Undergraduate | 2026

Bachelor of Economics

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

3 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

BECON

Study as

Full time or part time

Indicative fees

Commonwealth Supported

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and demonstrate they fulfill any prerequisite and essential criteria for admission. In cases where there are more eligible applicants than available places, admission will be competitive with ranks based on the entry criteria.

Secondary education (Year 12)

Completion of a secondary education qualification equivalent to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE).

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Completion of an award from a registered training organisation (RTO) at Certificate IV (AQF level 4) or higher.

Higher education study

Successful completion of at least 6 months full-time study (or equivalent part-time) in a higher education award program.

Work and life experience

Completion of an Adelaide University approved enabling, pathway or bridging program; OR
Achieved a pass result in the Skills for Tertiary Admissions Test (STAT); OR
Qualify for special entry

Note:

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

Why Bachelor of Economics?

Enjoy tackling complex problems? Are you interested in how important economic and policy decisions are made? Want to use your analytical skills to make a positive impact on societies? If yes, our Bachelor of Economics is for you.

Economists are expert communicators who analyse, predict and navigate policies and decision-making. The job demands a comprehensive understanding of data and analytical skills. As an economist, you’ll analyse key factors that influence how households, industries, governments and businesses make choices and operate. Your deep understanding of micro- and macroeconomics will help you tackle economic challenges, minimising their impact on individuals and societies.

With your Adelaide University degree, you’ll gain a valuable skillset that prepares you for exciting, resilient and diverse careers.

Overview

Our Bachelor of Economics will give you a comprehensive and analytical understanding of economics. Learn how governments, industries and businesses allocate resources to meet individual and societal needs. Develop essential communication and analytical skills to inform decision-making and policy development.

Your studies will give you a deep understanding of microeconomics – examining economics from an individual and business perspective. Explore macroeconomics, looking at large-scale factors, such as national income, employment and international trade. Learn about econometrics, where you’ll use your analytical skills to understand economic data and test theories. You’ll also complete elective courses on a wide range of economics topics – from environment and development economics to using big data to solve economic and social problems. Undertake an internship or career development opportunity in your final year to prepare you for the workforce. Graduate ready for a career in the private sector, not-for-profit organisations or in government.

Key features

Tailor your studies to your interests with a wide range of economics elective courses.
Study microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics.
Sharpen your analytical and data skills.
Build transferrable skills, applicable to various industries and roles.
Complete an internship or career development opportunity in your final year.
Pursue an impactful career supporting complex decision-making and policy development.

What you'll learn

Over three years of full-time study, you’ll examine key principles and theories across microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics. A combination of economics elective courses and common core courses will build transferable skills that’ll help you navigate the modern world.

Common core courses in First Nations knowledges, data, ethics, artificial intelligence, cultural competency, entrepreneurship and design thinking will extend your foundational knowledge. Meanwhile, first year topics in economic principles, data analytics, and mathematical economics will begin to develop your specialised expertise. In second year, you’ll go deeper with courses on applied econometrics, microeconomics, macroeconomics and global economic history. In your third year, you’ll undertake your own investigation in economic policy analysis, explore courses in applied economics and complete a professional career development opportunity.

Throughout your studies, you’ll complete a wide range of economics elective courses. Available topics will depend on how far along you are in your degree, but will include:

Australia in the global economy
Behavioural economics
Economic growth and development
Economics of international finance
Economics of international trade
Financial economics
Game theory
Impact evaluation methods for economic policy
International financial institutions and markets
International trade and investment policy
Labour economics
Mathematical economics
Monetary economics
Public economics
Resource and environmental economics
Rethinking capitalism
Using big data for economic and social problems.

Majors

The Bachelor of Economics is also available with a major in Advanced Analysis. This major focuses on building advanced analytical skillsets, toolkits and techniques for addressing a range of complex social, behavioural and economic issues.

What courses you'll study

Complete 144 units comprising:

42 units for all Core courses, and
Either:
48 units for one Major from Major courses, or
48 units from Discipline courses, and
6 units for all Work integrated learning, and
48 units for all Electives

Complete 42 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Data Analytics	Course code BUSI1008	Units 6
Course name Principles of Economics	Course code ECON1000	Units 6
Course name Intermediate Macroeconomics	Course code ECON2000	Units 6
Course name Global Economic History	Course code ECON2001	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 1	Course code AUXX1000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 2	Course code AUXX2000	Units 6
Course name UG Common Core 3	Course code AUXX3000	Units 6

Complete exactly 48 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Mathematical Economics	Course code ECON1003	Units 6
Course name Australia in the Global Economy	Course code ECON1004	Units 6
Course name International Financial Institutions and Markets	Course code ECON1005	Units 6
Course name Using Big Data for Economic and Social Problems	Course code ECON1006	Units 6
Course name Public Economics	Course code ECON1007	Units 6
Course name Behavioural Economics M	Course code PSYC1006	Units 6
Course name Financial Economics	Course code ECON2004	Units 6
Course name International Trade and Investment Policy	Course code IBUS2004	Units 6
Course name Monetary Economics	Course code BAFI3001	Units 6
Course name Game Theory	Course code BUSI3012	Units 6
Course name Resource and Environmental Economics	Course code ECON3000	Units 6
Course name Labour Economics	Course code ECON3001	Units 6
Course name Economic Analysis of Public Policy	Course code ECON3003	Units 6
Course name Rethinking Capitalism	Course code ECON3004	Units 6
Course name Economic Growth and Development	Course code ECON3005	Units 6
Course name International Trade	Course code IBUS3000	Units 6
Course name International Finance	Course code IBUS3006	Units 6

Complete one Major from the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name Advanced Analysis	Course code B.Economics	Units 48

Complete 6 units for ALL of the following:

Course name		Course code	Units
	Course name College Professional/Career Development	Course code ECON3802	Units 6

Complete 48 units for ALL of the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Elective 1	Course code AUXX1011	Units 6
Course name Elective 2	Course code AUXX1012	Units 6
Course name Elective 3	Course code AUXX1013	Units 6
Course name Elective 4	Course code AUXX1014	Units 6
Course name Elective 5	Course code AUXX1015	Units 6
Course name Elective 6	Course code AUXX1016	Units 6
Course name Elective 7	Course code AUXX1017	Units 6
Course name Elective 8	Course code AUXX1018	Units 6

Career outcomes

Studying the Bachelor of Economics at Adelaide University will give you critical skills to work in government, private and not-for-profit sectors. Use your analytical skills and reasoning to work as a government policy analyst, developing key economic policies for local or international government agencies. Perhaps you’ll be a research economist, analysing the economic impact of policies and issues affecting the environment, international trade and the future of work. You might work as a consultant, providing your clients with the insights and tools to help them make strategic financial decisions. Maybe you’ll generate social change working inside charities to reduce inequality and improve healthcare and education.

You could also pursue the following careers:

Corporate policy adviser
Data analyst
Economic researcher
Economist
Information analyst
Government policy adviser
International trade or business analyst 
Research associate
Economic communicator.

Industry trends

In a 2023 survey with the world’s largest employers, analytical thinking was the most consistently sought after skill (World Economic Forum, 2023). Economics is a discipline closely associated with analytical skills and reasoning. It requires data analysis, problem solving and analytical acumen to understand market dynamics, consumer behaviour and investigate government intervention. This means as a graduate, your skills will be in-demand across various industries.

How to apply

Find your program

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Check the requirements

Look out for any prerequisite or assumed knowledge courses. Some degrees may have additional entry requirements.

Consider your preferences

To prepare for your future and to maximise your success consider adding additional preferences.

How to apply

Applications for Australian students to study at Adelaide University will open in August 2025, to commence study in 2026.

Please note that entry requirements for this degree are provisional and subject to change.

If you want to start your studies earlier, consider applying to the University of Adelaide or UniSA now, and continue onto Adelaide University in 2026. Register your interest to stay informed.

FAQs

Explore answers to some of our most frequently asked questions.

From August 2025 you can apply as a domestic student for entry to Adelaide University in 2026.
Applications for 2026 will be via SATAC for most undergraduate and postgraduate coursework programs. A direct application process will be available for 100% online degrees at a later date. In the meantime, you could start your degree at UniSA or the University of Adelaide and continue at Adelaide University.

Adelaide University is South Australia’s largest university with seven campuses across the state. Adelaide City Campus is in the heart of the central business district (including eastern and western precincts), while our Magill, Mawson Lakes and Waite campuses are located within the inner suburbs of Adelaide. Our Mount Gambier, Roseworthy and Whyalla campuses are set in the regions of South Australia. Building on our digital and online learning successes, we aim to also deliver online education to more students than any other Australian university.

Each of our campuses is equipped with cutting-edge, discipline specific facilities, contemporary study spaces and well-resourced libraries. Our city and suburban campuses also feature on-site gyms and eateries, and health services on, or nearby, campus.

You will be well supported academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually with access to on-campus facilities and services such as counselling, learning support, childcare, prayer rooms and more.

You will be well supported through a range of services at Adelaide University to ensure you get the most out of your student experience. Support services include:

Academic learning support, including after-hours support provided via Studiosity through live online chat assistance with writing, referencing, mathematics and more.
Advice and advocacy regarding access, adjustments and inclusivity if you have a disability, impairment, chronic health condition or significant caring responsibilities.
Libraries providing flexible study spaces, access to books, computer suites and online resources – as well as referencing support, search tips and more.
Career development hub, including extensive self-help resources, online learning programs, on-campus events, workshops and networking, one-on-one advice, and job search support.
Qualified counsellors who can provide confidential support to manage your mental health and wellbeing.
On-campus medical clinics on-site where you can make an appointment with a General Practitioner (GP) to discuss acute and preventative health care matters.
Information and advice for international students regarding accommodation, student life, visa and work rights and academic policies and procedures.
An active and visible LGBTIQA+ Ally Network that ensures the University provides a supportive environment where all staff and students can safely work and study free of harassment or discrimination.
Prayer rooms on campus, including gender specific spaces for worship purposes.
Campus security available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to ensure all students feel safe on campus.
A range of scholarships offered to commencing and continuing students each year to make university life a little easier.
A number of social outlets including student lounges, gyms, student-led clubs, sports teams and free events throughout the year.

Your tuition fees will depend on your program of study and enrolment load. You can find the annual fees relevant to your program on the specific degree page under the ‘fees’ section. The annual fee payable for your chosen program will also be outlined in your Offer of Admission.

Adelaide University will open in January 2026. Your studies will start at different times depending on what study period you’ve applied for. Adelaide University is currently using a semester model, which means most degrees start in Semester 1. Some degrees are also available to start in mid-year, sometimes with a different degree structure. 

Studies at Adelaide University typically commence in:  

February for Semester 1  
July for Semester 2.

Some degrees, such as the Bachelor of Medical Studies and Master of Business Administration, will have different starting dates. View the relevant degree page for more detail. 

For other key dates, including census dates and exam periods, you can view our Academic calendar. 

View all FAQs

Your study experience and support

Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.

You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.

Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.

Student services

We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:

Career advice and mentoring services
Personal counselling
LGBTQIA+ support
Academic support
Fees and finance help
Security services
Accommodation services
Common rooms
Prayer rooms.

You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.

Your campus

You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.

This degree is offered at the following campus(es)

Study hours

Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.

Assessment

During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include: