Economics and Demography

The Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Demography at the University of Cape Town is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to equip students with a deep understanding of economic principles, demographic analysis, and their interconnections within South African and global contexts. This interdisciplinary degree combines core coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, development economics, and statistical methods with specialized modules in population studies, social demography, and economic planning. Students will explore how demographic factors influence economic development, labor markets, and social policies, gaining critical skills to analyze population trends and economic data effectively. The program emphasizes quantitative research skills, including data collection, analysis, and interpretation, preparing graduates for careers in government, research institutions, international organizations, or further academic study. Throughout the program, students engage with real-world issues such as poverty alleviation, health disparities, urbanization, and sustainable development, fostering a nuanced understanding of the challenges facing South Africa and the broader region. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current economic and demographic challenges, ensuring students are well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to policy formulation and socio-economic development initiatives. With opportunities for internships, research projects, and fieldwork, students gain practical experience to complement their theoretical knowledge. Upon graduation, students will be capable of conducting independent research, providing policy advice, and engaging in multidisciplinary solutions to economic and demographic challenges. This degree aims to produce graduates who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible and committed to fostering positive change in their communities and beyond.

The master’s in Economics and Demography programme comprises four compulsory courses in the first semester, two courses in the second semester, and a compulsory research paper. The degree runs over 12 months. The qualification comprises 195 credits. 

• ECO5011F Quantitative Methods for Economists
• ECO5021F Advanced Macroeconomics
• ECO5020F Advanced Microeconomics OR
• ECO6007F Microeconomics II
• ECO5046F Advanced Econometrics
• DOC5003S Population projections and Modeling
• ECO5023W Minor Dissertation

• An average of at least 65% in an honours degree in Economics. 
• Before admission a candidate shall have completed quantitative courses in Econometrics at honours level, or the equivalent. A candidate, who has not completed these courses, or their equivalent, shall be required to complete this as preliminary work whilst registered as a candidate for the degree in addition to the prescribed courses
• Applicants with degrees outside South Africa are encouraged (and in some cases may be required) to submit GRE test score. A strong performance in the quantitative segment (above the 80th percentile) is expected. 
• Students who have completed equivalent courses at the Master level may apply for exemption but not credits, from particular courses. 
• Further, if students have not previously taken and passed DOC5001F (Basic Demography) or DOC5001S (Basic Demography), or its deemed equivalent at another institution, they will be expected to register for it in the first semester of registration (as a co-requisite but not for credit). 
• Applicants from universities situated in non-English speaking countries: TOEFL/IELTS certificate OR letter from previous tertiary institution stating “English as medium of instruction” for the programme
• Curriculum vitae (include work experience)
• A recent score (obtained within 3 - 5 years before application for admission) of at least 570 (paper-based test) or 230 (computer-based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• A recent overall band score of 7.0 (with no individual element of the test scoring below 6.0) on the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• OR, noting that this may only be written at certain designated venues within South Africa, a score of at least 65% on the university's Placement Test in English for Educational Purposes (PTEEP).

Scholarships

• International & refugee scholarships
• Merit awards

The Bachelor of Science in Economics and Demography at the University of Cape Town offers students a comprehensive education that combines foundational and advanced knowledge in two interconnected disciplines. The program aims to equip students with analytical, research, and quantitative skills necessary to understand economic processes and demographic trends within both national and global contexts. Throughout the course, students engage with topics such as economic theory, microeconomics, macroeconomics, development economics, population studies, gender analysis, and statistical methods. The curriculum emphasizes the development of critical thinking and data analysis capabilities, preparing graduates for careers in government, academia, international organizations, research institutes, and the private sector.

Students enrolled in this program benefit from a blend of theoretical coursework and practical research projects, often involving real-world data analysis and policy analysis. The program also offers opportunities for specialization, allowing students to deepen their expertise in particular areas such as health demography, migration, labor economics, or economic development. Additionally, the program encourages an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from sociology, political science, geography, and public policy.

To facilitate career readiness, the University of Cape Town provides access to modern laboratories, statistical software, and research resources. Students are encouraged to participate in internships, fieldwork, and presentations, which enhance their experience and employment prospects upon graduation. The program typically spans three years for full-time students, with pathways for part-time study or honors options for those seeking further specialization. Graduates of the Economics and Demography program leave well-prepared to analyze complex social and economic issues, contribute to policy development, and pursue further postgraduate studies in related fields.