Program Overview

How are financial and business decisions influenced by economics? How will the economy recover in a post-pandemic world? What impact will COVID-19 and Brexit have on business spending and growth?

We make financial and economic decisions every day, at home and in the workplace. Although we may be free to make our own choices, we are influenced by the actions of other people and institutions across the world. BSc Accounting with Economics explores how these decisions are made and examines the external forces driving them.

On this course, you learn how to be a more effective accountant, business consultant or manager by combining accounting knowledge with economic theories. By understanding key accounting principles, as well as how the economy functions, fluctuates and impacts organisations, you can make better informed recommendations that positively influence business strategy and performance, skills which will be in high demand from employers over the coming years.

On our accounting with economics course you are encouraged to take on a paid industry placement in your third year to put your knowledge into practice and further develop your professional skills.

You acquire knowledge and practical skills by exploring a broad range of topics such as:

• Financial and management accounting
• The preparation of financial statements
• Costing, budgeting and performance evaluation
• Micro and macroeconomics
• International trade

In your first year, we also introduce you to important aspects of marketing, management and finance. These core areas ensure you gain a fully-rounded business education, providing a solid foundation for your second and final years and future career.

In your final year, you have the opportunity to put your knowledge into practice by completing an in-depth, independent research project or dissertation. This will give you the chance to further develop vital employability skills in areas of research, time management and critical thinking.

Essex Business School is a signatory of the UN Principles of Responsible Management Education (PRME) and champion business ethics and sustainability. We encourage students to make responsible decisions for the good of business and society. Consequently, your course will explore important issues of management accountability and explore the political, cultural and social implications of corporate actions.

Placement year

Alternatively, on a placement year you gain relevant work experience within an external organisation. A work placement can give you a competitive edge in the graduate job market by providing you with key contacts within the industry.

The Student Development Team can offer bespoke support throughout the process of researching, applying and interviewing for placements. However, it is your responsibility to apply, prepare for and secure your own role. Our students have gained placements with organisations such as BMW, Samsung and Cummins.