Economics (Graduate Diploma)

Program Overview

This graduate diploma in Economics is designed for non-economics graduates seeking to transition into the field. It provides a comprehensive grounding in fundamental economic concepts, mathematical and statistical tools, and practical applications. The program is taught through lectures and classes, with assessments primarily based on written examinations and coursework. Graduates can pursue careers in banking, finance, the public sector, and other fields requiring economic expertise.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Students do not require any prior training in the subject and will receive a thorough grounding in the fundamental ideas and methods of modern economics, as well as learn how to apply this knowledge to practical problems. The program also helps students develop the necessary mathematical and statistical toolkit for studying economics. The curriculum is rigorous and intensive, preparing students to compete on equal terms with undergraduate economics graduates.

Outline:

These modules are listed below:

• Applied Statistics and Econometrics: This module introduces students to the essential tools and techniques used in statistical analysis and econometrics, which are critical for understanding and interpreting economic data.
• Macroeconomics: This module provides a comprehensive overview of the macroeconomy, covering topics such as national income accounting, economic growth, inflation, and unemployment.
• Mathematics for Economists: This module equips students with the essential mathematical skills needed to understand and analyze economic models.
• Microeconomics: This module focuses on the behavior of individual economic agents, such as consumers, firms, and governments.

Assessment:

Each module also includes assessments based on in-class or online tests. The modules Applied Statistics and Econometrics and Microeconomics include additional coursework as a component of the assessment.

Teaching:

Students are expected to engage in private study outside of class, which forms a crucial part of the learning process. A key feature of this graduate diploma is its specially tailored lectures, which are designed to provide a comprehensive grounding in the subject without the assumption of existing knowledge. Online students access teaching materials and video recordings of lectures via Birkbeck's online platform, Moodle, and have the ability to interact with faculty via email or online.

Careers:

Potential professions include economist, financial risk analyst, statistician, management consultant, actuary, civil servant, local government officer, and teacher.

Other:

The part-time program meets two evenings a week for the same period. The Graduate Diploma in Economics can be studied either on campus or online. The program also offers pre-sessional courses in September that provide accelerated mathematical skills revision.

Part-time home students: £5,420 per year Full-time home students: £10,840 per year Part-time international students: £8,000 per year Full-time international students: £16,000 per year