EC943: Industrial Economics

Minh Tung Le
Module Leader

15 CATS - Department of Economics

Spring Module

Principal Aims

The aim of this module is to provide concise coverage of a range of central topics in industrial economics, first building a framework of oligopoly then adding to that framework, so bringing the models closer to life. Consequently, the student will gain an appreciation of the key ideas underlying the subject, on which they can build or develop as necessary. The approach involves a mixture of models and empirical examples throughout, including a flavour of the predominant techniques in current empirical work.

Principal Learning Outcomes

Subject Knowledge and Understanding:...demonstrate a thorough understanding of the theoretical foundations of industrial economics. The teaching and learning methods that enable students to achieve this learning outcome are: Lectures, independent study. The summative assessment methods that measure the achievement of this learning outcome are: Report and problem sets

Subject Knowledge and Understanding:...demonstrate a significant understanding of empirical applications of industrial economics. The teaching and learning methods that enable students to achieve this learning outcome are: Lectures, independent study. The summative assessment methods that measure the achievement of this learning outcome are: Report

Subject Knowledge and Understanding:...demonstrate an ability to apply industrial economic concepts to particular examples. The teaching and learning methods that enable students to achieve this learning outcome are: Lectures, independent study. The summative assessment methods that measure the achievement of this learning outcome are: Report and problem sets

Syllabus

The module will typically cover the following topics:

• Oligopoly models: strategic behaviour amongst a given set of firms;

• Developments of the basic oligopoly models;

• Horizontal and vertical product differentiation;

• Various forms of price discrimination; two-part tariff, bundling, yield management, dynamic pricing;

• Sequential and non-sequential search model; Switching; Search and Switching in Oligopolistic Market;

• Bounded Rationality: Sampling; Loss-Aversion in Menu Design.

Context

Optional Module: L1P6 - Year 1
Pre or Co-requisites: The module will build on some aspects of your knowledge of microeconomics including elementary game theory. In addition it assumes some knowledge of econometrics.

Assessment

Assessment Method: Coursework (20%) + In-person examination (80%)
Coursework Details: In-person examination (80%) , Problem Set 1 (10%) , Problem Set 2 (10%)
Exam Timing: May

Exam Rubric

There is no examination for the EC943 module in 2020/21

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.