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Consumer preferences are continually changing. Our programmes help you to acknowledge the importance of consumer demand and its effects on the industry.
Additionally, our modules are developed to aid your understanding of what influences consumer demand – and how it changes over time.
You will develop a number of core skills and techniques through varied study methods and research work.
Our staff are actively engaged in world-class research, and we tailor our teaching to reflect changing trends and emerging technologies within the sector.
Learn from our internationally-recognised experts in areas that include marketing and consumer behaviour, business management and strategy, economics, and food and consumer policy.
You will also have opportunities to be part of this research. For example, during your final-year research project you can choose a topic of interest related to our work and conduct your own in-depth research. You can also participate in a summer placement through the Reading Internship Scheme.
Because of our extensive industrial links, both of our marketing programmes give you the opportunity to work – with support – on real projects for companies such as Sainsbury's, Hotel Chocolat and Procter & Gamble.
Put theory into practice and experience working with clients as you gain an understanding of the real issues faced by the industry today, and the options available to marketers to help address their needs.
Stand out from the crowd by considering our Study Abroad option. By choosing to do a four-year degree, you can apply to study at one of our partner institutions for a year, or spend six months abroad and another six months working in the sector.
In an increasingly international and mobile world, studying abroad can help boost your future employability. It provides an exciting opportunity to acquire numerous transferable and desirable skills, and study specialisms additional to what's offered at Reading. It's also a fantastic life experience.
To qualify for the Study Abroad option, you must meet the requirements of the host institution. This option is highly competitive and is therefore not guaranteed.
All courses offered by our partner universities are taught in English.
A year working in industry gives you an opportunity to put what you've learned into practice, develop professional skills and make contacts within industry – it's a time to separate yourself from the competition.
Getting the balance right between theory and practice is a vital part of maximising your future career prospects. Doing a placement gives you closer insight into the marketing sector while developing useful links with the industry.
We have strong links with employers, including businesses and not-for-profit organisations, and many are often looking for Reading undergraduates when recruiting. We also have a dedicated placement officer available to support and guide you through the placement process.
If you choose to do a four-year degree instead of the three-year option, you'll have the opportunity to spend the additional 12 months on a placement year.
Your placement will be directly related to your degree programme or potential career path, giving you the freedom to find a placement that suits you and your career aspirations.
Recent Consumer Behaviour and Marketing students have taken placements at Walt Disney, Samsung, L'Oreal, Microsoft, Unilever, Mercedes and Kimberley Clark.
Recent placements for Food Business and Marketing students have included Nestle, Samworth Brothers, JD Wetherspoons, Mornflake, Waitrose, Marks & Spencer, Warburtons and Aldi.
Many of our students undertake three months of paid work experience during the summer vacation to gain further insight into the career path they want to pursue.
You can also participate in a six-week placement linked to research undertaken at the University. These placements are generally completed in the summer before your final year.
Join a thriving community of students and staff from over 80 countries in our School of Agriculture, Policy and Development – home to the Department of Agri-Food Economics and Marketing.