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2023/24
2024/25

MSc by Research Agricultural and Food Economics

Develop your research skills for agricultural economics and food economics with our MSc by Research Agricultural and Food Economics master’s degree.

During your studies you’ll develop applied economics and marketing skills – including quantitative and qualitative research techniques – and then apply them to a diverse range of contemporary farm, food and rural issues in both developed and developing country contexts.

Choose MSc by Research Agricultural and Food Economics at the University of Reading

You will:

  • join the highest ranking UK university, and one of the top 20 universities in the world, for Agriculture and Forestry (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2023). We are the only UK university in the top 50.
  • receive rigorous training in research methods, preparing you for a research career in academic and non-academic organisations, as well as doctoral studies in agricultural and food economics and marketing.
  • choose from a diverse range of modules that aim to give you the knowledge and skills you need to have an impact and be part of global change.

Joining this programme means you’ll also be joining the Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics in our School of Agriculture, Policy and Development, where we are committed to empowering change through our teaching and research. Our academics tackle some of the world’s most pressing issues across their respective fields of expertise, and our mission is to make a difference in the context of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.


Your learning environment

Class sizes vary by module, but emphasis is always placed on good contact with lecturers.

Learning occurs across a variety of:

  • interactive learning methods
  • seminars
  • lectures
  • tutorials
  • participation in the classroom: debates, discussions
  • field trips.

You will also have opportunities for research, networking, and personal development, as well as access to modern study resources and employability support. We also offer study skills support that’s tailored to our School’s master’s students.

You can choose to undertake an optional placement during the summer term, as well.

The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics

As an MSc by Research Agricultural and Food Economics student, you’ll be a member of the School’s Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics (GIIDAE).

GIIDAE attracts a diverse community of master’s students from more than 40 countries, and holds diversity, equality and high-quality teaching and learning as core values in its approach to education.

  • GIIDAE has an active scholarship programme. Visit our dedicated scholarships webpage for more information about scholarships, bursaries, and other sources of funding.
  • Visit the GIIDAE website for more information about the modules you can take during your degree.
  • Download a copy of the GIIDAE brochure, which tells you more about postgraduate study in our School.

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £10,800

New international students: £22,350

Tuition fee information

The fees listed are for full-time study, unless otherwise stated. Fee information will be confirmed in offer letters sent out to successful applicants. You can find further information, including information for part-time study, through our dedicated fees and funding page.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government's guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

The Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics also offers a number of scholarships.

Your MSc by Research Agricultural and Food Economics degree will be excellent preparation for doctoral studies in agricultural and food economics and marketing, as well as research careers in academic or in non-academic organisations.

A wide variety of visiting speakers and field trips means you’ll have many opportunities for networking, while competitive internships, placements, and research dissertations provide opportunities to showcase your skills, undertake field research, or link with organisations in the development sector.