MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
MSc Consumer Behaviour
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MSc Consumer Behaviour is a full-time, 12-month postgraduate program that delves into the interdisciplinary study of consumer actions. It is suitable for graduates from both business and non-business backgrounds, aiming to transform them into professionals adept at understanding and influencing consumer behavior. The curriculum integrates insights from psychology, sociology, social anthropology, marketing, business, and economics. Students engage in both theoretical learning and practical projects, enhancing their visibility with external organizations.
Curriculum: The program offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes core modules such as Consumer Behaviour: Concepts and Theory, Research Methods in Economics and Marketing, Applied Consumer Behaviour Project, Nudge, Motivation and Behaviour Change, and Food Security and Global Issues. Additionally, students have the opportunity to choose from optional modules like Consumer Attitudes, Nudging and Behaviour Change, Research Methods, Research and Study Skills for Independent Learning, and Contemporary Issues in Consumer Behaviour Marketing.
Research Focus: The University of Reading's Graduate Institute of International Development, Agriculture, and Economics (GIIDAE) emphasizes research that addresses global challenges. Faculty members are actively engaged in consumer behaviour research, providing students with opportunities to participate in projects that tackle pressing issues such as sustainability, ethics, and environmental concerns. This research-driven approach ensures that students are exposed to current trends and debates in the field.
Industry Engagement: The MSc Consumer Behaviour program maintains strong links with industry professionals and organizations. Students have the opportunity to work on live consumer behaviour projects, collaborating with businesses and organizations to apply their learning in real-world contexts. This engagement enhances practical skills and provides networking opportunities, facilitating a smooth transition from academic studies to professional careers.
Global Perspective: GIIDAE attracts a diverse community of master's students from more than 40 countries, fostering a global perspective on consumer behaviour. The program addresses international and local consumer challenges, preparing students to work effectively in diverse cultural and geographical contexts. This global outlook is further enriched by the university's commitment to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, guiding research and teaching towards addressing global challenges.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 25850
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Commonwealth Scholarships: Available for students from Commonwealth nations pursuing a master's or PhD. Covers tuition fees, airfare, and a monthly stipend.
Great Scholarships: A collaboration between the British Council and UK universities. Provides funding of up to £10,000 for postgraduate students from selected countries.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
Alumni Discount for Postgraduate Students: If you are a University of Reading graduate, you may be eligible for a tuition fee discount for further studies.
Graduates of the MSc Consumer Behaviour program at the University of Reading can pursue a wide range of career opportunities. The skills acquired during the program—ranging from data analysis to strategic thinking and behavioral research—are highly sought after in various sectors.
Consumer Insight Analyst: One of the most common career paths for graduates is as a consumer insight analyst. These professionals use data and research methods to understand consumer behavior patterns, preferences, and trends. They work closely with marketing teams, helping organizations design strategies that better meet customer needs and improve brand loyalty.
Marketing Manager: With a strong understanding of consumer behavior, graduates can step into roles as marketing managers. These professionals oversee marketing campaigns, conduct market research, and ensure that marketing strategies align with consumer preferences. They use their knowledge to influence purchasing decisions and improve customer engagement.
Brand Manager: Brand managers are responsible for developing and maintaining a brand’s image. Graduates of the MSc Consumer Behaviour program can work in this capacity, utilizing their expertise in consumer psychology to build emotional connections between consumers and brands. They also track consumer feedback to adjust brand strategies as needed.
Product Development Specialist: Understanding what drives consumer decisions is crucial in product development. Graduates can work in roles that involve designing new products or improving existing ones based on consumer insights. They collaborate with research and development teams to ensure that products meet market demands and consumer expectations.
Advertising Strategist: Advertising strategies are most effective when they are grounded in consumer behavior. Graduates can pursue careers as advertising strategists, where they design compelling advertisements based on an understanding of consumer motivations, needs, and values. Their goal is to create persuasive messaging that drives sales and brand awareness.
Customer Experience (CX) Specialist: The ability to understand consumer behavior is key to enhancing customer experience. Graduates may work as CX specialists, designing and improving customer service processes, optimizing the user journey, and ensuring that businesses provide seamless and satisfying experiences at every customer touchpoint.
Market Research Analyst: Market research analysts play a critical role in gathering, analyzing, and interpreting data about consumer behavior and market trends. Graduates can enter this field, conducting studies to assess consumer preferences, competitor strategies, and market conditions, helping organizations make informed business decisions.
Policy Advisor in Consumer Protection: Graduates with a keen interest in public policy may opt for careers as policy advisors, especially in areas related to consumer protection and regulation. They work for government bodies or international organizations, advising on policies that promote ethical business practices and safeguard consumer interests.
Digital Marketing Specialist: As consumer behavior increasingly shifts towards online platforms, digital marketing specialists are in high demand. Graduates can work in roles focused on creating digital marketing campaigns, optimizing social media presence, and driving online sales by targeting specific consumer behaviors in digital spaces.
Academic or Researcher: For those with an interest in continuing their studies or pursuing an academic career, the MSc Consumer Behaviour provides a strong foundation for doctoral research. Graduates can contribute to academic knowledge by conducting research on consumer behavior, publishing papers, and teaching at universities.
