Lancaster University

What you'll study

This joint honours degree integrates core economics with international relations across three or four years depending on whether you choose a placement year. In the early stages you build a foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and introductory econometrics alongside modules introducing international politics, global governance and foreign policy analysis.

• Year 1 (foundations) – Principles of micro and macroeconomics; quantitative methods for economists; introduction to international relations; global political economy; research skills.
• Year 2 (intermediate) – Intermediate micro and macro; applied econometrics; international security; comparative politics; modules on international institutions, development or regional studies (e.g. Europe, Asia, Africa).
• Final year (specialisation) – Advanced topics in econometrics, public economics, and monetary/economic policy; advanced seminars in international relations such as diplomacy, conflict resolution, human rights or international political economy; an independent dissertation or project drawing on both disciplines.
• Placement and study abroad options – Many students take an optional professional placement year with an employer or study abroad for a year at a partner university, gaining practical experience and international exposure.

Across the programme, assessment is typically a mix of examinations, coursework, group projects and a final dissertation. Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, quantitative computer labs and policy-focused simulation exercises.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements ask for strong A-level (or equivalent) performance. Admissions favour candidates who can demonstrate quantitative ability and an interest in world affairs.

• A-levels – Successful applicants usually present grades including a strong performance in mathematics or a quantitative subject; specific grade requirements vary by year and application route.
• International Baccalaureate – A competitive overall diploma score with good results in higher-level subjects, preferably including mathematics or economics.
• Other qualifications – BTEC, European and other international qualifications are accepted where they meet academic standards; mature applicants and those with relevant work experience are considered through the standard admissions process.
• English language – International students whose first language is not English must meet the university's English language requirements.

Because curricula and grade thresholds are periodically updated, applicants should consult Lancaster University's official admissions pages or contact Admissions for the most current entry guidance and any subject-specific requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates combine economic literacy and international affairs expertise, attributes valued across the public and private sectors. Common career destinations include:

• Government departments and diplomatic services, working on trade policy, development or international relations
• International organisations and NGOs focusing on development, humanitarian response, or global governance
• Financial services and economic consultancy, including roles in macroeconomic analysis, risk management and policy advisory
• Think tanks, research institutes and policy units producing analysis on global economic and political issues
• Management and strategy consultancies, and roles in multinational corporations with international operations
• Further study – many graduates proceed to postgraduate degrees in economics, international relations, public policy, or law

The degree’s combination of quantitative and qualitative skills prepares graduates for analytic, advisory and leadership roles where understanding the interaction between economics and international politics is essential.

Why study at Lancaster University

Lancaster offers a collegiate campus environment with strong interdisciplinary links across economics, politics and social sciences. Teaching is research-led and emphasises small-group teaching and close contact with academic staff. Students benefit from practical support from the Careers Service, access to international exchange partners and opportunities for professional placements.

The university encourages cross-disciplinary projects and provides facilities for econometric and policy research, alongside active seminar series and public lectures that connect students to practitioners and visiting scholars. The campus setting, student societies and a range of extracurricular activities also help develop the communication and leadership skills valued by employers.