BSc (Hons) Applied Economics

Cork

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Applied Economics program at University College Cork (UCC) provides students with a rigorous and practical education in economics, emphasizing real-world applications and analytical skills. Through a combination of theoretical coursework, quantitative methods, and empirical analysis, students explore key economic principles, models, and policies, and learn how to apply economic concepts to address contemporary social and economic challenges. The program equips students with the knowledge, analytical tools, and critical thinking skills necessary to understand and analyze economic phenomena, make informed decisions, and contribute to evidence-based policymaking and business strategy.

Core Economic Principles: The program covers fundamental economic principles and theories, including microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Students learn about supply and demand, market structures, national income determination, economic growth, inflation, and unemployment. They explore how economic agents make decisions, allocate resources, and interact within markets, firms, and government institutions. Through coursework and case studies, students develop a solid understanding of economic theory and its applications to real-world problems.

Quantitative Methods and Data Analysis: Students acquire quantitative skills and techniques for analyzing economic data and conducting empirical research. They learn statistical methods, regression analysis, and econometric modeling, and apply these tools to analyze economic trends, test hypotheses, and evaluate policy interventions. Students gain hands-on experience with statistical software such as R, Stata, or Python, enhancing their ability to collect, manipulate, and interpret data and to communicate findings effectively to diverse audiences.

Applied Economics and Policy Analysis: The program emphasizes the application of economic theory and methods to real-world issues and policy challenges. Students examine a wide range of economic issues, such as healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, poverty, inequality, and globalization, and analyze the impact of policy interventions and market forces on economic outcomes. They develop skills in policy analysis, cost-benefit analysis, and program evaluation, assessing the effectiveness of policies and interventions in achieving their objectives and addressing societal needs.

Business and Financial Analysis: Students learn how economics can be applied to business decision-making and financial analysis. They study topics such as firm behavior, pricing strategies, investment decisions, risk management, and financial markets. Students explore how economic concepts such as incentives, competition, and market efficiency shape business strategies and influence financial markets. They analyze case studies, financial reports, and market data to evaluate business performance, identify opportunities, and mitigate risks in a dynamic economic environment.

Research Skills and Independent Study: The program cultivates students' research skills and encourages independent inquiry. Students have the opportunity to undertake independent research projects, honors theses, or internships, allowing them to explore topics of interest in depth and to apply economic theory and methods to practical issues. They work closely with faculty advisors, conduct literature reviews, collect and analyze data, and present their findings in written reports or oral presentations, developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills.

Career Preparation and Professional Development: The program prepares students for diverse and rewarding careers in economics, finance, public policy, research, and business. Students receive career guidance, networking opportunities, and support for internship placements and job searches. They develop professional skills such as teamwork, leadership, and communication through group projects, seminars, and extracurricular activities. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue advanced study in economics or related fields or to enter the workforce in roles such as economic analysts, policy advisors, financial consultants, or research associates.

Pollster Education

Location

Cork

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

€ 20500

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fee: € 50

Academic Qualifications: For undergraduate programs, applicants require a minimum academic score of 80-85% or above in their previous studies.

English Language Proficiency:

  • IELTS: Overall score of 6.0 or 6.5, with no individual band below 5.5.
  • TOEFL: Overall score of 90, with specific section requirements: Listening 20, Reading 20, Speaking 21, Writing 20.
  • PTE: Overall score of 63, with no section below 59.
  • DET: Overall score of 120, with a minimum of 110.

Students must provide:

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

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

University College Cork (UCC) offers various scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in their academic pursuits. These scholarships are aimed at assisting students with tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs. 

International Merit-Based Scholarships: UCC provides merit-based scholarships for high-achieving international students entering undergraduate or postgraduate programs. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and may cover partial tuition fees or provide stipends.

Government and External Scholarships: International students may also be eligible for scholarships offered by their home governments, non-governmental organizations, or external funding bodies. UCC assists students by providing information and support in applying for these external scholarship opportunities.

Research Scholarships and Grants: For postgraduate research students, UCC offers various grants and scholarships to support research endeavors. These scholarships often cover tuition fees and provide additional stipends for living expenses.

Sports Scholarships: UCC recognizes talented athletes and offers sports scholarships to support their academic and athletic pursuits. These scholarships assist students in balancing their sports with their studies.

Faculty-Specific Scholarships: Certain faculties or departments within UCC offer scholarships tailored to specific academic disciplines. These scholarships aim to attract exceptional students to particular programs and fields of study.

Need-Based Financial Aid: The university understands the financial challenges international students might face and offers need-based financial aid programs to assist students who demonstrate financial need.

The BSc (Hons) Applied Economics program at University College Cork provides graduates with a wide range of career opportunities in economics, finance, policy analysis, business consulting, data analytics, and academia. With its emphasis on analytical skills, practical applications, and professional development, the program equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and versatility to succeed in diverse and dynamic fields and to make meaningful contributions to society and the economy.

  1. Economic Analyst: Graduates of the BSc (Hons) Applied Economics program can pursue careers as economic analysts in various sectors, including government agencies, financial institutions, consulting firms, and research organizations. Economic analysts conduct research, analyze data, and provide insights into economic trends, policy implications, and business opportunities. They may specialize in areas such as labor markets, international trade, financial markets, or environmental economics, helping organizations make informed decisions and navigate economic uncertainties.

  2. Policy Advisor: Graduates may work as policy advisors or researchers for government departments, think tanks, or nonprofit organizations, providing expertise on economic policy issues and contributing to the development and evaluation of public policies. Policy advisors analyze policy options, assess their economic impact, and provide recommendations to policymakers on issues such as taxation, healthcare, education, or social welfare. They play a crucial role in shaping public policy debates, promoting evidence-based policymaking, and addressing societal challenges.

  3. Financial Analyst: Graduates may pursue careers in finance as financial analysts, investment analysts, or risk analysts for banks, investment firms, or corporate finance departments. Financial analysts evaluate investment opportunities, assess financial risks, and provide recommendations on asset allocation, portfolio management, and investment strategies. They analyze economic indicators, market trends, and company financial statements to make informed investment decisions and to help clients achieve their financial goals.

  4. Market Researcher: Graduates can work as market researchers or data analysts for market research firms, consumer goods companies, or marketing agencies, conducting market studies, analyzing consumer behavior, and providing insights into market trends and competitive dynamics. Market researchers use economic principles and statistical techniques to collect and analyze data on consumer preferences, market demand, and product performance, helping businesses develop marketing strategies, launch new products, and target specific market segments effectively.

  5. Business Consultant: Graduates may pursue careers as business consultants or management consultants, advising businesses on strategic planning, performance improvement, and organizational development. Business consultants use economic analysis and quantitative methods to assess business operations, identify inefficiencies, and recommend solutions to enhance productivity, profitability, and competitiveness. They may specialize in areas such as cost-benefit analysis, supply chain management, or business process reengineering, helping businesses adapt to changing market conditions and achieve their strategic objectives.

  6. Data Scientist: Graduates with strong quantitative skills may transition into roles as data scientists or data analysts, leveraging their expertise in economics and statistics to extract insights from large datasets, build predictive models, and solve complex business problems. Data scientists work in diverse industries such as technology, healthcare, or e-commerce, applying advanced analytics techniques such as machine learning, data mining, and predictive modeling to optimize decision-making processes, improve operational efficiency, and drive innovation.

  7. Academic Researcher or Educator: Graduates interested in pursuing further study may choose to pursue graduate studies in economics or related fields, leading to careers as academic researchers, professors, or educators. They may conduct original research, publish scholarly articles, and teach undergraduate or graduate courses in economics, econometrics, or applied research methods at universities, research institutes, or policy schools. Academic researchers contribute to advancing knowledge and understanding in economics, shaping public discourse, and training the next generation of economists and policy analysts.


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