Economics is a diverse and fascinating discipline which analyses decision-making by individuals, business, government and global organisations. It deals with important issues such as the behaviour of individuals and firms and their strategic interactions, economic growth and development, the causes and effects of unemployment and inflation, income distribution, industrial organisation, public policy design and implementation, management of the environment, and the means to improve overall efficiency and living standards.

Graduates are employed in an enormously diverse range of occupations. Graduates working as professional economists can be found in leading government and international agencies, private firms and consultancies. Graduates who combine economics with other disciplines, such as accounting, finance or marketing, often work as professionals in those fields, with the economics training providing a highly valued understanding of the business environment. More broadly, graduates develop analytical skills which have wide applications in business, finance and policy.

Studying Economics at UNSW

The Economics major is offered to students enrolled in the BEc programs. The major prescribes a number of required courses and then gives students the flexibility to take economics options in their areas of interest: for example, microeconomics, macroeconomics, economic development/history, and experimental/behavioural economics. There are two other more specialised majors offered to students enrolled in the BEc program, namely Econometrics (specialised in statistical and quantitative methods) and Financial Economics (specialised in finance-related economics).

Students with above average grades in their Economics courses are invited to join the Honours program, requiring an additional year of study. An Honours year adds extra value to an undergraduate degree and is highly regarded by employers.

Note: Refer to Major ECONA13543 Plan for rules for Minor.