What caused the great economic crisis of 2008 and what policies were the right reaction? Is globalisation increasing inequality within countries? Between countries? Why, as economies grow richer, are people often not any happier? Can government policies influence this? Why are some governments captured by elites and more prone to corruption than others? What steps should be taken now to combat global warming? Questions such as these, all of which are being examined by leading economists at LSE, illustrate the broad scope of economics today. Economics today tackles a broad range of problems, from barriers to economic development to international financial crises. An open-minded and scientific approach to these issues requires formal modelling of economic relationships, and testing hypotheses against data. The study of economics therefore involves developing problem-solving skills, including mathematical and statistical abilities, and applying these skills, without losing sight of the real world. A first degree in economics provides an excellent preparation for a range of careers, but we particularly welcome students who want to learn about economics, rather than simply prepare themselves for a prosperous future. Many of our graduates choose to pursue careers in the financial sector, for example in banking and financial services, analytical and trading fields, advising on mergers and acquisitions. Others choose to join international organisations; to become professional accountants and auditors, or to take up positions as economic or management consultants. A significant number choose to go on to graduate study, not only in economics but also in finance, management, development and other fields.

The Economics Department is regularly ranked number one outside of the USA for its published research in economics and econometrics and in 2008 the national Research Assessment Exercise assessed LSE Economics as the best single department in any major discipline. As an undergraduate in the Department, you will have the chance to learn from economists at the cutting edge of their field. The economics programmes at LSE aim to provide students with a thorough grounding in the analytical methods of economics and to develop their skills in applying these methods to a diverse range of problems, both microeconomic and macroeconomic, in analysing and constructing complex arguments and in communicating these effectively. Our BSc Economics programme provides a well rounded coverage of the economics discipline. The BSc Econometrics and Mathematical Economics programme enables students to build a particularly strong quantitative background, which is becoming more and more important for a successful career in economics, though you should note that all modern economics requires an aptitude for and enjoyment of mathematics and that the first year core for all includes both mathematics and statistics. The BSc Economics with Economic History programme provides an option for students with a secondary interest in economic history.