Economics

What is this Structured Elective about?

The Structured Elective in Economics will provide you with a foundational knowledge of how and why people make decisions and choose between alternative ways of spending their money and using their time, energy and skills. By taking this Structured Elective, you will gain an understanding of the basic models of microeconomics and macroeconomics as well as their application in selected subfields (such as the environment and international finance). Many of the modules offered focus on the role and development of policy in a number of different settings, and analyse the impact and implications of economic policies on different groups.

Why should I take this Structured Elective?

This structured elective is aimed at 'General Elective' students with an interest in Economics who wish to broaden and complement their ongoing core programme studies. If you are interested in people’s behaviour and in current affairs, and if you enjoy problem-solving and are naturally analytical with good numeracy skills, then the Structured Elective in Economics will appeal to you. The provision of the Structured Elective allows you to focus your academic choice through the study of a coherent block of modules on both general and field topics in economics.

How would this Structured Elective benefit me?

Studying Economics provides knowledge and skills which are relevant to a large number of professions, including policy making and research, the civil service, consultancy and finance. In addition, there are very important synergies between economics and the other social science subjects, particularly politics and international relations, geography, social policy, sociology and environmental policy. Through studying the foundations of economics, you will be equipped with the skills to understand contemporary economics issues, such as inflationary pressures, supply chain issues, as well as major societal challenges which have economic consequences such as global migration, war, and climate change.

How do I take the modules in this Structured Elective?

• You need to complete at least three modules from the list below to achieve the required 15 credits for this Structured Elective in Economics.
• You must first take either ECON10770 Introduction to Economics or ECON10040 Economics & Sustainability, and then at least two of the other modules. Level 1 modules should be taken before Level 2/3 modules and Level 2 modules should be taken before Level 3 modules.
• To receive this Structured Elective you must take the required modules in or after 2023/24 as Elective modules and not as Core or Option modules.
• There is no guarantee that it will be possible to take 15 credits from the outset, this will depend on module places being available and on the exigencies of the timetable.
• You do not need to register for this Structured Elective in advance, it will be awarded when you complete 15 credits during your studies.
• Students who successfully complete 15 credits in Economics will have this automatically noted on their final UCD degree transcript. The transcript will state that you have completed a 'Structured Elective in Economics', in addition to your main degree subjects.

Module listing updated July 2023