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Study Economics at Otago

A framework for thinking

Economics is about choice and is at the heart of decision-making. Governments, businesses and individuals are all faced with making choices in situations where resources are scarce.

Economics is not just a subject, it is a way of thinking, and provides a logical way of looking at a variety of issues. That’s why Otago Economics graduates are so well regarded – they are leading problem solvers and think outside the square.

Why study Economics?

Economics is an exciting, dynamic, contemporary field. Economics affects everyone and applies to a range of disciplines including business, politics, history, law, health sciences and biotechnology. It deals with topics such as unemployment, economic growth, housing, income inequality, international trade, sustainable development and the environment. You name the field, Economics plays a part.

Studying Economics teaches you how to examine people's ideas and come to your own soundly-based conclusions. No matter what career you're aspiring to, you will find Economics invaluable.

Career opportunities

Otago Economics graduates are well known for their wide range of analytical, problem solving and decision-making skills, and are in high demand by employers. There are literally countless jobs for Economics graduates. You could be a policy analyst, a business consultant, an economics researcher, a financial adviser, a diplomat, a teacher, a bank manager or a journalist. An Economics background would also be invaluable for someone contemplating setting up his or her own business.

Our graduates can be found in jobs across the public and private sectors, for example:

  • Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
  • Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade
  • OECD
  • Infometrics
  • Reserve Bank
  • Treasury
  • Statistics New Zealand
  • Inland Revenue
  • Banking – national and international
  • Health authorities
  • Local governments and planning authorities
  • United Nations

Economics at Otago

Economics is all about choice. This also applies to how you study the programme.

Economics can be studied as:

  • the major for a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) or Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree
  • one of the majors for a BACom, BComSc or BASc combined degree
  • part of the multidisciplinary major in Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) for the BA or BCom

The choice is yours!

Teaching style

Each paper is taught in a lecture format and most papers include weekly tutorials where you'll have the opportunity to discuss the lecture topics in more detail. Just like at secondary school, assessment will include assignments, tests, essays and exams.

Double major/degree options

Economics complements a range of other majors and degree programmes such as Finance, Accountancy, Marketing Management, Management, Law, Political Studies, Philosophy, History, Geography, Psychology, Mathematics and a range of languages. The options are endless.

Student exchange

The University of Otago has exchange agreements with more than 100 institutions in over 30 countries. If your marks average B or better, you may qualify to attend one of these institutions for one semester or for a year. You pay only your New Zealand fees and complete your qualification within the same timeframe as if you'd never been away. Commerce students are also encouraged to participate in one of the more than 50 specific business exchanges the Otago Business School offers.

Recommended background

There are no prerequisite subjects to study Economics – you don't even have to have studied Economics at school. However, you might find English, Mathematics or Statistics useful subjects to study – especially if you want to major in Economics.

Choose a study option

Whether you're embarking on your academic journey with our comprehensive undergraduate programmes or aiming to reach new heights through our advanced postgraduate offerings, Otago is here to support your aspirations.

Undergraduate qualifications

For new and current students studying towards a Bachelor's or other first degree. Explore undergraduate qualifications at Otago, designed to build a strong foundation in your chosen field, preparing you for a successful career or further study.

Note: this subject can also be studied as a minor.

Ready to apply?

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Further study opportunities

Whether you are looking to bridge your undergraduate studies to advanced knowledge or aiming to specialise in a specific field, Otago offers a range of graduate and postgraduate options to suit your aspirations.

Programme details

Compare programmes for this subject as a major and minor (where available).

Papers

View a list of all related papers below.


More information

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Regulations on this page are taken from the 2025 Calendar and supplementary material.

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