Economic Sciences - Transport Economics Stellenbosch University

Overview

Economic Sciences - Transport Economics, studied at the Stellenbosch University, is that field of economics which deals with the optimal allocation of scarce resources within the transport sector, and between the transport sector and other sectors in the economy. In this discipline the underlying economic theory is discussed and evaluation methods and decision-making theory are studied and applied in order to equip prospective transport economists to assist with the abovementioned resource allocation in a scientific manner.

In addition, the field strives to inform students about the economic principles of transport regulation, transport pricing, competition and government transport policy. Thorough knowledge of these aspects, and the ability to apply transport policy judiciously, should contribute to a transport system which serves the national economy effectively. Transport economics also equip students with the knowledge of the economic characteristics of different modes of transport and the market conditions in which transport supply takes place in order to enable them to successfully manage transport companies.

Why to study

As transport economist you will apply the skills required for predicting the demand (for example, the number of trips and choice of transport mode) and supply (capacity of transport modes) and for studying the methods of financing maintenance, improvement and expansion of the transport network (such as tolls and road user charges) in order to provide solutions to transport problems.

As far as employment opportunities are concerned, transport economists often serve as consultants to government institutions, private transport companies and the private sector.