BSc Mathematics and Economics

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.

English language proficiency:

• IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
• TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 88.
• PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 69.
• DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 125.
• Some 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.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.

The BSc Mathematics and Economics program at the University of Reading offers a unique blend of mathematical precision and economic theory, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in a data-driven world. This interdisciplinary degree is designed to equip students with strong analytical, problem-solving, and computational skills, making them highly competitive in various industries.

Finance and Banking: One of the most popular career paths for graduates of this program is the financial sector. With a solid foundation in both mathematics and economics, graduates are well-equipped for roles such as financial analyst, investment banker, risk manager, or actuary. These professionals are needed to model financial risks, optimize investment strategies, and analyze market trends. Graduates can find opportunities in large financial institutions, investment banks, insurance companies, and hedge funds.

Data Science and Analytics: As data becomes increasingly important in decision-making, graduates with strong mathematical and economic backgrounds are highly sought after in the field of data science and analytics. Roles such as data analyst, business intelligence analyst, or data scientist are excellent career options. These professionals use statistical methods, programming, and economic analysis to interpret complex data and help businesses make informed decisions.

Consulting: Consulting firms value the problem-solving skills of graduates who can apply both quantitative analysis and economic insights. Graduates of the BSc Mathematics and Economics program may pursue careers as management consultants, economic consultants, or strategy consultants. These roles involve advising businesses on how to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and navigate economic challenges, often with a focus on global markets.

Government and Public Policy: The combination of economics and mathematics is highly relevant for roles in government and policy-making organizations. Graduates can pursue careers as policy advisors, economic analysts, or public sector consultants. These positions involve using statistical models and economic theory to assess the impact of government policies and to help in the formulation of economic strategies at local, national, or international levels.

Academia and Research: For those interested in furthering their studies, the BSc Mathematics and Economics program provides an excellent foundation for postgraduate study in fields such as economics, econometrics, or financial mathematics. Many graduates go on to pursue master's or PhD programs, aiming for careers in academia or research institutions. These roles involve developing new economic theories, conducting data-driven research, and contributing to the academic community.

Technology and Software Development: The mathematical and computational skills gained from the program also lend themselves well to careers in technology. Graduates may work in software development, algorithm design, or IT consulting. Many technology companies, especially those focused on fintech or economic modeling, seek individuals with expertise in mathematics and economics to build and optimize systems that solve complex problems.

Marketing and Market Research: Graduates of the BSc Mathematics and Economics program can also pursue careers in marketing or market research. Their skills in data analysis and economic theory are useful for understanding consumer behavior, pricing strategies, and market trends. Roles in this field include market research analyst, brand strategist, and pricing analyst, where individuals use mathematical models and economic insights to develop strategies for reaching target audiences.

International Development and NGOs: The global perspective and quantitative skills acquired through the program are also valuable for working in international development or with non-governmental organizations (NGOs). Graduates may pursue roles as development economists, project managers, or program evaluators, using economic analysis to support projects aimed at improving living standards, reducing poverty, and addressing global challenges.

Legal and Regulatory Careers: Some graduates choose to pursue careers in the legal field, particularly in areas where economic analysis and regulatory knowledge are important, such as antitrust law, competition law, or intellectual property law. A background in mathematics and economics is valuable for understanding the financial and economic implications of legal cases, making these graduates attractive candidates for law firms or regulatory bodies.