Combine the study of key principles in economics with modern political systems and learn how the two areas can work together to benefit society. Economic and political theory shapes the decisions made in our society at every level. From the economic effects of climate change to healthcare policy, or the distribution of social funding to the legitimacy of cryptocurrency, the fields of economics and politics have a significant impact. BA Economics and Politics explores the connections between these two closely linked disciplines. You will develop your own views on a wide range of current issues and build a skill set that will help you make sense of some of society’s biggest challenges. And when you study at Durham, you’ll develop these skills in a vibrant and intellectually challenging environment. You can also apply to add a placement year or a year abroad to your degree, increasing the course from three years to four. Learning from an academic team with expertise in contemporary economic and political issues, you’ll be well prepared for a career in the finance services, economics or commerce. In addition, the critical and analytical skills gained on the course extend your options to include the fields of journalism, public policy, education, international development, the charity sector and beyond.You’ll divide your time equally between the two disciplines, studying a diverse range of topics such as world economy, macro and microeconomics, corporate finance, international relations and political systems. Years 2 and 3 offer a wide selection of option modules which allow you to adjust the balance of subjects to broaden your experience or focus on your major area of interest.Course structureYear 1 modulesCore modules:Principles of Economics provides a sound foundation for modules in micro- and macroeconomics. You will cover areas including methodology of economics, supply and demand, consumer spending choices, competition and growth theories.Economic Methods familiarises you with the use of mathematical and statistical tools in solving economic problems. You will look at equations, matrix algebra, calculus, statistics, distribution, confidence intervals and hypothesis testing.The World Economy provides knowledge and understanding of the features of different types of economy, and of world trade and the international financial system. You will learn about international trade theory, economic growth and cover some of the key concepts relating to developments and crises in the world economy using real-world case studies.Optional modules:In recent years, optional modules have included: Researching Politics and International RelationsIntroduction to Political TheoryIntroduction to Comparative PoliticsIntroduction to International RelationsPerspectives of Political Economy.Year 2 modulesCore modules:Macroeconomics uses real-world examples to analyse the general equilibrium of an economy both in the short term, with a static model, and in the medium to long term, with a dynamic model. Economic Theory develops understanding and applications of microeconomic and macroeconomic theory at an intermediate level. You will cover areas such as consumer theory, money and inflation, economic growth and fiscal policy. Microeconomics aims to develop understanding of the essential components of microeconomics with a particular focus on the analytical skills relevant to consumer and production theories, general equilibrium and welfare.Optional modules:In recent years, optional modules have included: EconometricsBehavioural and Experimental EconomicsIntermediate Economics MethodsMicroeconomic Applications and PolicyMacroeconomic Applications and PolicyPolitics Research ProjectThe Politics of Pacific AsiaFoundations of Western Political ThoughtSovereignty, State and EmpireGlobal Political EconomyDebates in Political TheoryClass and Nation in British Politics.