Economics

The Bachelor of Economic Sciences (BCom Econ) program at the University of Cape Town offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in economics, equipping them with the analytical skills and theoretical knowledge necessary to understand and address complex economic issues at local, regional, and global levels. This degree is designed to provide a solid foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and development economics, enabling graduates to interpret economic data, formulate policy options, and contribute effectively to economic research and decision-making processes. The program combines compulsory core courses with a range of electives, allowing students to specialize in areas such as financial economics, public economics, international economics, or development studies, according to their interests and career aspirations. Throughout the program, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and research skills through practical coursework, computer lab sessions, and research projects. The curriculum emphasizes the application of economic theory to real-world problems, preparing graduates for diverse careers in areas such as government, banking, consulting, research institutions, and international organizations. The program also offers opportunities for internships, industry exposure, and further postgraduate studies, fostering a well-rounded educational experience. Faculty members are renowned experts in their fields, committed to providing mentorship and ensuring that students gain both theoretical understanding and practical insights. By completing this program, graduates leave equipped not only with technical expertise but also with a strong awareness of ethical and social considerations in economic policymaking. With a focus on both academic rigor and practical relevance, the Bachelor of Economic Sciences at UCT aims to develop innovative thinkers capable of contributing meaningfully to solving economic challenges in South Africa and beyond.

• ECO5011F Quantitative Methods for Economists
• ECO5021F Advanced Macroeconomics
• ECO5020F Advanced Microeconomics
• ECO5046F Advanced Econometrics
• ECO6007F Microeconomics II
• ECO5030S Applied Growth Theory
• ECO5069S Applied Time Series Analysis
• OR
• ECO5070S Microeconometrics

 Two courses (not taken in terms of the rules above) to be chosen from:

• ECO5003F Governance and Growth
• ECO5030S Applied Growth Theory
• ECO5050S International Finance II
• ECO5052S Natural Resource Economics
• ECO5057S Labour Economics
• ECO5062S Applied International Trade
• ECO5064S Views of Institutional and Behavioural Economics
• ECO5069S Applied Time Series Analysis
• ECO5070S Microeconometrics
• ECO5073F Problems of Globalisation, Industrialisation and
• ECO5074S Development Research and Policy Tools
• ECO5075S Macroeconomic Policy Analysis
• ECO5076S Development Microeconomics
• ECO5077S Empirical Industrial Organisation
• ECO6000W PhD in Economics

• Candidates who possess either a second class (upper division) bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Economics, or a minimum of a second class (lower division) bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree in Economics with distinction are eligible to apply.
• Candidates with a Master of Economic Science degree are eligible to apply. 
• Certified copies of official academic transcripts in ENGLISH (full transcripts for each tertiary institution attended)
• Certified copies of degree certificates in ENGLISH (for each tertiary institution attended where applicable)
• 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 Commerce in Economics at the University of Cape Town offers students a comprehensive foundation in economic theory, quantitative methods, and their practical applications. The program aims to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of economic principles that are essential for careers in various sectors including finance, government, consulting, and academia. Throughout the course, students engage with core topics such as microeconomics, macroeconomics, international trade, development economics, and economic policy.

The program is structured to combine theoretical coursework with practical experiences, encouraging students to analyze real-world economic issues critically. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, a diverse faculty with expertise in various economic disciplines, and opportunities for research and internships. The curriculum is designed to also incorporate quantitative skills, including statistics, econometrics, and data analysis, preparing students to interpret large datasets and make evidence-based decisions.

The program typically spans three years for full-time students, with options for specialization in areas such as monetary economics, public economics, and environmental economics. Students are encouraged to participate in seminars, workshops, and exchange programs with international institutions to broaden their perspectives and gain global insights into economic challenges.

Graduates of this program are equipped to pursue further studies, such as Honours or Master’s degrees in Economics, or to enter the workforce directly. They are prepared for roles such as economic analyst, policy advisor, financial analyst, or research assistant. The University of Cape Town’s strong alumni network and career services support students in securing employment or postgraduate opportunities after graduation. Overall, the program emphasizes a robust grounding in economic theory combined with practical skills, fostering graduates who are well-prepared to contribute effectively to economic development and policy-making in South Africa and beyond.