Universiti Putra Malaysia

What you'll study

The programme combines core economic theory with quantitative methods and applied modules across public, agricultural and environmental contexts. Delivered on a trimester cycle, students progress through an accelerated sequence of core and elective modules that build analytical, statistical and policy evaluation skills.

• Core modules: Principles of Microeconomics, Principles of Macroeconomics, Mathematical Economics, Intermediate Microeconomics, Intermediate Macroeconomics.
• Quantitative and research methods: Statistics for Economists, Econometrics I & II, Quantitative Methods, Research Methods, Computer Applications for Economic Analysis.
• Applied and policy modules: Public Finance, Monetary Economics, International Trade, Development Economics, Industrial Organisation, Labour Economics.
• Specialist and elective modules: Agricultural and Food Economics, Environmental and Resource Economics, Islamic Economics and Finance, Financial Economics, Project Evaluation and Cost-Benefit Analysis.
• Final year project: A supervised dissertation or applied research project that develops independent research, data analysis and reporting skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary or pre-university qualification and meet the university's entrance standards for the Faculty of Economics and Management. Typical qualifications accepted include national pre-university certificates (such as STPM or equivalent), A-levels, Foundation programmes, matriculation or recognized international qualifications. Candidates with polytechnic or diploma qualifications in related fields may be considered for direct entry into later semesters subject to achieving a satisfactory grade point average.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate competence in mathematics or quantitative subjects; some background in basic economics or social sciences is advantageous. International applicants must satisfy UPM's English language requirements through recognised tests or demonstrate prior instruction in English. Additional faculty interviews or entrance assessments may be used for selection in some cases.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers that require economic reasoning, data analysis and policy appraisal. Common career paths include roles as economists or policy analysts in government ministries, central banks and public agencies; financial and market analysts in banking, investment and corporate sectors; research officers in think tanks and universities; and consultants in private consulting firms.

Other opportunities exist in international organisations, non-governmental organisations, agribusiness and environmental management, where applied economic skills are needed for project evaluation, programme design and impact assessment. Graduates also frequently pursue postgraduate study in economics, finance, public policy or related disciplines.

Why study at Universiti Putra Malaysia

Universiti Putra Malaysia offers a long-established Faculty of Economics and Management with expertise in both theoretical and applied areas, including agricultural and resource economics—a distinctive strength given UPM's broader research profile. Students benefit from a research-active faculty, opportunities for internships with government and industry partners, and access to specialised centres and labs for data analysis and field studies.

The trimester intake provides flexibility and a steady pace of study, enabling motivated students to progress efficiently. UPM's campus environment supports multidisciplinary collaboration, and the programme prepares graduates for both local and international careers or further academic study.