Which uni will you recommend?
I want to study 'Economics' course(undergraduate) at university. I also interest working in finance industry like Bristish banks or investment company. Which uni will you recommend. I want to apply to uni below.
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
Reply 1
11
Hi, finance/banking/IB recruiters care a lot about undergraduate university prestige, and each firm will have some 'target' universities that they will prefer or look out for. Unfortunately, neither of these are considered target or semi-targets so while I cannot recommend any of them in particular, you should look out for their reputation.
Reply 2
Recruitment by the banking industry will be heavily skewed to either Oxbridge or quant courses at elite universites. When you dial in the AI revolution and the massive decline in grduate recruitment, I would say that your chances of making a career in investment banking from any of these universities to be slim at best.
Reply 3
Jake1036
OP
5
Original post
by marcus.0Hi, finance/banking/IB recruiters care a lot about undergraduate university prestige, and each firm will have some 'target' universities that they will prefer or look out for. Unfortunately, neither of these are considered target or semi-targets so while I cannot recommend any of them in particular, you should look out for their reputation.
thanks for your answer
Reply 4
Original post
by Jake1036I want to study 'Economics' course(undergraduate) at university. I also interest working in finance industry like Bristish banks or investment company. Which uni will you recommend. I want to apply to uni below.
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
Are these your 5 ucas choices and youre trying to pick a firm and insurance or are you aiming to pick your final ucas choice from these 5?
Reply 5
Jake1036
OP
5
Original post
by DerDracologeAre these your 5 ucas choices and youre trying to pick a firm and insurance or are you aiming to pick your final ucas choice from these 5?
I will choose 4 of them on the list above for my UCAS choices, and add Middlesex or Coventry.
If I got offer from all university on the list, what university do you recommend for economics or what university do you think best to choose?
Reply 6
Original post
by Jake1036I will choose 4 of them on the list above for my UCAS choices, and add Middlesex or Coventry.
If I got offer from all university on the list, what university do you recommend for economics or what university do you think best to choose?
If I got offer from all university on the list, what university do you recommend for economics or what university do you think best to choose?
It really depends on what youre personally prioritising but these all seem like strong choices. Have you been to any open days?
It might help to look at the entry requirements how they compare to your predicted grades… you should have 1-2 options above your predicteds, 2-3 options at your predicteds and 1-2 below. This is assuming that your predicted grades are not too inflated!
Reply 7
Jake1036
OP
5
Original post
by DerDracologeIt really depends on what youre personally prioritising but these all seem like strong choices. Have you been to any open days?
It might help to look at the entry requirements how they compare to your predicted grades… you should have 1-2 options above your predicteds, 2-3 options at your predicteds and 1-2 below. This is assuming that your predicted grades are not too inflated!
It might help to look at the entry requirements how they compare to your predicted grades… you should have 1-2 options above your predicteds, 2-3 options at your predicteds and 1-2 below. This is assuming that your predicted grades are not too inflated!
My predicted grades are CCC, and I target ABB-BBC in the real exam. I prioritise emloyer reputation and graduate prospects (like salary). Which university do you think best or reasonable to choose.
Reply 8
Original post
by Jake1036I want to study 'Economics' course(undergraduate) at university. I also interest working in finance industry like Bristish banks or investment company. Which uni will you recommend. I want to apply to uni below.
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
You have a decent selection of unis. Depending on your grades, i would choose 1 or 2 stretch unis, 1 or 2 match unis and 1 easy uni.
I would suggest:
•
University of Surrey
•
University of Manchester
•
University of Reading
•
Warwick University
•
University of Essex
Reply 9
Original post
by Jake1036My predicted grades are CCC, and I target ABB-BBC in the real exam. I prioritise emloyer reputation and graduate prospects (like salary). Which university do you think best or reasonable to choose.
Other than Middlesex (only just), all of your options stated here are aspirational given your predicted grades. What mock grades have you worked at most recently? Is there a possibility you can increase your predicteds? This is only sensible if you have been achieving higher than CCC.
It is not advisable to apply to 5 choices which are all above your predicted grades because the unis could just reject you for low predicted grades and you run the risk of getting no offers. This is assuming that you can not elegible for any alternative or contextual offers and you are not applying for foundation years on these programs.
Reply 10
Original post
by marcus.0Hi, finance/banking/IB recruiters care a lot about undergraduate university prestige, and each firm will have some 'target' universities that they will prefer or look out for. Unfortunately, neither of these are considered target or semi-targets so while I cannot recommend any of them in particular, you should look out for their reputation.
I think that Surrey might be semi-target, I can’t speak for the other universities, but I agree otherwise.
I wouldn’t recommend any of these universities if the goal is to get into a finance related role. Maybe I’d recommend Surrey but that’s probably down to my bias and knowing that Surrey simply has excellent placement schemes/connections. Also based on an anecdote of knowing a student who going to break into the industry once they graduate (job lined up).
Reply 11
Original post
by Jake1036I want to study 'Economics' course(undergraduate) at university. I also interest working in finance industry like Bristish banks or investment company. Which uni will you recommend. I want to apply to uni below.
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
If it’s front office in a BB in IBD/S&T etc. then you probably should look at targets such as Oxbridge/LSE/UCL/Warwick, followed by semi-targeted schools such as Bristol/Nottingham/Durham/Edinburgh/St Andrews
If you’re just interested in making it to an operational or middle/back office or Big-4 then id say the professional degree apprenticeships are probably a better pathway to university if you can land a role. If you don’t land a relevant apprenticeship then a solid well respected university is ok.
Reply 12
Anyone quoting knowledge of "target" and "semi-targets" on these forums is probably completely unconnected with the views of employers in the real world. In other words, they are making up with no relavent knowledge, aned being charitable, are simply repeating the views of others. So, please do not base your university choices beased on bullish views expressed on these forums. Do the maths, there are probably circa 1,000 grad jobs per annum in IB,many of which will go to candidates with relavent intern experience. The odds of landing one of these positions if you are not on an elite course at an elite university are slim. My advice is do a degree that you will enjoy studying in a city which appeals and then max out your efforts to build an internship with the best company that you can land.
Reply 13
Original post
by Jake1036I want to study 'Economics' course(undergraduate) at university. I also interest working in finance industry like Bristish banks or investment company. Which uni will you recommend. I want to apply to uni below.
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
Hi @Jake1036 👋
Hope you are well. Thank you for considering us 😄We have an amazing economics department who provide support to make sure you know how to get to your ideal career! Our facilities are also good and 92% of our postgraduates go on to further employment after studying with us 😊
I am sure you have had a good look at our website but if you haven't here it is below:
https://www.essex.ac.uk/departments/economics
There is a platform called unibuddy as well where you can ask questions to current economic students, they are always helpful to give advise on the course and relating to your career so I suggest checking it out on https://www.essex.ac.uk/life/chat 🙂
Essex Student Rep- Lavanya 💜
Reply 14
20
Original post
by Jake1036I want to study 'Economics' course(undergraduate) at university. I also interest working in finance industry like Bristish banks or investment company. Which uni will you recommend. I want to apply to uni below.
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
Reading is probably the strongest 'business' Uni on your list.
Forget Coventry - a total waste of money.
And if you can, pick courses with any sort of work placement or study abroad - these will add enormously to your graduate CV and immediate employability.
Reply 15
Original post
by Jake1036I want to study 'Economics' course(undergraduate) at university. I also interest working in finance industry like Bristish banks or investment company. Which uni will you recommend. I want to apply to uni below.
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
1. University of Surrey
2. University of Sussex
3. University of Essex
4. University of Reading
5. University of Kent
Hey!
Since you wanted a bit more detail on the University of Reading, here’s a clearer picture of what makes it stand out specifically for Economics and careers in finance:
Economics at Reading (Henley Business School)
Economics at Reading sits within Henley Business School, which is one of the more recognised business schools in the UK (With the daily mail ranking it the top business school in the UK). What makes it strong is that it combines economics theory with real finance application, so you’re not just learning from textbooks.
Key highlights:
•
Flexible modules: You can tailor your degree towards finance, econometrics, behavioural economics, banking, policy, etc.
•
Lecturers with industry backgrounds: Quite a few have worked in consultancy, banking, or financial analysis before moving into academia.
•
Supportive teaching: The course is known for approachable lecturers and good academic support.
I suggest you to have a look at this link where it provides the many different courses offered at reading related to Economics. It also dives into the course structure and gives you details about everything you need.
= https://www.reading.ac.uk/economics/undergraduate/undergraduate-courses
Finance Career Support (one of Reading’s biggest strengths)
If your goal is to enter banking, investments, asset management, or finance roles, Reading genuinely gives you an advantage:
ICMA Centre
This is a big selling point. It’s part of Henley Business School and specialises in finance.
Students (even economics students) get access to:
•
3 dealing rooms with Bloomberg, Reuters, and trading software
•
Finance simulations used by real traders
•
Guest lectures from people working in the City
Reading has very active links with:
•
Barclays
•
HSBC
•
Santander
•
Deloitte
•
PWC
•
Investment firms in London & Reading
•
Local businesses for internships
•
CV workshops
•
Finance employer events
•
1–1 career sessions
•
Mock assessment centres
•
Investment and finance networking evenings
Location advantage
Reading is 25 minutes from London Paddington, which is ideal if you want:
•
Internships in London
•
Networking events
•
Insight days or spring weeks at banks
Student life at Reading
The campus has a very relaxed, community feel:
•
Loads of green spaces
•
Lakeside study spots
•
Modern business school buildings
•
Lots of societies — including Investment Society, Trading Society, Economics Society, and more (really useful if you want to build your CV early)
Overall: Why choose Reading for Economics + Finance careers?
•
Strong business school reputation
•
ICMA Centre gives you finance-specific facilities you won’t get at most unis
•
Excellent employability and placement support
•
Very well-connected to London
•
Good campus, good vibe, and plenty of student support
Hope this gives you a clearer picture. If you want to know about student life, modules, placements, or anything else, feel free to ask! 😊
Ronnie Narang
BSc Business and Management
Reply 16
Jake1036
OP
5
Original post
by UniofReadingHey!
Since you wanted a bit more detail on the University of Reading, here’s a clearer picture of what makes it stand out specifically for Economics and careers in finance:
Economics at Reading (Henley Business School)
Economics at Reading sits within Henley Business School, which is one of the more recognised business schools in the UK (With the daily mail ranking it the top business school in the UK). What makes it strong is that it combines economics theory with real finance application, so you’re not just learning from textbooks.
Key highlights:
I suggest you to have a look at this link where it provides the many different courses offered at reading related to Economics. It also dives into the course structure and gives you details about everything you need.
= https://www.reading.ac.uk/economics/undergraduate/undergraduate-courses
Finance Career Support (one of Reading’s biggest strengths)
If your goal is to enter banking, investments, asset management, or finance roles, Reading genuinely gives you an advantage:
ICMA Centre
This is a big selling point. It’s part of Henley Business School and specialises in finance.
Students (even economics students) get access to:
Careers & placements
Reading has very active links with:
The careers team regularly runs:
A lot of Economics students choose to do a placement year, and Reading is solid at helping you secure one.
Location advantage
Reading is 25 minutes from London Paddington, which is ideal if you want:
You get London access without paying London rent.
Student life at Reading
The campus has a very relaxed, community feel:
Accommodation is also a good range, and everything is on one campus so it’s easy to settle in.
Overall: Why choose Reading for Economics + Finance careers?
If your long-term goal is banking, investments, or financial services, Reading is definitely one of the strongest choices on your list.
Hope this gives you a clearer picture. If you want to know about student life, modules, placements, or anything else, feel free to ask! 😊
Ronnie Narang
BSc Business and Management
Since you wanted a bit more detail on the University of Reading, here’s a clearer picture of what makes it stand out specifically for Economics and careers in finance:
Economics at Reading (Henley Business School)
Economics at Reading sits within Henley Business School, which is one of the more recognised business schools in the UK (With the daily mail ranking it the top business school in the UK). What makes it strong is that it combines economics theory with real finance application, so you’re not just learning from textbooks.
Key highlights:
•
Flexible modules: You can tailor your degree towards finance, econometrics, behavioural economics, banking, policy, etc.
•
Lecturers with industry backgrounds: Quite a few have worked in consultancy, banking, or financial analysis before moving into academia.
•
Supportive teaching: The course is known for approachable lecturers and good academic support.
I suggest you to have a look at this link where it provides the many different courses offered at reading related to Economics. It also dives into the course structure and gives you details about everything you need.
= https://www.reading.ac.uk/economics/undergraduate/undergraduate-courses
Finance Career Support (one of Reading’s biggest strengths)
If your goal is to enter banking, investments, asset management, or finance roles, Reading genuinely gives you an advantage:
ICMA Centre
This is a big selling point. It’s part of Henley Business School and specialises in finance.
Students (even economics students) get access to:
•
3 dealing rooms with Bloomberg, Reuters, and trading software
•
Finance simulations used by real traders
•
Guest lectures from people working in the City
Reading has very active links with:
•
Barclays
•
HSBC
•
Santander
•
Deloitte
•
PWC
•
Investment firms in London & Reading
•
Local businesses for internships
•
CV workshops
•
Finance employer events
•
1–1 career sessions
•
Mock assessment centres
•
Investment and finance networking evenings
Location advantage
Reading is 25 minutes from London Paddington, which is ideal if you want:
•
Internships in London
•
Networking events
•
Insight days or spring weeks at banks
Student life at Reading
The campus has a very relaxed, community feel:
•
Loads of green spaces
•
Lakeside study spots
•
Modern business school buildings
•
Lots of societies — including Investment Society, Trading Society, Economics Society, and more (really useful if you want to build your CV early)
Overall: Why choose Reading for Economics + Finance careers?
•
Strong business school reputation
•
ICMA Centre gives you finance-specific facilities you won’t get at most unis
•
Excellent employability and placement support
•
Very well-connected to London
•
Good campus, good vibe, and plenty of student support
Hope this gives you a clearer picture. If you want to know about student life, modules, placements, or anything else, feel free to ask! 😊
Ronnie Narang
BSc Business and Management
thanks for your reply
Quick Reply
Related discussions
- a level combo: english lit, economics and business
- Advice On Unis- Undergraduate Illustration/ Visual Communications Design
- working while doing a pharmacy degree
- Biomedical science @ University of Derby
- Best Unis for Law to apply for with AAA predicted
- which Uni are best for CS and AI
- English LIT A Level vs Politics A Level
- What to study at uni advice and general a level tips
- Decision for law at durham/manchester/nottingham
- Where should I go for international relations?
- Which uni is best for IR/Politics
- Are my gcse grades enough?
- Bag for University
- Lancaster or Sheffield
- what university’s are recommended for international students
- BTEC subjects or Alevel subjects?
- what should i accept?
- Lancaster or sheffield for econ
- Uni or Course – What’s Actually More Important?
- Sheffield or Manchester School of Architecture?
Latest
Trending
Last reply 12 hours ago
LSE BSc Economics and Economic History (VL31) 2025 ApplicantsLast reply 4 months ago
PPE/ Politics and Economics - Oxford, KCL, Bath, Warwick, ExeterLast reply 5 months ago
URGENT - Econ unis - should i drop fm - URGENTLast reply 5 months ago
is applying aspirationally to UCL/LSE/KCL realisticLast reply 6 months ago
LSE and Oxford admissions - GCSE gradesLast reply 6 months ago
Do I have a chance in Bristol and Bath for economics?Last reply 6 months ago
What is better for career prospects? Management at Warwick or Economics at NottinghamLast reply 6 months ago
Should I go for a better uni without accreditations or a worse uni with accreditationLast reply 6 months ago
Is Economics (( or Finance )) degree worth it??
How The Student Room is moderated
To keep The Student Room safe for everyone, we moderate posts that are added to the site.
