Program Overview

BA International Relations and Economics

The BA International Relations and Economics program at the University of Reading offers students a deep understanding of critical political and economic issues that shape the world. This course combines the study of international relations and economics, providing a comprehensive understanding of the complex relationships between nations, economies, and societies.

Overview

The program explores fundamental elements of international relations, including political ideas, international relations theory, and the contemporary international order. In economics, students study applied and practical issues, focusing on the relationship between economics and society, with less emphasis on mathematical and statistical content.

Structure

The course is structured over three years, with optional modules available in the second and third years. Students can also choose to study the degree over four years with a placement year.

Year 1

• Compulsory modules:
  • International Relations
  • Politics of Climate Change
  • War and Warfare
  • Principles of Economics 1
  • Principles of Economics 2
  • Quantitative Methods and Data Analysis
  • Degree Core Competencies

Year 2

• Compulsory modules:
  • The Study of Politics
  • Global Order
  • Intermediate Microeconomics
  • Intermediate Macroeconomics
  • Advanced Degree Competencies
• Optional modules:
  • Political Classics
  • Contemporary Strategy
  • The Media and Politics
  • American Government and Politics
  • Business Economics
  • Games and Economic Behaviour
  • Economics of Social Policy
  • Economic History

Year 3

• Compulsory modules:
  • Dissertation
• Optional modules:
  • International Terrorism
  • Karl Marx
  • British Foreign and Defence Policy since 1945
  • American Foreign Policy since the Vietnam War
  • The Politics of Nuclear Weapons
  • Politics and Governance in the Global South
  • Experiencing War
  • Politics and International Relations of the Middle East
  • Global Justice
  • International Political Economy
  • Public Economics
  • Environmental Economics
  • Behavioural Economics
  • Industrial Organisation
  • Financial Economics
  • International Economics
  • Development Economics
  • Money and Banking
  • Reasoning and Choice: Game Theory for Philosophy, Politics, and Economics

Entry Requirements

• A Level: BBB
• International Baccalaureate: 30 points overall, including minimum 4 in Maths at standard level
• GCSE: Maths at Grade B (6) or above
• Extended Project Qualification: Recognized as part of a formal offer
• BTEC Extended Diploma: DDM
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5, with no component below 5.5

Fees

• New UK/Republic of Ireland students: ｣9,790 for 2026 entry
• New international students: ｣25,850 for 2026/27
• Additional costs for field trips and extra resources may apply
• Financial support and scholarships available

Careers

Graduates of the BA International Relations and Economics program develop strong analytical and research skills, becoming experienced in delivering presentations and working as part of a group. These skills are valuable in jobs related to the field of study and in different fields altogether. Past students have gone into careers in the civil services, political research units, think tanks, non-governmental organisations, journalism, advertising, PR, media, and banking. The University of Reading supports students in building skills for a sustainable future, with employers increasingly valuing graduates with expertise in environmental stewardship.