Economics major
The economics major develops problem-solving and data analysis skills for use in both business and government settings. With an economics major, you will be equipped with the tools to make smarter decisions about the varying types of problems that confront those working in the commercial world or in government.
Many students study economics to gain an informed perspective on the workings of interest rates and exchange rates, the effect of government policy on environmental problems, the results of governmental attempts to alleviate poverty, the nature of business competition, and the effects of globalisation on the Australian economy.
You can study economics to become a professional economist, to develop skills complementary to other disciplines, or to gain a better understanding of the role economics plays in our lives and in society. Completion of an Economics major is highly regarded by employers because it demonstrates your capacity for critical analysis and problem solving and indicates an ability to communicate ideas and structure arguments clearly.
Learn more about the Department of Economics.
Studying Commerce at Melbourne University has helped me develop professionally and has and broadened my horizons. Problem solving, fluent writing, engagement and critical analysis are all useful skills that have been strengthened in my time here. The degree has given me a plethora of experiences that I will always be with me as I embark on my career. If you are a new student, I encourage you to really engage with the course. Opportunities like these are rare, so don’t waste this one.Robert Tilleard
BCom graduate; now works at Boston Consulting Group
Majoring in economics
The minimum subject requirements for a major in economics are listed below. Click on a subject to view the subject listing in the University Handbook, including information about prerequisite studies and assessment.
These subjects are included in the sample course plan below.
First year subjects
Second year subjects
Third year subjects
Sample course plan#
Double major in economics and finance with a breadth track in property. Click on the subjects below to see the relevant description in the Undergraduate Handbook. Each subject is worth 12.5 points unless otherwise specified.
| Year 1 | Sem 1 |
Introductory Microeconomics (compulsory) | Core program elective e.g. Managing and Leading Organisations | Core program elective e.g. Accounting Reports and Analysis | Breadth e.g. Urban History |
| Sem 2 | Introductory Macroeconomics (compulsory) | Quantitative Methods 1 (compulsory) | Core program elective e.g. Accounting Transactions and Analysis | Breadth e.g. Residential Construction and Structures | |
| Year 2 | Sem 1 |
Organisational Behaviour (compulsory) | Quantitative Methods 2 / Introductory Econometrics (compulsory) | Intermediate Microeconomics | Breadth e.g. Property Market Analysis |
| Sem 2 | Intermediate Macroeconomics | Competition and Strategy | Business Finance | Breadth e.g. Principles of Property Valuation | |
| Year 3 | Sem 1 |
Microeconomics | Basic Econometrics | Investments | Breadth e.g. Property Resource Analysis |
| Sem 2 | Macroeconomics | Corporate Finance | Derivative Securities | Breadth e.g. Structures and Construction Systems |
#This is a sample course plan only. Subjects offered may change from year to year.
Key
| Compulsory subjects | Economics subjects | Accounting subjects |
| Breadth component | Finance subjects | Management subjects |