Graduates from economics and finance disciplines can look forward to a wide variety of employment options. Graduates can pursue careers in Commonwealth and state government departments and agencies, financial sector organisations, non-profit organisations, industry, trade associations or consulting.

A career in economics

Economics is widely recognized as a solid background for employment opportunities in government, academia, industry and, increasingly, the law. Publishers, newspapers, trade associations and non-profit organisations also employ economists.

The Commonwealth Government is a major employer of economists. Opportunities exists for labour, health, population, environmental and resource economists, micro- and macroeconomists, econometricians and statisticians. A bachelor's degree is a good qualification for an entry position. Higher positions are obtained with higher-level qualifications or via promotion.

In employment, graduate economists are expected to contribute to economic analysis and apply appropriate analytical methods as part of a team or for individual projects. The scope and variety of such projects will depend on the employer. Good communication skills are highly valued.

Graduates and undergraduates interested in a career in economics are encouraged to visit the following sites:

Victoria

• Victorian Government Graduate Scheme
  
• Department of Treasury and Finance (Victoria)*
  
• Productivity Commission
  
• Australian Competition and Consumer Commission
  
• Victorian Workcover Authority
  
• Reserve Bank of Australia
  
• University of Melbourne
  
• La Trobe University
  
• Deakin University

Other

• Department of the Treasury
  
• Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics

A career in finance

Graduates who wish to enter the financial sector generally have a background in finance, economics, accounting, commerce or marketing. Graduates are also expected to have good communication and organisational skills.

Most graduates commence a career in finance in retail or business banking or financial management. Graduates might be involved in managing and maintaining a portfolio of business customers. Graduates might also gain experience in sales, service and banking support.

Graduates are also employed by banks, other financial institutions and businesses to evaluate their market positions. Graduates may also find positions available in non-bank financial institutions.

Undergraduates interested in a career in finance are encouraged to visit the following sites:

• National Australia Bank
• ANZ Banking Corporation
• Commonwealth Bank of Australia
• Westpac