Bachelor of Economics (BEc)
A Bachelor of Economics (BEc or BEcon) is an undergraduate academic degree awarded for studies in economics. Specialized economics degrees may also be conferred as "tagged" BA/BS (Econ), BCom (Econ), BSocSc (Econ), or variants such as "Bachelor of Economic Science." These degrees provide a comprehensive grounding in economic theories, principles, and models, equipping graduates with the analytical skills to address real-world economic issues.
Structure and Curriculum
BEcon and specialized economics degrees vary in structure across universities. Typically, they include a core of economic theory with specialized courses in various branches and applications. In common with general business or commerce degrees, economics can be combined with other disciplines such as finance, management, or quantitative subjects like mathematics or computer science.
The core curriculum typically comprises microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Microeconomics delves into demand and supply theory, while macroeconomics focuses on economy-wide models and policy analysis. Econometrics provides empirical grounding through statistical methods like regression and time series analysis. Building on this foundation, students explore major branches of economics, including monetary economics, international economics, and development economics.
Specializations and Applications
Many universities offer specialized pathways within economics degrees, such as development economics, econometrics/mathematical economics, agricultural economics, or business economics. Others allow specialization at the honors level. Some institutions offer "Bachelor of Applied Economics" or similar career-focused programs. Financial economics degrees integrate finance into the economics curriculum.
Electives in applied economics cover areas such as environmental economics, managerial economics, and health economics. Mathematical economics is often an elective, particularly for students pursuing graduate studies in economics who may take additional math courses in calculus, optimization, and analysis. Co-requisite courses outside of economics, such as business statistics or sociology, are typically required. Specialized BSc programs and Honors tracks often have more intensive mathematical requirements.