Business Economist

Business economists are mainly engaged in determining and enhancing the functioning of individual enterprises in the larger economy. This role can be exercised by researching and collecting relevant business-related data to enhance the growth and development of an organization (business economic advisor) or by acting as full-time professional managers.

• Identifying business areas that might be profitable to the enterprise, developing these areas further and also identifying problem areas and transforming them into opportunities and challenges that can benefit the organization as a whole.



• Keeping abreast of environmental factors (social, economic and political trends) abroad and at home and reconciling these with internal developments (e.g. structural developments) of the organisation.



• Analyzing the internal systems and workings of the organization and suggesting programmes of action to top management.



• Lecturing at technikons and universities on the implementation of business management as a science.
 

Requirements
 
Secondary Education
A HIGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, with matriculation exemption is required to be admitted to South African universities. A HIGCSE or outstanding IGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, is needed for enrolment at a South Africantechnikon. UNAM requires a HIGCSE or IGCSE Grade 12, or equivalent qualification, with a minimum of 25 points on the UNAM point evaluation scale. For studies at the Polytechnic of Namibia, candidates must have at least passed five subjects on HIGCSE/IGCSE level and have obtained a minimum score of 25 points on the Polytechnic’s point evaluation scale.
  Compulsory subject: Mathematics (South Africa)

Recommended subjects
Economics, Business Studies and Accounting (South Africa)
 
Tertiary Education
Business Economics, Economics or Statistics can be taken as major subjects of the B. Econ. and/or B. Com. degrees at most South African universities and UNAM.
  Business Economics is also an integral part of almost all business-related fields at technikon level.

Personality
Business economists must have a broad interest in the business world, as well as be analytical and critical thinkers. Communication and leadership skills are also important in this profession.

Work Opportunities
Business economists are mainly employed by larger enterprises and by financial institutions. The business economist can also start his or her own consultancy.

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