Economic Policy

About the major

The Economic Policy major focuses on developing the theoretical economic and statistical skills to be able to effectively understand economic policy. This will provide a framework for systematic analysis of policy, an understanding of the rationales for government activity in the economy, and a method for comparing the effectiveness of proposed policies using economic tools of analysis. A focus of the major will include an assessment of the limitation of various economic policies, including their distributional consequences. An emphasis will also be placed on the effective communication of policy analysis.

Requirements for completion

The Economic Policy major and minor requirements are listed in the Economic Policy unit of study table.

Learning outcomes

No.	Learning outcome
1	Demonstrate understanding of the key concepts, theories and methodologies used in economic policy debates.
2	Demonstrate knowledge of empirical tools used in the analysis of economic data and be able to interpret statistical results informed by economic theory.
3	Critically analyse the rationale for and implications of government policies in the economy.
4	Assess the potential effectiveness of economic policies using a theoretical framework and appropriate data statistical methodologies.
5	Communicate economic arguments analysing economic policy or government interventions to a general and specialist audience.
6	Analyse and assess economic thinking to work and/or research in an inter-disciplinary setting.
7	Demonstrate an understanding of the institutional framework in which government policy is formulated and implemented in Australia.

Advanced coursework

The Bachelor of Advanced Studies within the School of Economics provides students with a cohesive program in advanced studies in Economics. The advanced coursework units provide students with advanced theoretical knowledge and skillsets for analysing macroeconomic policy issues and practice in Australia and internationally. They equip students with an understanding of the fundamentals of modern models of corporate finance and governance. The project units will develop communication and research skills, and allow students to apply their knowledge to a real world or policy related problem, with the opportunity to collaborate with industry partners.

Requirements and units of study for advanced coursework can be found on the Economic Policy advanced studies units of study page.

Contacts and further information

Website: School of Economics
Email:

Example pathways

Economic Policy major pathway

Year and Semester	Units of Study
1st Year	S1	ECON1040 Principles of Economics
1st Year	S2	ECON1XXX Economic Policy major selective unit
2nd Year	S1	ECOS2020 Economic Data Analysis
2nd Year	S2	ECOS2XXX Economic Policy major selective unit
3rd Year	S1	ECOS3030 Applications of Economic Policy	ECOS3XXX Economic Policy major selective unit
3rd Year	S2	ECOS3XXX Economic Policy major selective unit	FASS3999 / ECON3999 Economic Policy Interdisciplinary Impact

Economic Policy minor pathway

Year and Semester	Units of Study
1st Year	S1	ECON1040 Principles of Economics
1st Year	S2	ECON1XXX Economic Policy major selective unit
2nd Year	S1	ECOS2020 Economic Data Analysis
2nd Year	S2	ECOS2XXX Economic Policy major selective unit
3rd Year	S1	ECOS3030 Applications of Economic Policy
3rd Year	S2	ECOS3XXX Economic Policy major selective unit

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The University of Sydney - Arts and Social Sciences (Undergraduate) Handbook 2022