BA INTERNATIONAL ECONOMICS
Prepare for a career in the competitive field of international economics with a degree that explores how goods and assets are traded, how international markets are linked and how government decisions affect the economy.
- Qualification
- Bachelor Of Arts Degree
- CAO Points
- 402
- CAO/MU Apply code
- MH416
- Award Type and NFQ level
- UNDERGRADUATE DEGREE (8)
- Study Mode
- Full time
- Closing Date
- 01 February 2027
Overview
Prepare for employment in the competitive and dynamic field of international economics by learning how the international economic system works:
- how goods and assets are traded
- how international markets are linked
- how government decisions affect the economy
- how financial markets respond
Study Economics, Mathematics and a choice of subjects providing an international perspective in first year, then continue with Economics only, or take a major in Economics and a minor in your other subject.
In third year, you can benefit from practical international experience by working and/or studying abroad (or working in an internationally-orientated company in Ireland – all subject to availability).
Students take key Finance modules in second and fourth year to learn how the financial system affects the global economy. Throughout the degree, you will develop an understanding of the economic principles underlying markets of all kinds – financial markets, labour markets and goods markets.
The opportunity to write a thesis in final year allows you to apply your accumulated analytical skills and develop your capacity for research and critical thinking.
Course structure
Duration: 4 years with placement or Erasmus/Study Abroad
First year
- 30 credits of International Economics, which includes Economics, mathematical and statistical modules
- 15 or 30 credits of 1 or 2 of the following subjects: a language (Chinese Studies*, French*, German*, Spanish*); Computer Science; International Business; Geography; Law; Politics; and Critical Skills
- *Beginners language programmes available. This requires 30 credits in the language (Mandarin Chinese, French, German or Spanish).
- Students who wish to keep open the option of a minor in Maths in Year 2 should select specific modules.
Second year
Choose between 2 possible routes:
- Single Major in International Economics
- Major/Minor with International Economics as the Major and either Maths Studies or another one of the 1st year subjects as a Minor (excluding International Business). Approximately one third of a student’s time is spent on the Minor.
Optional 10 credit Elective in second year
Third year
- Work or Study Abroad or placement in an internationally orientated firm in Ireland (subject to availability). If a suitable placement cannot be found, the student may continue directly into the final year, obtaining a single major or major/minor BA Bachelor of Arts in Economics. The University will support you in the search for a placement job; however, the process is competitive.
Final year
- Back on the Maynooth University campus taking the Single Major or Major/Minor (depending on the second year option chosen).
Transfer option into this degree from the Bachelor of Arts Degree MH101 - subject to meeting requirements.
Disclaimer
The modules below are indicative of the content associated with this course of study.
The modules are subject to change as the curriculum is revised and reviewed annually.
Important: The information on this page is for prospective students, MU current students and staff should use Programme Directory.
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
After Graduation
International Economics graduates have strong numeracy skills, coupled with an ability to think critically and analytically – invaluable assets in a wide range of professions including:
- the banking and financial services industry
- economic consultancy
- finance units of public and private sector organisations
- financial research
- journalism
- teaching
- Postgraduate degree holders are also to be found working in financial institutions, both public and private, in Dublin, London, New York and around the globe.
Entry Requirements
Leaving Certificate Applicants
Leaving Certificate: 2H5 & 4O6/H7, Irish, English & O4/H7 Mathematics.
Non-beginner French, German, Mandarin Chinese, Spanish: Leaving Cert H4 recommended.
Beginner French, German, Mandarin Chinese, Spanish: no previous study required.
Leaving Certificate Economics IS NOT REQUIRED to study MH415.
DARE
Disability Access Route to Education (DARE) is an alternative entry route to third level education for school-leavers whose disability affected their second level education.
HEAR
The Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) is a pathway to third level education for school-leavers from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Contact the Access Office for more information on these access routes.
This table displays the requirements for Leaving Certificate applicants.
|
Subject |
Required |
Ordinary Level Grade |
Higher Level Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
Irish |
Yes |
O6 |
H7 |
English |
Yes |
O6 |
H7 |
Language |
No |
N/A |
N/A |
Mathematics |
Yes |
O4 |
H7 |
Science |
No |
N/A |
N/A |
* This course requires 3 additional subjects.
How to apply
Apply online to the CAO (Central Applications Office)
The application process depends on the type of applicant you are.
Categories of applicant:
- School-leavers (Leaving Certificate students)
- Mature students (23 years or older by 1 January in the year of entry/21 years if part-time)
- EU/EFTA/UK students
- International students (outside the EU)
- QQI (Further Education) students
- Transferring students
- Deferring students
Learn more about undergraduate applications and access routes.