Key facts

UNE unit code: ECON480

*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.

Start
  • Not offered in 2026
24/7 online support
  • Yes
Intensive schools
  • No
Supervised exam
  • Yes
Credit points
  • 6

Unit information

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This capstone is your opportunity to put economics into action. You’ll tackle a real-world economic issue – local, national, or global – by designing and conducting your own research project, applying core economic concepts to analyse complex challenges that matter to communities and policymakers. Throughout the unit, you’ll sharpen your analytical skills as you evaluate economic policies and interventions, considering both their effectiveness and broader social implications. Using quantitative and qualitative research methods, you’ll gather and analyse data to inform evidence-based policy recommendations.
 
Professional communication is a key focus, equipping you to present your economic analysis and recommendations to both specialist and non-specialist audiences. The unit includes structured reflection on your development as an emerging economist, helping you identify your strengths and areas for future growth. Emphasising independent inquiry, critical analysis, and hands-on experience, this unit prepares you for diverse careers in economics, policy analysis, consulting, and beyond.

Intensive schools

There are no intensive schools required for this unit.

Enrolment rules

Pre-requisites
ECON101 and ECON102 and ECON201 and ECON202; or candidature in the GradDipEconomics and (ECON101 or ECON102) and (ECON201 or ECON301).

Notes

Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.

Unit coordinator(s)

To be advised

Learning outcomes

Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:

  1. synthesise and apply core microeconomic and/or macroeconomic concepts to analyse complex, real-world economic issues;
  2. critically evaluate economic policies or interventions, considering underlying assumptions, value judgements, and broader social and ethical impacts;
  3. design and conduct an independent or team-based research project using appropriate quantitative and/or qualitative data, and interpret findings to inform economic decision-making and policy;
  4. communicate economic analysis and recommendations clearly and professionally in both written and oral forms, tailored to specialist and non-specialist audiences; and
  5. reflect on your personal and professional development through the capstone experience, identifying strengths, challenges, and areas for future growth as an emerging economist.

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.

TitleMust CompleteWeightOfferingsAssessment Notes
Final Project Report & Presentation - Assurance Task Yes65%All offerings

Comprehensive written report presenting analysis, findings, and policy recommendations and 10-minute Q+A Presentation. The presentation will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology.

Word count: 5000 words 

Students must obtain at least 50% in Assessment Item 3 (and at least 50% overall) to receive a pass or better in the unit.

Progress Report and Peer FeedbackYes15%All offerings
Interim report on project progress, including literature review and preliminary analysis. Peer feedback report on a paired students progress report.
 
Word count: 1500 
Project ProposalYes10%All offerings
Outline of the chosen economic issue, research question, literature review plan, and proposed methodology.
 
Word count: 1000 words 
Reflective EssayYes10%All offerings

Individual reflection on the project process, challenges faced, learning outcomes, and professional development.

Word count: 500 

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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