Economics (Undergraduate Major)

Become an expert in analysing and influencing how wealth is created, consumed and distributed. 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.

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.

What jobs can the Economics course lead to?
Careers

• Economist
• Economic analyst
• Econometrician
• Bank manager
• Consultant
• Corporate finance analyst 
• Credit analyst 
• Financial manager
• Investment banker
• Market research analyst
• Policy advisor.

Industries

• Banking
• Brokerage
• Consultancy
• Government
• Private business
• Resources

What you'll learn

• Apply knowledge of economic models, data and methods to complex economic and social issues and identify innovative solutions that are relevant to affected communities
• Communicate professionally, and in ways that are responsible and appropriate given the economic local, national and/or international context
• Use relevant technologies and methodologies to investigate economic and social issues in ways that demonstrate critical thinking and responsible judgement
• Demonstrate an understanding of cultural diversity and how this both affects economic and social behaviour and informs respectful and responsible professional practice
• Demonstrate industry readiness through the development of sound practical economic analyses, and critical reflection of individual capabilities and current, emerging and future local and global challenges

Why study Economics at Curtin?

• Internationally accredited-Study at an elite global business school accredited by the leading quality review system for business and management schools, EQUIS and AACSB, an organisation dedicated to creating the next generation of great leaders. 
• Real-world learning-Gain insight into the work you'll do as an economist by learning through real case studies and practical scenarios.
• Top ranking-Curtin Business School tops the rankings for business schools in Western Australia in the Eduniversal 'Palmes of Excellence' league (2021), and sits first in Australia's 4 Palmes' league as a 'top business school with significant international influence'.

You’re considered a high school leaver if you:

• Completed year 12 in Australia or overseas in the past two years, or
• Completed TAFE or VET studies in the past two years.

Alternative pathways

• Portfolio entry-Portfolio entry is available for those who can demonstrate equivalence to Curtin’s ATAR entry through the submission of a portfolio that includes evidence of your academic achievements, qualifications and ability.
• UniReady-If you don’t meet our minimum admission criteria, the UniReady Enabling Program can help you qualify for entry into a range of undergraduate courses.
• Certificate IV + English Competency-The certificate IV is the minimum requirement for university entry. It qualifies you for entry to Curtin courses with a 70 ATAR. You must also meet English language proficiency.
• Indigenous applicant-If you’re an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander applicant who hasn’t met Curtin’s minimum admissions criteria, the Centre for Aboriginal Studies offers bridging courses that are tailored to help you gain entry into this course.
• STAT entry-Written English and either verbal or quantitative