Graduate Programme

2026 UK Graduate Programme (London / Belfast)

Department: Graduate Programme

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: Belfast, UK

Oxford Economics is the world's foremost independent economic advisory firm. We enable intelligent and responsible decision-making through the provision of timely, data-driven economic and business insights and solutions our clients trust.

Our economists are experts at applying innovative economic models and research tools to provide valuable insights into essential business, financial, and policy issues. As a fast-growing, independent consultancy with a global reach, our goals are to provide outstanding analysis, forecasting and analytical tools for our clients, and challenging and rewarding careers for our staff.

We have an opportunity for exceptional economics graduates to join our teams in London and Belfast. This two-year scheme places successful candidates in six-month rotations, with opportunities across our teams including:
Macro Forecasting;
Economic Impact;
Macro Consulting;
Cities and Regions;
Scenarios and Macro Modeling;
Tourism Economics; and Economic Footprint & Sustainability. The rotating nature of this program, coupled with comprehensive on-the-job training, will allow you to gain in-depth practical knowledge and professional experience related to your academic and extracurricular background.

As a Assistant Economist, you will be working closely with experienced economists and will be expected to take responsibility for your work from an early stage. You will contribute to Oxford Economics’ services by working with our large global team of economists on a variety of projects, including forecasting, policy analysis and bespoke economic impact modelling.

As you rotate between teams, you will have the opportunity to work on Oxford Economics’ global macro, city and sectoral forecasts and prepare articles on topical economic issues; develop econometric forecasting tools; undertake ‘what if’ scenario analysis; or assist senior economists on a variety of consultancy projects.

By the end of the programme, you will be able to:

• Apply your formal economics training to real world issues
• Interact confidently with clients and the media to explain your work
• Manage your time efficiently and balance several competing priorities
• Apply a range of analytical techniques and software packages to bring insight
• Write concisely and with impact on complex issues

During your two years in the rotation programme, you will work in four of the following teams. Please rank your top three choices in your covering letter and we will take these preferences into account when processing your application.

Using the Oxford Economics Global Economic Model, the macro forecasting and analysis team produces forecasts for GDP, inflation, interest rates and hundreds of other indicators for more than 200 countries updated twice a month. The team also produces written analysis on the implications of the latest economic data and policy news, and in-depth research on the critical issues that will shape the performance of economies and financial markets.

National-level economic analysis provides only a partial guide to the dynamics unfolding in the world’s major urban centres. Our unique suite of forecasting services covers over 8,000 cities and regions across the world, providing regularly updated data, forecasts and analysis for each location. Our city consultants also work in the areas of urban and regional development, bespoke model building and location benchmarking.

Our London team focuses on designing scenarios and building macroeconomic models that help clients assess the impact of major global risks, from inflation and geopolitical tensions to climate change. Using Oxford Economics’ Global Economic Model, the team supports our Global Scenarios and Climate Services while also delivering bespoke projects such as bank stress tests. This work blends economic insight with technical modelling to provide clients with robust, data-driven answers.

Our Belfast team specialises in applied macroeconomic consulting and research, helping clients navigate uncertainty and make strategic decisions. Alongside…