MSc Food Economics and Marketing

1 Year On Campus Masters Program

University of Reading

Program Overview

The MSc in Food Economics & Marketing equips you with the knowledge and skills to understand and influence the global food system. This course is ideal for students interested in how food is produced, marketed, and consumed, and who want to tackle real-world challenges like sustainability, consumer behavior, and policy impact.

Curriculum Structure

Throughout the course, you’ll gain a blend of theory, analytical skills, and hands-on experience:

First Term: You’ll start with core modules like Advanced Marketing, Consumer Behaviour & Food Marketing, and Advertising & Branding. These give you insights into how consumers make food choices and how brands communicate their value effectively.
Middle of the Program: You’ll explore Food Policy, studying regulation, trade, and sustainability, alongside Nudging & Behaviour Change, learning how subtle interventions can influence consumer decisions.
Quantitative Skills: Modules like Introductory Statistics & Econometrics and Quantitative Marketing Research Methods equip you to analyze complex food market data and draw actionable insights.
Dissertation: In your final project, you apply everything you’ve learned to a real-world problem, conducting original research in food economics or marketing.

Focus Areas

Food supply chains, consumer behaviour, food policy, sustainability, marketing research methods

Learning Outcomes

You will develop the ability to analyse how markets and policies shape food systems, understand consumer decision-making, conduct economic and marketing research, and create strategies that address real-world food and sustainability challenges.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The course is CIM-accredited, giving you a professional edge and recognition from the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

Reputation (Employability / Rankings)

The course is delivered through the Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture & Economics (GIIDAE), known for high-impact research aligned with global sustainability goals.
The University of Reading ranks 20th globally in Agriculture & Forestry (QS Subject Rankings), reflecting the strength of this program.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

This MSc isn’t just about lectures — it’s about diving into real-world food markets and applying what you learn in practical, hands-on ways. You’ll gain valuable experience through field trips, research projects, and interactive workshops, all supported by the University’s specialist facilities and the Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture and Economics (GIIDAE). From working with real data to exploring global food systems, you’ll develop the skills that employers are looking for.

Here’s how your learning becomes practical and career-ready:

Field Trips: Explore farms, production sites, and food supply systems to see theory in action.
Applied Research / Dissertation: Tackle a real-world question in food economics or marketing, applying your learning to meaningful projects.
Quantitative & Data Analysis: Use modules like Introductory Statistics & Econometrics and Quantitative Marketing Research Methods to analyse real data and draw actionable insights.
Behavioural Insights: Learn how small interventions can influence food choices through modules like Nudging & Behaviour Change.
Interactive Seminars & Tutorials: Collaborate, debate, and present ideas in discussion-focused sessions that mirror professional teamwork.
Networking & Policy Exposure: Engage with visiting speakers, industry professionals, and GIIDAE researchers to gain insights into global food policy and marketing.
Modern Facilities: Work in the School of Agriculture, Policy and Development’s cutting-edge spaces, with 24-hour computer access, collaborative meeting rooms, and access to specialised analytical tools.

This combination of practical projects, expert guidance, and real-world exposure ensures that you graduate ready to make an impact in the global food and marketing sectors.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates from this MSc often go on to exciting roles in food policy, agribusiness, and marketing. Typical jobs include Food Policy Analyst, Agribusiness Economist, Marketing Strategist for Food Companies, or Sustainability Consultant. With strong analytical skills, practical marketing knowledge, and insight into global food markets, you’ll be ready to make an impact in government agencies, international organisations, or private food businesses:

University Careers Support – The University’s Careers & Employability team offers tailored guidance, networking events, and access to relevant internships through GIIDAE and the School of Agriculture, Policy & Development.
Professional Recognition – The MSc is CIM-accredited, giving you a head start towards Chartered Institute of Marketing qualifications.
Industry Connections – Work with organisations like the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), consultancies, and food businesses to gain real-world insight.
Research and Facilities – Benefit from GIIDAE’s internationally recognised research expertise in food economics, sustainability, and global development.
Strong Alumni Network – Graduates have secured roles in organisations such as FAO, consultancy firms, and market research agencies.

Further Academic Progression:
If you want to continue your studies, this MSc provides a strong foundation for a PhD in Agricultural Economics, Food Policy, or International Development. You could also explore specialised postgraduate diplomas in Sustainable Food Systems, Development Economics, or Quantitative Marketing Research, giving you even deeper expertise in your chosen field.