The highly anticipated 2025 league table for Economics degrees in the UK has been published, offering a definitive guide for prospective students. The rankings, which provide a crucial snapshot of academic excellence, student experience, and future career prospects, have seen some notable shifts this year.
The Top Tier: Elite Institutions Hold Strong
Cambridge and Oxford continue their historic rivalry at the very pinnacle of economic education, once again securing the top two spots. Their consistent performance underscores their world-leading reputations for rigorous academic training and research output.
However, the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) firmly holds its ground as a global powerhouse for the subject, renowned for its specialist focus and influential alumni network in finance and policy.
Notable Climbers and Contenders
Beyond the traditional elite, the rankings reveal a dynamic and competitive landscape. Several universities have made significant gains, reflecting increased investment in facilities, teaching, and industry links.
These rising stars are often characterised by strong scores in graduate prospects and student satisfaction, indicating a successful focus on outcomes that matter most to students.
How The Rankings Are Compiled
The league table is not just about prestige. It's a comprehensive assessment based on a careful methodology that evaluates several critical factors:
- Entry Standards: The average UCAS tariff points of new students.
- Student Satisfaction: Direct feedback from current students on the quality of their course and teaching.
- Research Quality: The impact and excellence of academic research conducted by the institution.
- Graduate Prospects: The percentage of graduates entering professional-level employment or further study.
This multi-faceted approach ensures the table provides a balanced view, helping future economists find the best fit for their ambitions, whether in academia, finance, or public policy.
What This Means For Future Students
For sixth-formers and international students weighing their options, these rankings are an essential starting point. They highlight institutions where strong theoretical grounding is paired with real-world applicability, a key combination for success in the competitive field of economics.
The 2025 results confirm that while the old guard remains formidable, excellence in economics education is spread across the UK, with fantastic opportunities available at a diverse range of universities.
