BSc Economics and Climate Change

The BSc Economics and Climate Change program at Aberystwyth University is designed to address the urgent need for interdisciplinary approaches to climate change mitigation and adaptation. This innovative program combines the principles of economics with the scientific understanding of climate change, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the economic, social, and environmental dimensions of climate change challenges and solutions. Students explore topics such as environmental economics, energy policy, sustainable development, and climate finance, gaining the knowledge and skills needed to analyze, evaluate, and address climate change impacts at local, national, and global levels.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BSc Economics and Climate Change program is interdisciplinary, drawing on economics, environmental science, policy studies, and other relevant disciplines. Core modules cover fundamental concepts in economics and climate science, including climate change economics, climate modeling, carbon markets, and policy responses to climate change. Students also have the opportunity to choose from a range of elective modules, allowing them to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals. Elective modules may cover areas such as sustainable energy, ecological economics, climate justice, and climate resilience. Throughout the program, students engage in coursework, projects, and assessments that develop their analytical, quantitative, and communication skills.

Research Focus: Aberystwyth University is at the forefront of research on climate change and sustainability, and the BSc Economics and Climate Change program reflects this expertise. Students have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research conducted by faculty members and research centers within the university. They may participate in research projects, seminars, and workshops, gaining exposure to advanced economic and scientific theories, methodologies, and empirical analysis techniques. Students also undertake independent research projects as part of their coursework, allowing them to explore specific climate change topics or questions in depth and develop their research and analytical skills.

Industry Engagement: The BSc Economics and Climate Change program emphasizes industry engagement and practical experience, preparing students for careers in climate policy, environmental consulting, renewable energy, and related fields. Students have the opportunity to participate in internships, work placements, or consultancy projects with organizations such as government agencies, environmental NGOs, renewable energy companies, or sustainability-focused businesses. These opportunities provide students with real-world experience, professional networking opportunities, and insights into the application of economic and scientific principles to address climate change challenges.

Global Perspective: With a focus on global climate change issues and solutions, the BSc Economics and Climate Change program encourages students to consider climate change from a global perspective. Students learn about the impacts of climate change on different regions and communities around the world, as well as the interconnectedness of climate change with social, economic, and political factors. Study abroad programs, international research collaborations, and guest lectures by visiting scholars further enrich students' global perspective and cross-cultural competence, preparing them to address climate change challenges in diverse geographical contexts.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 75% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88, with at least 17 in Listening, 18 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 17 in Writing.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 55 with no individual score below 51.
• Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that entry requirements may vary across different programs and courses. Additionally, meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as the number of available places and competition for certain courses.

Aberystwyth University offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and assist students in managing their educational expenses.

International Excellence Scholarships: The International Excellence Scholarships are merit-based scholarships awarded to outstanding international students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs. The scholarships are competitive and provide a tuition fee reduction of up to £2,000 per year. Eligibility criteria and application procedures vary depending on the program of study.

Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship: The Vice-Chancellor's International Scholarship is a prestigious award offered to exceptional international students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs. The scholarship covers full tuition fees for the duration of the program. Students are selected based on academic achievement, personal statement, and references.

Aberystwyth International Scholarships: Aberystwyth International Scholarships are available to international students applying for undergraduate or postgraduate programs. These scholarships offer a tuition fee reduction of up to £2,000 per year. Eligibility criteria and application requirements may vary.

British Council GREAT Scholarships: Aberystwyth University participates in the British Council GREAT Scholarships program, which offers financial support to students from selected countries. These scholarships are aimed at promoting bilateral relations and educational collaboration. The availability, eligibility criteria, and application process for GREAT Scholarships may vary each year.

External Scholarships and Funding Sources: Aberystwyth University also encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous government-funded scholarships, private foundation scholarships, and international scholarship programs available for international students pursuing studies in the UK. The university provides guidance and support to students in identifying and applying for these external funding sources.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates from Aberystwyth University's BSc Economics and Climate Change program possess a unique blend of skills and knowledge that make them well-suited for a variety of careers in sectors addressing climate change and environmental sustainability. 

Environmental Economist: Graduates may work as environmental economists, analyzing the economic impacts of climate change policies and developing strategies to incentivize environmentally sustainable behavior. They may work for government agencies, consulting firms, research institutes, or international organizations, conducting cost-benefit analyses, modeling environmental policies, and evaluating market-based approaches to climate change mitigation.

Climate Policy Analyst/Advisor: Many graduates pursue careers as climate policy analysts or advisors, helping governments, NGOs, and businesses develop and implement climate change policies and strategies. They analyze climate-related legislation, assess policy effectiveness, and provide recommendations on emissions reduction targets, renewable energy deployment, carbon pricing mechanisms, and adaptation measures.

Sustainability Consultant: Graduates may work as sustainability consultants, assisting organizations in integrating environmental considerations into their operations, supply chains, and business strategies. They help companies assess their environmental footprint, identify opportunities for resource efficiency and waste reduction, and develop sustainability initiatives that align with climate change mitigation and adaptation goals.

Renewable Energy Analyst/Developer: With their understanding of energy economics and climate change, graduates may pursue careers in the renewable energy sector. They may work for energy companies, utilities, or renewable energy developers, analyzing the feasibility of renewable energy projects, assessing investment opportunities, and supporting the development and implementation of renewable energy policies and projects.

Carbon Market Specialist: Graduates may specialize in carbon markets, working for carbon offset providers, emissions trading platforms, or environmental finance firms. They help companies and organizations navigate carbon markets, manage carbon credits, and develop carbon pricing strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve carbon neutrality targets.

Climate Risk Analyst/Manager: Graduates may work as climate risk analysts or managers, helping businesses and financial institutions assess and manage climate-related risks and opportunities. They analyze the potential impacts of climate change on business operations, supply chains, and investments, and develop strategies to enhance resilience and adaptability to climate-related risks.

Environmental Data Analyst/Scientist: Graduates may work as environmental data analysts or scientists, analyzing large datasets related to climate change, weather patterns, and environmental impacts. They use statistical analysis and modeling techniques to identify trends, patterns, and correlations, and provide insights to support climate change research, policy development, and decision-making.

Corporate Sustainability Manager: Graduates may work as corporate sustainability managers, leading sustainability initiatives within companies and organizations. They develop and implement sustainability strategies, set environmental targets and goals, and engage with stakeholders to promote sustainability practices that address climate change impacts and contribute to long-term environmental stewardship.

Climate Change Researcher/Academic: Some graduates may pursue careers in climate change research or academia, conducting original research and teaching at universities, research institutes, or think tanks. They may specialize in areas such as climate modeling, climate adaptation, renewable energy technologies, or climate policy analysis, contributing to scientific knowledge and informing policy and practice.

International Development Specialist: Graduates may work in the field of international development, supporting projects and initiatives aimed at addressing climate change impacts in developing countries. They may work for NGOs, multilateral organizations, or government agencies, designing and implementing programs in areas such as climate resilience, disaster risk reduction, and sustainable development.