Economics Courses in New Zealand

Studying economics in New Zealand

Economics is a social science that studies society's production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. The subject can be intellectually stimulating and practical, providing insights into how societies allocate resources and make decisions. It seeks to understand and analyse the behaviour of economic agents, the functioning of the markets, and how various policies and decisions impact the overall well-being of society and individuals.

While studying economics in New Zealand, students will develop problem-solving, data analysis, computing and written and oral presentation skills, which are highly regarded and sought after in today’s economic climate.

Joint-honours degrees are also available, while subjects such as history, law and politics will help craft how you see economics past and future. Modules throughout the degree will include statistics, sustainable development, microeconomics, macroeconomics and decision theory.

Types of Degrees in Economics

Economics is a highly interdisciplinary subject that draws concepts from mathematics, statistics, sociology, psychology, and political science. It is classified into main categories: Microeconomics and Macroeconomics. 

Microeconomics focuses on the behaviour of individual economic agents, such as consumer firms, government organizations, firms, etc., and their interactions. Macroeconomics deals with the country's overall economy on a broader scale. It sheds light on the issues such as GDP (Gross Domestic Product), inflation, unemployment, etc.

Bachelor’s degree in Economics (B.A or B.Sc)

A Bachelor’s degree in Arts and a Bachelor’s degree in Science in Economics focus on the functional and foundational structure of economic principles and theoretical aspects, both macroeconomics and microeconomics. The curriculum involves coursework in mathematics, statistics, econometrics, and other financial subjects. A degree in economics can lead to jobs in finance, government, and research sectors. 

• Course duration - 3 years
• Course fees - $38,000
• Entry requirements - Must have completed NCEA/CIE/IB or any equivalent overseas qualification, along with an English proficiency test. 

Master’s Degree in Economics (M.A or M.Sc)

M.A. in Economics focuses on studying economics as a discipline at an advanced level. It is concerned with the theoretical portions of the subject. On the other hand, M.Sc in Economics comprises the study of principles in economics. The curriculum is primarily mathematical analysis along with theoretical knowledge. A master's in Economics in New Zealand can lead to jobs in economics and finance, or one can pursue a PhD for better career prospects. 

• Course duration - 2 years
• Course fees - $43,906
• Entry requirements - Bachelor’s degree with a B grade point or professional work experience and a TOEFL score of at least 90. 

PhD in Economics 

A PhD in Economics is a doctorate that studies applied economics, game theory, energy economics, etc. The curriculum covers corporate finance, international trade, economic issues, etc. These subjects are categorized into electives and core courses. The course aims to create critical, curious, and independent thinkers who can undertake original research. After completing a Ph.D., one can work as a professor, stockbroker, auditor, banker, industrial organization economist, etc. 

• Course duration - 3 years
• Course fees - $7,220
• Entry requirements - Master’s degree with a research thesis/Hons degree or PG diploma with a dissertation/thesis. 

Graduate Diplomas and Certificates in Economics

These short programs intend to provide the equivalent of a major in a different subject area to the first year’s degree major. 

• Course duration- 1 year
• Course fees - $15,132
• Entry requirements - Bachelor’s degree and an advanced level of study in your subject area. 

Online and Distance Learning Programs

Universities such as Massey University and Victoria University of Wellington offer online and distance learning courses in Economics. Studying Economics courses in New Zealand online allows students to learn remotely. Flexible options are available for working professionals. 

• Course duration - 3 years
• Course fees - $31,800
• Entry requirements - Relevant degree with qualified scores in the English Proficiency Test

Economics in New Zealand - Specializations

New Zealand offers economics in various specializations for different degrees. Only some of the programs are available in Hons and Cojoint. To know more about the specializations and programs, speak to an SI-New Zealand consultant. Students can specialize in a wide range of subjects, such as -

• Financial Economics
• Labour Economics
• International Economics
• Business Economics
• Environment Economics
• Development Economics 
• Econometrics
• Supply Chain Management
• Health Economics
• Public Economics
• Development Economics
• Property Economics

Economics Scholarships for International Students

New Zealand offers scholarships and financial assistance for international students. Government agencies and universities fund these scholarships. Financial aid varies widely regarding values, advantages, duration, and qualifying conditions. 

The Reserve Bank of New Zealand University Scholarship/Women in Central Banking Scholarship offers funds to domestic and International students pursuing banking, finance, or economics majors eligible for the Reserve Bank of New Zealand University Scholarship. It funds foreign students in their final year of Master’s or Hons degree who wish to study economics in New Zealand. 

• Eligibility - Final-year banking, finance, or economics students with at least a “B” grade must be legally permitted to work in NZ. 
• Scholarship awarded - $10,000

Other scholarships include -

Jobs and Careers

Economics has a significant role in the industry, as it improves business practice. In the current scenario, economics is applied everywhere, which can make a career in economics lucrative. It is applied in healthcare, finance, business, education, environment, etc.

Top Universities for Economics in New Zealand

To learn more about the best economics courses in New Zealand, find details on the top ranking Economics universities in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 below:

Study Economics Course in New Zealand FAQ

Which university is best for economics studies in New Zealand?

University of Waikato, University of Otago, Massey University, and the University of Auckland are some of the top universities for economic studies in New Zealand. They have different specializations available, such as MS Applied Finance and Economics, BS Economics, etc., with high pay scales in the market. 

Are international students able to secure jobs in New Zealand after completing an undergraduate degree in economics?

If you have pursued a degree level 7 qualification or higher, you can work on a post-study visa. This visa will allow you to work for up to three years after graduating.