Learn how to test economic theories

How do we know what effect university education might have on future income? Or, how a change in the minimum wage might affect the unemployment rate?

To figure out these questions, economists can turn to econometrics—a method for testing economic ideas and making forecasts.

Econometrics is about testing economic or financial theories and ideas by using quantitative methods and by examining evidence. Essentially a combination of economics, maths, and statistics, econometrics has many uses in the modern business world and in public policy making.

Why Wellington

Wellington is the administrative and financial centre of New Zealand. Take advantage of the University's connections with government agencies such as the Treasury and the Reserve Bank, and many private sector institutions and professional bodies. 

Choose your study path

Although several courses in the subject are available, Econometrics can only be studied as a minor. You'll need to select another complementary subject to focus on for your major. Including courses in Econometrics within your Commerce degree can significantly improve your job prospects.

For example, you might study a minor in Econometrics with:

  • Actuarial Science
  • Banking
  • Economics
  • Finance

Or you can study Econometrics as part of a conjoint degree.

Degree support and advice

We can help you match your interests and career goals with the right course of study.

If you’re a new student, talk to a Future Student Adviser.

If you’re already studying with us, talk to Tītoko—Student Success.

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Study options

Find out how you can study Econometrics at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington.

Tohu Paetahi Tauhokohoko

Bachelor of Commerce—BCom

UNDERGRADUATEBACHELOR'S DEGREE
As society evolves, you need to adapt fast. Study a degree that builds future-ready skills to think flexibly and shape business and government.
Duration
3 years
Location
Kelburn and Pipitea campuses, Wellington
Level of study
Undergraduate
Points
360
Workload
Full or part-time
Type
Coursework
2026 – Trimester 3
Apply by
12 Nov 2026
Start study
16 Nov 2026
2027 – Trimester 1
Apply by
14 Feb 2027
Start study
22 Feb 2027
2027 – Trimester 2
Apply by
15 Jun 2027
Start study
5 Jul 2027
2027 – Trimester 3
Apply by
10 Oct 2027
Start study
15 Nov 2027

Future careers

Your skills will be highly valued in the workplace and will help you bridge the gap between being a student and being a professional.

Econometrics may lead to careers such as:

More career information

Find out more about careers in econometrics.

The government careers website, Tahatū, offers more information about jobs, salaries, and current opportunities.

Scholarships

You may be able to get a scholarship to help fund your studies.

We have first-year and school-leaver scholarships available, as well as specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.

We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.

Scholarships for Econometrics

  • Worth: $6,000 Closing: 15 March, 2027

    In honour of Jonathan Nicholls (ACC's Head of Actuarial Services who passed away in early 2015), ACC wishes to promote the actuarial profession in much the same way that Jonathan did. ACC is dedicated to supporting Actuarial Science students and others looking to pursue a career in the actuarial profession.

  • Worth: $4,000 (subject to funds available) Closing: 31 March, 2027

    The fund, which was established at the time of the renovation of the C3 lecture theatre, is to assist a second-year student from any faculty in their studies at Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Scholarships for international students

We are currently offering a NZ$15,000 VUW Undergraduate International Scholarship to all eligible international students enrolling in a Bachelor’s degree.

Your scholarship will be processed automatically when your programme application is accepted, and the amount will be deducted from your tuition fees.

Other scholarships

We also offer specialised scholarships for different groups and subject areas. If nothing fits right now, something may suit you later.

We encourage you to apply. It's a straightforward process, and it could make a real difference.

Scholarships for Econometrics

  • Worth: $6,000 Closing: 15 March, 2027

    In honour of Jonathan Nicholls (ACC's Head of Actuarial Services who passed away in early 2015), ACC wishes to promote the actuarial profession in much the same way that Jonathan did. ACC is dedicated to supporting Actuarial Science students and others looking to pursue a career in the actuarial profession.

Postgraduate study

If you choose to continue to postgraduate study with us after finishing your degree, you’ll join a talented team of internationally recognised researchers doing innovative work.

If you get good results in your undergraduate study, you could go on to an Honours degree. You could continue on to study a Master’s or PhD if you want to do independent research.

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Get help to manage your finances

We can help you:

  • budget your money
  • manage your student loan or allowance
  • work out your accommodation payment schedule.

If you're facing financial difficulties, we can help you apply for the Hardship Fund.

You may be eligible for government or community support, too.

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Wellington Global Exchange

If you're a current student at Victoria University of Wellington, you can complete part of your degree overseas. Choose from our 140 partner universities worldwide.

Wellington Global Exchange
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Study Abroad and Exchange Programme

If you're an overseas student, you can spend a trimester or a year at Victoria University of Wellington. You'll earn credits at your home university while you study here. 

Study Abroad and Exchange

Discover your career pathway with Tahatū