The Master of Philosophy is a one year research-based degree in which candidates undertake a programme of supervised research which critically investigates a topic of substance and significance. The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree has a status higher than that of other Masters degrees but lower than that of the PhD degree. It is a research degree designed to recognise an original contribution to knowledge and the comments on the originality and significance of the PhD thesis apply here too. However, it is intended that an MPhil thesis be the product of only one year of full-time research (though in practice candidates invariably take longer) and the original contribution to knowledge will therefore be less than would be expected in a PhD thesis. Economics Studying Economics will help you develop the analytical skills needed to be an effective problem solver of real-life issues. You'll learn how to apply your skills to issues ranging from employment and housing, to public health, transport and environmental pollution. Studying Economics will help you see the world in a different light; and understand how to apply this new perspective to help resolve issues in our society. You'll learn how to help people, governments and businesses make better decisions about using natural and financial resources to meet different goals. Economists contribute to government decision-making on many different issues, such as shaping new laws and taxes, or advising on international trade agreements. They can also be involved in recommending incentives and penalties geared towards changing people's behaviour, such as encouraging people to leave their car at home. You'll learn how to explain the reasons for different market structures, analyse the implications of government policy, anticipate how people might react to price changes, and demonstrate the gains from trade. The practical assignments in Economics can be both challenging and creative. While studying at Waikato, there'll be plenty of opportunities for you to make new friends, such as through the Economics Discussion Group. This is a student-led group that gets together regularly to discuss economic issues. If you're passionate about business, current affairs, finance or maths then economics may be a good fit for you. Economics brings together ideas from many different areas: politics, psychology, sociology, geography, law and statistics. Career opportunities Business analyst Financial analyst Policy analyst / adviser Government economist or in Treasury Management consultant Economics Researcher Economics teacher / lecturer