Analytic Methods for Public Policy Analysis (336-0-20)

Instructors

Charles Manski

Meeting Info

University Hall 102: Mon, Wed, Fri 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

An important objective of economics research is to predict the consequences of alternative public policies, in order to inform design of new policies. Researchers combine data with assumptions to draw conclusions about policy impacts. The strength and credibility of these conclusions depend on the data and assumptions brought to bear, as well as on the analytical methods used. This course studies basic methodological problems in policy analysis and presents applications. Instruction includes lectures and class discussion. Examination of methodology and applications occurs throughout the course.

Registration Requirements

Economics 310-1 and 381, or their equivalents

Evaluation Method

multiple short essays/problems (10 points), midterm examination in class (40 points),
final examination in finals period (50 points)

Class Materials (Required)

C. Manski, Discourse on Social Planning under Uncertainty, Cambridge University Press, 2024. isbn: 9781009556750

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Reserved for Economics Majors & Minors until the end of preregistration, after which time enrollment will be open to everyone who has taken the prerequisites. Pre-requisite: Students must have taken ECON 310-1 or MMSS 211-1 and ECON 281 or ECON 381-1 or MATH 386-1 or IEMS 304 or STAT 350 to successfully enroll in this course.