Overview 

This foundation-level programme prepares students for progression into an undergraduate degree examining how economic principles apply to real-world markets and policy. Delivered at the University of Reading, it combines core economic theory with quantitative and academic skills training, forming the foundation year of a route into full undergraduate study. The programme is structured to build both subject knowledge and the study skills needed for a demanding, numerate discipline.

What You'll Learn

• Core microeconomic principles, including how individuals, firms, and markets make decisions

• Core macroeconomic principles, covering broader economic systems and national-level policy

• Quantitative methods for analysing economic data and testing theoretical models

• Foundation mathematics providing the numerical grounding required for economic analysis

• Academic skills training in research, writing, and study techniques suited to university coursework

• Optional modules exploring related themes such as politics, finance, or social policy

Learning Outcomes 

By the end of this programme, students will be able to apply core microeconomic and macroeconomic principles to analyse market behaviour and policy questions. They will have developed the quantitative reasoning and mathematical competence needed to interpret economic data with confidence, alongside strengthened academic writing and research skills. These outcomes will prepare graduates to enter the first year of a BSc Economics degree with the theoretical grounding and analytical discipline the programme requires.