Economics

Become a professional who can facilitate better decision making when confronting the problems that face our commercial and government industries. You'll graduate with a greater understanding of human behaviour and a solid grounding in economic theory and history.

Economics at La Trobe

Develop key skills in quantitative methods, economic modelling, statistics and the process of applying economics to policy issues and real world problems.

We design our course through a collaboration of academics, industry leaders and professional bodies to embed our curriculum with social relevance and real world examples. You’ll graduate ready to take on roles where business and society connect.

Be confident that your university is among the top three in Victoria for banking, finance and investment research. We also place in the world’s top 300 for economics and econometrics subjects (QS 2016/17 Rankings).

You’ll learn from industry experienced professionals and connect with business and industry partners including Deloitte, PwC and ANZ Bank through our industry-led seminars and work placement opportunities.

You may be eligible to join professional bodies like CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CA ANZ) after completing your course. Refer to the detail for each course below to see what professional registration and membership options exist.

We encourage our students to expand cognitive flexibility, social intelligence, resilience, curiosity and empathy to become tomorrow’s decision makers and opinion shapers. You’ll have the opportunity to join the student-led PPE Society and attend regular meetings and high-profile public events.

Career opportunities

A qualification in economics is your key into a career in any sector of the industry. Graduate with the skills and knowledge to stand out in a competitive field. You could consider working in such positions as:

  • financial officer
  • accountant
  • economist
  • business analyst
  • auditor
  • business consultant.

Courses

Local students

NB: The ATARs published here are Clearly In ATAR Rank as a quick guide, based on the most recent intake, and can change from year to year. Additional information on the 2017 intake is now available at the ATAR Wizard.

2017 - apply now

Bachelor of Commerce
Duration :
3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Semester starts :
February, July and November
Campus/ATAR*:
Melbourne 80
Year
2017
About this course
La Trobe's Bachelor of Commerce gives you the opportunity to complete a professionally accredited major along with the chance to talk and work with business professionals while you study. Choose from majors in accounting, economics, finance, management and marketing.

Our Professional Practice in Business program offers internships, practicums, case studies, travel tours, company visits and professional industry-led seminars. Through these experiences, you'll be able to discuss current issues in business and see how your studies apply in a professional working environment.

In your first year, along with foundational business subjects, you'll work as part of a small multidisciplinary Business Foundations project team to research a social problem and develop an action plan. In second year, you'll work with another multidisciplinary team on the Sustainability project to define a solution to a local environmental issue. This will refine your research, presentation, analysis and problem-solving skills.

In third year, you'll further enhance these skills through the Entrepreneurship project, in which your team will identify a business opportunity and develop a business plan.

Alongside these projects, you can also complete a second major from across the University. Choose from languages, maths, science, humanities or a second commerce major.

You can apply to study this course at Melbourne Campus through our Hallmark Scholars Program.
Career opportunities
You'll graduate with a network of business contacts and the ability to take on roles where business and society connect.
Professional recognition
The Marketing major in the Bachelor of Commerce is accredited by the Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) until 2018. Depending on subject choice within the Bachelor of Commerce, students may be eligible to graduate with an accounting qualification accredited by CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ); please refer to the Handbook for further details.

Membership may require an application to the professional body and may have additional or ongoing requirements beyond the completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in English other than EAL.
NB: Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available.
How to apply
Apply now to start in Summer Semester 2017/18.

To find out more about this course and studying at La Trobe:
- ask us a question
- book a one-on-one consultation
- chat online
- visit our FAQ page
- connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
- call us on 1300 135 045.
See Student Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.

The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:

2018

Bachelor of Commerce
Duration :
3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Semester starts :
March, July, November
Campus/ATAR*:
Melbourne 80
Year
2018
About this course
La Trobe's Bachelor of Commerce gives you the opportunity to complete a professionally accredited major along with the chance to talk and work with business professionals while you study. Choose from majors in accounting, economics, finance, management and marketing.

Our Professional Practice in Business program offers internships, practicums, case studies, travel tours, company visits and professional industry-led seminars. Through these experiences, you'll be able to discuss current issues in business and see how your studies apply in a professional working environment.

In your first year, along with foundational business subjects, you'll work as part of a small multidisciplinary Business Foundations project team to research a social problem and develop an action plan. In second year, you'll work with another multidisciplinary team on the Sustainability project to define a solution to a local environmental issue. This will refine your research, presentation, analysis and problem-solving skills.

In third year, you'll further enhance these skills through the Entrepreneurship project, in which your team will identify a business opportunity and develop a business plan.

Alongside these projects, you can also complete a second major from across the University. Choose from languages, maths, science, humanities or a second commerce major.

You can apply to study this course at Melbourne Campus through our Hallmark Scholars Program.
Career opportunities
You'll graduate with a network of business contacts and the ability to take on roles where business and society connect.
Professional recognition
The Marketing major in the Bachelor of Commerce is accredited by the Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) until 2018. Depending on subject choice within the Bachelor of Commerce, students may be eligible to graduate with an accounting qualification accredited by CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ); please refer to the Handbook for further details.

Membership may require an application to the professional body and may have additional or ongoing requirements beyond the completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.
Prerequisite
VCE Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in English other than EAL.
NB: Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available.
How to apply
Apply through VTAC if you're currently in Year 12 or you're applying for more than one course or institution.

If you're only applying for one La Trobe course and not considering study at another institution, you can apply direct until applications close in December. Late direct applications may be accepted.

To find out more about this course and studying at La Trobe:

- ask us a question
- chat online
- visit our FAQ page
- connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
- call us on 1300 135 045.
See Student Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.

The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Laws
Duration :
5 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Semester starts :
Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Campus/ATAR*:
Melbourne 90.2
Year
2018
About this course
Combine studies in accounting, economics, finance, management and marketing with the thorough knowledge of the law you need for legal practice in this double degree.

Your Bachelor of Commerce offers a choice of five majors: accounting, economics, finance, management or marketing.

Our Professional Communication and Practice in Business program provides opportunities for you to engage with business professionals through internships, practicums, case studies, travel tours, company visits and professional industry-led seminars. These experiences give you the chance to discuss current business issues and see how your studies apply in a professional environment.

We focus on developing your skills in critical thinking, analysis, advocacy, mediation and negotiation, and allow you to build a specialised degree through your elective choices. You'll also get the chance to work with judges and magistrates, and undertake placements in real legal workplaces.
Career opportunities
You'll graduate with an understanding of how business and law intersect in areas such as banking and finance law, income taxation law and global business law. As well as going on to legal practice, you could work in corporate and not-for-profit organisations, business consultancies, investment banking, government or public policy.
Professional recognition
The Marketing major of the Bachelor of Commerce is accredited by the Australian Marketing Institute until 2018. Membership may require an application to the professional body and may have additional or ongoing requirements beyond the completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details. Depending on subject choice within the Bachelor of Commerce, students may be eligible to graduate with an accounting qualification accredited by CPA Australia; please refer to the Handbook for further details.

Professional registration may require an application to the professional body and may have additional or ongoing requirements beyond the completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details. All La Trobe University Bachelor of Laws and Juris Doctor law courses include the subjects required by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board to qualify for admission to the legal profession in Victoria as an Australian lawyer.

Admission to the legal profession by the Supreme Court of Victoria also requires the completion of practical legal training either by a 12-month period of Supervised Legal Training or by completing an approved practical legal training course (for example, at the Leo Cussen Institute or The College of Law). Candidates for admission to practise must also satisfy the Admissions Board that they are a fit and proper person to be admitted to practise.
Prerequisite
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL.
NB: Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available.
Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements
Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal Statement online for other information to be considered during the selection process e.g. details on work experience or reasons for applying.

Subject bonus
A study score of 25 in any Business or any Humanities equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in any LOTE equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
How to apply
Apply through VTAC if you're currently in Year 12 or you're applying for more than one course or institution.

If you're only applying for one La Trobe course and not considering study at another institution, you can apply direct until applications close in December. Late direct applications may be accepted.

To find out more about this course and studying at La Trobe:

- ask us a question
- chat online
- visit our FAQ page
- connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
- call us on 1300 135 045.
See Student Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.

The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of Business
Duration :
5 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Semester starts :
Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Campus/ATAR*:
Bendigo N/A
Year
2018
About this course
Combine a foundation in business with a recognised legal qualification through this double degree. You'll learn the fundamentals of business, economics and finance, and gain the skills and knowledge you need to work in legal practice.

The business component of your degree offers a choice of majors including management, human resources, international business, sport management and marketing. Your first year subjects will give you an overview of business practice and prepare you to take on higher-level problem solving as you progress through the course.

Your law studies will include all the subjects required by the Victorian Council of Legal Education to qualify for legal practice. We focus on developing your skills in critical thinking, analysis, advocacy, mediation and negotiation, and you can build a specialised degree through your elective choices.

Only the first two years of this course are offered in Bendigo. While it is possible to arrange long-distance learning, we recommend transferring to the Melbourne Campus to complete your degree with a wider selection of subjects. Law electives are also available in intensive delivery at Melbourne in summer and winter schools.

Our unique industry Professors of Practice work within this course to improve course curriculum, student learning experience, and engage with industry and business.
Career opportunities
You'll graduate with an understanding of how business and law intersect in areas such as banking and finance law, income taxation law and global business law. You could go on to careers in the law, corporate and not-for-profit organisations, governance and public policy.
Professional recognition
All La Trobe University Bachelor of Laws and Juris Doctor law courses include the subjects required by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board to qualify for admission to the legal profession in Victoria as an Australian lawyer.

Admission to the legal profession by the Supreme Court of Victoria also requires the completion of practical legal training either by a 12-month period of Supervised Legal Training or by completing an approved practical legal training course (for example, at the Leo Cussen Institute or The College of Law). Candidates for admission to practise must also satisfy the Admissions Board that they are a fit and proper person to be admitted to practise.

The Marketing major in the Bachelor of Business is accredited by the Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) until 2018. Professional registration may require an application to the professional body and may have additional or ongoing requirements beyond the completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.

Depending on subject choice within the Bachelor of Business, students may be eligible to graduate with an accounting qualification accredited by CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ); please refer to the Handbook for further details. Professional registration may require an application to the professional body and may have additional or ongoing requirements beyond the completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.
Prerequisite
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL.
NB: Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available.
Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements
Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal Statement online for other information to be considered during the selection process e.g. details on work experience or reasons for applying.
Subject bonus
A study score of 25 in any Business or any Humanities equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in any LOTE equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
Additional information
Students commencing their studies at Bendigo normally transfer to Melbourne after two years of full-time study where they complete the remainder of their course but can elect to complete some of their later year law subjects in Bendigo through blended learning/video conferencing. Law electives are available in intensive delivery mode at the Melbourne Campus in Summer and Winter School. It is possible to apply for transfer into a different double degree program at the Melbourne Campus such as Law/Accounting or Law/Finance.
How to apply
Apply through VTAC if you're currently in Year 12 or you're applying for more than one course or institution.

If you're only applying for one La Trobe course and not considering study at another institution, you can apply direct until applications close in December. Late direct applications may be accepted.

To find out more about this course and studying at La Trobe:
- ask us a question
- chat online
- visit our FAQ page
- connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
- call us on 1300 135 045.
See Student Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.

The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor of International Relations
Duration :
5 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Semester starts :
Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Campus/ATAR*:
Melbourne 90.75
Year
2018
About this course
You'll have the opportunity to combine knowledge of international politics, economics and diplomacy with the study of Australian and international law.

Your international relations subjects will give you an understanding of the social, political and economic influences on world events. You can take electives in sociology, the global economy, diplomacy, modern political thought, social change and conflict.

Your law studies will cover the fundamental principles of Australian law, civil litigation, property, contract and constitutional laws. You can also use your electives to study areas such as human rights law, public international law and international crime.

As you progress, you'll have the opportunity to complete additional studies including Honours in Laws, subjects from our Global Business Law program at the Master's level, and clinical practice in a law firm.

You can also take an international relations placement subject, which will prepare you for a career in the field, and participate in international mooting competitions or our winter school subject in Shanghai.
Career opportunities
With this qualification, you may work in government and non-government organisations, community sectors and private law firms, using your knowledge of social justice issues and offering a global law perspective.
Professional recognition
All La Trobe University Bachelor of Laws courses include the subjects required by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board to qualify for admission to the legal profession in Victoria as an Australian lawyer. Admission to the legal profession by the Supreme Court of Victoria also requires the completion of practical legal training either by a 12-month period of Supervised Legal Training or by completing an approved practical legal training course (for example, at the Leo Cussen Institute or The College of Law). Candidates for admission to practise must also satisfy the Admissions Board that they are a fit and proper person to be admitted to practise.
Prerequisite
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or at least 25 in English other than EAL.

NB: Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available.
Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements
Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal Statement online for other information to be considered during the selection process e.g. details on work experience or reasons for applying.
Subject bonus
A study score of 25 in any Humanities, Legal Studies or Psychology equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in any LOTE equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
How to apply
Apply through VTAC if you're currently in Year 12 or you're applying for more than one course or institution.

If you're only applying for one La Trobe course and not considering study at another institution, you can apply direct until applications close in December. Late direct applications may be accepted.

To find out more about this course and studying at La Trobe:
- ask us a question
- chat online
- visit our FAQ page
- connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
- call us on 1300 135 045.
See Student Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.

The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:
Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics
Duration :
3 years full-time or part-time equivalent
Semester starts :
Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Campus/ATAR*:
Melbourne 70.85
Year
2018
About this course
Gain an in-depth understanding of how society is structured and how it functions with this three-year course.

Our Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) degree - the first of its kind offered in Australia - helps you to come to grips with the interaction between politics, the economy and philosophy, equipping you with skills in analysis and critical thinking, economic theory in relation to globalisation, markets and competition, and international relations.

In your first year you'll study a core group of subjects covering politics, economics and critical thinking, international relations and philosophy. In the second and third years, you can either study all three disciplines - politics, philosophy and economics - or specialise in two of these areas.

You'll have the flexibility to choose from electives across the University, building a degree that's tailored to your specific interests. Alongside lectures, you'll attend policy-focused economics seminars and specialised tutorial sessions and activities. You can also develop a global perspective through overseas study programs and student exchanges with one of our partner universities in over 30 countries.

You can apply to study this course at Melbourne Campus through our Hallmark Scholars Program. See the listing for Hallmark Course Group A for more details.
Career opportunities
PPE graduates can find work in the public, private and non-profit sectors in positions as journalists, economic and social analysts, and political advisors.
Prerequisite
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or at least 20 in English other than EAL.
NB: Meeting minimum prerequisites does not guarantee an offer of a place. Entry into all La Trobe courses is based on competitive selection and there may be limited places available.
Year 12 and non-year 12 extra requirements
Applicants may wish to provide other documentation in support of their application. Non-Year 12 applicants must complete and submit a VTAC Personal Statement online for other information to be considered during the selection process e.g. details on work experience or reasons for applying. Selection may also be based on ATAR, GPA or STAT Multiple Choice.
Subject bonus
A study score of 25 in any Business or any Mathematics equals 4 aggregate points per study. A study score of 20 in any LOTE equals 4 aggregate points per study. Overall maximum of 12 points.
How to apply
Apply through VTAC if you're currently in Year 12 or you're applying for more than one course or institution.

If you're only applying for one La Trobe course and not considering study at another institution, you can apply direct until applications close in December. Late direct applications may be accepted.

To find out more about this course and studying at La Trobe:
- ask us a question
- chat online
- visit our FAQ page
- connect with us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram
- call us on 1300 135 045.
See Student Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.

The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:

ATAR Wizard

Find course ATAR scores

Want to know more?

Feel free to ask us a question about any course for local students.

Fees and scholarships

Undergraduate courses are Commonwealth Supported Places (CSP) for eligible Australian and New Zealand citizens. The domestic fee calculator can be used to calculate the cost of subjects this year.

There is also a wide range of scholarships available for local students.

International students

2017 - apply now

Bachelor of Commerce (084539C)

Duration :
3 years
Semester starts :
February, July and November
Annual Tuition Fee (A$) :
28 000
Campus
Melbourne
Year
2017
About this course
La Trobe's Bachelor of Commerce gives you the opportunity to complete a professionally accredited major along with the chance to talk and work with business professionals while you study. Choose from majors in accounting, economics, finance, management and marketing.

Our Professional Practice in Business program offers internships, practicums, case studies, travel tours, company visits and professional industry-led seminars. Through these experiences, you'll be able to discuss current issues in business and see how your studies apply in a professional working environment.

In your first year, along with foundational business subjects, you'll work as part of a small multidisciplinary Business Foundations project team to research a social problem and develop an action plan. In second year, you'll work with another multidisciplinary team on the Sustainability project to define a solution to a local environmental issue. This will refine your research, presentation, analysis and problem-solving skills.

In third year, you'll further enhance these skills through the Entrepreneurship project, in which your team will identify a business opportunity and develop a business plan.

Alongside these projects, you can also complete a second major from across the University. Choose from languages, maths, science, humanities or a second commerce major.

You can apply to study this course at Melbourne Campus through our Hallmark Scholars Program.
English Language Requirements
IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.

TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English).

TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22.

La Trobe Melbourne (ELICOS): completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B Certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70 per cent) PG1) level. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher.

Or approved international equivalent.
Subject prerequisite
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in English other than EAL. Applicants with comparable qualifications may be considered.
Professional recognition
The Marketing major in the Bachelor of Commerce is accredited by the Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) until 2018. Depending on subject choice within the Bachelor of Commerce, students may be eligible to graduate with an accounting qualification accredited by CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ); please refer to the Handbook for further details.

Membership may require an application to the professional body and may have additional or ongoing requirements beyond the completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.
Career opportunities
You'll graduate with a network of business contacts and the ability to take on roles where business and society connect.
How to apply
Apply now or ask us a question if you need more help. You can also call us on +61 3 9627 4805.

Do you have an excellent academic record? If you're a full-fee paying student, you may be eligible for a La Trobe College Excellence Scholarship and receive up to a 25% reduction on your course fees.
See Student Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.

The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:

2018

Bachelor of Commerce (084539C)

Duration :
3 years
Semester starts :
March, July, November
Annual Tuition Fee (A$) :
30 400
Campus
Melbourne
Year
2018
About this course
La Trobe's Bachelor of Commerce gives you the opportunity to complete a professionally accredited major along with the chance to talk and work with business professionals while you study. Choose from majors in accounting, economics, finance, management and marketing.

Our Professional Practice in Business program offers internships, practicums, case studies, travel tours, company visits and professional industry-led seminars. Through these experiences, you'll be able to discuss current issues in business and see how your studies apply in a professional working environment.

In your first year, along with foundational business subjects, you'll work as part of a small multidisciplinary Business Foundations project team to research a social problem and develop an action plan. In second year, you'll work with another multidisciplinary team on the Sustainability project to define a solution to a local environmental issue. This will refine your research, presentation, analysis and problem-solving skills.

In third year, you'll further enhance these skills through the Entrepreneurship project, in which your team will identify a business opportunity and develop a business plan.

Alongside these projects, you can also complete a second major from across the University. Choose from languages, maths, science, humanities or a second commerce major.

You can apply to study this course at Melbourne Campus through our Hallmark Scholars Program.
English Language Requirements
IELTS (Academic): minimum score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.0.

TOEFL Paper-based Test: minimum score of 575 (minimum score of 5 in the Test of Written English).

TOEFL Internet-based Test: minimum score of 80 with minimum overall for SLR 18; W 22.

La Trobe Melbourne (ELICOS): completion of English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B Certificate at postgraduate (EFS5 (70 per cent) PG1) level. For more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): minimum score of 64 with no communicative skill score less than 59.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a grade of C or higher.

Or approved international equivalent.
Subject prerequisite
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 25 in English (EAL) or 20 in English other than EAL. Applicants with comparable qualifications may be considered.
Professional recognition
The Marketing major in the Bachelor of Commerce is accredited by the Australian Marketing Institute (AMI) until 2018. Depending on subject choice within the Bachelor of Commerce, students may be eligible to graduate with an accounting qualification accredited by CPA Australia and Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand (CAANZ); please refer to the Handbook for further details.

Membership may require an application to the professional body and may have additional or ongoing requirements beyond the completion of the degree. Please contact the relevant professional body for details.
Career opportunities
You'll graduate with a network of business contacts and the ability to take on roles where business and society connect.
How to apply
Apply now or ask us a question if you need more help. You can also call us on +61 3 9627 4805.

Do you have an excellent academic record? If you're a full-fee paying student, you may be eligible for a La Trobe College Excellence Scholarship and receive up to a 25% reduction on your course fees.
See Student Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.

The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:

Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics (071901G)

Duration :
3 years
Semester starts :
Semester 1 and 2 (March and July)
Annual Tuition Fee (A$) :
29 200
Campus
Melbourne
Year
2018
About this course
Gain an in-depth understanding of how society is structured and how it functions with this three-year course.

Our Politics, Philosophy and Economics (PPE) degree - the first of its kind offered in Australia - helps you to come to grips with the interaction between politics, the economy and philosophy, equipping you with skills in analysis and critical thinking, economic theory in relation to globalisation, markets and competition, and international relations.

In your first year you'll study a core group of subjects covering politics, economics and critical thinking, international relations and philosophy. In the second and third years, you can either study all three disciplines - politics, philosophy and economics - or specialise in two of these areas.

You'll have the flexibility to choose from electives across the University, building a degree that's tailored to your specific interests. Alongside lectures, you'll attend policy-focused economics seminars and specialised tutorial sessions and activities. You can also develop a global perspective through overseas study programs and student exchanges with one of our partner universities in over 30 countries.

You can apply to study this course at Melbourne Campus through our Hallmark Scholars Program. See the listing for Hallmark Course Group A for more details.
English Language Requirements
IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with no individual band score less than 6.0;

TOEFL Paper-based Test - a minimum overall score of 550 with a score of 5 or more in the Test of Written English;

TOEFL Internet-based Test - a minimum overall score of 60 with a minimum for SLR 18; W 22;

Satisfactory completion of the English for Further Studies Advanced Stage 5B (EFS5 UG minimum 60 per cent) which is available from La Trobe Melbourne; for more information please visit the La Trobe Melbourne website.

La Trobe Melbourne Foundation Studies: 60 per cent final result in a course;

English as the language of instruction in tertiary studies may be accepted. Please note: English as the language of instruction in previous study will not be accepted as a basis of admission (English) for courses where the approved test score requirement is above an IELTS 6.5 with no band score lower than 6.0.

Pearson Test of English (Academic) (PTE): a minimum score of 57 with no communicative skill score less than 50.

Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (CAE): a grade of B or higher.

Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (CPE): a pass grade of C or higher;

or approved international equivalent.
Subject prerequisite
Units 3 and 4: a study score of at least 30 in English (EAL) or 25 in any other English. Applicants with comparable qualifications will be considered.
Career opportunities
PPE graduates can find work in the public, private and non-profit sectors in positions as journalists, economic and social analysts, and political advisors.
How to apply
Apply now or ask us a question if you need more help. You can also call us on +61 3 9627 4805.

Please apply through VTAC if youre completing your VCE or International Baccalaureate (IB) in Victoria, or apply through UAC if youre completing your HSC or IB in New South Wales.

Do you have an excellent academic record? If you're a full-fee paying student, you may be eligible for a La Trobe College Excellence Scholarship and receive up to a 25% reduction on your course fees.
See Student Handbook for more details
The Handbook contains detailed course information designed for enrolled students, including course structures, electives and options.

The delivery of this course can vary between campuses. For detailed information please select the relevant campus:

How to apply?

Enquire now about any course for international students or find out how to apply.

Fees and scholarships

Estimated fees for international students are indicated for each course above. Fees are indicative only and set at 120 credit points per course, unless otherwise stated, and may vary depending on the number of credit points in which students enrol. Some courses may vary in credit point load and fees will be adjusted accordingly.

There is also a range of scholarships available for international students to assist students.

Student and graduate profiles

Find out about the experiences of one of our Economics students.

When you know what sort of industry you want to go into, work out the best path to get there.

Meagan Russell, Business, Economics and Law

La Trobe graduates

Where have graduates found work opportunities?

Our recent graduates have started their careers within mid-tier and local firms, the public sector and not-for-profit organisations, and have risen to high-level positions as company directors in commercial organisations such as:

  • Accenture Australia
  • BHP Billiton
  • Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu
  • Imarex.

How much can I earn?

The wage of an economics graduate can vary greatly based on your specialisation, position and organisation you find work in. Below is an estimation of the salary and career path of an economics graduate.

  • graduate financial advisor $50,000 - $55,000 per year*
  • experienced accountant $50,000 - $95,000 per year
  • management position or higher $100,000 + per year

*Average salary range for roles located in Melbourne and Sydney, as advertised on Seek, 2017

Industry links

What are industry links?

Industry links are organisations that work with us to shape our curriculum and provide partnership and placement opportunities. We look for strong links with industry, schools, community groups and other stakeholders to ensure you develop the best theoretical and practical skills required in your chosen career.

How do industry links affect me?

Our business industry links consider La Trobe graduates for internships, placements and employment opportunities, as they know our teaching and content standards. Our business industry links include:

  • 3M
  • CPA Australia
  • Drake
  • Oxford University Press
  • RACV
  • Rio Tinto
  • Westpac Banking Corporation
  • Chartered Accountants Australia and New Zealand
  • Telstra
  • Victoria Police
  • Melbourne Water

Find out more about La Trobe Business School.

Alternative pathways

Are there alternative pathways into an economics courses?

Going straight from school to university isn't an option for everyone. If you have not completed year 12, didn't get the score you needed or are working on ways to transition into tertiary education, we have options for you.

  • Aspire Program - Be recognised for the difference you make. Refer to dates to see if your eligible for an early offer.
  • Course transfer - Start your studies in one business course and apply for transfers into another. *
  • Tertiary Enabling Program - Successfully complete our 17-week program and improve you academic results to be eligible for a range of courses.
  • Work Recognition Program - If you are over 21 years of age, you may be eligible to gain entry into a Bachelor of Business based on your work experience.
  • Diploma in Business - Successfully complete a Diploma in Business at one of our regional campuses and transfer into second year of the Bachelor of Business.
  • La Trobe Melbourne - Successfully complete a Diploma in Business with our pathway provider, and get guaranteed entry into a second year of our Bachelor of Business.
  • TAFE diplomas - Do a relevant course and get Advance Standing for your prior learning.**

    • * Other than Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics of Bachelor of Laws.
    ** Minimum Weighted Average Mark (WAM) required for entry into some courses. You may also be eligible for Advance Standing

    If you'd like some more information, contact our future students team on:

  • T: 1300 135 045
  • W: Future Students website
  • Enquire online: Ask La Trobe

    • Or see alternative course pathways.

Our economics staff

Experience the business industry in the classroom. You’ll learn from academics and Professors of Practice who have expertise across a range of industries and sectors. Our staff work with industry to:

  • link our courses with industry
  • design industry-relevant curriculum
  • reflect best practice nationally and globally through lectures, workshops and executive programs.

View staff in economics or view all staff from the College of Arts, Social Sciences and Commerce.

Placement opportunities

Be career ready. Extend your learning beyond the classroom by testing your knowledge in a ’real world’ role. Create your industry network and gain practical skills through Work Integrated Learning (WIL) and placement subjects. Work with your course coordinator to find opportunities that best suit your skills and interests. Previous students have found internship opportunities within organisations such as:

  • Australian Taxation Department
  • Carlton Football Club
  • National Australia Bank
  • KPMG.

Refer to course specifics above to see what placement opportunities exist for you.

International study opportunities

Give your qualification an global edge with international study. As a part of La Trobe Business School, you may be eligible for a number of opportunities, including study tours and international exchange. Previous International Study Programs have visited:

  • China
  • Indonesia
  • Vietnam
  • Europe.

Contact us

International students

Local students

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