Curtin University

What you'll study

This program develops core economic and quantitative skills focused on mineral and energy sectors. Typical study areas include micro- and macroeconomic analysis of commodity markets, mineral and energy project evaluation, resource taxation and royalties, environmental and regulatory policy, and risk and uncertainty in project appraisal. Students also study applied econometrics and forecasting techniques for commodities, energy market modelling, and strategic issues such as pricing, contract design and market structure.

• Core modules: mineral and energy economics, resource project appraisal, applied econometrics for resource markets.
• Specialist modules: commodity market analysis, energy market economics, taxation and royalties in mining, environmental and social aspects of resource development.
• Quantitative and analytical training: time series forecasting, simulation and risk analysis, cost–benefit analysis and optimisation techniques.
• Research or project component: a supervised research thesis or an applied industry project that integrates economic analysis with real-world data and sector challenges.

Structure

The degree is delivered through a mixture of lectures, seminars and practical workshops. Assessment commonly includes assignments using industry datasets, case studies, modelling projects and a capstone research or industry project. The program emphasises applied skills to enable immediate workplace application.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in economics, finance, engineering, geology, mining, mathematics, or a closely related discipline with substantial quantitative content. Applicants with relevant professional experience in the resources or energy sectors may also be considered, particularly where prior study is in a complementary technical field.

All applicants whose first language is not English must meet Curtin's English language proficiency requirements. Selection may take into account academic transcripts, a CV, and where relevant, a statement of purpose outlining professional objectives and preparedness for postgraduate study.

Career prospects

Graduates gain skills valued across resources and energy industries, government and consulting. Typical career paths include:

• Commodity and energy market analyst or forecaster
• Commercial analyst or project economist for mining and energy companies
• Asset valuation and finance roles in banks and investment houses dealing with natural resources
• Policy analyst or economist for government departments, regulators and international organisations
• Consultant in resource-sector advisory firms, focusing on feasibility studies, royalties, taxation and social-environmental assessments
• Risk analyst or portfolio manager for commodity trading and energy firms

The program is designed to equip graduates with both the technical modelling abilities and the sector knowledge employers seek in the minerals and energy economy.

Why study at Curtin University

Curtin has strong links with the resources and energy industries and is located in Western Australia, a major global centre for mining and energy activity. The university offers access to applied research expertise and industry-engaged teaching, including opportunities to work with industry datasets and practitioners. Students benefit from Curtin’s multidisciplinary approach, combining economics, engineering and environmental perspectives, and from connections to research centres and professional networks focused on mining, energy transition and resource governance.

Practical learning, industry collaborations and a focus on applied analytical skills make the program particularly suitable for students aiming to work at the interface of economics and resource-sector decision-making.