Economics with French
Economics with French
BA
4 years full-time
Durham City
BA
4 years full-time
Durham City
L1R1
L1R1
Typical offers
| A Level | A*AA |
|---|---|
| BTEC | D*DD |
| International Baccalaureate | 38 |
Course details
We understand the value of expanding your study experience beyond a single subject which is why, with our BA Economics with French, we’re focused on providing multiple perspectives and a truly international experience. Your studies will follow a similar pattern to the BA Economics degree, except that you take compulsory modules in French in your first, second and fourth years. In your third year, subject to a scheme being put in place by the UK Government by 2022 you will have the option to study at a university in France while continuing to study economics.
Year 1
In the first year, in addition to the economics compulsory modules, you take a further two compulsory modules covering French language and The Invention of France. In addition, you choose one further optional module from a selection that currently includes both economics and French options and have the opportunity to take a module from another department.
Year 2
In the second year, you study four compulsory modules covering French language, and core Economics modules, and choose two further optional modules, one of which can be a module offered by another department, which could include a foreign language. Furthermore, you will acquire numerous subject skills which enable you to interpret economic theory and data.
Year 3
During the third year of study, students must undertake a period of residence in France and must study and pass a minimum of 40 ECTS credits from those modules offered on the ‘licence sciences economique’ (third-year modules), those designed for students who specialise in either ‘Economie Internationale’ or ‘Economie et Gestion de l’enterprise’ at the University of Aix-Marseilles II.
Year 4
In the fourth year, you study one compulsory module in French and a double Dissertation module. In addition, you study three modules from a list of optional economics modules and have the opportunity to take one module from another department
The Study Abroad year fees are set annually by the University. For the definitive amount of the Study Abroad year fees payable please contact our study abroad team business.ug.studyabroad@durham.ac.uk.
Placement
You may be able to take a work placement. Find out more.Typical offers
| A Level | A*AA |
|---|---|
| BTEC | D*DD |
| International Baccalaureate | 38 |
Course details
With an estimated 250 million French speakers worldwide, the French language plays a significant role in international economic relations. As such, this course delivers a skill set that will appeal to employers around the world.
On this course you will explore the principles of economic theory, applied economics and statistical techniques while immersing yourself in French language and culture.
The economics element of the course has been developed to meet the needs of the business world, striking a balance between economic theory and real-world application. The curriculum includes input from industry experts and projects where you will have a chance to investigate a range of contemporary economics issues.
This in-depth knowledge, combined with an understanding of French language, society and politics prepares you for a career in the international finance services sector. In addition, the critical and analytical skills extend your options to include the worlds of journalism, public policy, education and international development.
Your studies will follow a similar pattern to BA Economics, with additional French language modules and a year spent studying economics at a university in France.
The first year provides a foundation in domestic and international economics, French language and culture. In subsequent years you will further develop your understanding of core areas such as macroeconomics, microeconomics and data analysis and French language and communication skills.
Optional modules across all years allow you to tailor elements of your studies as your interests evolve. The third year at the University of Aix-Marseilles II is an opportunity to experience another culture, perfect your language skills and fully immerse yourself in French life.
The degree culminates in a final-year dissertation in an area of economics of your choice.
Course structure
Year 1
Core modules:
Principles of Economics provides a sound foundation for modules in micro- and macroeconomics. You will cover areas including methodology of economics, supply and demand, consumer spending choices, competition and growth theories.
Economic Methods familiarises you with the use of mathematical and statistical tools in solving economic problems. You will look at equations, matrix algebra, calculus, statistics, distribution, confidence intervals and hypothesis testing.
The World Economy provides knowledge and understanding of the features of different types of economy, and of world trade and the international financial system. You will learn about international trade theory, economic growth and cover some of the key concepts relating to developments and crises in the world economy using real-world case studies.
French Language 1 builds on the speaking and listening, reading and writing skills developed during your French A level. The module covers written and oral communication, general discussion, gathering and sourcing information. You will use ICT to improve communication and learning.
The Invention of France explores the development of French language, culture and traditions from medieval to modern times. You will learn how cultural media, including literature, film, philosophy and architecture, can be used to explore cultural history and politics.
Examples of optional modules:
- The Economics of Sustainability
- Introduction to the History of Economic Thought
- Reading French Literature.
Year 2
Core modules:
Macroeconomics uses real-world examples to analyse the general equilibrium of an economy both in the short term, with a static model, and in the medium to long term, with a dynamic model.
Microeconomics develops your knowledge and understanding of the essential components of microeconomics with a particular focus on the analytical skills relevant to consumer and production theories, general equilibrium and welfare.
Econometics equips you with the skills to understand the type of empirical analysis used in economic literature. You will also write a report based on econometric analysis.
French Language 2 further develops your ability to express yourself in French in verbal and written form, and to translate fluently and accurately from and into French. The module aims to deepen your knowledge and understanding of French culture and cultural issues.
Examples of optional modules:
- Behavioural and Experimental Economics
- Intermediate Methods for Economics and Finance
- Microeconomic Applications and Policy
- Macroeconomic Applications and Policy.
Year 3
Year 3 is spent at the University of Aix-Marseilles II in France. You will study 40 credits from those modules offered on the ‘licence sciences economique’ (third-year modules), those designed for students who specialise in either ‘Economie Internationale’ or ‘Economie et Gestion de l’enterprise’.
Year 4
Core modules:
The Dissertation is a detailed and critical examination of a relevant area of economics. It develops your ability to plan and manage your own learning and provides you with an opportunity to research a specific topic and present your findings and conclusions.
French Language 4 is conducted in French to take your knowledge of written and spoken French to a sophisticated level with a high degree of grammatical accuracy. You will critically evaluate information from a variety of media (contemporary press, current television programmes and electronic format), devise coherent arguments and learn to write and think under pressure.
Examples of optional modules:
- Advanced Macroeconomic Theory
- Advanced Microeconomic Theory
- Applied Econometrics
- Developmental Economics
- Environmental Economics and Policy
- International Economics
- Monetary Economics
- Game Theory and Applications.
Placement
You may be able to take a work placement. Find out more.Learning
On this course, you will learn through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, translation sessions, oral sessions, informal but scheduled one-on-one support, and self-directed learning, such as research, reading, and writing.
All of these are supported by a state-of-the-art virtual learning environment, Learn Ultra. Seminars and workshops are much smaller groups than lectures, small enough to allow one-on-one interaction with professors, lecturers, and sometimes external speakers.
Workshops also allow hands-on experience of the kind of work professional economists perform. This emphasis on small-group teaching reflects a conscious choice to enhance the quality of the learning experience rather than the quantity of formal sessions. In fact, the degree is designed to feature fewer formal sessions and more independent research as you move from your first to your final year.
Small-group teaching and one-on-one attention from the personal academic advisor (provided at the start) are part of the learning experience throughout, but by the final year classroom time gives way, to independent research, including a dissertation – supported by one-on-one supervision – that makes up a third of final year credits. In this way the degree systematically transforms you from a consumer of knowledge in the classroom to a generator of knowledge, ready for professional or postgraduate life.
These formal teaching arrangements are supported by “drop-in” surgeries with teaching staff and induction sessions that begin in the week before the start of the course and continue at key times throughout each year.
You can also attend an extensive programme of research-focused seminars where staff and visiting scholars present their cutting-edge research. Students spend their third year at Université de la Mediteranée Aix-Marseille where all contact time is provided by the host institution, but you receive email support from Durham staff and continue to enjoy Learn Ultra support.
Entry requirements
A level offer – A*AA including Mathematics and French.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma – D*DD and Mathematics and French A level at grade A (or equivalent) are required.
IB Diploma score – 38 with 666 in higher level subjects, including Mathematics and French.
In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:
- For all Single and Joint Honours degrees involving Economics, including Philosophy, Politics and Economics, we require you to obtain a Grade A at A level Mathematics or its equivalent. For students taking the IB we are happy to accept either Higher Level grade 6 or Standard Level grade 7 in Mathematics.
- Applicants are encouraged to avoid studying both Economics and Business Studies A2-levels.
- We do not accept Advanced Higher Statistics as a substitute for AH Mathematics. If you are taking both of these subjects at this level then a further Advanced Higher is necessary.
- If you are studying for the IB Diploma please note that we do not accept Mathematical Studies at standard level instead of standard level Mathematics.
- We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications or who may have had a break in their study. Please contact our Admissions Selectors.
- You are not required to have A Level Economics though for anyone taking this subject this will form part of the offer made to you.
- If you do not satisfy our general entry requirements, the Foundation Programme offers multidisciplinary programmes to prepare you for a range of specified degree programmes.
- We are willing to consider applications for deferred entry from those who have well-structured plans for work or travel, for example. We may, however, need to restrict the number of deferred entry offers we make because we have to be careful not to fill too many of next year’s places in advance. However, if you do apply for a deferred place and are unsuccessful, you are welcome to reapply the following year.
Science A levels
Applicants taking Science A levels that include a practical component will be required to take and pass this as a condition of entry. This applies only to applicants sitting A levels with an English examination board.
Alternative qualifications
International students who do not meet direct entry requirements for this degree might have the option to complete an International Foundation Year.
Fees and funding
Full Time Fees
| Home students | £9,250 per year |
|---|---|
| EU students | £23,900 per year |
| Island students | £9,250 per year |
| International students | £23,900 per year |
The tuition fees shown for home students are for one complete academic year of full time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government.
The tuition fees shown for overseas and EU students are for one complete academic year of full time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).
Please also check costs for colleges and accommodation.
Scholarships
We are committed to supporting the best students irrespective of financial circumstances and are delighted to offer a range of funding opportunities.
Find Out MoreCareer opportunities
Business School (School of Economics, Finance and Business)
Of those students who graduated in 2019:
- 96% are in paid employment or further study 15 months after graduation across all our programmes
Of those in employment:
- 81% are in high skilled employment
- With an average salary of £29,000.
(Source: HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey. The survey asks leavers from higher education what they are doing 15 months after graduation. Further information about the Graduate Outcomes survey can be found here www.graduateoutcomes.ac.uk)
Department information
Business School (School of Economics, Finance and Business)
Our Economics degrees help you prepare for employment, and our qualifications are highly successful in creating job opportunities.
For more information see our Business School website.
Rankings
- 6th for Economics in The Complete University Guide 2023
- Top 10 in The Guardian UniversityGuide 2022.
Staff
For a current list of staff, please see the Business School web pages.
Facilities
With our rigorous curriculum and exceptional teaching, you’ll build world-class foundations for graduate employment or further study. You’ll also get a taste of real business – learning from expert faculty members and guest speakers, as well as through hands-on work placements and international study opportunities. With our flexible programmes, you’re in control – choosing a route that suits your own interests and career aspirations.
Apply
Find out more:
Use the UCAS code below when applying:
Apply
L1R1
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) handles applications for all undergraduate courses.
Learning
Lectures and small-group seminars are complemented by specialist workshops. Using up-to-date resources, the workshops provide hands-on experience of the kind of work professional economists perform.
The Department also hosts research-focused seminars where you can further develop your knowledge and start building industry networks.
We place great emphasis on high-quality small-group teaching. The small-group teaching format and one-on-one attention from your personal academic advisor are embedded into the learning experience to help develop your critical skills and get more out of your studies.
In the final year you’ll find an increased focus on self-directed learning and independent research, including the dissertation, as you begin to prepare for professional or postgraduate life.
Assessment
Modules are assessed via a combination of examinations, written assignments and reports, investigative projects and presentations.
The range of assessment methods is designed to assess your knowledge and understanding of the material, test your critical thinking skills, enhance your written and oral communication skills, and assess your ability to relate your learning to real-world issues.
The 12,000-word dissertation makes up one-third of your final-year marks.
Entry requirements
A level offer – A*AA including Mathematics and French.
BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma/OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma – D*DD and Mathematics and French A level at grade A (or equivalent) are required.
IB Diploma score – 38 with 666 in higher level subjects, including Mathematics and French.
In addition to satisfying the University’s general entry requirements, please note:
- For all Single and Joint Honours degrees involving Economics, including Philosophy, Politics and Economics, we require you to obtain a Grade A at A level Mathematics or its equivalent. For students taking the IB we are happy to accept either Higher Level grade 6 or Standard Level grade 7 in Mathematics.
- Applicants are encouraged to avoid studying both Economics and Business Studies A2-levels.
- We do not accept Advanced Higher Statistics as a substitute for AH Mathematics. If you are taking both of these subjects at this level then a further Advanced Higher is necessary.
- If you are studying for the IB Diploma please note that we do not accept Mathematical Studies at standard level instead of standard level Mathematics.
- We welcome applications from those with other qualifications equivalent to our standard entry requirements and from mature students with non-standard qualifications or who may have had a break in their study. Please contact our Admissions Selectors.
- You are not required to have A Level Economics though for anyone taking this subject this will form part of the offer made to you.
- If you do not satisfy our general entry requirements, the Foundation Programme offers multidisciplinary programmes to prepare you for a range of specified degree programmes.
- We are willing to consider applications for deferred entry from those who have well-structured plans for work or travel, for example. We may, however, need to restrict the number of deferred entry offers we make because we have to be careful not to fill too many of next year’s places in advance. However, if you do apply for a deferred place and are unsuccessful, you are welcome to reapply the following year.
Science A levels
Applicants taking Science A levels that include a practical component will be required to take and pass this as a condition of entry. This applies only to applicants sitting A levels with an English examination board.
Alternative qualifications
International students who do not meet direct entry requirements for this degree might have the option to complete an International Foundation Year.
Fees and funding
The tuition fees for 2024/25 academic year have not yet been finalised, they will be displayed here once approved.
The tuition fees shown for home students are for one complete academic year of full time study and are set according to the academic year of entry. Fees for subsequent years of your course may rise in line with an inflationary uplift as determined by the government.
The tuition fees shown for overseas and EU students are for one complete academic year of full time study, are set according to the academic year of entry, and remain the same throughout the duration of the programme for that cohort (unless otherwise stated).
Please also check costs for colleges and accommodation.
Scholarships
We are committed to supporting the best students irrespective of financial circumstances and are delighted to offer a range of funding opportunities.
Find Out MoreCareer opportunities
Business School (School of Economics, Finance and Business)
Our students graduate with subject-specific knowledge such as economic theory and data analysis, as well as the commercial awareness, IT and problem-solving skills that are highly valued by employers across the world. This combination of academic knowledge and transferable skills will open up a range of career possibilities in the economics and finance sector and beyond.
Our focus on employability stretches beyond the classroom. You will benefit from events that will give you a competitive edge in the job market. From employer talks and interview advice to business-tailored careers fairs, we work with you to achieve your goals.
Previous Economics graduates have gone on to work for global innovators and leaders in their sector including Ernst and Young, Deloitte, Lloyds Banking Group, PwC, JP Morgan and for government departments such as the National Audit Office, HMRC and the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office.
Of those students who graduated in 2019:
- 96% are in paid employment or further study 15 months after graduation across all our programmes
Of those in employment:
- 81% are in high skilled employment
- With an average salary of £29,000.
(Source: HESA Graduate Outcomes Survey. The survey asks leavers from higher education what they are doing 15 months after graduation. Further information about the Graduate Outcomes survey can be found here www.graduateoutcomes.ac.uk)
Department information
Business School (School of Economics, Finance and Business)
We are part of Durham University’s Business School, one of the UK's longest established business schools. We offer an inspiring and stimulating learning environment, and consistently rank highly for the quality of our teaching, research and for graduate career prospects.
The rigorous curriculum combined with exceptional teaching prepare you to navigate the economic challenges faced by the modern world.
You will learn from leading academics across a range of economic disciplines. Many of the academic team are active practitioners and researchers who will share their skills and knowledge directly, delivering their insights to the classroom and bringing you closer to the realities of the business world. You will also benefit from lectures by guest speakers who give new perspectives on relevant topics, while case studies give you the opportunity to explore a range of contemporary economics issues. There are further opportunities for hands-on work placements and international study.
You will gain an understanding of the principles of Economics, including supply and demand, competition and growth theories while developing the skills to effectively analyse and interpret data. All our degrees can be tailored to your interests through a wide range of option modules, including the chance to study a language.
Economics degrees at Durham prepare students to become the innovative business thinkers of the future and our qualifications are highly successful in creating job opportunities.
For more information see our Business School website.
Rankings
- 6th for Economics in The Complete University Guide 2023
- 7th in The Guardian University Guide 2023
- 9th in The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2023
Staff
For a current list of staff, please see the Business School web pages.
Facilities
Based within the state-of-the-art Business School, we are close to University services and resources and only a mile from the historic centre of Durham, a city with UNESCO World Heritage Status.
Our modern and spacious teaching and learning areas include lecture theatres, seminar rooms and study areas.
The Business School library houses extensive collections of business, economics, finance and management books and offers access to over 10,000 journals online. You’ll be able to access up-to-date financial and market research information from sources such as FAME, Mintel, IMID, European Business asap and Pro-Quest. There’s also a wide range of information available via online databases, including Emerald, Mintel, Lexis-Nexis, Reuters Business Insight, IMF Statistical Service Online.
Apply
Find out more:
Use the UCAS code below when applying:
Apply
L1R1
The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) handles applications for all undergraduate courses.
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