Economics - University of Reading

Acquire the skills, knowledge and understanding required to become an economist or use economics as a significant part of your career. Develop a strong grounding in the conceptual underpinnings of economics and the mathematical approach to the subject and its methodology. You will learn to use key mathematical and statistical techniques through core modules in macroeconomics, microeconomics and econometrics. The University is ranked 10th in the UK for our research impact for Business and Management Studies (Times Higher Education Institutions Ranked by Subject, 2014, based on its analysis of REF 2014). Our staff are active researchers who are experts in a wide range of fields in economics, with many involved in research that informs policy decisions by governments, major multinational organisations and international agencies like the UN. Explore other areas of economics through a wide range of optional modules. These span a number of topics, including business, policy, economic history and even the economics of climate change. Modules from other subjects such as history and politics are also available and are a good way to broaden your knowledge and pursue other interests. Participate in small group tutorials in which you can discuss and analyse theory and practice through case studies, group presentations and open debate. You can also apply what you learn to a placement and gain valuable real-world experience at the same time. Take the opportunity to do a paid placement at a company or organisation. Previous students have undertaken placements with Rolls-Royce, the Government Economic Service and the Department for Work and Pensions. Usually, you would take a year out from your course, but it's also possible to do a summer placement. The department has a specialist placement officer who can provide you with one-to-one support in securing and preparing for a placement. **Careers** Our graduates are in high demand as a result of the analytical skills and specialist knowledge of economics they develop through this course. Economics is rated among the top five degree subjects for average graduate starting salaries (Top 10 Subjects for Graduate Earnings, Complete University Guide, based on 2016 graduates in full-time professional employment, DLHE survey results 2015–16 from HESA.) Recent graduates have secured roles as economists with the Government Economic Service and consultancies such as PwC and KPMG. Others have entered related and non-related careers in finance, business, marketing, publishing, PR and media. Take the opportunity to do a paid placement at a company or organisation. Previous students have undertaken placements with Rolls-Royce, Disney, UBS, and the Government Economic Service (including the Treasury, the Office for National Statistics and the Foreign & Commonwealth Office). The Department of Economics has a specialist placement officer who can provide you with one-to-one support in securing and preparing for a placement. You can choose to study your degree over four years, with a professional placement year. Receive timetabled support and training focusing on the search, application and selection processes associated with placements.