Econometrics (PHD401)

The aim of this course is to develop a knowledge on the econometric methods that are useful to analyze individual level data (microdata).


Course description for study year 2024-2025. Please note that changes may occur.

Facts

Course code

PHD401

Version

2

Credits (ECTS)

5

Semester tution start

Autumn

Number of semesters

1

Exam semester

Autumn

Language of instruction

English

Content

The course will cover the following specific aspects:

  • Defining parameters and arguing their (policy) relevance
  • Randomized controlled trials
  • Controlling for observables
  • Instrumental variables 1: Local average treatment effects (and its extensions)
  • Instrumental variables 2: Weak instruments
  • Approaches to analyze repeated cross-sections and panel data: Difference in Differences, Event studies, Synthethic control

Learning outcome

Upon completion of this course, students will:

Knowledge:

  • Have solid knowledge of key microeconometric methods
  • Have solid knowledge about the formal basis for the methods
  • Have solid knowledge of central issues related to practical use of the methods
  • Have the necessary knowledge to understand, design, conduct and interpret empirical analyses of real world data

Skills:

  • Be able to understand causal modeling
  • Understand underlying assumptions, strengths, and weaknesses of different empirical approaches
  • Understand key issues in design and implementation of empirical analyses
  • Be able to design empirical analyses and analyze data

General competence​:

  • Be conversant in the world of empirical microeconomics
  • Be able to produce empirical economic research
  • Be able to consume empirical economic research
  • Be able to develop scientifically valid analyses
  • Have proficiency in software designed for data analysis and estimation

Required prerequisite knowledge

Participants must be enrolled in a PhD program.

Recommended prerequisites

Master's degree in economics or similar.

Exam

Form of assessment Weight Duration Marks Aid
Individual paper 1/1 Passed / Not Passed

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Torfinn Harding

Method of work

Lectures, problem sets, written asignment.

The course will last one week, with physical attendance.

Open for

Single Course Admission to PhD-Courses PhD programme in Social Sciences

Literature

Search for literature in Leganto