Overview
Economics is the study of social behaviours related to production, distribution and consumption of goods and services through statistical data, modelling and economic theories. From this, Economists seek to understand, assess and explain the mechanisms of markets and economics to increase efficiency and productivity.
Economists have varied employment opportunities in public and private sectors. For example, they can look at how economic welfare, financial markets and government impact income and wealth creation; release economic performance indicators such as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP); or forecast to determine bank interest rate levels.
This field of study is suited for students who have strong mathematical skills or enjoy mathematics as it involves quantitative studies and analysing and interpreting data to find solutions for the commercial world.
Within this major you will focus on three key areas within economics:
- Microeconomics: the behaviour of individual consumers and producers
- Macroeconomics: economies on a regional, national or international level
- Econometrics: using historical data and models to test hypotheses and forecast future performance and indicators.
ECONOMICS AT MELBOURNE
- As a social science, the Economics major can be studied in either the Bachelor of Arts or the Bachelor of Commerce.
- Economics has a long history at the University of Melbourne, having been taught since 1855
- We are ranked #1 in Australia and #13 in the world for the quality of teaching and research (QS World University Rankings 2025)
Students who wish to pursue a major in Economics through the Bachelor of Arts degree are required to meet the mathematics prerequisites of the Bachelor of Commerce.