Bachelors of Economics / Science (Biochemistry and Molecular Biology)

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Queensland

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Economics / Science at The University of Queensland is designed for students who want to combine economic thinking with scientific knowledge to understand and solve real-world challenges. It is ideal for students interested in areas such as policy, environment, data analysis, finance, and research, where both analytical and scientific skills are highly valued.

This program helps you build strong quantitative and scientific capabilities, preparing you for careers that rely on evidence-based decision-making across a wide range of industries.

Curriculum structure:

Year 1:
In the first year, students develop core foundations in both economics and science. Economics subjects such as introductory microeconomics and macroeconomics are combined with foundational science courses depending on the chosen major, such as biology, chemistry, mathematics, or environmental science. The focus is on building analytical thinking, data skills, and scientific understanding.

Year 2:
In the second year, students move into more specialised study. Economics units such as intermediate microeconomics and econometrics or statistics are combined with science subjects linked to their chosen major. Students begin applying knowledge through tutorials, data analysis tasks, and introductory lab or research work.

Year 3:
In the third year, students study advanced economics alongside higher-level science courses. Economics subjects may include applied economic theory or policy-focused units, while science study becomes more specialised. This year focuses on applying theory to real-world economic and scientific problems and strengthening research skills.

Year 4:
In the final year, students complete advanced coursework and capstone-style learning experiences. Science becomes highly specialised depending on the major, while economics focuses on advanced analysis and application. Graduates finish with strong interdisciplinary skills that are highly valued across both public and private sectors.

Focus areas (in a string): economics, microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, policy analysis, scientific research, data analysis, environmental science, quantitative methods

Learning outcomes (in a string): apply economic and scientific principles to real-world problems, analyse data and policy issues, develop quantitative and research skills, communicate insights effectively, evaluate environmental and economic systems, and support evidence-based decision-making

Professional alignment (accreditation): The program is designed with strong academic and industry alignment through applied learning, research projects, and analytical training that prepare students for careers across economics, science, and policy sectors.

Reputation (employability rankings): The University of Queensland is consistently ranked among the world’s leading universities, with strong performance in both economics and science disciplines, supporting excellent graduate employability and international career opportunities.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Queensland (UQ), students pursuing a Bachelor of Economics or a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology are immersed in a rich environment that emphasizes experiential learning. This hands-on approach not only enhances theoretical knowledge but also equips students with practical skills that are essential for their future careers. UQ boasts state-of-the-art facilities and resources that support this learning model, ensuring that students can apply their knowledge in real-world contexts.

Here’s how UQ facilitates experiential learning in these programs:

- Economics Program:
- Access to the UQ Business School’s Trading Room, equipped with Bloomberg terminals for real-time financial data analysis.
- Opportunities for group projects that simulate real-world economic scenarios, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills.
- Internships available through partnerships with industry leaders, providing valuable work experience and networking opportunities.
- Field trips to economic institutions and organizations, allowing students to observe and engage with professionals in the field.
- Use of statistical software such as STATA and R for data analysis, enhancing quantitative skills.

- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Program:
- Access to advanced laboratories, including the Centre for Drug Design and Development, where students can engage in cutting-edge research.
- Opportunities for collaborative research projects with faculty members, promoting teamwork and innovation.
- Internships in research institutions and biotechnology companies, providing hands-on experience in the industry.
- Field trips to research facilities and biopharmaceutical companies, offering insights into real-world applications of biochemistry.
- Use of digital tools and software such as MATLAB and Python for data analysis and modeling in biological research.

Both programs also benefit from UQ’s extensive library resources and research institutes, which provide students with access to a wealth of information and support for their academic pursuits.

By choosing UQ, you’re not just getting a degree; you’re gaining invaluable experiences that will set you apart in the job market. For more information on the facilities available to you, check out the full list here: [UQ Facilities](https://www.uq.edu.au/facilities).

Embark on your journey at UQ and take the first step towards a successful future in Economics or Biochemistry and Molecular Biology!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Economics / Science at The University of Queensland are well prepared for careers that combine economic thinking with scientific understanding. This blend of skills opens doors in areas such as policy, data analysis, environmental economics, consulting, and research, where evidence-based decision-making is highly valued. Typical career roles include economist, data analyst, policy adviser, environmental consultant, and research analyst.

UQ supports students through career services, employability workshops, mentoring programs, internship support, and employer networking events
Students gain practical experience through internships, industry projects, data analysis tasks, research work, and field-based scientific learning
Graduates can work in government agencies, financial institutions, consulting firms, environmental organisations, research institutes, and technology sectors
While exact employment rates and salaries are not published for this program, economics and science graduates are in strong demand, particularly in data, policy, and environmental fields with strong long-term earning potential
Strong industry connections and applied learning opportunities help students build professional networks before graduation
The dual degree provides long-term value by combining economic theory with scientific training, making graduates highly adaptable across multiple industries
UQ’s strong global reputation in both economics and science supports excellent graduate employability in Australia and internationally

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can continue into honours study in either economics or science, depending on their chosen specialisation. They can also pursue postgraduate study such as a Master of Economics, Master of Science, Master of Data Science, or research pathways including Master of Philosophy and PhD programs.