Economics and Finance

Economics and finance brings together two disciplines that are deeply intertwined in practice: economics provides the theoretical framework for understanding how markets, institutions, and incentives work, while finance applies quantitative tools and economic theory to the valuation of assets, the management of risk, and the allocation of capital. The combination is one of the most natural in social science, and graduates with both are in strong demand across financial services, consultancy, and policy.

At the University of Reading this three-year full-time programme offers extensive structural flexibility, including a foundation year, a sandwich year with a work placement, and a year abroad. The foundation year makes the programme accessible to those who need to build their academic and quantitative foundations before engaging with degree-level content. The sandwich and abroad options provide professional experience and international perspective that significantly strengthen your position in the graduate market.

You will study microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and a range of applied economic fields alongside finance content covering financial markets, corporate finance, investment theory, and the pricing of assets and derivatives. You will develop strong quantitative and analytical skills, the ability to evaluate evidence critically, and the financial literacy to understand and interpret market data.

Reading's Henley Business School has a strong research profile in both economics and finance, and the university's location gives good access to London's financial centre. Graduates go on to careers in banking and investment, insurance, actuarial science, financial consultancy, economic analysis, policy, and international organisations. Many also continue to professional qualifications in accountancy or finance, or to postgraduate study in economics, finance, or related fields.