EC317NU-Urban Economics

Module Provider: School of Politics, Economics and International Relations
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Semesters in which taught: Semester 2 module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: EC201NU Intermediate Microeconomics
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Florent Dubois
Email: f.m.g.dubois@reading.ac.uk

NUIST Module Lead:
Email:

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The module introduces students to key topics in urban economics. We will examine some of the main economic theories and models that are used to study cities and their development, and explore a range of problems that affect cities and policies that can be used to address them.Ìý

Module Lead at NUIST: ÌýDr Jin ZhouÌýzhoujin@nuist.edu.cn

Aims:

The module aims to introduce students to key topics in urban economics and examine how economists use economic models to study cities and their development. The first part of the course will look at how economic theory explains the size and growth of cities, and what factors determine the location decisions of firms and households. The second part of the course will analyse policy-relevant issues, including urban crime, poverty and inequality, urban congestion, and housing.

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of the module, students should be able to:

1. apply economic theory to explain why cities exist and the size and growth of cities;


2. apply economic theory to analyse urban policy issues and assess the outcomes of alternative policies;


3. critically assess some of the empirical research in urban economics;


4. discuss the role of local government and the challenges involved in designing optimal urban policies.

Additional outcomes:

Students will have the opportunity to further develop their oral and written communication skills through classroom discussions and written assignments.

Outline content:

Topics to be covered include: why cities exist; the determinants of city size, structure and growth; understanding the location decisions of firms and households; urban sprawl; urban crime; transport; housing and housing policy issues.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures will be used to introduce and discuss the material. Students are expected to prepare for lectures by reading recommended materials and to participate in any classroom discussions. Office hours are available for students to consult the lecturer on an individual basis.