, and extend
the scope of these models to a wider range of
problems. It will show the use of microeconomic
models in a problem-solving context, and will
provide an analytical basis for subsequent elective
(option) modules. On completion, you will have a
good knowledge of the major techniques and issues
in modern microeconomic theory and policy, and
how to apply this knowledge in the discussion and
evaluation of contemporary microeconomic issues.
Year 3 modules
Advanced Economic Policy and Principles
considers recent developments in micro- and
macroeconomic theory and policy. This involves
the incorporation of market imperfections and
institutions into formal models, and the use
of more-advanced techniques in economics.
The interaction between models and data in
macroeconomics is emphasised where appropriate.
Working as an Economist provides an
opportunity to demonstrate the cumulative skills
and techniques you have acquired through the
study of economics. As the culmination of a
programme of supporting lectures and group
workshops, you will work independently to write
a 5,000-word extended essay on a subject topic
in economics to be presented at an internal peer
conference. The module is designed to further
your skills in writing and presenting economic
analysis, together with achieving a higher level of
understanding in a chosen area. The course aims
to improve your ability to function in the medium
of economics, and provides generic and specific
skills that can enhance employability.
Economics of Organizations and Strategy
develops pluralist approaches to understanding
the aims, methods and outcomes of production
and exchange organisations (‘businesses’, for
short), with particular reference to the limitations,
as well as the possibilities, of markets. The core
theme is the contrast between neo-classical and
other perspectives, including the ‘capabilities’
approach, transaction cost economics and other
heterodox schools of thought. Particular themes
include the aims and methods of business
strategy, the ‘make or buy’ decision, the nature
of relationships within and between businesses,
and the costs and benefits of different systems of
governance of economic exchange.
Development Economics will introduce the
economic structure of developing countries, the
specific challenges they face and their position in
world economy today. It should interest all students
who wish to acquire a good background in issues
of growth and development in lower income
countries and their significance for world economy.
The module starts by introducing theories of
economic development and measurement issues. It
will examine some problems affecting all or groups
of these countries, such as population growth,
poverty, environment, income distribution, structural
adjustment and volatile capital flows. It will also deal
with policy issues specific to developing countries.
Econometrics introduces and develops new
topics based on knowledge acquired in Economics
Quantitatively Treated 1 and 2. It provides
fundamental knowledge on statistical techniques
and their applications to real-world data. On
successful completion of the module, you will be
able to demonstrate quantitative analytic skills for
assessment of economic theories with matching
data, which will be helpful for various career
opportunities and advanced study of economics
and business at postgraduate level.
Finance, Risk Management and Instability
introduces the contemporary workings of financial
markets with an emphasis on risk management.
It will cover some of the main topics of financial
theory, including economic risk, portfolio theory
and the efficient markets hypothesis. It will also
introduce you to the key instruments of derivatives
markets, analysing their trading mechanisms
and established patterns. The module will further
deal with advanced aspects of corporate finance
and it will conclude by addressing the policy
responses in the context of a contemporary world
characterised by increasing financial instability.
Core factual material is provided via StudySpace
with keynote lectures and selected worksheets
used to explain concepts. The module provides
the essential groundwork not only for the
understanding of practical issues regarding
financial markets and corporation management
but also for a successful postgraduate studies.
Mathematical Economics is designed to inform
you of the deeper aspects of the models you
have seen up until now, as well as to enable
you to appreciate the benefits of dynamic
forms of analysis. A good performance in this
module should enable you to approach an MSc
in Economics with some confidence in your
mathematical training.
Environmental Economics aims to focus on
the use of economics in dealing with the list
of environmental problems that have pressed
increasingly strongly on the political agenda.
The module emphasises recurrent economic
phenomena (externalities, public goods, market
and information failure) and policy proposals
(property rights, taxes, regulation, cost–benefit
analysis). Analysing market prices, shadow prices,
efficient and optimal resource use will be central,
as will be assessment of the implications of
environmental degradation and resource scarcity
for government policy toward the environment
both nationally and globally.
International Trade and Finance analyses
the essential theoretical and policy issues of
international trade and finance, taking care to link
international trade and finance theory with realworld
events.
Money, Banking and Financial Markets focuses
on understanding the monetary sector of the
economy. The role of banks and financial markets
will lay the foundations for understanding ensuing
topics. The module proceeds to explain the
interaction between money and the economy,
and moves on to monetary policy institutions and
strategies. The module closes with a discussion of
financial crises.

Teaching team
You will be taught by a team of highly qualified
and experienced economists with varied research
interests and expertise.
Paul Auerbach is reader in economics at
Kingston University. Paul took his PhD in
economics at the University of Wisconsin, and
is the author of Competition: the Economics of
Industrial Change. His recent work has looked at
the relationship between education (and human
development, broadly considered) and economic
development.
Nick Butler is head of the School of Economics,
History and Politics. He is a Kingston graduate (BA
in Business Studies) and also has an Economics
MSc (from Birkbeck College, University of London).
Before becoming a lecturer he worked in marketing
and as an IT consultant. Nick teaches quantitative
methods on a number of our programmes.
Dr Ted Hyett studied economics at London
University. His PhD from Imperial College
investigates the economic costs and benefits
of nuclear energy. Ted teaches environmental
economics, the economics of Europe, and
financial risk management.
Dr Young-Joo Kim studied economics in Korea
and at the University of Wisconsin. Her research
field is the economics of education, and she
teaches quantitative methods on a number of
programmes.
Fidelma Murphy is admissions tutor in economics
and leads the first-year tutorial modules. She is
completing her doctorate at the National University
of Ireland, Galway, as part of which she has
conducted qualitative research on labour relations
among workers at Ford Motor Company plants in
Mexico and the USA.
Dr Kay Pollock has a PhD from Birkbeck College
in which she researched macroeconomic policy.
Kay teaches macroeconomics, econometrics and
mathematical economics, and also directs our
MSc Business and Economic Forecasting course.
Dr Ali Shamsavari obtained his MA and PhD
from Vanderbilt University, USA. Ali’s current
teaching includes the economics of transnational
enterprises. His current research interests
include the impact of multinational businesses on
economic development.
Dr Jalal Siddiki began his study of economics
in Bangladesh, eventually completing his PhD at
Kingston. Jalal’s research focuses on the financial
context of economic growth and development,
and he has published many articles in this field.
Jalal teaches macroeconomics and econometrics.
Dr Dimitris Sotiropoulos first studied engineering
before switching to economics for his doctoral
studies. His research interests are in political
economy and finance, and he has published a
book and numerous articles on these topics. His
teaching includes not only these fields but also
quantitative methods.
Dr Wilhemus Spanjers holds higher degrees in
economics from universities in both Netherlands
and Germany. His current research interest is
the economics of uncertainty – in particular, of
incalculable risk (ambiguity) – and its applications
to financial, monetary and development
economics, as well as to political risk.
Dr Joachim Stibora teaches microeconomics,
international trade and finance, and the economics
of Europe. His current research develops
theoretical models of trade and development.
He has published in Economica and the Journal
of International Economics, and worked as a
consultant to the World Bank.
Dr Alex Tackie has higher degrees in economics
from the School of Oriental and African Studies
and the University of York, and has published
research on the political economy of Cyprus. He
teaches macroeconomics and microeconomics.
Rob Watkins worked for many years in marketing
before returning to study as a mature student.
Rob has an MSc in Business and Economic
Forecasting from Kingston. He teaches business
environment and economics of organisations.

“Our emphasis on teaching subjects
that are relevant to the world today, and
on producing graduates able to make a
positive contribution to that world, makes
the educational experience on offer in
our Faculty at Kingston unique among
universities in the United Kingdom.”
Professor Martin McQuillan
Dean of Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Entry requirements
Typical offer
• Points: 260 UCAS points
• Units: to include two A-levels or equivalent
• Subjects: A-level: Economics not mandatory
– students without A-level Economics follow a
different programme of study. General Studies
accepted as one of three A-levels or equivalent.
• Key Skills: points not accepted in tariff
• Plus GCSE: Mathematics and English
Language and Literature (grade A*–C preferred)
International students
All non-UK applicants must meet our English
language requirements. For this course it is IELTS
of 6.5 overall, with special conditions for students
who require a Tier-4 student visa. Please make
sure you read our full guidance about English
language requirements on the course webpage,
which includes details of other qualifications we’ll
consider. If you do not meet the English language
requirements, you may be eligible to join our presessional
English language course.
Other entry routes
• Access course
• International applicants and mature applicants
with relevant qualifications are welcomed.
Economics courses
We offer four routes for studying economics:
• Applied Economics half/minor/major field – this
course places an emphasis on the practical
application of economics in combination with
another subject.
• Business Economics – this degree focuses on
the economic analysis of business activity.
• Economics – this is a broad degree in
economic analysis and policy.
• Financial Economics – this degree focuses on
the economic analysis of finance.
UCAS codes
For UCAS codes, please see the course webpage.
Open days
Several open days are held each year. Please
contact the admissions office or visit the
University website for more details.
www.kingston.ac.uk/opendays
Contact details
Course enquiries
Modular Admissions Office
Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
Kingston University
Penrhyn Road
Kingston upon Thames
Surrey KT1 2EE
T: +44 (0)20 8417 2378/2361
F: +44 (0)20 8417 2292
E: fassundergrad-info@kingston.ac.uk
Accommodation
T: +44 (0)20 8417 9000
E: accommodation@kingston.ac.uk
www.kingston.ac.uk/accommodation
Student Funding Service
T: +44 (0)20 8417 9000
www.kingston.ac.uk/studentfunding
Disability and Dyslexia Support Services
T: +44 (0)20 8417 9000
www.kingston.ac.uk/disability-and-dyslexia
International Office
T: +44 (0)20 8417 3411
www.kingston.ac.uk/international
HS(13.065)L
T: +44 (0)8448 552 177 E: aps@kingston.ac.uk www.kingston.ac.uk