Economist : Training

Training for economists is ongoing and will vary depending on the type of employer and sector. New economists develop their knowledge on the job while working in consultation with more experienced, senior economists.

Attending short courses and seminars, either in-house or delivered by external training providers, is a feature of most economists' careers. Topics such as presentation skills and report writing are common to most organisations. Economists may also receive formal training on new IT packages and statistical programs.

Possession of higher-level qualifications is increasingly expected and many employers encourage economists to enrol for postgraduate degrees, such as an MA, MSc, MBA, MPhil or PhD. In some cases, employers will help fund such courses and provide study leave. Depending on the organisation, economists are often encouraged to become members of professional associations.

As with all professionals, economists are expected to be self-motivated in their continuing professional development (CPD) and to keep up to date with developments in economics. This means that, in most cases, they will have the autonomy to manage their own training and development needs, according to their own (and their employer's) individual career contexts.