Economics

Outline

Outline

Economists study more than just money – they analyse the world around them, from global markets to government policy to world events, to help make informed decisions in diverse industries. These decisions can impact how individuals and society access, consume and distribute wealth.

With a focus on applied economics, this major gives you the knowledge and skills to understand important real-world issues such as unemployment, housing affordability, climate change, energy challenges and inequality.

You will learn how to use big data, statistics, mathematics and business insights to evaluate trends and patterns in consumer spending, levels of competition in different industries, business cycles and financial crises.

You’ll gain a solid foundation in macroeconomics (factors that impact an economy as a whole) and microeconomics (the function of individual markets). You’ll also develop strong communication and interpersonal skills to successfully share complex data with a general audience.

You’ll graduate from this course as a critical thinker with a keen understanding of the world and the ability to enhance economic activities in the public or private sector.

See our handbook for more course information.

Course structure and combinations

This major can be studied as part of the Bachelor of Commerce or Bachelor of Innovation.

You can also study this major as part of a Science and Commerce double degree, or as a double major. Recommended double majors are: Data Science, Finance, Human Resource Management, International Business, Management and Taxation. 

What you'll learn

• apply knowledge of economic models, data and methods to complex economic and social issues such as in climate and energy markets and identify innovative solutions and/or discuss policy alternatives that are relevant to affected communities, GC1, GC2, GC6
• communicate professionally by presenting findings and explaining complex data using graphs/charts/tables in ways that a broad audience can easily understand, and in ways that are responsible and appropriate given the economic local, national and/or international context, GC3, GC4, GC5, GC6
• use relevant technologies such as playing experimental economics games and/or methodologies to investigate economic and social issues in ways that demonstrate critical thinking, responsible judgement and a greater understanding of human behaviours and motivation, GC2, GC4, GC6
• demonstrate an understanding of cultural diversity by being exposed to a range of economic perspectives and how this both affects economic and social behaviour and informs respectful and responsible professional practice, GC4, GC5
• demonstrate industry readiness with a strong analytical and problem-solving skillset through the development of sound practical economic analyses, and critical reflection of individual capabilities and current, emerging and future local and global challenges, GC6