Hi, I’m Will. I’m going to share with you my experience as a 1st Year student studying BSc Economics at York. I’ll tell you about the course structure, teaching and assessment and ultimately why I chose to study economics at York.
Course structure and module topics
In the Year 1, BSc Economics is split up into six modules. The modules cover a range of topics, including economic history, mathematics, policy and finance. I find that module content is applicable and relevant to the real world which makes the course even more engaging.
In Year 2, we study three mandatory modules and choose another three option modules to complement them. I made my choices in March this year. One of the modules I chose was Alternative Perspectives in Economics; the study of unconventional economic theories and systems. I chose this because the content of this module is applicable to other areas of economics, making it a valuable learning experience.
Teaching and Learning
Typically, we have 9-10 hours of in-person learning per week, however this will vary slightly throughout the year. This is split into lectures, workshops and practicals. In addition to this, we have a steady stream of independent work to complete, usually in the form of reading, ‘learning by doing’ exercises or formative assessments.
Workshops generally require independent work to be done beforehand, sometimes as part of a group. For example, in the Data, Evidence and Policy module, we observe a policy and its effects through the lens of data, then use our observations to evaluate how effective the policy is. I find this process enriching as it applies theory we’ve learned to a real-life situation. It also helps us to think critically and objectively about problems and potential solutions.
Regular question and answer sessions are held by 2nd and 3rd Year students, in addition to work we do in person and independently, to help 1st Year students with any content we might be struggling with.
In-person learning sessions are located in different areas around Campus West. The Department of Economics and Related Studies is based in Alcuin College, also on Campus West. Here students can easily arrange to see lecturers during office hours or meet with their academic supervisor.
Assessments methods
Assessment periods happen at the end of each semester: the first in late January to early February and the second in late May to early June. Assessments are usually in the form of exams, which may be online or in-person. In addition to exams, some modules may set extra assessed content during the term, typically an essay worth a portion of your final grade.
Why I chose to study economics?
I chose to study economics for a number of reasons, but the primary reason was the excellent employment opportunities this degree accommodates. Because I study economics, my options are open as this degree will give me the skills to pursue multiple different future opportunities. Finance, research, academia and civil service are just a few examples of career prospects.
To help with this, the university offers careers and skills support to help undergraduates make decisions about their future. The Careers and Placements department runs the York Strengths program which is designed to help students realise what skills they have, what they can develop and how they can use their strengths to further their careers.
Read more student stories about studying Economics at York.
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