Are you thinking of studying an Economics degree but want to know what your options are after graduating? Look no further – we’ve broken down seven of the most popular career paths that Economics graduates find themselves on.
1. Economist
Perhaps the most obvious of career paths after studying an Economics degree, an economist plays a vital role within many organisations.
An economist collects and analyses data in order to advise organisations on a range of topics. As an economist, you may be researching and collecting information on topics such as taxation,interest rates,energy and transport. The research you undertake will inform your feedback to clients, giving them advice on how to improve or solve their economic challenges.
The types of companies you can do this for range from governmental organisations, banks to higher education institutions, with economists playing a significant role in any large company.
Some examples of roles our graduates have gone into include Assistant Economist in Government Economic Service, and Assistant Economist in Department of Work and Pensions.
2. Accountant
An accountant plays a vital role in ensuring that an organisation or individual’s money is being spent properly. In this role you could work for in the accounting department of a large organisation (this could be a business, or you may want to specialise in a particular sector, for example working in publicly-funded or governmental organisations such as the NHS or charities), or for an accountancy firm. Many accountants choose to open their own practice.
The main duties of an accountant include overall oversight, control and reporting on an organisation’s finances, reviewing and managing financial systems, making strategic financial decisions and advising management boards and stakeholders on financial issues.
Examples of roles our graduates have gone into include Trainee Accountant in Barnett Waddingham, and Management Accountant in Q Hotels.
3. Data Analyst
Data Analyst is a wide and varied role. Put (very) simply, you will be analysing data and translating numbers into more accessible insights and information for businesses. A lot of your role will involve translating numbers into graphs, tables and reports.
You can work across a range of sectors, from marketing and sales to finance and business intelligence. You will need to have a keen eye for detail and be highly organised, as well as having the ability to communicate with and engage a range of stakeholders.
Examples of roles our graduates have gone into include Data Analyst in BNP Paibas, Commercial Analyst in Pharmaceuticals Product Development (PPD), Data Analyst in Zilch, and Data Analyst and Developer in Agile Solutions.
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4. Stockbroker
A stockbroker looks after investments on behalf of clients, acting as a middleman between them and the stock exchange. You’ll buy and sell stocks and other assets through a stock exchange or over the counter. The work is typically fee or commission based.
In this role, you will be dealing directly with your clients, so strong communication skills are key. You will also need a keen eye to monitor stock market performances and keeping up with the latest financial legislation. Of course, as with most economy related roles, conducting analysis and market research will be crucial for building and managing your portfolio.
One of our graduates has gone on to work as an FX broker in SGM-FX London.
5. Tax Adviser
A tax adviser does exactly what it says on the tin – advises others on their tax, ensuring they pay efficiently and on time whilst benefitting from any exemptions. With this role, you can either work for a corporate organisation, or as a personal tax adviser for individuals.
You will need to develop a vast knowledge of each area of tax, including corporate, international, inheritance, national insurance, VAT, estates and personal tax.
A tax adviser can work either in compliance or in consultancy. Compliance work revolves more around ensuring all tax obligations have been met, such as preparing tax returns and other forms. In consultancy, you’ll be more of an adviser, giving advice on how the client can minimise their liabilities.
6. Political Risk Analyst
There are several roles within the political sector where an Economics degree would prove beneficial, and a political risk analyst is no exception.
In this role, you will be looking into issues such as economic conditions, crime levels, conflict threats, trade regulations and human rights issues, amongst others. This is a diverse role that involves providing intelligence and advising on risk factors depending on who you work for and what your specialty is.
Honourable mentions
Of course, the possibilities don’t stop there. There are plenty of other roles you can go into with an Economics degree. Some others include:
- Statistician
- Financial Manager
- Policy Officer
- Local Government Officer