Financial Economics and Banking with foundation year BSc (Hons)

Our BSc Financial Economics and Banking with Foundation Year will introduce you to a broad range of topics including banking, financial intermediation, asset and liability management, financial decision-making and financial markets and institutions. This wide range of topics will give you an in-depth understanding of the way that financial organisations and markets work.

You will learn to apply economic theory in financial contexts, for example the appraisal of competing investment opportunities and how government policy influences the stock market and the banking sector.

You will become familiar with techniques such as derivatives pricing, risk management methods and portfolio management, while you will also become a proficient user of financial software and complex data sources which will enable you to better understand the impact and reach of economic decisions.

In the first year of this course you will be working towards passing a foundation year (year 0), which will enable automatic progression onto year one of BSc in Financial Economics and Banking

Our integrated Business Foundation year degrees are aimed at students who wish to study a business-related subject but don’t have the traditional entry requirements.

The course is run on the University of Leicester campus like any other, and you will be studying alongside other students who applied for, and slightly missed out on, a place on a course similar to yours.

You will be taught by our expert academic staff from across all areas of the School of Business. The course strongly emphasises the development of essential professional and personal skills, which are necessary throughout your studies and beyond.

During your foundation year you will join our student community and be able to enjoy all aspects of the University of Leicester and School of Business student experience. You will be able to join the Students’ Union, use our academic and leisure facilities, live in our accommodation and access all our support services.

You will have a dedicated personal tutor to support you through your foundation year.

Leicester isn't just a top 25 UK university (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026), that's rated top 10 for student experience, twice (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026 and The Daily Mail University Guide 2026). It's cutting-edge research, world-class facilities, an incredible network of expert teaching staff, a warm campus community, and a place to call home.

What's more, all Clearing applicants are guaranteed a place in Leicester's accommodation! Expect modern furnishings, speedy Wi-Fi and cosy lounge areas - all at a range of costs and sizes. To secure a spot, make sure you've completed your application before 1st September.

With a student body made up of Midlanders, Brits, and people from across the world, you're bound to make friends for life at Leicester. Whatever you're passionate about, there are plenty of opportunities to meet like-minded people, with over 150 societies including, Debating, Art, Bollywood, Archery & Tennis. Leicester is is also a student-friendly city. You've got music venues, bars, pubs & clubs all on your doorstep.