Structure of the study program

In the first year of study, you will acquire basic knowledge, and learn about correlations, models and methods of economics in the compulsory classes.

This basic studies comprise nine compulsory subjects (66 ECTS points):

1. Semester

• Principles of Economics
• Mathematical Methods for Economists I
• Finance I
• Applied Data Analytics

2. Semester

• Microeconomics I
• Macroeconomics I
• Finance II
• Statistics

4. Semester

• Academic Research and Writing
  

From the second year onwards, you can also select two free elective classes (12 ECTS points) which provide an interdisciplinary insight into other study programs at the University of Bonn.

These electives include political science, law, psychology, philosophy and many foreign languages. Students can also complete an internship of at least six weeks. An overview of the available classes can be found at the end of the module handbook.

The class descriptions can be found in the module guides of the respective subjects on the websites of the corresponding faculties and institutes. A link to the websites of the other study programs is provided for each subject in the overview.

From the second semester onwards, you can do an internship instead of taking a free elective class and earn 6 ECTS credits.

The internship enables you to apply economic knowledge and methods to practical issues in private or public companies, organizations, institutions or authorities. You will learn how to present economic issues in a way that is understandable and appropriate for the target group (including non-specialists), supplement theoretical knowledge with practical methods, and acquire key skills relevant to the professional field in which the internship takes place.

Requirements for the internship

• For how long? At least 6 weeks of full-time work in a company during the lecture-free period. It is recommended from the 3rd semester onwards.
• Where? In companies, organizations, associations, and public institutions with tasks in the field of economics (e.g. in controlling, internal consulting, data analysis...)
• What? Tasks related to economics
• Basis for recognition: Submission of an internship report/internship certificate

More Information¹⁵

The third year of study, especially the 5th semester, is recommended for an optional stay abroad (study abroad or internship).

Numerous partnerships and funding programs (ERASMUS, Global Exchange) and extensive opportunities for the transfer of credits allow students  to study abroad without extending the overall study time.

• Study abroad¹⁶

The course is completed with the Bachelor thesis (12 ECTS points) in the 6th semester.

The Bachelor thesis is a written examination that is intended to demonstrate that you can work independently on a problem in Economics, find solutions and present the topic appropriately using academic research and writing skills.

• More about the Bachelor's thesis¹⁷