Why are some countries richer than others? Why have some countries experienced growth miracles while others have experienced stagnation of even growth disasters? Within developing countries, what does it mean to be poor? What are the challenges that the poor in developing countries face and what can be done to improve their living standards? The course will focus on explanation such as differences in savings rates, capital stock, geography, institutions, foreign aid, international grade, and corruption in terms of trying to understand the large disparities across countries. Within countries we will examine education and credit markets for the poor. The course will cover both theory and empirical evidence. Emphasis will be placed on not just knowing the empirical evidence, but also on understanding the challenges faced in collecting credible empirical evidence. 

In addition to the learning outcomes for the pass lectures and tutorials, graduate students will:

• be introduced to more advanced analysis of the determinants of poverty and the differences between countries;
• understand how empirical analysis is used to examine these issues, and be able to critically evaluate the different approaches used.

As per ECHI2003 plus an additional seminar presenation.

Lectures and tutorials as per ECHI2003 plus an additional lecture per week and private study time.

 At least an average of 65% (or equivalent) in the final two years of an Australian undergraduate degree with introductory level courses in Economics, Statistics and Econometrics.

Please refer to Course Website