Bachelor of Applied Finance and Bachelor of Economics

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Macquarie University

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Applied Finance and Bachelor of Economics at Macquarie University is designed for students who want to understand how financial markets operate while also developing strong economic reasoning and quantitative decision-making skills. This program suits students who are interested in banking, investment, policy, and global financial systems, and want a strong analytical foundation for high-demand finance and economics careers.
It is delivered at the Wallumattagal Campus, North Ryde, Sydney, Australia, giving students direct access to one of Australia’s leading business and economics learning environments.

Curriculum Structure:

Year 1:
In the first year, students build a strong foundation in both finance and economics through core units such as Introduction to Macroeconomics, Introduction to Microeconomics, and Fundamentals of Finance. These subjects help students understand how markets operate, how economic systems function, and the basic principles of financial decision-making. By the end of the year, students are equipped with essential analytical tools and a clear understanding of economic and financial frameworks.

Year 2:
The second year focuses on developing intermediate knowledge through units like Corporate Finance, Financial Markets and Institutions, and Intermediate Microeconomics or Econometrics. Students begin to analyse real-world financial systems, investment behaviour, and economic data using quantitative methods. This year strengthens problem-solving ability and introduces applied financial modelling and economic forecasting techniques.

Year 3–4:
In the final stages, students engage with advanced study such as Investment Analysis, Applied Macroeconomic Policy, Risk Management, and Advanced Financial Economics. They also complete capstone or applied projects that simulate real industry decision-making scenarios. These years prepare students for complex financial environments, strategic economic analysis, and professional-level research and consultancy work.

Focus Areas:
Finance, economics, investment analysis, financial markets, macroeconomic policy, risk management, econometrics, corporate finance

Learning Outcomes:
Graduates will be able to analyse financial markets, evaluate economic conditions, apply quantitative methods to decision-making, and develop strategic solutions for organisations in finance, government, and consulting sectors.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):
The program supports strong industry relevance and is aligned with professional pathways in finance and economics, including preparation for CFA-related knowledge areas and economic policy roles in government and private sector organisations.

Reputation (Employability Rankings):
Macquarie University is internationally recognised for business and economics, with strong performance in global university rankings such as QS World University Rankings for Business & Economics disciplines, reflecting high graduate employability and research strength.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in the Bachelor of Applied Finance and Bachelor of Economics at Macquarie University gain hands-on experience by applying economic theory and financial techniques to real-world market situations. Learning is highly practical, combining economic modelling, financial analysis, and data interpretation using industry-standard tools. You’ll work on real datasets, collaborate on applied projects, and develop decision-making skills using the same platforms used in global finance and policy environments. The program is strongly supported by Macquarie’s industry-connected learning model, ensuring students graduate with both technical and professional readiness:

PACE (Professional and Community Engagement): Structured internships and industry projects where students work directly with organisations in finance, banking, consulting, and government sectors.
Bloomberg & financial databases: Access to Bloomberg Terminals and other financial data platforms used for market analysis, portfolio tracking, and economic forecasting.
Economics and data analytics tools: Training in statistical and econometric software such as Stata, R, and Excel modelling for financial and economic analysis.
Finance and trading simulation environments: Practical exposure to market simulations and investment decision-making exercises using real-time financial data.
Group-based applied projects: Collaborative case studies in finance and economics, focusing on investment strategies, macroeconomic policy, and corporate financial planning.
Industry engagement activities: Guest lectures, employer workshops, and networking sessions with economists, financial analysts, and banking professionals.
Macquarie University Library & learning resources: Access to extensive academic databases, research journals, and financial publications supporting advanced economic and finance research.

Facilities & Learning Environment:
Students study within dedicated business and economics learning spaces at Macquarie University, including modern collaborative classrooms, data analysis labs, and industry-standard financial technology resources that support applied learning and research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Applied Finance and Bachelor of Economics at Macquarie University are highly prepared for careers in global financial markets, economic policy, investment analysis, and corporate strategy. This combined degree builds strong quantitative, analytical, and financial decision-making skills, enabling graduates to move confidently into roles such as financial analyst, economist, investment banking analyst, risk analyst, and policy advisor:

Career readiness is strengthened through a strong blend of academic excellence and real-world industry exposure:

Macquarie University Careers and Employability Service: Offers personalised career coaching, psychometric testing preparation, resume and interview workshops, employer networking events, and direct access to graduate recruitment programs across finance and economics sectors.
PACE (Professional and Community Engagement): Provides hands-on experience through internships, industry consulting projects, and workplace learning opportunities with financial institutions, government bodies, and corporate organisations.
Industry partnerships: Strong links with major banks, investment firms, consulting companies, and government economic departments that actively recruit Macquarie graduates for analytical and advisory roles.
Professional accreditation value: The finance component aligns with industry expectations and global finance standards, while the economics stream supports pathways into policy, research, and analytical careers in government and international organisations.
Graduation outcomes: Graduates commonly progress into roles in investment banking, economic research, corporate finance, and public policy analysis, with strong employability across both private and public sectors.
Employment stats & salary: Early-career graduates in finance and economics roles in Australia typically earn a median salary range of AUD 80,000–115,000, with higher earning potential in investment banking, consulting, and advanced economic advisory positions.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the Bachelor of Applied Finance and Bachelor of Economics at Macquarie University, students can progress into advanced study such as a Master of Applied Finance, Master of Economics, Master of Business Analytics, MBA, or Master of Data Science, leading to senior roles in global finance, economic policy, investment strategy, and corporate leadership.