Top Economics Schools (UK)

The Guardian University Guide 2009 provides a snapshot of the top economics schools in the UK, showcasing institutions that are not only renowned for their academic rigor but also for their contributions to economic thought and practice. According to this guide, the top ten economics schools in the UK in 2009 were Oxford, Cambridge, the London School of Economics (LSE), Birmingham, Warwick, University College London (UCL), Durham, St Andrews, Lancaster, and the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS). These universities represent a diverse range of academic approaches, research strengths, and institutional reputations, yet all share a commitment to producing highly skilled and capable economists.

At the very top of the rankings is the University of Oxford, which has long held a dominant position in the field of economics. Oxford's economics department is renowned for its world-class faculty, many of whom are leading experts in their respective fields of research. The university’s economics program is structured to provide students with a strong theoretical foundation, while also offering opportunities to engage with practical, real-world economic issues. Oxford’s unique tutorial system, where students receive one-on-one or small group instruction from their professors, is a distinctive feature of its educational approach. This system encourages deep critical thinking and intellectual engagement, allowing students to develop a comprehensive understanding of complex economic concepts. Oxford's influence extends far beyond the classroom, with its graduates frequently going on to assume leadership roles in academia, government, and international organizations. Its long history of economic scholarship, coupled with a tradition of academic excellence, ensures that Oxford remains a top choice for aspiring economists.

Just behind Oxford is the University of Cambridge, which consistently ranks among the best in the world for economics. Cambridge’s Department of Economics is one of the largest and most prestigious in the UK, with a reputation for both its rigorous academic standards and its groundbreaking research. The university is home to some of the most influential economists in history, including John Maynard Keynes, who transformed economic theory and policy in the 20th century. Today, Cambridge continues to be a leader in the field, offering a curriculum that is designed to equip students with the analytical tools and theoretical knowledge necessary to understand and address global economic challenges. Like Oxford, Cambridge benefits from a strong tradition of research excellence, and its economics faculty includes a number of Nobel laureates and highly regarded scholars. Cambridge’s approach to economics combines theoretical depth with empirical research, offering students the opportunity to specialize in areas such as development economics, econometrics, and international trade.

The London School of Economics (LSE), ranked third in the Guardian University Guide 2009, is another institution with an international reputation for excellence in economics. LSE is renowned for its focus on the application of economic theory to real-world issues, particularly in the fields of development economics, international economics, and public policy. The university’s research output is consistently ranked among the best in the world, with its faculty making significant contributions to economic thought across a wide range of disciplines. LSE’s location in central London provides its students with unique access to the city’s financial institutions, government bodies, and international organizations, further enhancing the practical relevance of its economics programs. The university’s global outlook and interdisciplinary approach to economics have made it one of the most influential institutions in the world for the study of economics and related social sciences. LSE’s alumni network is vast and influential, with graduates often going on to hold high-ranking positions in government, business, and academia.

The University of Birmingham, ranked fourth in the Guardian University Guide 2009, is another institution with a strong reputation for economics. Birmingham’s Department of Economics is recognized for its commitment to both academic excellence and real-world applications of economic theory. The university offers a broad range of economics programs, with opportunities to specialize in areas such as macroeconomics, industrial economics, and behavioral economics. Birmingham’s focus on quantitative methods and empirical research ensures that its students are well-prepared for careers in academia, business, and public policy. The university’s economics faculty is highly regarded for its research output, particularly in the areas of economic policy and applied economics. With a strong emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, Birmingham’s economics program is designed to equip students with the tools they need to address the economic challenges of the 21st century.

Warwick University, ranked fifth, is another top contender in the field of economics. Warwick’s Department of Economics is known for its research excellence and its strong focus on econometrics, microeconomics, and macroeconomics. The university’s economics faculty includes some of the leading economists in the world, particularly in the fields of industrial organization, labor economics, and economic theory. Warwick is also recognized for its strong links with industry and policymakers, offering students the opportunity to apply their knowledge in real-world contexts. The university’s commitment to high-quality teaching, combined with its robust research output, makes it a top choice for students interested in pursuing a career in economics.

University College London (UCL), ranked sixth, is another prestigious institution for the study of economics. UCL’s Department of Economics is known for its interdisciplinary approach to economics, with faculty members conducting research across a wide range of areas, from behavioral economics and development economics to public policy and environmental economics. UCL offers students a comprehensive economics education, combining theoretical foundations with empirical research methods. The university’s location in London, coupled with its strong academic reputation, provides students with access to a vibrant network of professionals and policymakers. UCL’s economics program is also known for its emphasis on quantitative analysis, equipping students with the analytical tools needed to address complex economic problems.

Durham University, ranked seventh in the Guardian University Guide 2009, is another leading institution for economics. Durham’s Department of Economics has a strong reputation for research, particularly in the areas of macroeconomics, international economics, and environmental economics. The university offers a rigorous economics program that combines theoretical study with practical applications. Durham is known for its close-knit academic community, where students benefit from a high level of personal attention from faculty members. The university’s commitment to research and its focus on developing analytical and quantitative skills ensure that Durham’s economics graduates are well-prepared for careers in both academia and industry.

The University of St Andrews, ranked eighth, is a historic institution with a growing reputation for economics. St Andrews’ economics department offers a range of programs, from undergraduate courses to postgraduate research opportunities. The department is known for its strong focus on econometrics, macroeconomics, and behavioral economics. St Andrews provides students with a rigorous and supportive academic environment, ensuring they develop the skills necessary to succeed in the field of economics. The university’s small size fosters close relationships between students and faculty, allowing for a personalized learning experience.

Lancaster University, ranked ninth, is another strong contender for a spot in the top ten. Lancaster’s economics department offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, from microeconomics to development economics and econometrics. The department’s emphasis on quantitative methods and empirical research ensures that students are well-prepared for the challenges of the modern economy. Lancaster is known for its high-quality teaching and its research output, particularly in the areas of labor economics and applied economics.

Finally, the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), ranked tenth, is a unique institution that combines the study of economics with a focus on Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. SOAS’s Department of Economics is known for its interdisciplinary approach, offering students the opportunity to engage with global economic issues from a variety of perspectives. The university’s focus on development economics, political economy, and the economics of the global South makes it an attractive choice for students interested in international and comparative economics.

In conclusion, the Guardian University Guide 2009 provides a comprehensive overview of the top economics schools in the UK, with Oxford, Cambridge, and LSE leading the pack. These institutions, along with Birmingham, Warwick, UCL, Durham, St Andrews, Lancaster, and SOAS, represent the best of UK economics education, offering students a combination of rigorous academic training, cutting-edge research, and access to a wide range of career opportunities. Whether students are interested in economic theory, public policy, or applied economics, these universities offer the resources, faculty, and intellectual environment necessary to succeed in the field.

Rankings of Top Economics Schools:

Source: Guardian University Guide 2009
1 Oxford
2 Cambridge
3 LSE
4 Birmingham
5 Warwick
6 UCL
7 Durham
8 St Andrews
9 Lancaster
10 SOAS

Source: Complete University Guide 2009
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

Source: Times Good university guide 2009
1 Cambridge
2 London School of Economics
3 Oxford
4 University College London
5 Warwick
6 Durham
7 Birmingham
8 Nottingham
9 Bristol
10 Exeter

Comments

Author

Kelvin Wong Loke Yuen is an experienced writer specializing in education-related topics, with a strong background in teaching and training. He has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in education and creates practical, easy-to-understand articles that help educators, students, and professionals improve their skills and knowledge. Follow: LinkedIn.

Popular Articles

Find Articles by Category