Study development from an economic perspective
The one-year specialisation in Development Economics and Globalisation provides you with the knowledge and practical skills to analyse the complex challenges of economic development at an advanced level. At the same time, you learn how to translate theoretical insights and empirical evidence into clear and actionable policy advice.
- In Period 1 (Sep–Oct), you’ll take methods courses in Microeconomics and Econometrics. These give you a strong foundation for the rest of the programme — both for the Development Economics field courses and for a wide choice of electives.
- In Period 2 (Nov–Dec), you’ll take the first core course: Microeconomics for Development. This course applies microeconomic theory to a range of topics that are of pronounced significance in low-income settings. It also makes extensive use of empirical analysis and emphasizes the role of policy. In the same period, you’ll choose an elective from a wide set of related applied courses. A recommended elective is Economics of Climate Change, which uses economics to examine the causes of and solutions to climate change.
- In Period 3 (Jan), you will write a Policy Brief on a topic of your choice, with individual supervision from a lecturer. This sharpens your skills in independent, policy-oriented writing.
- In Period 4 (Feb–Mar), the second core course Globalization, Growth, and Development takes centre stage. Via close study of key papers in combination with extensive discussion sessions, you will develop a deeper understanding of the relationship between growth, trade, inequality, and international migration. You will also choose another elective course. A recommended elective is Economics of the Welfare State, which examines how welfare programs can be designed in ways that are both fair and efficient.
- In Periods 5 and 6 (Apr–Jun), you’ll write your master's thesis, with personal supervision from a faculty member, making an original contribution to research in Development Economics.
The start date of this programme is September 1st.