Degree courses

Business studies / management and economics degrees are probably the most popular choice of degree subjects for FIBSB students. The problem students can face however, is that there is an almost bewildering choice of courses.  These pages we hope will give students a few ideas to start their research.


Business Studies or Economics?

The choice between these subjects depends on a number of factors:

  • How good are you at maths? Economics at degree level is a very mathematical subject. Studying A level maths is a distinct advantage if you are thinking of an economics degree. Most Business Studies degrees have at least one statistics / quantitative analysis component but a lower level of numerical ability is required.
  • Future career? A recent survey indicated that most graduates wished they’d studied a more practical, work orientated degree. Good business/management degrees should certainly prepare students for the world of work. Many include a very useful ‘sandwich year’ which gives students a year working for a business organisation. International Management degrees often include a year working aboard. However, a degree in economics can be a better preparation for careers in finance and there is some evidence that there is a shortage of economists as more students are tempted to study business which they believe to be an easier subject.
  • Do you enjoy the subject? If you don’t like a subject at A level you are unlikely to fall in love with it on a degree course…

Which university?

In some ways university league tables help take some of the guess work out of finding a place to study your chosen course. However it is worth remembering that:

  • Different league tables give different results – look at more than one!
  • League tables that spilt courses up by the required grades at A level are very useful – if you think you will get three grade Bs and a C, they will list the best courses for universities that will accept students with these grades
  • A low ranked course or university does not always mean a bad course or university. This is especially true of smaller institutions offering specialist degree courses that are hard to compare with others.
  • League tables do not consider other very important factors in a students choice of university. Some students for example would prefer the security of a campus university while others would like to study in the heart of a big city.


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