The rise and fall of economies, future employment prospects, incomes and living standards are all at the heart of economics. This course will prepare students to work in financial institutions, government, international agencies and the private sector as a forecaster, analyst or consultant. The course includes core subjects in both microeconomics and macroeconomics. Microeconomics provides the framework for analyzing issues in taxation, trade and the competitive structure of markets, while macroeconomics focuses on the forces that influence long-term economic growth, inflation, unemployment and the balance of payments. Students will also develop the capacity to understand the fundamental workings of the economy and markets, and implications of economic policy. The Economics major can also be combined with a major in Finance if student is interested in pursuing a career as a financial economist. Economics is at the forefront of controversial public policy issues such as economic growth and the stability of the entire economy, regulating financial institutions, monetary and fiscal policies, dealing with the so-called "multispeed" Australian economy, resource taxation, financing education, immigration, health insurance markets and retirement income planning. UWA Economics appeals to students looking for a fresh, broad and up-to-date education that opens these many opportunities.