Introductory description

This module introduces students to the current practice of applied economics. Through a combination of theory, empirics, and policy discussions, students will become familiar with recent academic debates around various topics such as poverty, gender, and climate change. In particular, we will consider key theories that inspire empirical work in applied economics and analyse in depth the empirical strategies that have been used to test them. Furthermore, we will focus on how to draw policy implications based on the evidence produced.

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

The module covers several topics in applied economics. For each topic, the module provides an introduction to related theoretical concepts and models, a description of empirical strategies typically used for testing theories, a summary of existent evidence, and examples of studies analysing policy interventions.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Understand selected models in applied economics (e.g. poverty traps, statistical discrimination), their assumptions and testable predictions.
• Assess the strengths and weaknesses of empirical methods for the identification of causality that are popular in applied economics. This includes both experimental and observational methods.
• Use economic reasoning and evidence to analyse policies and interventions related to considered topics.
• Develop communication and presentation skills

Research element

Module suggests avenues for future research in Economics, as well as recent applications and development of econometric methods in the area of study.

Interdisciplinary

Module covers contents that are relevant to also disciplines including Political Science and Sociology.

International

Skills learned in the module may facilitate employment opportunities worldwide. Applications of the methods presented in the module may be drawn from international experiences.

Subject specific skills

• Enhance the capacity to conduct economic analyses autonomously
• Enhance understanding of the recent debates on topics related to gender economics, poverty, climate change
• Develop and enhance skills in econometrics
• Be able to understand, distinguish, and communicate the differences between correlational and causal analysis

Transferable skills

• Enhance the capacity to conduct economic analyses autonomously
• Enhance understanding of the recent debates on topics related to gender economics, poverty, climate change
• Develop and enhance skills in econometrics
• Be able to understand, distinguish, and communicate the differences between correlational and causal analysis