Key facts

Domestic students course information.

Entry requirements

Entry is based on a UNE Bachelor of Economics, or an equivalent relevant bachelor qualification.

Entry is based on a UNE Bachelor of Economics, or an equivalent relevant bachelor qualification. English language requirements must also be met.

View full entry requirements
Duration
  • 1 year full-time
  • Up to 2 years part-time
Number of Units (Subjects)
  • 8 units (48 credit points)
View course structure
Fees
  • Commonwealth Supported Place
  • International
View more fees information
CRICOS code
  • 016028A
Start Dates and Campus
Trimester 1 – February 2024Trimester 2 – June 2024Trimester 3 – October 2024
OnlineOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Armidale CampusOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Sydney CampusNot OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered
OnlineOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Armidale CampusOfferedOfferedNot Offered
Sydney CampusNot OfferedNot OfferedNot Offered

Course information

Download course brochure
UNE student sits at desk and takes notes from laptop

Modern economies are complex and dynamic. The forces that affect trade, growth, prices, supply and demand are constantly changing. In this evolving environment, economists research wide ranging topics and provide essential insights to business, government and society to inform decisions on how to allocate scarce resources.

Our Bachelor of Economics with Honours will allow you to research a problem that interests you under the guidance of a supervisor who is a specialist in the relevant field. You will identify patterns in data, critique the results in the context of current events, and communicate the insights you generate in clear and concise language to add value for decision makers in business and government.

Why study the Bachelor of Economics with Honours with UNE?

If you are a high-achieving student with above average grades in your Bachelor of Economics, you have the opportunity to undertake a fourth year of honours research in a specialised area of study.

The UNE Business School has a strong record of cross-disciplinary research. Our goal is to produce evidence-based analysis of practical significance. In applying our disciplinary skills, we seek to deliver solid, commercial and sustainable benefits to our regional, national and global stakeholders. Our staff have a wide range of research interests in Economics, Applied Econometrics and Economic History.

By completing an in-depth research project leading to a dissertation, you will work independently to solve economic problems using advanced analysis and quantitative techniques. You will enhance your ability to analyse data and communicate your results clearly, enabling people to understand your findings and recommendations.

By choosing UNE, you are choosing an industry leader in the provision of online lifelong learning. Year after year, our students award UNE the maximum 5-star ratings for Overall Experience and Student Support in The Good Universities Guide.

What makes our course different?

Our research-based honours year in economics gives you the opportunity to:

  • Hone your analytical skills by applying them to a specific research project.
  • Enhance your verbal and written communication skills, by presenting research findings in clear and concise language tailored to your audience.
  • Take advantage of our expertise in agricultural economics, environmental and natural resource economics, climate change economics and policy.
  • Study elective units such as statistics, mathematics and computer science to complement your research project and enhance your existing expertise.
  • Choose between studying online or on campus in Armidale.
  • Complete your studies and dissertation in one year full-time or over two years part-time.
  • Pursue higher degree research studies on completion of your honours year.

Study online

Most of our students choose to study online across three study periods with 24/7 tutor support* and fit study around work and family commitments. Uniquely, our online students are mostly over 30 and bring valuable experience with them. They form a community of adults juggling the same challenges and priorities and who bring their life and work experience together at UNE in order to become future-fit and better respond to a rapidly changing world.

Study on campus

Many of our students choose to take advantage of the on-campus lifestyle in Armidale, in the beautiful New England region, with access to unparalleled support, accommodation and sporting facilities. These students are often starting their first degree and have left school recently. Through access to academic and career support they get a fantastic start to their careers.

* 24/7 tutor support includes: essay feedback (within 24 hours); live chat 24/7 for generic feedback on academic writing; and subject-specific help at a foundation or first-year level for subjects including mathematics, chemistry, biology, physics, business, accounting, microeconomics, macroeconomics and statistics. There are also a wide range of workshops, resources and courses available in academic skills support to assist you and help you to succeed.

Entry requirements

Select the option that best describes you.

If you are an international applicant who wants to study on campus in Australia:

You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.

You can apply for this course if you meet all of the following entry requirements:

  • You have completed the UNE Bachelor of Economics, or an equivalent relevant Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) as determined by the Head of School.
  • You have passed a minimum of 24 credit points of units in Economics, Geography and/or Quantitative methods at 300-level (or equivalent).
  • You have completed a minimum of 36 credit points of units in Economics, Geography and/or Quantitative methods at 200-level or above (or equivalent), with a Credit result or better.

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Visa Information

On-Campus study
If you would like to study full-time in Australia at one of UNE's campuses, you will need to have a visa that allows you to study. For most international students this visa will need to be a Student Visa. The Australian Department of Home Affairs has further information about visa eligibility and conditions.

If you are an international applicant who wants to study online (overseas or in Australia):

You will need to meet both the Academic and English Language Requirements to gain admission into this course. Meeting academic requirements means we review what you have already studied to see if you have the results needed for admission to your preferred course.

You can apply for this course if you meet all of the following entry requirements:

  • You have completed the UNE Bachelor of Economics, or an equivalent relevant Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) as determined by the Head of School.
  • You have passed a minimum of 24 credit points of units in Economics, Geography and/or Quantitative methods at 300-level (or equivalent).
  • You have completed a minimum of 36 credit points of units in Economics, Geography and/or Quantitative methods at 200-level or above (or equivalent), with a Credit result or better.

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

International applicants, please note: You may also need to show evidence of your English language proficiency to the Department of Home Affairs if you are applying for a Student Visa.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Visa Information

Online study in your own country
If you would like to study online with UNE while you reside outside of Australia you do not need a Student Visa. If your course requires you to visit Australia to attend any mandatory study requirements, you would need to explore Visitor Visa options for a short-term stay.

Online study in Australia
If you would like to study online with UNE while you are residing in Australia, you will need to hold a visa (other than a Student Visa) that allows you to study. If you are unsure if your visa allows you to study, you can check with UNE's International Admissions team. If you hold a Student Visa you cannot study completely online; you must be enrolled as an on-campus student (although you can study a limited number of online units).

Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:

  • A certified academic transcript of your completed qualification. If your qualification has been completed at UNE, this is not required.
  • A completed thesis proposal form. This must be included in your online application.
  • Proof of identity and citizenship. This can be a certified/notarised copy of the photo page of your passport, or another form of official photo identification that lists your full personal details including name and date of birth; for example, a foreign government identity card.
  • Evidence of English Language Requirements satisfied. If you have completed a UNE-approved formal English test within the last two years, you must provide a copy of the test results with your application. Please see UNE’s English Language Requirements above for further information.

Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.

Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.

Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for the unit BUS481C Dissertation.

> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing

You can apply for this course if you meet all of the following entry requirements:

  • You have completed the UNE Bachelor of Economics, or an equivalent relevant Bachelor qualification (AQF Level 7 or overseas equivalent) as determined by the Head of School.
  • You have passed a minimum of 24 credit points of units in Economics, Geography and/or Quantitative methods at 300-level (or equivalent).
  • You have completed a minimum of 36 credit points of units in Economics, Geography and/or Quantitative methods at 200-level or above (or equivalent), with a Credit result or better.

If you are admitted on this basis, you will be eligible for admission under standard entry. Please see the Course Structure (Program of Study).

Please note: all admissions are subject to UNE’s Admission, Credit and Enrolment Policy. Please read and familiarise yourself with the details of the policy. See our Glossary for help with university terms.

These requirements are in addition to the entry requirements above.

English Language Requirements

When applying you may be required to show how you satisfy the English Language Requirements for this course.

Intensive Schools

Mandatory intensive schools on campus may be a requirement of some of the units in this course. Please see the UNE Course Handbook for the specific requirements of each unit.

Some courses require you to provide documentary evidence, or interviews to support your application. The following documents are required to support your application:

  • A certified academic transcript of your completed qualification. If your qualification has been completed at UNE, this is not required.
  • A completed thesis proposal form. This must be included in your online application.

Advanced Standing is credit or recognition of your previous study, work and/or life experience. This can reduce the cost and length of your studies.

Individual Unit Advanced Standing
If you are admitted into this course and believe you have already completed the equivalent of one or more of the units in your Course Structure (Program of Study) within the last ten years, you can apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing.

Please note: Advanced Standing cannot be granted for the unit BUS481C Dissertation.

> Learn how to apply for Individual Unit Advanced Standing

Course structure

A candidate for the program shall complete advanced coursework units at 400-level or above to the value of 24 credit points in the relevant subject and a dissertation component with a value of 24 credit points in the relevant subject. The advanced Elective coursework units can be selected from any unit offered by the University, as approved by the Course Coordinator, subject to candidates meeting overall course requirements and prerequisite and timetabling requirements for individual units.

36 credit points

Complete the following units:

Note: You may choose only ONE of the following units: ECON408 or ECON409.

12 credit points

Complete 12 credit points at 400 level. Elective Units can be selected from any unit offered by the University subject to candidates meeting overall course requirements and prerequisite and timetabling requirements for individual units and approval from the Course Coordinator.

See UNE Handbook for more details. The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course plans, exit awards, intensive schools, and work placement requirements.

Fees and scholarships

How much will it cost?

Estimated fees for your first year of study in this course are:

Fee typeCost
International
$30,200*
Commonwealth Supported Place
$16,320*
Estimated amenities fee per year if studying full-time$351

*Annual course fees only cover the cost of tuition. They do not include other expenses associated with university study such as text books, accommodation and living expenses. If you are successful in gaining admission to study at UNE, the Offer of Admission will list the exact tuition fees you need to pay for your course. Fees quoted cover full-time tuition for two full-time trimesters only. For more information, please see fees and costs.

*The costs will depend on the units you choose to study as the cost of individual units vary. “Estimated fees” are provided as a guide only based on a typical enrolment of students undertaking a study load of 48 credit points in the first year of this course. For courses that require less than 48 credit points the fees indicated are based on the total credit points required for completion of that course. For more information, please see fees and costs. If applicable, Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) Student Contribution Fees are indicative from 2023. The 2024 CSP rates are still being finalised by the Government and we will update the information as soon as we have more details.

What are the course fee payment options?

A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) is a government subsidised place in a university course. The government pays part of your tuition fees, and you pay the remainder.

If you have a CSP in either an undergraduate or postgraduate (coursework) degree, you may be eligible for a HECS-HELP Loan, which allows you to defer payment of your fees until you are earning above the threshold.

UNE scholarships are open for all to apply and offer financial help while you are studying. There are scholarships for students with high academic achievement, from rural areas, studying specific degrees, in disadvantaged groups, experiencing financial hardship, who excel at sport or want to live in a UNE residential college.

UNE scholarship applications are free and confidential. You may apply for more than one scholarship.

Scholarships

UNE offers bursaries and scholarships that can help you with the costs of studying and living in Australia.

The UNE International Bursary reduces the published annual tuition fees for international students by up to 20%. These bursaries are available for international students commencing coursework studies at UNE in 2024. View detailed Bursary information.

UNE also offers a number of substantial research scholarships to postgraduate students studying research-based degrees.

Your career

Career outcomes

UNE’s Bachelor of Economics with Honours provides you with the advanced economic analytical skills needed to excel in positions such as policy officer, analyst, economic modeler or adviser in organisations including:  

  • public services such as the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority, the Reserve Bank of Australia or Treasury 
  • federal and state government departments 
  • private sector businesses 
  • international agencies such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and the United Nations.  
Other career information

Economists have hourly earnings that put them in the top 3 per cent of earnings by occupation, a Reserve Bank of Australia analysis of Australian Taxation Office data has found. 

Course outcomes

The Bachelor of Economics with Honours is designed to equip graduates with the knowledge and skill necessary to either enhance their professional career prospects or to advance to higher degree studies. This degree program allows well-qualified Bachelor of Economics graduates to undertake a fourth year of study comprising a major research component and specialised subject areas.
  1. identify, coherently explain and synthesise disciplinary concepts to economic issues at an advanced level and demonstrate knowledge of research principles and methods;
  2. apply critical economic reasoning and advanced analytical skills to complex problems, in order to make informed judgements and decisions;
  3. reflect on the nature and implications of assumptions and value judgements in economic analysis and policy;
  4. undertake an independent investigation of a research problem and write a scholarly dissertation describing the research; and
  5. demonstrate proficiency in information transfer in written and oral formats.
Knowledge of a Discipline

Students develop advanced knowledge in the areas of economics and econometrics through lectures, tutorials, readings, online activites, practical experience and interaction with unit coordinators. This course emphasises the use and application of economic knowledge and skills in regional, national and international contexts. This global perspective is important in understanding issues confronting economists in a continuously changing environment. Knowledge will be assessed through a variety of assessment tasks such as assignments, examinations and report writing.

Communication Skills

Communication skills are essential in this course and students will develop both written and oral competency. These communication skills will be taught, practised and assessed in numerous activities including written assignments, report writing based on professional workplace experience, oral presentations, in-class and online discussions.

Problem Solving

Students will combine discipline knowledge with information literacy skills to develop their adeptness in being able to apply critical thinking to identify problems and to formulate solutions, particularly through the application of advanced discipline knowledge to real-world issues.

Information Literacy

Students will use various forms of media to obtain information and data for written assignments and other assessment tasks. Students will be able to use, critically analyse, interpret, construct and communicate economic and quantitative data, with an emphasis on economic decision making and policy applications.

Ethical Conduct and Social Responsibility

Students are taught numerous dimensions of social responsibility in relation to economic decision making. Students will be able to acknowledge and respect the viewpoints and ideas of others, behave ethically, and appreciate the importance of the environment and sustainability.

Lifelong Learning

Lifelong learning skills are taught and practised in assessment tasks. The discipline knowledge, information literacy and problem solving skills obtained in this course equip students with the ability to understand, interpret and critically evaluate regional, national and international economic issues. Students have the opportunity to undertake independent research and gain experience in oral seminar presentations.

Independence and Collaboration

Students will have worked independently as well as collaboratively with a multidisciplinary group to achieve common goals, solve problems, contribute specialist knowledge and contribute to group performance.

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024
Woman studying online at home

Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.

We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*

*The Good Universities Guide

A five-star experience

2024 Overall Experience Good University Logo

Five Stars,
18 Years in a Row

UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 18 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience

Good Universities Guide 2007-2024
2024 Student Experience Good University Logo

No.1 in NSW for
Student Experience

QILT (government-endorsed) ranks UNE as the top public NSW uni for Student Experience

QILT Student Experience Survey
2024 Teaching Quality Good University Logo

Five Stars for
Teaching Quality

UNE rates among the top 20 per cent of universities in Australia for Teaching Quality

Good Universities Guide 2024
Woman studying online at home

Studying online

At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian University.

As an international student you can take advantage of flexible online study from overseas or while you are studying in Australia on a visa other than a student visa. You can’t study fully online on a Student Visa.

To study online from overseas you need to consider that you may need to travel to Australia to attend a UNE campus for some mandatory intensive schools.

Studying on Campus

Whether you are an undergraduate student coming to study in Australia for the first time, a PhD student coming to live here with your family, or you only need short-stay accommodation whilst in Armidale for Intensive Schools, we have the perfect accommodation option for you.

Find out more about studying on campus

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Why study with us?

Testimonial placeholder icon of a university graduate

My most rewarding experience was understanding the theory of macro and micro economics prior to Hawke/Keating and Howard eras of Federal Government.

Peter Ireland, Director, Shamrock Consulting Services

Why study with us?

UNE student on campus in Armidale

My lecturers are amazing, and the facilities and resources are fantastic. Also, everyone is so helpful. I live at Mary White College and have made great friends.

Farai Tariro Masiyakurima, Bachelor of Business graduate

How to apply

Applying to UNE is quick and easy. If you are an
you can apply at any time. Apply now and we'll get you started in the next possible intake.

Preparing to apply

You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.

The kind of documents you need will depend on:

  • Your preferred course/s
  • Your personal circumstances
Applying to UNE is quick and easy. If you are applying as a
, the application process may be a little different depending on who you are and what you want to study.

Preparing to apply

You should always provide the details of past or current studies in your application. You may also need to include documents to support your application.

The kind of documents you need will depend on:

  • Your preferred course/s
  • Your personal circumstances

Important Dates

Different application methods and courses can have different closing dates. To find your correct application method click the Apply Now button below. Please check the appropriate application website for opening and closing dates.

If you are applying online direct to UNE please see below for application dates.

IntakeApplication Closing DateTrimester Start Date
Trimester 116 February 2024*26 February 2024
Trimester 214 June 2024*24 June 2024

*Early closing date

Important Notice for Prospective Students

For accurate, up-to-date details on entry requirements, course structure, and other essential information, please consult the UNE Student Handbook before applying or enrolling. The Handbook provides comprehensive guidance to assist in your decision-making process. We apologise for any inconvenience.