Economic consulting in practice: a partnership with Deloitte
Deloitte Access Economics and the School of Economics, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences, cultivate robust and collaborative partnership, united in co-delivering industry research projects integral to the curriculum of the Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Economics). These projects offer dynamic benefits for all involved - our partner actively engages with students by sharing their invaluable industry sector knowledge and nurturing students’ career aspirations, while our students benefit from expert advice, refining their projects and gaining first-hand career insights from direct industry contacts.
Partnership to drive mutual success
The University of Sydney is committed to working with our industry partners and fostering student-focused and transformational education. This commitment led to the establishment of a partnership between Deloitte Access Economics and the School of Economics commenced in 2021, driven by a deep passion for economics and a collective belief in creating a better future for all. Deloitte values new perspectives and endeavours to cultivate bright young minds with a similar passion. Upon exploring collaboration options together, Deloitte and our School discovered an opportunity to embed the Deloitte student research project into our curriculum for the Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Economics). Through this initiative, students enrolled in the Bachelor of Advanced Studies (Economics) tackle some of the biggest challenges faced in the Australian economy today.
In this unit of study, our students undertake a research project of their choice as part of their assessments, including such topics as Australian house prices and economic inequality, the Early Release Scheme and the gender superannuation gap and the effect of gas price shocks on wholesale electricity prices in Australia.
During the semester, Deloitte economists bring their expertise to campus and deliver a presentation on potential research topics, research data translations for papers, and insights into the life of a professional economist. This experience encourages our students to engage in critical thinking, translate their knowledge into innovative ideas, understand the broader context of their research, and develop aspirations for their future careers. Exceptional students who demonstrate creative ideas and solutions are selected to present their findings to Deloitte economists, providing them with valuable industry exposure.
The students have impressed us with their insights and analytical skills in their presentations. There is a lot to gain from these partnerships for both organisations and for students
Impact of partnership
Our partnership between the School of Economics and the Deloitte Access Economics have continuously brought overwhelmingly positive feedback from both partners and students, with 2023 marking the third year of our collaboration.
I’d encourage people working in the industry to get involved in partnering with the University of Sydney. These students will eventually take on leadership roles in your industry or profession.
Engaging with the Deloitte economists provided me with an insight into a career in economics.
The School of Economics appreciates the opportunity to collaborate with Deloitte, enabling our students to learn from the real-life economists and gain insights into the profession well ahead of entering the industry workforce.