Entry requirements
Admission criteria
To be eligible, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and fulfil any 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.
- A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) or bachelor honours (AQF level 8) degree or higher or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution; OR
- A completed nested or related graduate certificate (AQF level 8) or higher or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution.
This degree requires a Grade Point Average (GPA) equivalent to an Adelaide University 5.0 on a 7-point scale for entry.
English language entry requirements
In addition, international students who speak English as an additional language must have obtained one of the following standards within the last two years prior to admission. Possession of one or more of these qualifications, in addition to the academic entry requirements, does not, in itself, guarantee a place at Adelaide University. Applications are considered on an individual basis and selection is competitive. Where previous study/work experience was conducted in English, the application must be accompanied by certified documentation from the educational institution/employer certifying that the language of instruction/employment was English.
- IELTS Overall 6.5
- IELTS Reading 6
- IELTS Listening 6
- IELTS Speaking 6
- IELTS Writing 6
Please access the following link for a comprehensive list of English language tests accepted by Adelaide University and other important information in relation to meeting the University’s language requirements:
Equivalent English qualificationsWhy Master of Economics and Resource Policy?
International trade is vital to economic growth – influencing the lives of people across the globe. It can result in higher quality products, lower domestic prices and more employment opportunities.
Learn about agriculture and food markets, services in international trade, sustainable development, policy development and international investment. Use economic theories and modelling solutions to advise global businesses, analyse policies and predict economic outcomes. Help improve societal wellbeing and economic results with your international trade knowledge and understanding of how economies thrive. Be at the forefront of making smart and sustainable changes in our rapidly changing world.
 
    
    
    
Overview
In this degree you will learn how to analyse decisions made by individuals, governments and businesses, evaluating their impacts on individual and societal wellbeing. You’ll develop the skills and knowledge to advise on business strategy to optimise economic performance and shape public policy. Discover the context behind major economic events. Build in-depth knowledge on International Trade through your specialisation, learning about trade and development theory with an emphasis on practical skills.
You will understand how to negotiate, implement and monitor the effectiveness of international trade policy. Delve into real issues of international trade including environmental sustainability, competition policy and food supply. Complete an applied research project that will support your career objectives. As a graduate, you’ll find work across areas like public services, consultancies, not-for-profits and private business.
Key features
- Learn from renowned scholars and research-active economists. 
- Learn to apply economic theory and methods to resourcing and policy development. 
- Graduate job-ready with a competitive edge and specialised knowledge in International Trade. 
- Choose electives in research, career development or an internship. 
- Complete a research project aligned to your career goals. 
- Study alongside a cohort of diverse professionals with varied backgrounds and experiences. 
What you'll learn
In just two years, master the skills of a modern and informed economist with specialised knowledge in international trade. Be equipped with newfound insights and be empowered to offer expert advice on multiple global issues.
Complete core topics on a range of areas including:
- Economic Principles
- Global Food and Agricultural Markets
- Principles of International Trade and Development
- Cost-Benefit Analysis.
You’ll build the necessary frameworks to understand international policy and issues of resource use and allocation. Develop practical skills for both academic and professional success through a professional internship.
As part of your International Trade specialisation, delve into topics on strategic opportunities in international trade markets, negotiations and agreements, and analytical tools to understand research in international trade, sustainable development and more.
Tailor your studies to your individual career objectives with this flexible Adelaide University degree. Choose courses that will build your research skills and further career development opportunities. Complete a research project that explores an area of economics, resource policy and international trade that aligns with your interests, and that could set you on the pathway to a PhD.
You’ll also choose from elective courses to broaden your knowledge in areas such as economic analysis, global food and agribusiness or public economic and policy.
Specialisations
The Master of Economics and Resource Policy is also available with specialisations in the following:
You can also choose to study this degree without a specialisation.
 
    
    
    
What courses you'll study
Complete 96 units for either of the following:
- All of the following:
- 42 to 54 units for Core courses, and
- 12 to 24 units for one Specialisation from Specialisations, and
- 30 to 54 units for Electives, or
- All of the following:
- 42 to 54 units for Core courses, and
- 30 to 54 units for Electives
Complete 42 to 54 units comprising:
- 42 units for all Program core courses, and
- One of the following:
- 12 units from Program selective courses - Economic Analysis, or
- 12 units from Program selective courses - International Trade, or
- 6 units from Program selective courses - Public Economics and Policy
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course nameEconomic Principles | Course code ECON5001 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameGlobal Food and Agricultural Markets | Course code ECON5015 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameCost-Benefit Analysis | Course code ECON5016 | Units 6 | |
| Course namePrinciples of International Trade and Development | Course code ECON5017 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameResearch Methods and Development | Course code ECON6000 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMERP Research Project | Course code ECON6023 | Units 12 | |
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course nameAdvanced Development Economics | Course code ECONX400 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMacroeconomic Theory | Course code ECONX402 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMicroeconomic Theory | Course code ECONX403 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameTime Series Econometrics | Course code ECONX407 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameBehavioural Game Theory and Experiments | Course code PSYCX400 | Units 6 | |
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course nameAgriculture and Food in International Trade | Course code ECON6015 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameServices Trade | Course code ECON6016 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameInternational Trade Theory and Applications | Course code ECON6018 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameEconomics of International Finance | Course code ECON6022 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameInternational Trade | Course code IBUSX400 | Units 6 | |
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course nameLabour Economics Analysis and Applications | Course code ECON6001 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameGame Theory and Applications | Course code ECON6021 | Units 6 | |
| Course namePublic Economic Theory | Course code ECONX404 | Units 6 | |
Complete 12 units for ALL of the following:
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course nameInternational Trade: Negotiations and Agreements | Course code ECON5012 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameInternational Trade: Strategies and Opportunities | Course code ECON5019 | Units 6 | |
Complete 30 to 54 units comprising:
- 0 to 6 units from University-wide electives, and
- 24 to 54 units for all Program electives
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Course nameMonetary Economics in Theory and Practice | Course code BAFI6001 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameEconometric Analysis and Applications | Course code ECON5006 | Units 6 | |
| Course namePublic Economics Analysis and Applications | Course code ECON5007 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameTrends and Issues in the World Food System | Course code ECON5011 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameInternational Trade: Negotiations and Agreements | Course code ECON5012 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameInternational Trade: Strategies and Opportunities | Course code ECON5019 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameDevelopment and Growth Economics | Course code ECON5020 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameLabour Economics Analysis and Applications | Course code ECON6001 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameEnvironmental and Resource Economics and Applications | Course code ECON6004 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameWater Security and Governance | Course code ECON6011 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameGlobalisation and Agriculture in Emerging Economies | Course code ECON6013 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameAgricultural Decision Making | Course code ECON6014 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameAgriculture and Food in International Trade | Course code ECON6015 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameServices Trade | Course code ECON6016 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMNCs, Trade and Sustainable Development | Course code ECON6017 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameInternational Trade Theory and Applications | Course code ECON6018 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameGame Theory and Applications | Course code ECON6021 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameEconomics of International Finance | Course code ECON6022 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameManagement and Performance of Global Food Chains | Course code ECON6024 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameAdvanced Development Economics | Course code ECONX400 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameEconometric Theory | Course code ECONX401 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMacroeconomic Theory | Course code ECONX402 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameMicroeconomic Theory | Course code ECONX403 | Units 6 | |
| Course namePublic Economic Theory | Course code ECONX404 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameTime Series Econometrics | Course code ECONX407 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameInternational Trade | Course code IBUSX400 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameImpact Evaluation Methods and Applications | Course code POLI6000 | Units 6 | |
| Course nameBehavioural Game Theory and Experiments | Course code PSYCX400 | Units 6 | |
 
    
    
    
Career outcomes
Graduate with a dynamic skillset in economics and international trade that can be applied among a diverse range of careers and industries. Be at the forefront of making smart and sustainable changes in our rapidly changing world.
You might work as a trade economist, analysing international trade patterns and providing insights. You could even work on international trade policy, evaluating frameworks and providing recommendations for improvement.
Other careers also include:
- Economic researcher
- Trade policy negotiator
- Global supply chain manager
- Trade compliance specialist
- International business analyst
- International trade advisor.
Industry trends
In 2023, the World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report predicted the largest net-job creators will likely emerge from technological, environment and economic trends. Each of these areas draw on economic learning. The report also found economic trends including rising cost of living, slow economic growth, geopolitical divisions and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic will continue disrupting the labour market (World Economic Forum, 2023). With your knowledge in economics, resource policy and international trade, global businesses and governments will seek your expertise to navigate market disruptions and react to consumer demands.
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
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.
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:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
 
    
    
    
 
      
    
    
    
 
    
    
    
