Economics

The Economics of Development

Module code: L1065
Level 6
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Lecture, Seminar
Assessment modes: Coursework, Computer based exam

On this module, you’ll gain analytical and empirical tools to understand the functioning of markets and institutions in developing countries.

Key topics include:

• political institutions
• corruption
• property rights
• credit market imperfections
• contractual structures in agriculture
• informal insurance mechanisms.

For each topic, you’ll derive testable implications from theory, evaluate them using econometric testing, and explore policy conclusions.

Module learning outcomes

• Systematically understand the key economic problems and challenges specific to low and middle-income economies, with the ability to apply the knowledge and understanding in practice
• Critically evaluate arguments and data relating to developing countries
• Systematically understand the main theoretical models and empirical methods that are used by the profession to study economic development and be able to comment upon related research
• Analyse and communicate problems in development, both in writing and through presentations to specialist and non-specialist audiences