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Economics at the University of Otago is more than a subject – it's a mind-set

Learn how to think in a logical way about a variety of issues that face us all every day. We help you develop great problem-solving skills that employers highly value.

You start with learning about the operation of market-oriented economies and the key principles of Economics. As you progress through your degree, you have the opportunity to study the different areas in more detail including international trade, the economics of developing countries and much more.

First year students of Economics at Otago

Here are a few things that First Year students of Economics should keep in mind:

There are no prerequisite subjects to study Economics, but you might find English and Mathematics or Statistics useful.

In the first year you will study the operation of market-oriented economies and the key principles of Economics, including:

  • Opportunity cost and comparative advantage
  • Strategic thinking
  • Money and monetary policy
  • Inflation and unemployment
  • Currency and financial markets
  • Economic growth in New Zealand and abroad

Each paper is taught in a lecture format and most papers include weekly tutorials where you'll have the opportunity to delve into the lecture topics in more detail.

Economics at Otago undergraduate programmes

There are a number of different study options for students of Economics at undergraduate level. You may choose to study Economics as a major, as a minor to complement another degree course; or even just take a few papers to complete your degree.

As a graduate, you have the option of studying for a Diploma for Graduates endorsed in Economics, which could gain you the equivalent of a major in Economics without taking an entire second degree.

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