Economist

Career path and progression

With experience, you could:

• become a senior economic adviser in a government department or financial institution
• work for an economic policy unit
• write for economic journals
• teach in higher education
• specialise, for example in environmental economics

You could also become a self-employed freelance consultant.

What it takes

Skills and knowledge

You'll need:

• maths knowledge
• knowledge of economics and accounting
• analytical thinking skills
• excellent verbal communication skills
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• excellent written communication skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• to be able to use a computer and the main software packages confidently

Related subjects

Most relevant

• Economics - Economists work directly with economic theory every day, applying concepts like supply and demand, inflation, trade, and market behaviour to real-world problems. They need a deep understanding of both microeconomics and macroeconomics to forecast trends and advise on policy.
• Mathematics - Economists use mathematics constantly – from statistical analysis and probability to building mathematical models that forecast economic developments. Calculus, algebra, and data interpretation are essential tools for analysing trends and testing economic theories.
• Politics - Economists often advise government departments on the potential impact of policies, from tax changes to trade agreements. Understanding how political systems work and how policy decisions are made helps them produce advice that is relevant and practical.
• Business - Economists advise businesses and financial institutions on commercial decisions, market conditions, and investment strategies. Understanding how organisations operate, compete, and make strategic decisions is central to much of their work.

Also relevant

• Computer Science - Economists increasingly build computational models and use programming languages like Python or R to analyse large datasets and run economic simulations. Understanding algorithms and data structures helps them work more efficiently with complex economic data.
• Geography - Economists often analyse how economic activity varies across regions and countries, including issues like urbanisation, trade flows, and resource distribution. Those working in environmental economics also deal with topics like climate change and sustainability.
• English Language - Economists write detailed reports, policy briefings, and journal articles that need to communicate complex findings clearly to non-specialist audiences. Strong writing skills are essential when presenting recommendations to government ministers, business leaders, or the public.
• Accounting - Economists work with financial data, budgets, and fiscal policy, so understanding accounting principles helps them interpret balance sheets, government spending figures, and corporate financial reports. This is especially useful for those advising on taxation or public finance.
• Environmental Science - Economists who specialise in environmental economics design systems like carbon taxes and evaluate the economic impact of climate policies. Understanding environmental issues helps them develop strategies that balance economic growth with sustainability.