Introduction to Macroeconomics (201-DL-20)

Instructors

Gordon R Green

Meeting Info

Online: TBA

Overview of class

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles, models, and empirical evidence of macroeconomics. Students will explore the forces that shape the economy at a national and global level, including economic growth, inflation, unemployment, and fluctuations in output.

The course emphasizes the application of economic theory to real-world policy issues and current events, with a focus on understanding how households, firms, governments, and central banks interact within the macroeconomic system. Topics include measuring economic performance with GDP and other indicators, the determinants of long-run growth, the role of productivity and technological change, business cycle dynamics, fiscal and monetary policy, the causes and consequences of inflation, and the complexities of open-economy macroeconomics.

The course provides a unified framework integrates theoretical models with empirical evidence, helping students develop both analytical and critical thinking skills. Case studies, data analysis exercises, and policy debates will be central to the learning process. By the end of the course, students will have the tools to interpret macroeconomic data, evaluate policy proposals, and understand the economic forces influencing their own lives and the broader society.

Registration Requirements

Prerequisites: None, though familiarity with basic algebra is helpful.

This course is limited to School of Professional Studies students only. Undergraduate students in other schools at Northwestern are not permitted to enroll in this course.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students will be able to:

● Analyze macroeconomic data and trends

● Discuss the drivers of economic growth and business cycles

● Evaluate the effectiveness of fiscal and monetary policies

● Interpret the impact of macroeconomic policies in a global context

● Knowledgeably read about, analyze, and discuss macroeconomic issues

Class Materials (Required)

Course Materials: Macroeconomics, Third Edition by Daron Acemoglu, David Laibson, and John List. Podcast, journal articles

Class Attributes

Asynchronous:Remote class-no scheduled mtg time