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Economics

What’s on offer for postgraduates?

Postgraduate student profile

Economics is one of the older academic disciplines. Many popular postgraduate programs are therefore at the older universities and coursework options are sometimes concentrated at the masters rather than graduate certificate and graduate diploma level.

Postgraduate programs usually offer those familiar with economics the chance to specialise rather than giving those from other backgrounds an opportunity for career conversion. Entry to many postgraduate programs will therefore demand a degree or honours degree in economics or a closely related field.

Some programs focus on the main sub-disciplines in economics, such as modelling, econometrics, macroeconomics, economic theory. Others focus on economics within a particular area of activity, like agricultural, mining, health or property economics. Yet another group combines studies in
economics with other disciplines (e.g. business or history).

If you are contemplating a postgraduate research degree in economics you are likely to be better off looking at faculties and departments which have an established research program. Often these will be the older institutions but it will all depend on your specialisation. It is probably more important to find a supervisor with a good track record in your area of interest.

The experience and rewards

Visit the University Ratings section for economics course ratings or to see how economics rates in the Fields of Study Compared table.

According to the latest Course Experience Questionnaire survey, postgraduate economists are quite satisfied with their overall study experience. Employment prospects remain below average compared with other fields. On the upside, salaries are excellent at over $80,000 per year.

For more information

You may also find programs of interest in fields as diverse as accounting, business and management, and humanities and social sciences. If your interest is in the economics of particular fields (e.g. agriculture), you should also browse through their profiles.

Graem W. Kelly, PSM — MBA, including economics

Why did you decide to pursue postgraduate studies?
I undertook postgraduate studies to bring my knowledge up to date with current business best practice, to challenge my personal self-development and to work with contemporaries who seek to do the same. In particular I have found that economics is a subject that through theory gives sense to the complex workings of the economic environment not only with reference to business, industry, state or nation but also within the vagaries of the international business environement. It has been a challenging but enjoyable subject that gives practical insights into the workings of the economy. It is an important tool in the set of skills and knowledge all competent managers need, not least as a CEO.

Are postgraduate qualifications a requirement in your chosen field?
They are essential to future career development in being a competent and capable CEO. They show you to be up to date with contemporary best practice, define an ability to deal with variant pressures placed upon you in meeting timelines, make evident the ability to produce quality work and promote one's personal commitment to continuing self-development. All these are of extreme importance to prospective employers when seeking to further career development.

What do you hope to gain from your postgraduate studies?
I seek to further my development, become better rounded as a CEO and to challenge myself for continuing professional development.

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