EC902: Quantitative Methods: Econometrics A

Gianna Boero
Module Leader

50 CATS - Department of Economics

Principal Aims

EC902-50 Quantitative Methods: Econometrics A

Principal Learning Outcomes

Subject Knowledge and Understanding: Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental concepts in mathematics and statistics relevant to the other core modules and be able to apply these concepts to economics. Subject Knowledge and Understanding: Demonstrate a deep understanding of material needed for empirical quantitative analysis. Subject Knowledge and Understanding: Demonstrate a full knowledge of the theory and practice of modern econometrics, particularly applied econometrics. Subject Specific and Professional Skills: Demonstrate the development of the habit of thought, knowledge and understanding to be able to carry out good quality applied econometric research with confidence and authority. Cognitive Skills: Develop the critical insight to appraise econometric results obtained by other researchers.

Syllabus

The syllabus for this module will be based on the following topics; however this list is not limited to those listed below and does not infer all of these topics will be studied in the module.

Introductory Mathematics and Statistics: pre-sessional topics covered will include linear algebra, multivariate calculus and constrained optimisation, differential and difference equations, basic probability theory and hypothesis testing.

Econometrics:

Term 1 will cover Randomized control trials, Identification based on observables (e.g. OLS), Instrumental variables Differences-in-differences, Regression discontinuity design.

Term 2 will cover the econometric modelling of economic and financial time-series data. This will include time series models, modelling univariate time series, unit root processes, multivariate time series, autoregressive conditional heteroskedasticity, and panel data.

Context

Pre or Co-requisites: Technical prerequisites (besides a first degree in economics) are elementary probability and statistics, mathematics for economists and algebraic facility.

Assessment

Assessment Method: Coursework (45%) + Examination (55%)
Coursework Details: Test 3 (10%), Test 2 (6%), Project (25%), Test 1 (4%), Examination (55%)
Exam Timing: Summer

Exam Rubric

Time Allowed: 3 Hours plus 15 minutes reading time during which notes may be made (on the question paper only) BUT NO ANSWERS MAY BE BEGUN.

Answer ALL SIX questions in Section A (10 marks each); ONE question from Section B (20 marks) and ONE question from Section C (20 marks). Answer Section A questions in one booklet, Section B questions in a separate booklet and Section C questions in a separate booklet.

Approved pocket calculators are allowed. Statistical Tables are provided.

Read carefully the instructions on the answer book provided and make sure that the particulars required are entered on each answer book. If you answer more questions than are required and do not indicate which answers should be ignored, we will mark the requisite number of answers in the order in which they appear in the answer book(s): answers beyond that number will not be considered.

Previous exam papers can be found in the University’s past papers archive. Please note that previous exam papers may not have operated under the same exam rubric or assessment weightings as those for the current academic year. The content of past papers may also be different.