Business Economics

Business economics applies the concepts and methods of economics to the challenges of running and understanding commercial organisations. It sits between pure economics and business management, asking how market structures, incentive systems, pricing strategies, and macroeconomic conditions affect business decisions and outcomes. It is a discipline that develops rigorous analytical thinking, quantitative skills, and an understanding of how firms operate within the broader economic environment.

This three-year full-time programme at the University of Reading includes both a sandwich year and a year abroad, as well as work placement opportunities, making it one of the most experientially rich programmes in its field. You will study microeconomics, macroeconomics, industrial economics, game theory, corporate strategy, finance, and the quantitative methods needed to analyse economic data. The sandwich year places you in a business or economic consultancy, giving you real-world professional experience before you graduate.

The year abroad takes you to a partner institution in another country, broadening your perspective on economic conditions and business practices in different national contexts. Reading's economics department has a strong research reputation and close links to industry and government.

Business economics graduates are well placed for careers in economic consulting, financial analysis, corporate strategy, banking, the civil service, and international organisations. The combination of economic rigour and business understanding is particularly valued by employers who need analysts who can think beyond the numbers to understand the strategic and market contexts in which they arise. Many graduates also go on to postgraduate study in economics, business, finance, or public policy.

Professional qualifications in economics or finance are a natural complement to the degree for those who want formal professional recognition.