University of York

What you'll study

This joint honours degree blends foundational and advanced modules from both economics and mathematics. In the early years you will build solid grounding in calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics alongside intermediate microeconomics and macroeconomics. Core mathematics topics often include mathematical methods, real analysis and modelling, while economics covers consumer and producer theory, market structures and macroeconomic dynamics.

As you progress you will take quantitative economics modules such as econometrics and applied data analysis, alongside higher-level mathematics electives in optimisation, stochastic processes, numerical methods and mathematical modelling. Final-year options typically allow you to specialise in areas such as financial mathematics, game theory, time series analysis or advanced econometrics, and to complete a substantial independent project or dissertation that integrates economics and mathematics.

Teaching is a mix of lectures, small-group seminars and tutorials, computer practicals for data analysis and modelling, and supervision for your final-year project. There are opportunities for live data projects, programming in languages commonly used in economics and mathematics, and optional modules from related areas such as statistics, finance or computational methods.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants normally have strong A‑level or equivalent qualifications with a particular emphasis on mathematics. Equivalent qualifications from other systems are considered; applicants should demonstrate readiness for rigorous, mathematically demanding study (for example through prior study of calculus, algebra and elementary statistics).

Further Mathematics or other quantitative A‑level subjects are advantageous but not always required. Admissions tutors look for strong analytical skills, numeracy and evidence of sustained academic achievement. Applicants from international backgrounds should hold recognised qualifications that demonstrate comparable competence in mathematics and overall academic performance.

Career prospects

Graduates with combined economics and mathematics skills are sought after across the public and private sectors. Typical career paths include roles in finance (banking, asset management, risk analysis), economic consultancy, management consulting, data science and analytics, actuarial work, and public policy or central government economic roles. The degree also provides a strong platform for postgraduate study in economics, financial mathematics, econometrics or mathematics.

York graduates benefit from employer engagement through the university’s careers service, opportunities for internships and project work, and a curriculum designed to develop both theoretical insight and practical quantitative skills valued by employers.

Why study at University of York

The University of York offers this programme through departments that combine strong mathematical teaching with applied and research-led economics. Students benefit from a collegiate environment, small-group teaching and accessible academic staff. The mathematics and economics communities at York provide a range of seminars, research talks and student-led activities that support intellectual development beyond the classroom.

Practical training in computing and data analysis, plus links to industry and public sector employers, help bridge academic study and career readiness. The university’s careers and placement services, together with opportunities for research projects and interdisciplinary study, make York a supportive place to develop the quantitative and policy-relevant skills this degree emphasises.