Economics Ranking by The Complete Guide

The study of economics has long been recognized as one of the most intellectually rigorous and practically relevant fields in higher education. Understanding the forces that drive economies, the impacts of economic policies, and the interplay between markets and human behavior, is essential for shaping both national and global economies. In the United Kingdom, economics departments are home to some of the world’s leading scholars and researchers, and the Complete University Guide 2009 ranking highlights the top 30 universities for economics in the country. This ranking offers valuable insights into the institutions that are not only leaders in academic excellence but also in preparing students for successful careers in economics, finance, public policy, and academia.

At the top of the list, the University of Cambridge, London School of Economics (LSE), and University College London (UCL) have long been acknowledged as the most prestigious and influential institutions for economics in the UK. Cambridge, with its centuries-old tradition of academic excellence, stands as a beacon of economic research and intellectual leadership. The university has been home to some of the most influential economists in history, including John Maynard Keynes, and continues to produce graduates who go on to shape economic policy worldwide. LSE, located in the heart of London, has earned its reputation as a global leader in social sciences, attracting a diverse international student body and producing pioneering research in areas such as political economy, development economics, and macroeconomics. UCL, known for its interdisciplinary approach, has a strong emphasis on integrating economics with other social sciences like law, politics, and sociology, enriching its economics program and offering a holistic understanding of economic systems.

In fourth place, the University of Warwick stands out for its strong focus on applied economics, econometrics, and its emphasis on policy-relevant research. Warwick’s economics department is recognized for producing graduates who are highly sought after by both the public and private sectors, particularly in finance and government roles. Just behind Warwick, Oxford ranks fifth, continuing to offer one of the most rigorous economics programs in the world. Oxford’s focus on theoretical economics, supported by its tutorial system, ensures that students receive a deep understanding of both the quantitative and qualitative aspects of the subject.

The University of Nottingham, ranked sixth, is another notable institution that has made significant strides in recent years, particularly in development economics, environmental economics, and health economics. Nottingham’s economics department is widely regarded for its high-impact research and its emphasis on providing students with practical, hands-on experience in economics through internships and collaborative projects. The University of Bristol, ranked seventh, is similarly renowned for its strong research output, particularly in economic theory, labor economics, and international trade. It is an institution that offers students the opportunity to specialize in various fields of economics while ensuring they receive a well-rounded education.

In eighth place, Durham University is known for its emphasis on quantitative skills and its strong tradition in economic policy research. Durham’s economics department is respected for producing graduates who go on to influential roles in both the private and public sectors. The University of St Andrews, ranked ninth, combines academic rigor with a supportive learning environment, and its economics program is known for producing graduates with strong analytical skills. Bath University rounds out the top 10, offering a robust economics program that is well-regarded for its focus on applied economics and quantitative methods.

Other institutions rounding out the top 30 in the Complete University Guide 2009 ranking include York, Birmingham, Exeter, Southampton, Lancaster, Edinburgh, Glasgow, SOAS, Essex, Sussex, and East Anglia. These universities are recognized for their strong economics departments, which offer students a comprehensive understanding of economic theory, empirical analysis, and policy application. The University of East Anglia, ranked 21st, stands out for its work in environmental economics, while the University of Essex, ranked 19th, is known for its expertise in development economics and econometrics.

Universities such as Royal Holloway, Cardiff, Leeds, and Loughborough also make the list, offering a range of economics programs that cater to both theoretical and applied economics. These institutions are recognized for their commitment to providing high-quality education, fostering research excellence, and preparing students for careers in both academia and industry. Similarly, universities like Surrey, Newcastle, Leicester, Keele, and Aberdeen continue to offer strong programs in economics, with a particular focus on providing students with the tools necessary to analyze and address contemporary economic challenges.

Overall, the Complete University Guide 2009 ranking of the top 30 universities for economics in the UK reflects the strength and diversity of the country's higher education landscape. Whether students are interested in pursuing a career in finance, government policy, academia, or international organizations, these universities provide a strong foundation for the development of the necessary skills and knowledge. The ranking underscores the fact that the best economics programs in the UK not only excel in academic research but also in providing students with the critical thinking skills, analytical tools, and real-world experience needed to succeed in a fast-changing global economy.

Top 30 Universities in Economics:
1 Cambridge
2 London School of Economics
3 University College London
4 Warwick
5 Oxford
6 Nottingham
7 Bristol
8 Durham
9 St Andrews
10 Bath
11 York
12 Birmingham
13 Exeter
14 Southampton
15 Lancaster
16 Edinburgh
17 Glasgow
18 SOAS
19 Essex
20 Sussex
21 East Anglia
22 Royal Holloway
23 Cardiff
24 Leeds
25 Loughborough
26 Surrey
27 Newcastle
28 Leicester
29 Keele
30 Aberdeen

Source: The Complete University Guide 2009