COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA Politics and Economics at the University of Reading is a three-year interdisciplinary degree that combines the study of political systems with economic theory to help students understand how societies, governments, and markets interact. In the first year, students build a foundation through modules such as Politics of Climate Change, Introduction to Contemporary Democracy, and Introduction to Political Ideas, alongside Principles of Economics 1 and 2 and Quantitative Methods and Data Analysis. This stage develops core knowledge of political theory, democratic systems, and key economic concepts including microeconomics, macroeconomics, and basic quantitative skills. In the second year, students deepen their understanding through The Study of Politics and Advanced Degree Competencies, while progressing to Intermediate Microeconomics and Intermediate Macroeconomics in economics. They also choose between specialist political modules such as Comparative Government and Politics or Political Classics, allowing them to explore global political systems or foundational political thought. In the final year, students undertake an independent dissertation project, applying both political and economic methods to a topic of their choice. Throughout the course, students develop analytical, research, and critical thinking skills, learning to evaluate issues such as democracy, inequality, climate policy, and economic governance. The degree prepares graduates for careers in government, policy analysis, international organisations, journalism, finance, and other sectors where political and economic understanding is essential.