Politics and Economics

Politics and Economics at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed to develop students' understanding of the complex relationship between political processes and economic systems. This interdisciplinary programme explores key issues such as governance, policy-making, fiscal and monetary policies, international relations, and global economic challenges. Students will gain analytical skills and theoretical knowledge in politics and economics, enabling them to critically evaluate contemporary political and economic developments across local, national, and international contexts. The programme combines lectures, seminars, and practical case studies, encouraging active engagement and debate to foster a deep understanding of how political decisions influence economic outcomes and vice versa. The curriculum includes core modules in political theory, comparative politics, macroeconomics, microeconomics, and international political economy, along with options allowing students to specialise in areas such as environmental policy, development economics, and public administration. The university’s strategic emphasis on research-led teaching ensures that students are exposed to the latest academic insights and real-world issues. Additionally, students benefit from numerous opportunities for work placements, internships, and study abroad programs, which enhance employability and provide practical experience in the field. Through this programme, graduates will develop critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills vital for careers in government, international organisations, economic consultancy, journalism, and beyond. Whether interested in policymaking, research, or advocacy, students will be well-equipped to understand and influence the political and economic landscape. The programme is designed to prepare students for dynamic careers in a rapidly changing global environment, emphasizing both theoretical foundations and practical applications.

Year 1

Core modules include:

• Introduction to Contemporary Democracy
• Introduction to Political Ideas
• Introductory Macroeconomics
• Introductory Mathematics for Economics 1
• Introductory Microeconomics
• Introductory Quantitative Methods in Economics and Business 1
• Politics: International Relations and Strategic Studies

Year 2

Core modules include:

• Intermediate Macroeconomics
• Intermediate Microeconomics
• The Study of Politics

Optional modules include:

• American Government and Politics
• British Government and Politics
• Business Economics
• Comparative Government and Politics
• Economic History
• Economics of Social Policy
• Economics of the Environment and Energy
• European Political Integration
• Model United Nations
• Political Classics
• Political Thinking
• Study Abroad
• The Media and Politics
• Work Placement Project

Year 3

Optional modules include:

• Intelligence, War and International Relations
• War, Peace and International Ethics
• Banking in Emerging Economies
• British Foreign and Defence Policy since 1945
• Business Economics
• Business and Management in Emerging Markets
• Contemporary Power Politics
• Crime and Punishment:Theoretical Approaches
• Democracy and Democracy Promotion
• Dissertation
• Dissertation (for Joint degrees)
• European Economic Integration
• European Urban and Regional Economics
• Feminism and Political Theory
• Grand Strategy from classical Rome to modern China
• History of Economic Thought
• International Economics
• International Terrorism
• Introduction to Critical Security Studies
• Macroeconomics for Developing Countries
• Microeconomics for Developing Countries
• Money and Banking
• Nationalism
• Politics and International Relations of the Middle East
• Politics of the International Economy
• Processes of Long Term Political and Economic Change
• Public Economics
• Strategic Theory
• Strategy in the Two World Wars
• The UN and International Order
• Toleration: Theory and Practice
• US Foreign and Defence Policy since 1950
• United Kingdom Politics since 1960
• Work Placement and Project

Admission to the Politics and Economics undergraduate program at the University of Reading typically requires applicants to have completed relevant secondary education with strong academic results. Usually, applicants are expected to hold A-levels, IB, or equivalent qualifications, with standard offers often including grades like AAB at A-level or 34 points in the IB, including specific subject requirements such as Politics or Economics at higher level. Applicants may also need to demonstrate proficiency in English through tests like IELTS or TOEFL if their first language is not English, with minimum scores generally set around IELTS 6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in any component, or TOEFL iBT score of 92. Overall, the program encourages students with a strong analytical and critical thinking background, as the curriculum involves courses in political theory, comparative politics, microeconomics, macroeconomics, and quantitative methods. Additional requirements can include personal statements demonstrating an interest in Politics and Economics, academic references, and relevant extracurricular activities that showcase engagement with political or economic issues. The program may also consider prior non-traditional qualifications or professional experience in related fields. For mature students or those with non-standard educational backgrounds, the university offers admissions interviews and considers prior learning or work experience as part of its holistic admissions process. Applicants are advised to consult the official University of Reading admissions website or contact the admissions office directly for precise entry requirements as they can vary year by year. To ensure eligibility, prospective students should prepare all necessary documents, including transcripts and certificates, well in advance of application deadlines. The university values diverse academic backgrounds and provides guidance for international students and those applying through the UCAS system. Overall, the program's requirements aim to select highly motivated students capable of engaging critically with complex political and economic concepts, supporting their academic success throughout the course.

The University of Reading offers a comprehensive financing studies component within its Politics and Economics degree programmes, designed to equip students with essential knowledge of how financial systems operate within political and economic contexts. The programme provides detailed insights into public finance, monetary policy, fiscal policy, and international financial systems, ensuring students understand the mechanisms by which governments and markets influence economic stability and growth. Students explore topics such as taxation, government budgets, financial regulation, and the role of central banks, preparing them for careers in policy analysis, financial consultancy, or further academic research. The programme incorporates practical case studies and up-to-date data to illustrate the real-world application of financial theories and policies. Additionally, students are trained in quantitative methods and financial modelling, enabling them to analyze financial data critically and effectively communicate their findings. The faculty employs a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, and interactive workshops, supplemented by access to financial databases and software. The university also encourages students to undertake internships and work placements with financial institutions, government agencies, and non-governmental organizations, thus providing invaluable practical experience. Through these educational experiences, students develop a robust understanding of the financial dimensions of political and economic issues, preparing them to engage professionally with complex financial challenges facing modern societies. The university's strong links with financial institutions and policy-making bodies offer additional opportunities for networking and professional development. Overall, the financing studies component of the Politics and Economics programme aims to produce graduates who are well-versed in financial principles and equipped to contribute to innovative policy solutions and financial strategies in diverse professional settings.

The Politics and Economics programme at the University of Reading offers students a comprehensive understanding of the interrelated fields of political science and economics. This joint degree is designed to develop students’ critical thinking, analytical skills, and knowledge of political institutions, economic theories, and policy analysis at both national and international levels. The course curriculum covers a wide range of topics including political systems, international relations, economic development, public policy, and comparative politics, providing a broad perspective on global issues and governance.

Throughout the programme, students engage in rigorous academic study through lectures, seminars, and independent research projects. They are encouraged to develop their quantitative and qualitative research skills, enabling them to analyze economic data, evaluate policy decisions, and understand complex political phenomena. The programme also emphasizes the importance of understanding the socio-economic context influencing political decisions and vice versa, fostering an interdisciplinary approach to current global challenges.

Students benefit from the university’s strong links with policymakers, government agencies, and international organizations, which can provide valuable internship opportunities and practical insights into the functioning of political and economic systems. The programme typically includes modules on contemporary issues such as globalization, economic policy-making, political theory, and international security, preparing graduates for careers in government, journalism, research, consultancy, or further academic study.

Career prospects for graduates of Politics and Economics are excellent, with alumni often securing roles in public administration, international organizations, financial institutions, or policy analysis firms. The university also supports students through career services, networking events, and extra-curricular activities designed to enhance employability. The programme may be available in full-time, part-time, or blended learning formats, accommodating diverse student needs and backgrounds.

In summary, the Politics and Economics programme at the University of Reading provides a well-rounded education that combines theoretical frameworks with practical skills, aiming to produce informed, analytical, and globally-minded graduates ready to contribute to solving today’s political and economic challenges.