How important are introductory subjects in advanced economics studies?

This paper investigates the impact of student performance in introductory economics and quantitative subjects on higher-level economics subjects. A multi-year data set with detailed performance scores from a major multicampus Australian university is used for this study. Employing ordinary least squares and quantile regression, the results of the study reveal that performance in introductory macroeconomics and quantitative subjects significantly influences students’ performance in advanced-level economics subject. The policy implication recommends adequate prior knowledge and competency for students entering into tertiary education to progress well in higher-level economics studies. This strategy may assist in achieving greater social inclusion and increased retention rates for university degrees.