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Law & Business

How to Become an Economist in Scotland

Analyse economic data and advise on policy for government, public bodies or financial institutions.

Higher Maths required (not Applications)

Edinburgh AAAAA, Glasgow AAAABB typical

Scottish Government is a major employer

Strong graduate employment rate

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Highers You Need

Typical entry: AABB–AAAAA at Higher. You also need English (C) and Maths (C) at National 5.

Required Highers

  • Maths— required at Edinburgh and Glasgow; Applications of Maths not accepted

Recommended (not required)

  • English— required at Glasgow

Route to Qualification

Degree: MA/BSc Economics (4 years at university).

1

MA/BSc Economics (4 years)

4 years

Scottish Universities Offering This Course

Scottish-domiciled students can apply through UCAS and have tuition fees funded by SAAS.

  • University of Edinburgh
  • University of Glasgow
  • University of St Andrews
  • University of Aberdeen
  • University of Dundee
  • Heriot-Watt University

Salary in Scotland

Starting salary

£25,000–£35,000

Newly qualified

Mid-career salary

£38,000–£50,000

5–10 years experience

Scottish Government and public sector graduate economist starting salary. ONS ASHE 2025 shows Scottish economist average at approximately £40,606 across all experience levels.

EduSCOT note

The Scottish Government's analytical service is a significant employer of economists — alongside financial institutions and consultancies. Applications of Mathematics is not accepted at Edinburgh or Glasgow.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Highers do you need to become a Economist in Scotland?▾
To become a Economist in Scotland, you typically need Higher Maths. The typical grade offer is AABB–AAAAA. You also need English (C) and Maths (C) at National 5 level.
Which Scottish universities offer MA/BSc Economics?▾
The following Scottish universities offer routes into Economist careers: University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow, University of St Andrews, University of Aberdeen, University of Dundee, Heriot-Watt University. Scottish-domiciled students are eligible for tuition fee funding through SAAS.
How long does it take to become a Economist in Scotland?▾
The main degree route takes 4 years.
What is the salary for a Economist in Scotland?▾
Starting salary for a Economist in Scotland is typically £25,000–£35,000. Mid-career salary is typically £38,000–£50,000. Scottish Government and public sector graduate economist starting salary. ONS ASHE 2025 shows Scottish economist average at approximately £40,606 across all experience levels.
Is there an apprenticeship route to becoming a Economist in Scotland?▾
There is currently no Graduate Apprenticeship route for Economist in Scotland. The standard route is the MA/BSc Economics (4 years).
Does SAAS cover tuition fees for Economist degrees in Scotland?▾
Scottish-domiciled students studying MA/BSc Economics at a Scottish university are eligible for SAAS (Student Awards Agency Scotland) tuition fee funding. For 4-year undergraduate degrees, SAAS covers tuition in full. Professional or postgraduate stages (such as a Diploma in Legal Practice or pre-registration year) may not be covered — check the SAAS website for your specific course.