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Land Economy

A truly interdisciplinary applied social science course

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Why choose Land Economy at Girton?

Land Economy is a unique interdisciplinary degree that combines law, economics, policy, and the study of land, property, and the environment. The Tripos covers topics such as urban and rural development, property markets, housing, finance and investment, sustainability, and public policy, preparing students to address real‑world challenges in land use, resource management, and the built and natural environment.

This interdisciplinary framework of law, economics, policy, and the environment equips students to analyse and solve complex land and resource issues, building skills that are highly valued in both the private and public sectors.

Girton offers an exceptional environment for Land Economy students. We typically admit two students per year, creating a close-knit and supportive cohort with frequent supervisions and personalised academic guidance. Despite the small intake, Land Economy is a highly social and connected subject: students quickly get to know their peers across Cambridge through shared supervisions and the Land Economy Society, which organises academic talks, networking opportunities, and social activities.

Girton students also benefit from a strong connection to the Department of Land Economy, a world-leading centre for research on property, resources, sustainability, and the environment. Combined with Girton’s friendly and inclusive community, this makes the College an ideal place to study Land Economy.

  • No. of students admitted per year: 2
  • Subject requirements: No specific subjects.
  • Minimum offer level:
    • A level: A*AA
    • IB: 41-42 points, with 776 at Higher Level.
  • Admissions assessment: No written assessment.
  • Written work: No written work required.
  • Interview arrangements: One interview.

Land Economy is one of the smaller Triposes at Cambridge, with around 60 students admitted each year. Most Colleges admit two or three students, although some take more. Despite its size, Land Economy has been one of the fastest‑growing subjects in the University over the past decade, reflecting its popularity and relevance.

There are no specific A‑level subject requirements, and no prior knowledge of law or economics is assumed. By the end of the degree, students develop a strong grounding in these disciplines, with a focus on applying them to real‑world policy challenges involving the environment and the built environment, broadly defined.

The Department of Land Economy is a world leader in its field, ranked top in the UK in the most recent research assessments. Undergraduate teaching is delivered by leading academics and practitioners, giving students direct insight into the policy, economic, legal, and planning issues shaping our natural and built environments.

Land Economy graduates have one of the strongest employment records at Cambridge, reflecting the high regard employers have for the Tripos’ combination of rigorous theory and applied, real‑world focus.

Around a quarter of graduates enter the property and real estate sector, often progressing towards professional qualifications. Others pursue careers in finance, consultancy, urban and environmental planning, international development, policy, and law. Graduates are highly sought after across both the private and public sectors, in the UK and internationally.

The Land Economy Tripos is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), and the Law Society grants partial exemptions from the Common Professional Examination (CPE), reflecting the course’s professional relevance and versatility.

Jared

There is lots of support provided when studying land economy at Girton. In addition to Dr Nestor, who is incredibly helpful at connecting you with useful contacts and faculty members, you gain access to the Girton Law and Joan Robinson society, which can help further your understanding of law and economics, that compliments many of the papers.

A typical day in land economy would consist of lectures in the centre of Cambridge (usually in 2hr slots), studying at the Squire library in Sidgwick site and then cycling back to Girton to have a relaxed, social evening.

Noah

Land Economy is one of the most relevant and forward-looking courses of today, encouraging critical thinking on pressing global issues such as climate change, access to housing, and inequality. In the first year, students explore four core modules which cover a broad range of literature. This foundation allows you to discover your particular interests and make informed choices about the specialist modules you take in your second and third years.

A typical day as a Land Economist might include supervisions, lectures, and lively discussions with classmates on contemporary issues. You’ll spend time engaging with news articles, academic papers, and textbooks to deepen your understanding of the subject. The workload of the course is very manageable, enabling students to maintain a healthy work-life balance and fully embrace the rich variety of extracurricular activities Cambridge has to offer.

Girton provides an exceptional environment in which to study Land Economy. The college fosters a welcoming, inclusive community, with strong support networks dedicated to nurturing both personal and academic growth. You’ll have access to all the resources you need to thrive and make the most of your time at Cambridge.

Fellows and teaching staff