Methods of Economics

This course teaches students the basic methods of theoretical and quantitative economics. Students will be introduced step by step to advanced methods for studying economics models. The course begins with a brief overview of the optimisation of function values in one and multi-dimensions. It then turns to optimisation under one and several constraints. In particular, students familiarise themselves with the analysis of comparative statics.

In the second part of the course, methods from the field of dynamic economics are introduced. In particular, students should understand and apply the concept of difference equations. Throughout the course, students are also repeatedly shown how the concepts they have learnt can be implemented on a computer.