Key facts
UNE unit code: GEPL501
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information

The fortune and feel of modern cities is shaped by many things but arguably most fundamental is economic change.
An understanding of economics can help us to answer questions such as: Why do cities exist? Why do houses cost as much as do? Why do corporations locate their offices in particular cities? And why is hosting the Olympics such a big deal for a city?
In this unit you will explore the interconnected nature of economic change and urban development drawing on contemporary case studies from Australian cities.
Future proof your career in planning and public policy and learn more about how economics affects development at every level.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)

Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate advanced and integrated theoretical knowledge of a range of contemporary dynamic economic factors that impact and shape urban environments;
- engage expertly in debates on a variety of contemporary urban development issues and their relationship to economics;
- select, critically analyse and expertly synthesise material relevant to economics and urban development from a broad range of sources and transmit findings with expert communication skills; and
- independently gather and apply knowledge of economic change and urban development and apply it with advanced judgment in dynamic professional contexts.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Small Discussion Group | Yes | 25% | All offerings | Ten-minutes (approx.) per student No. Words: 1000 (equivalent) |
| Small Discussion Group - Assurance Task 1 | Yes | 35% | All offerings | Twelve-minutes (approx.) per student Students must pass both Assurance Tasks in order to pass the unit. No. Words: 2000 (equivalent) |
| Small Discussion Group - Assurance Task 2 | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Fifteen-minutes (approx.) per student Students must pass both Assurance Tasks in order to pass the unit. No. Words: 3000 (equivalent) |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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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.*
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