Economics tackles a broad range of problems, from barriers to economic development to international financial crises. The study of economics at LSE is mathematically rigorous, and you should have aptitude for and enjoyment of mathematics, along with a strong analytical ability. This programme will provide an excellent preparation for further academic study or a career in research, academia or, for example, in a central bank.
Students are rarely admitted to the programme in the first year, as this is too early to be sure of commitment to a research career in economics. However a limited number of students successfully transfer to this programme from the BSc Economics in the third year (with the permission of the Undergraduate Tutor), in order to take part in the demanding and rewarding dissertation in quantitative economics.
For the BSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics we are looking for students with a strong mathematical ability, and A-level Mathematics or equivalent is therefore required.
Further Mathematics at A-level is also desirable, and is acceptable for entry in combination with Mathematics and one other A level. In these cases we would prefer that the third A-level should be an essay-based subject. It is acceptable to take Further Mathematics to AS-level only, in which case you will be required to achieve grade A. If you take four or more full A-levels, you will be expected to achieve A* A A (with A* in Mathematics), and a pass in the fourth A-level. We understand however that not everyone has the opportunity to follow a Further Mathematics programme, and you will not be disadvantaged because of this. Therefore it is helpful if you and/or your referees can indicate whether or not your school or college offers Further Mathematics classes.
In the first year of the programme, you will gain an essential foundation in economics and will learn the necessary quantitative skills. You will take introductory courses in economics, mathematics, and statistics, as well as LSE100, which is taught in the Lent term only. Please note that the LSE100 course is under review. You will take either Economics A or Economics B, depending on your economics background. Economics B is only for students with A-level Economics or equivalent. You will also take one outside option.
A theoretical statistics course which is appropriate whether or not your A level Mathematics course included statistics. It forms the basis for later statistics options.
In the second year you will take compulsory courses in microeconomics and econometrics, and will continue to take LSE100 in the Michaelmas Term only. You will choose between macroeconomics and a mathematics course, and between statistics and a course chosen from a long list of options from other departments.
An intermediate-level introduction to the theory and practice of econometrics.
In your third year you will have the opportunity to specialise according to your interests.
You will choose one course from three options. You will then take two further economics options. You will also complete a thesis in quantitative economics on a research question of your choosing.
Gives an introduction to the asymptotic theory of estimation and inference of economic models.
Reviews fundamental concepts in economic theory and presents some of its most successful applications.
Provides a solid grounding in recent developments in applied econometrics.
Summative assessment is through examinations in the first week of January and/or May-June each year. Please note that assessment on individual courses can change year to year. An indication of the current formative coursework and summative assessment for each course can be found in the relevant course guide.
Some of these books were launched at the LSE. Listen to podcasts of these launches (and many other talks).
Almost all students on the BSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics programme progress to do a graduate degree (often a PhD) and have careers in research and/or teaching in academia, central banks around the world, think tanks or government.
At LSE we are exposed to a very high standard of economic analysis and a very broad range of subjects. This programme has a balanced emphasis on economic theory, econometrics, and analysis. The lecturers are excellent, and the class teachers are dedicated to their teaching. Many of the LSE faculty are deeply involved in policy advising in the government, business and finance areas, and this means that what we’re learning is not divorced from the real world, and we can really see the practical use of economics.
What I particularly love about the EME programme is the opportunity to work with top-notch faculty in economics. For the quantitative project in the third year, everyone is assigned a supervisor who is a dedicated and experienced researcher. I find this opportunity incredibly valuable in terms of getting you to think like a research economist and consider if a PhD is right for you.
