Postgraduate | 2026

Master of Economics and Resource Policy specialising in Public Economics and Policy

Start date

February, July

Campus

Adelaide City

Duration

2 year(s) full-time

Mode

Hybrid

Program code

MAERP

Study as

Full-time

Indicative fees

$49,700

Prerequisite

None

Assumed knowledge

None

English language requirements

IELTS Overall 6.5 IELTS Reading 6.0 IELTS Listening 6.0 IELTS Speaking 6.0 IELTS Writing 6.0 Equivalent English qualifications

CRICOS code

115906B

Entry requirements

Admission criteria

To be eligible for admission, an applicant must have achieved at least one of the following minimum entry requirements and fulfill any essential criteria for admission:

A completed bachelor (AQF level 7) or bachelor honours (AQF level 8) degree with an overall Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher (or equivalent academic performance) or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution; OR
A completed nested or related graduate certificate (AQF level 8) or higher with an overall Grade Point Average of 5.0 or higher (or equivalent academic performance) or equivalent from a recognised higher education institution.

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 6.0
IELTS Listening 6.0
IELTS Speaking 6.0
IELTS Writing 6.0

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 qualifications

International admissions by country

Country	Score
Australia - GPA 7.0 Scale	N/A

Why Master of Economics and Resource Policy?

Income support, health systems, education funding and affordable housing – these are all examples of public policies influencing our lives.

In our Master of Economics and Resource Policy specialising in Public Economics and Policy, you’ll gain the skills to shape and coordinate these policies. Make a positive impact on the lives of millions of people, particularly those in disadvantaged communities and developing countries.

Why are certain policies implemented? What makes a successful policy? What is the impact of these policies on individuals and society? Answer these questions and more through curated coursework taught by economics scholars and professionals in the field. Apply your learning to real-world issues including climate change and rising inflation rates and be prepared to tackle the modern economic environment.

Overview

Learn how to analyse, interpret and inform government policies and interventions that address contemporary global issues. Build core knowledge across courses in economic principles, global food and agricultural markets, principles of international trade and development, and cost-benefit analysis.

In your Public Economics and Policy specialisation, you’ll learn the processes of how economic decisions are made by governments and organisations. Discover how individuals and organisations can shape and govern economic interactions and policies that impact society. Build the knowledge required to understand how decisions and policies impact societal objectives.

Your courses will include topics like evaluation methods of public policy, labour economics and public economic theory. Build practical skills in your final year through an internship, research elective or undertake a professional career development opportunity. Lay the groundwork for your chosen profession by completing a research project, strengthening your knowledge in economics and resource policy. Graduates can expect to work in sectors like public service, industry, consultancies, not-for-profits and private businesses, or may continue to a PhD.

Key features

Learn from economic scholars and research-active economists.
Apply economic theory and methods to issues of resourcing and policy.
Gain a competitive edge in future careers with your specialisation in Public Economics and Policy.
Complete an internship, research or career development opportunity elective.
Undertake a personalised research project aligned to your career goals.
Study alongside a cohort of professionals with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

What you'll learn

During your first year of study, you’ll build foundational knowledge in key areas of economics and concepts and theories that help explain the world around us. Delve into economic theories in global food and agricultural production markets. Learn about analytical frameworks used by economists to better understand how a business can meet chosen objectives. Study current trade and economic development policies affecting global communities.

Learn how to apply modelling solutions to real-world problems. You’ll also start exploring topics specific to your specialisation through courses focused on the practical implementation of quantitative and qualitative methods and the role of the public sector on public welfare.

In your second year, continue exploring your specialisation with courses that will teach you how to evaluate public policy, make predictions on the impact of public policy and how to apply advanced theoretical foundations of public economics to everyday issues. You’ll also have a choice of elective courses and complete an applied research project.

Specialisations

The Master of Economics and Resource Policy is also available with specialisations in the following:

Economic Analysis
Global Food and Agribusiness
International Trade.

You can also choose to study this degree without a specialisation.

What courses you'll study

Complete 96 units comprising:

42 units from Core courses, and
Either:
24 units for one Specialisation from Specialisation, or
24 units from Discipline courses, and
30 units for Electives

Complete exactly 42 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Cost-Benefit Analysis	Course code BUSI5017	Units 6
Course name Global Food and Agricultural Markets	Course code BUSI5035	Units 6
Course name MERP Research Project	Course code BUSI6006	Units 12
Course name Economic Principles	Course code ECON5001	Units 6
Course name Research Methods and Development	Course code ECON6000	Units 6
Course name Principles of International Trade and Development	Course code IBUS5001	Units 6

Complete exactly 24 units from the following:

	Course code	Units
Course name Applied Econometrics	Course code ECON5006	Units 6
Course name Public Economics	Course code ECON5007	Units 6
Course name Impact Evaluation Methods for Economic Policy	Course code POLI6000	Units 6
Course name Monetary Economics	Course code BAFI6001	Units 6
Course name Game Theory	Course code BUSI6012	Units 6
Course name Labour Economics	Course code ECON6001	Units 6
Course name Public Economic Theory	Course code ECON6005	Units 6

Complete 30 units for either of the following:

Both of the following:
6 units from Free electives, and
24 to 30 units from Program electives, or
24 to 30 units from Program electives

	Course code	Units
Course name Monetary Economics	Course code BAFI6001	Units 6
Course name Game Theory	Course code BUSI6012	Units 6
Course name Microeconomic Theory	Course code ECON5004	Units 6
Course name Macroeconomic Theory	Course code ECON5106	Units 6
Course name Labour Economics	Course code ECON6001	Units 6
Course name Advanced Development Economics	Course code ECON6003	Units 6
Course name Public Economic Theory	Course code ECON6005	Units 6
Course name Agricultural Food and International Trade	Course code ECON6015	Units 6
Course name Services Trade	Course code ECON6016	Units 6
Course name MNCs, Trade and Sustainable Development	Course code ECON6017	Units 6
Course name Economics of International Trade	Course code ECON6018	Units 6
Course name Time Series Econometrics	Course code ECON6101	Units 6
Course name Advanced International Trade	Course code IBUS6000	Units 6
Course name Economics of International Finance	Course code IBUS6006	Units 6
Course name Behavioural Game Theory and Experiments	Course code PSYC6003	Units 6

Career outcomes

Work in the diverse field of economics or in a specialist role within public economics and policy. Become a leader in the dynamic intersection of economics and resource policy.

You could work as a government economist, providing advice, evaluating policies and conducting research for government agencies or ministries. You might be a government policy analyst, predicting the effectiveness of policies, evaluating their success and giving recommendations for improvement.

Other careers you might like to pursue include:

Policy adviser
Public sector manager
Public finance specialist
Public policy analyst
Public affairs specialist
Economic policy researcher.

Industry trends

The largest job creators will likely emerge from technological, environment and economic trends (World Economic Forum, 2023). These areas all draw on economic learning. Economic trends including rising cost of living, slow economic growth, geopolitical divisions and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic will likely continue disrupting the labour market (World Economic Forum, 2023). With disruptions predicted to rock global economies, your skillset will be in high demand. Governments will need your expert advice to inform the policies that will stabilise economic markets through challenging times and periods of rapid change.

How to apply

Check your eligibility

Before you begin, find the degree you wish to study and check you meet the academic entry requirements and English language requirements.

Entry requirements

Gather your relevant documents

Ensure you have all supporting documentation needed at the time of application to avoid delays.

How to apply

Complete and send your application

Apply through one of the University’s official agency partners, or via our online application system.

Apply now

How to apply

Applications for international students are open now, to begin your studies in 2026.

Apply through one of the University’s official Education Agents, or via our International Application System.

Find an Education Agent

Depending on your country of citizenship, you may be required to apply through one of our Education Agents.

Find an education agent in your country

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: