In this course students engage in detailed examination of a series of case studies in applied economics research and prepare an original research paper based on a case study of their choice. Typically, the case studies discussed in group meeting will be drawn from debates in applied economics. By deconstructing the source of debate, students will develop the skills to critically assess research in applied economics. In particular, students will gain experience in understanding how differences in research methodology, modelling assumptions, statistical technique, and data can drive research findings. A significant part of the course will be devoted to students developing an original research paper, under the supervision of an academic economist.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will have:

 1) Critically analysed a series of case studies in applied economics.

2) Learned the strengths and weaknesses of various research methodologies in applied economics.

3) Conducted original research and analysis on a case study.

4) Written a well-structured paper on the case study, in the style suitable for an academic journal.

5) Developed practical research skills in applied economics.

30% Exam, 10% Presentations, 60% Research Project

Approximately 8-10 hours per week.

Admission to the PhD program in Economics.

Economics at the Masters level.

No text. A reader of journal articles will be available.

None.