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Field of Study

Economics and Public Policy

Master of Economics
Overview Study details

Learn from internationally respected academics about analytical techniques to evaluate, influence and develop effective public policy, and how to apply economics to make a positive difference.

This interdisciplinary field examines the complex relationship between public policy, governance and economics. You’ll learn the latest economic research from world-class teaching staff, including how governments develop policy and how their intervention affects the global economy. 

Explore international issues like the far-reaching impacts of economic policy, and how can we better understand the cost-benefit of migration. You'll gain the knowledge to be a leading authority in public sector economics and analysis, with the skills to effect social change and improve economic and community welfare. 

We adopt a unique economics-first approach to public policy, allowing students with no prior economics knowledge to gain in-depth knowledge of economic concepts. Drawing on knowledge from the School of Economics and the School of Political Science, you'll cover microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, political science, public policy and the contribution of economic analysis to public policy. You can choose to undertake a research component that may provide a pathway to a higher research degree.  

You’ll experience flexible, engaging, and real-world teaching that prepares you to actively contribute to the development of public policy within government departments, the public sector, inter-governmental organisations and consultancy. 

Highlights

1 in Queensland for social policy and administration

QS World University Rankings 2024

1 in Queensland for business and economics

Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024

Career possibilities

Postgraduate study can take you anywhere. Here are some of the careers you could be on your way to:

  • Policy program and evaluation consultant
  • Government and public affairs manager
  • Policy and economic adviser
  • Infrastructure and investment adviser

How you'll learn

Your learning experiences are designed to best suit the learning outcomes of the courses you choose.

  • Lectures
  • Tutorials
  • Online study
  • Research experience
  • Workshops

What you'll study

At UQ, subjects are called 'courses'. Here's a sample of the courses you could study:

  • The Macroeconomy
  • Consumer and Firm Behaviour
  • Competition Policy and Regulation
  • Behavioural Economics and Public Policy
  • Public Economics
  • Productivity and Efficiency Analysis

See courses and program structure

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