Economics

Economics is about how individuals, businesses and governments interact when resources are scarce (almost always!).

Studying in this area involves learning about human decision-making and behaviour, including how markets work and government intervention in them.

Economics is also about economic growth, poverty, international trade, etc, and about sectors of the economy such as health, education and the environment.

Wikipedia on Economics

NZ university majors related to this area

Though in the same subject area, they may be very different.

University of Otago

University of Auckland

Economics

University of Canterbury

Massey University

Lincoln University

Food & Resource Economics

Did you know?

Adam Smith (1723-90) published his book An Inquiry into the Nature and Causes of the Wealth of Nations in 1776.

This book was (and still is!) very influential and is considered to be the foundation of modern economics.

Examples of career opportunities

Most entail additional learning (lifelong learning!).

Economist
Agricultural economist
Business economist
Health economist
Development economist
Businessperson
Journalist
Politician
Economic historian
Econometrician
Public policy analyst
Foreign affairs analyst
Development agency analyst
Non-governmental organisation (NGO) worker
Social studies teacher
Social worker
Economics teacher
Academic

Income and employment prospects

Income

173% of national
median earnings

Employment

73%	Employed
2%	Unemployed
15%	Further study
10%	Other or unknown

Figures based on young domestic graduates 5 years after graduation. Source: Ministry of Education.

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