òòò½ÍøSP: Course Descriptions
FOUNDATION LEVEL
ECON-581 Foundations of Mathematical Economics (3)
This course provides a rigorous introduction to the mathematical methods essential for advanced study in economics. Designed for students preparing to enter a PhD program in economics, the course covers key topics in linear algebra, multivariable calculus, optimization, and differential equations, with an emphasis on economic applications. Students gain a strong foundation in the mathematical tools necessary for success in graduate-level economic theory and econometrics.
ECON-583 Foundations of Microeconomic Theory (3)
This course explores the foundations of microeconomic theory, focusing on the behavior of individuals, firms and the interaction of these agents in the marketplace. It examines forms of market structure and explores how the form of market structure impacts firm behavior. Students learn the concept of market efficiency and investigate how a variety of imperfections (including externalities and public goods) can reduce the efficiency of the marketplace. Students consider the role of government in the economy and analyze the economic efficiency of an assortment of public policies.
ECON-585 Foundations of Econometric Analysis (3)
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the econometric methods used in empirical economic research. Students develop a strong foundation in regression analysis, hypothesis testing, and model specification, with an emphasis on practical applications in economics. The course balances theory with hands-on experience using statistical software to analyze real-world data. The class uses the statistical software package Stata but previous knowledge of Stata is not required.
ECON-587 Research Methods in Economics (3)
This pre-doctoral course provides an in-depth exploration of empirical research methods in economics. Students identify a research question, construct a suitable empirical strategy, analyze data, and refine their work through peer review and instructor feedback. Students simultaneously review the best practices in critically evaluating existing empirical literature and communicating their findings to an academic audience. The course culminates in the submission and presentation of an original empirical paper in economics.
ADVANCED LEVEL
ECON-582 Mathematical Economics (3)
This course provides pre-doctoral students with a rigorous foundation in the core mathematical tools used in modern economic theory. The course emphasizes building analytical skills for formal modeling and proof-based reasoning in microeconomic and macroeconomic theory. Core topics include linear algebra, real analysis, optimization theory, convexity and fixed-point theorems.
ECON-584 Microeconomic Theory (3)
This course provides a rigorous foundation in microeconomic theory for students preparing for PhD study in economics. It covers consumer theory, producer theory, and market failures, emphasizing mathematical formalism and proof-based reasoning. Students explore utility maximization, demand theory, duality, and firm behavior. The course also introduces choice under uncertainty and basic elements of game theory.
ECON-586 Econometric Analysis (3)
This advanced econometrics course is designed for students preparing for PhD-level economics research. The course provides a rigorous introduction to modern econometric theory and methods. Subjects include probability theory, statistical inference, asymptotic theory, linear and nonlinear regression models, instrumental variables, maximum likelihood estimation, and generalized method of moments. Students engage with both theoretical derivations and practical applications, emphasizing the mathematical foundations necessary for empirical research. Problem sets and empirical exercises require proficiency in statistical programming in Stata. Students gain the analytical tools to critically evaluate econometric models and conduct independent research at the doctoral level.
ECON-587 Research Methods in Economics (3)
This pre-doctoral course provides an in-depth exploration of empirical research methods in economics. Students identify a research question, construct a suitable empirical strategy, analyze data, and refine their work through peer review and instructor feedback. Students simultaneously review the best practices in critically evaluating existing empirical literature and communicating their findings to an academic audience. The course culminates in the submission and presentation of an original empirical paper in economics.