How we teach you

We inspire a dynamic and interactive approach to teaching and learning, nurturing an ambitious and supportive environment in which you can maximise your potential and achieve both your personal and academic goals.

In studying for a degree in economics at the University of Reading you will explore and understand the increasingly critical economic and related issues that dominate the news agenda and shape the world in which we live. Your degree will also provide you help you to develop a broad range of skills that will prove invaluable in your future career as well as in general life. From enhanced communication and presentation skills to effective essay and report writing, from sound analytical problem solving abilities to the statistical evaluation of data.

Course structure

During each year of your course you will take modules amounting to 120 credits. Each module usually equates to 20 credits or around 20 contact hours over a 10 week term. You will complete a series of core modules, whilst selecting from a wide range of optional modules which allow you to tailor your course towards your own interests.

Part 1

The first year of both our BA and BSc courses is designed to lay the foundations for the rest of your degree. You will take core modules totalling 80 credits and focusing on macro and microeconomics and introductory maths and quantitative techniques. The remaining 40 credits come from optional modules.

Part 2

You will take 120 credits of core modules, building on the knowledge gained at part 1. Alongside macro and microeconomics and introductory econometrics, students taking a BA course will focus on contemporary economic policy, whilst those taking a BSc degree will focus on mathematics.

Part 3

All students will again take core modules in macro and microeconomics. If taking a BSc degree you will also focus on applied econometrics alongside 30 credits of optional modules. Those taking a BA course can select from 80 credits of optional modules in the final year.

A high level of ongoing support

Our staff are not just widely published authors and researchers - they are also outstanding teachers. Every member of staff has regular office hours and is easily contactable by email and telephone, providing you with a high level of continuous support. You will also be assigned a personal tutor during enrolment, who will provide ongoing help and advice throughout your degree.

Teaching and assessment

You will learn through an engaging mix of interactive tutorials (small groups) and traditional lectures, alongside the use of online learning tools. We encourage you to discuss and analyse theory and practice using case studies, group presentations and through open debate.

Assessment methods include written examination, essays, presentations, case study evaluations, projects and a written dissertation.