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The BA in International Relations and Economics at the University of Reading is an exciting three-year program that blends politics and economics to give you a complete understanding of global affairs. It’s perfect for students who are curious about how the world works, want to influence policy, or aim to work in international organizations or economic analysis.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: Foundations of Politics and Economics
In your first year, you’ll get a solid grounding in both politics and economics. Modules like The Study of Politics and Global Order introduce you to political theories, research methods, and how countries interact on the world stage. On the economics side, courses such as Intermediate Microeconomics and Intermediate Macroeconomics help you understand how markets work, how economies grow, and how policies affect people’s lives.
Year 2: Deepening Knowledge and Analytical Skills
The second year allows you to go deeper into both disciplines. You’ll explore more advanced topics in international relations and develop your understanding of global economic systems. Modules like Global Order, Intermediate Microeconomics, and Intermediate Macroeconomics help you apply theory to real-world problems, improving your analytical and critical thinking skills.
Year 3: Specialization and Independent Research
In your final year, you can focus on areas that interest you most and carry out your own research. Modules like Political Classics, Contemporary Strategy, and Global Politics and History let you study the forces that have shaped our world and current political strategies. You’ll also complete a dissertation, giving you the chance to research a topic you’re passionate about and showcase your skills.
Focus Areas: International Relations, Global Economics, Political Theory, Strategic Studies
Learning Outcomes: Critical Thinking, Research Skills, Economic Analysis, Policy Evaluation, Strategic Insight
Professional Alignment: While the program isn’t formally accredited, it follows the UK’s quality standards for Politics, International Relations, and Economics.
Reputation: Reading is known for excellent graduate employability. Students from this program often go on to careers in government, international organizations, think tanks, and the private sector.
At Reading, studying International Relations and Economics isn’t just about lectures and textbooks — you’ll get plenty of hands-on experience that prepares you for the real world. From placements to group projects, and access to specialized research facilities, the program is designed to help you apply what you learn in practical, meaningful ways. You’ll develop teamwork, research, and problem-solving skills while exploring global issues firsthand.
Some of the key experiential opportunities include:
Optional Placement Year: Spend a year working in a relevant industry, gaining professional experience and building your CV.
Embedded Placement Modules: Short-term placements with charities, media organizations, or local government offices give you a taste of real-world work while earning credits.
Collaborative Projects: Work in teams on projects that mirror real-world scenarios, helping you build practical problem-solving and communication skills.
Specialized Facilities: Use resources in the International Development Department and the Department of Politics and International Relations for research and learning.
Research Opportunities: Get involved in ongoing research projects, contributing to current studies and exploring topics you’re passionate about.
Study Abroad Options: Spend time studying in another country to gain a broader understanding of international relations and global economics.
All of these experiences are designed to complement your studies and make your degree truly hands-on.
Graduates from the BA in International Relations and Economics at the University of Reading leave with the skills and confidence to pursue a wide range of exciting careers. Many go into roles such as policy analyst, economic consultant, international relations specialist, or diplomatic service officer, using their understanding of global politics and economics to make a real impact. The program equips you with practical skills, critical thinking, and professional experience that employers value.
Here’s how Reading supports you along the way:
Placement Opportunities: Take a year in industry to gain real-world experience and boost your employability.
Dedicated Placement Support: Access advice on finding placements, crafting CVs, and preparing for interviews.
Career Development Modules: Build transferable skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving.
Study Abroad Options: Broaden your perspective by studying in another country, enhancing your global understanding.
Strong Graduate Outcomes: Around 95% of Politics and International Relations graduates are employed or in further study within 15 months.
Further Academic Progression:
After completing your BA, you can continue your studies in advanced degrees such as an MSc in Public Policy or even pursue a PhD in international relations or economics. These opportunities allow you to specialize further, conduct original research, and deepen your expertise, giving you an even stronger foundation for a successful career.
IB - 30 points overall including minimum 4 in Maths at standard level GCSE - Maths at Grade B (6) or aboveExtended Project Qualification (EPQ) can be considered as part of a formal university offer, recognizing its value in preparing students for higher education.IELTS - 6.5, with no component below 5.5TOEFL – 100 is required for both the internet-based (iBT) and at-home (iBT at Home) versions.India – Higher Secondary (XII) with 70–83% average; English: CBSE/ICSE 80%, other boards 85%.USA – High School Diploma (GPA 3.0) plus AP (444–554), or SAT Subject Tests (630–680), or ACT (27–29).Policy AnalystEconomic ConsultantInternational Relations SpecialistDiplomatic Service OfficerPolitical Risk AnalystTrade and Development OfficerResearcher in Think TanksInternational NGO OfficerGovernment AdvisorPublic Policy ConsultantIntelligence AnalystEconomic ResearcherForeign Affairs OfficerInternational Trade AnalystAcademic Researcher
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University of Reading
