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EduSCOT
Law & Business

How to Become a 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

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.