Economics
About the major
The Economics major prepares students for a diverse range of careers, developing skills to understand trade-offs for businesses and consumers making decisions in markets; analyse economic and financial data; and evaluate policy alternatives for governments dealing with economic and social challenges. Training in the major builds incrementally, first developing foundational micro- and macroeconomic skills— essential to the discipline—before allowing for a wide range of choice at senior level. This allows students to shape concentrations in areas of interest, including macroeconomics, the economics of financial markets, applied economic policy, or economic theory.
Mathematics assumed knowledge
Mathematics is an essential tool in the study of economics. Students entering this major/minor are assumed to have prior knowledge of mathematics equivalent to a minimum result of Band 4 in the NSW Higher School Certificate course, Mathematics Advanced. Students who do not possess the assumed knowledge are strongly advised to enrol in ECON1003 Quantitative Methods in Economics prior to or concurrently with ECON1001 Introductory Microeconomics.
Mathematics prerequisites and Mathematics Learning Support
In 2024, some mathematics prerequisites for undergraduate students commencing in Semester 1 2025 were removed.
It has been identified that this curriculum component (Program, Major or Minor) has been affected. To ensure success, make sure you are aware of the required level of mathematics (assumed knowledge) for this curriculum component. Visit the mathematics learning support webpage, to understand your pathway to success, including the sequence of units you should complete and the support services available.
Requirements for completion
The Economics major and minor requirements are listed in the Economics unit of study table.
Overlapping core units of study
An overlap in core units of study occurs with certain combinations of majors. For example, the core unit ECON1001 Introductory Microeconomics is common to the Economics and Financial Economics majors. This situation also arises between the Economics major and majors offered by the Business School. For example, the 1000-level core unit in the Finance major (Business School), BUSS1040 Economics for Business Decision Making, is equivalent to ECON1001 Introductory Microeconomics. Bachelor of Economics students are required to complete the core units specified for the Bachelor of Economics rather than equivalent units offered by other faculties.
- 1000 level: Up to two overlapping 1000-level core units may count towards the requirements of two majors. To make up the credit points for the overlapping unit(s), students must complete elective units as appropriate.
- 2000 level: An overlapping 2000-level core unit cannot count towards the requirements of two majors. Students are required to substitute the overlapping core unit in one of the majors with a 2000- or 3000-level selective unit from the same major.
Advanced coursework
Students enrolled in the final (fourth) year of a Bachelor of Advanced Studies combined degree are required to complete a minimum of 24 credit points of Advanced coursework. Details of advanced coursework units of study in Economics can be found on the advanced coursework units of study page.
Honours
Honours in Economics may be undertaken in certain appended honours degrees such as the Bachelor of Economics (Honours).
Admission criteria
Applicants are required to have:
- completed the requirements for a bachelor's degree from the University of Sydney, including a major in Economics with a minimum weighted average mark of 70, or equivalent qualification
- For pre-July 2024 students undertaking a Bachelor of Advanced Studies, a second major;
- completed advanced 2000- and 3000-level units of study in microeconomics, macroeconomics, mathematical economics, and applied econometrics (equivalent to the University of Sydney Advanced Economics program); and
- evidence of support from the School of Economics Honours Coordinator or delegate (e.g., email correspondence).
Requirements for completion
Requirements and units of study for Honours can be found on the Economics honours units of study page.
Contacts and further information
