BSc Economics and Finance

Program Overview

The BSc Economics and Finance program at the University of Reading equips students with a solid foundation in economics and financial systems, preparing them for careers in the financial services sector. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical application, featuring guest speakers, industry-specific software, and optional modules on fintech and sustainable economic growth. Graduates have a high employment rate and pursue roles in banking, investment analysis, and other finance-related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Program Objectives:

• To provide a rigorous foundation of economics and financial systems.
• To teach students how to apply economic theories to real-life problems in financial markets.
• To equip students with the analytical skills, decision-making skills, and advanced financial techniques necessary for successful careers in the financial services sector.
• To guide students in exploring the future role of fintech and sustainable economic growth.

Program Description:

• A three-year course that blends theoretical knowledge with real-world application.
• Students learn advanced analytical methods using industry-specific software and data sources.
• The program features guest speakers from outside the University and the student-led Economics Society and Finance Society.
• Offers the opportunity to participate in the CME Group University Trading Challenge.
• Covers a range of topics including financial economics, microeconomics, macroeconomics, portfolio management, corporate finance, and fintech.
• Includes optional modules on fascinating topics like fintech and cryptocurrencies, economics of banking, and the economics of sports and games.
• Aligned with the latest research in economics and finance.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Compulsory modules:
• Introductory Economics
• Introductory Securities and Markets
• Introductory Quantitative Techniques for Business and Finance
• Core Competencies in Economics
• Introductory Finance/Trading Simulation I
• Mathematical Methods for Economists
• Optional modules:
• Economics of Climate Change
• History of Economic Thought

Year 2:

• Compulsory modules:
• Intermediate Microeconomics
• Intermediate Macroeconomics
• Introductory Econometrics for Finance
• Optional modules:
• Business Economics
• Games and Economic Behaviour
• Economics of Social Policy
• Economic History
• Trends in Finance
• Programming for Finance
• Sustainable Finance
• FX and International Debt Markets

Year 3:

• Compulsory modules:
• Financial Economics
• Financial Modelling
• Derivative Securities
• Optional modules:
• Environmental Economics
• International Economics
• Development Economics
• Money and Banking
• Economics of Labour
• Theory of Macroeconomic Policy
• Dissertation
• Private Equity and Venture Capital
• Finance and Occupational Pensions

Teaching:

• Teaching methods:
• Lectures
• Small-group tutorials
• Case studies
• Group presentations
• Open debate
• Faculty:
• Experts in economics and finance
• Research-active academics
• Industry professionals
• Unique approaches:
• Access to real-world facilities
• Emphasis on practical application of theoretical knowledge

Careers:

• Potential career paths:
• Banker
• Investment analyst
• Economist
• Finance-related roles
• Non-finance-related careers in business, marketing, publishing, PR and media
• Career opportunities:
• Work placements during the degree
• Opportunities to extend the degree by a year with a placement
• Dedicated placement coordinator
• Career-focused events and discussions
• Graduate outcomes:
• 92% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation
• Graduates have secured roles with government, consultancies, and other organizations

Other:

• The program is established for more than 50 years.
• 100% of the research impact has been classed 'outstanding' or 'very considerable'.
• The University is ranked in the top 200 universities in the world for Economics.
• The Economics Surgeries offer one-to-one appointments for discussion and help with study skills.
• The Conversations with Economists provide informal discussions on economic issues.

Conclusion:

The BSc Economics and Finance program at the University of Reading is a comprehensive and well-rounded program that provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary for successful careers in the financial services sector and beyond.

• New UK/Republic of Ireland students:
£9,250
• New international students:
£29,950