Top UK Universities For Economics - Ranking & League Table

Looking To Study Economics In The UK?
top uk universities for economics

Here’s our full guide on the top universities for Economic studies in the UK. We have curated a list of high-ranking universities which offer affordable, globally-recognized qualifications for Economics.

Table of Contents

UK University League Table for Economics (Updated 2024 Rankings)

The University League Table for Economics shows some of the top ranking universities to study Economics in the UK. We’ve compiled a list of universities you should look out for, sorted by UK and global ranking as well entry requirements.

Subject RankingUniversityUK RankingWorld RankingLocationA Level ReqsIB ReqsIELTSTuition (per year)
3University of Warwick1167WarwickA*AA387£29,830
4University College London99LondonA*AA397£ 25,800
5London School of Economics345LondonA*AA387£ 26,592
15University of Nottingham28100NottinghamA*AA387£ 19,000
16Durham University878DurhamA*AA386.5£25,500
19Lancaster University10122LancasterAAB356.5£21,460
26Newcastle University30110NewcastleAAB356.5£21,600
29University of East Anglia23295NorwichABB326£ 19,250
32University of Kent48336KentBBB346.5£ 18,000
37University of Sheffield2695SheffieldAAB346.5£ 19,050
54Coventry University52601-650CoventryBBB306£15,000

Top Economics Schools In The UK

The University of Warwick has the top economics programme in the UK. Warwick also ranks 11th overall in the UK and is considered one of the top global universities for economics. Many prominent alumni from Warwick have gone on to become CEOs and directors in major corporations and international organisations, making this an excellent choice for prospective economists.

The prestigious University College London (UCL) was established in 1826 and has a long and rich history embedded in its campus buildings that are iconic examples of UK’s 19th-century architecture. UCL has earned its reputation for being one of the world’s leading research institutes, ranking among the top ten global universities, which is why UCL is ranked top 3 in our list for the best Economics programmes in the UK.

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Recommended Economics Schools In The UK

The University of Edinburgh is located in the capital of Scotland, Edinburgh, a world heritage site that has panoramic greenery and impressive architecture which makes it some of the most beautiful cities in Europe. The university is among the world’s top universities and their School of Economics offers a number of joint honours degrees which allows you to explore your areas of interest outside the subject. An outstanding programme, students have the opportunity to be taught by world-leading economists and learn from international guest speakers at the faculty’s weekly seminars.

As the University of Leeds has brilliantly coined, “Go further, come to Leeds” – one of the largest universities in the country, this is a great option for those interested in studying Economics, ranking 11th for the subject and 22nd overall in the UK. Student life at Leeds is lively as accommodation is on-campus within walking distance of high street shops, a number of bars, theatres, and the city centre.

The University of Bristol’s School of Economics, Finance and Management offers a selection of programmes in Economics, including those combined with other areas of study such as accounting, management, and politics. Studying here allows you to enjoy a balanced student life as their economics programmes are taught at the main Clifton campus which is well-connected to the city’s cultural hub, central shopping district, and the airport.

How To Apply To Study Economics In The UK?

Step 1: Choose A University

The first step is to look for popular and high-ranking Universities in the UK that offer courses you are interested in. Refer to the table above to start your search. Here are some things to consider when applying:

  • Location
  • Employability/Graduate prospects
  • Fees
  • Entry requirements
  • University Ranking

Step 2: Preparations

Once you have narrowed down the search to your top five universities, the first step is to prepare necessary documents and forms. This includes school leaving certificates, exam results, the UCAS application form and a written Personal Statement, among other documents that may be required.

Step 3: Submit UCAS Application

The application process for UK universities differs from local universities as applications go through an organisation known as UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS handles all admission applications to UK universities, including those submitted by international candidates like you.

To ensure a better chance of getting accepted, it is important that you prepare all the necessary documents and fill out all forms correctly. We also recommend that you apply for multiple universities simultaneously to ensure that you get your preferred offers. Read our full guide on UCAS here

More about UCAS

The entire application process might be daunting and lengthy for some, so let us help you. Make a free appointment with us today for professional assistance in submitting applications to your preferred UK universities.

UK Economics University Entry Requirements

Here are some of the common entry requirements and tests a student has to pass before being accepted at a UK university to study Economics.

English Language Test requirement – Such as IELTS and TOEFL

Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland for Scottish Universities)

Health checks.

Entrance interviews.

Personal statement. This is a supporting document and part of your application to a UK university. Usually, you will write about what you hope to achieve studying at the course, what you plan to do after graduating and why you are applying for this specific university. 

Frequently Asked Questions

The number 1 university for economics in the UK is currently University of Cambridge, as of 2023.

The common entry requirements for studying economics in the UK include: English language tests, criminal record declarations, health checks, entrance interviews and submission of a personal statement.

The fees for economics degrees in UK depends on the university, but can range anywhere between £15,000 to £30,000 per annum for international students. Rankings and location of a university might also affect the price.

For most economics degrees, it is best to apply before 15 of January of the year of admission. Take note that if you are applying for most courses in Oxford and Cambridge University, you need to apply before 15 of October.

Get Free UK University Application Assistance To Study Economics

If you would like a free consultation on any step of the application process, contact us today or come visit us at our office in Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur. Book an appointment with us now!

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