Masters (Coursework)
The Master of Applied Economics is a flexible two-year degree designed to prepare professional economists.
The Master of Applied Economics is a flexible two-year degree designed to prepare professional economists. You'll graduate with advanced knowledge and practical skills in economics, with broad expertise in research and strong communication skills.
A practicum is available for students seeking work experience in the field of economics. This program is delivered face-to-face and online to allow for most flexibility and accommodate various learning styles.
Professionals looking to upskill in the field of Economics and pursue ongoing professional development. If you're interested in developing capabilities in economics, including global and cultural competencies, critical thinking, and business communication skills, this degree is designed for you.
UNSW Business School has been ranked the #1 business school in Australia by AFR BOSS for the last two years in a row*. That means our business education leads the way in career impact, quality and reputation.
*AFR BOSS 2023 Best Business School Rankings
You will need to have graduated from a recognised bachelor's degree from an Australian university or equivalent overseas institution with a minimum overall grade of 65%, as determined by UNSW Postgraduate Coursework Entry Calculator.
Your prior learning can be recognised to reduce the program duration. For students with Bachelor of Economics or Bachelor of Business degree with economics specialisation or equivalent, Honours or Graduate Diploma, the 5 core courses may be waived.
For students with prior work experience of at least one year in the private or public sector (for example, clerical or administrative work in a commercial, not-for-profit or public service organisation, supervisory or management, banking, finance or marketing experience or other business-related positions) the prescribed economics practicum may be waived.
Additionally, students who have completed the Graduate Certificate in Economics (7412) with a minimum WAM of 65% can apply to articulate into this Masters coursework program and will receive 24 UOC of Advanced Standing.
A level of knowledge equivalent to a first-year undergraduate mathematics subject is assumed. Students without such knowledge are advised to contact the Postgraduate Program Coordinator in Economics, complete an appropriate self-assessment of university mathematics knowledge before the commencement of their first term and complete a Maths bridging course where appropriate.
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on your educational background and citizenship. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If you're completing an Australian Year 12 qualification (e.g. NSW HSC or equivalent), you do not need to provide anything extra to prove your proficiency. Your qualification will be used as evidence of your English proficiency.
If you do need to provide evidence of your English proficiency, this will be indicated in your application. You can prove this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College's Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
If you are applying for a Masters' degree, up to five courses, or 30 Units of Credit (UOC) may be awarded based on your previous business studies (bachelor or higher). An additional 12 Units of Credit for the Economics Practicum may be awarded for having at least one year of prior work experience in the private or public sector. You'll be notified of the credits in your official letter of offer.
You will need to have graduated from a recognised bachelor's degree from an Australian university or equivalent overseas institution with a minimum overall grade of 65%, as determined by UNSW Postgraduate Coursework Entry Calculator.
Your prior learning can be recognised to reduce the program duration. For students with Bachelor of Economics or Bachelor of Business degree with economics specialisation or equivalent, Honours or Graduate Diploma, the 5 core courses may be waived.
For students with prior work experience of at least one year in the private or public sector (for example, clerical or administrative work in a commercial, not-for-profit or public service organisation, supervisory or management, banking, finance or marketing experience or other business-related positions) the prescribed economics practicum may be waived.
Additionally, students who have completed the Graduate Certificate in Economics (7412) with a minimum WAM of 65% can apply to articulate into this Masters coursework program and will receive 24 UOC of Advanced Standing.
UNSW Business School English Language Requirement
International students are required to satisfy the UNSW Business School English Language requirement of IELTS 7.0 overall (minimum 6.0 in each subtest) or equivalent test.
A level of knowledge equivalent to a first-year undergraduate mathematics subject is assumed. Students without such knowledge are advised to contact the Postgraduate Program Coordinator in Economics, complete an appropriate self-assessment of university mathematics knowledge before the commencement of their first term and complete a Maths bridging course where appropriate.
You may be asked to provide evidence of your English proficiency to study at UNSW depending on whether you are from an English-speaking background or non-English speaking background. English language skills are vitally important for coping with lectures, tutorials, assignments and examinations - this is why UNSW requires a minimum English language competency for enrolment.
If English is not your first language, you'll need to provide proof of your English proficiency before you can be given an offer to study at UNSW. You can do this by providing evidence that you meet one or more of the following criteria:
If you need to improve your English skills before you start your degree, UNSW College's Academic English Programs are for you. The programs are suitable for various English levels and help you prepare for university studies and life in Australia.
If you are applying for a Masters' degree, up to four courses, or 24 Units of Credit (UOC) may be awarded based on your previous business studies (bachelor or higher). You'll be notified of the credits in your official letter of offer.
Careers in economics are about using data, maths and reason to understand behaviour, improve wellbeing and make a positive impact on people's lives. With highly transferable skills in analysis, statistics, data, problem-solving and communication, you can move across the private sector, financial institutions, and government departments.
UNSW Business School's Career Accelerator
Our degrees include up to two for-credit industry experiences, such as internships or global business practicums. These professional development opportunities complement your studies, build connections to industry, and give you a clear advantage after graduation.
Your opportunities are supported by our industry and alumni networks. As one of Australia's leading business schools we have strong connections to industry and more than 90,000 alumni worldwide who could be connections to your future career. Not only that, UNSW supports start-ups, with more founders than any other Australian university and over 300+ clubs to find people with complementary skillsets.