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? How to combat poverty? What are the challenges that the poor in developing countries face and what can be done to improve their living standards? This course intends to teach students what we know and what we do not know about these important questions and will focus on teaching students tools in understanding them. The topics covered will include explanations on why countries develop differently, the effect of geography, institutions, foreign aid, corruption and differential savings rates on the large disparities across countries. Within countries we will examine the role of education, health migration and credit markets in poverty alleviation. The course will cover both theory and 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 or an essay.

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