This course is essentially addressed to non-economists and its aim is to get the students familiar with the several basic economic principles, approaches and methods as well as with key issues in the field of international economics and trade.

The first part will give special attention to the role of the State and economic policy, in particular their motivations (market failures, assignment and redistribution), instruments (regulation, public goods provision, etc.) and failures (government failures).

The second part concentrates on fundamental topics in international economics: patterns of trade and their impact on welfare, the effects of trade policy, the determinants of balance of payments and exchange rates, and the role of the international capital market.

In addition to the lectures, there will be practical sessions where cases and exercises will be widely discussed.

Assessment

The assessment of the course is based on a final exam (40% of the grade), homework, debates and practical exercises (40%) and two mid-term quizzes (20%).

In addition, it is mandatory to attend at least 80% of the classes to be able to approve the course.

In seminar sessions, exercises, problems and case studies will be discussed and solved. At the end of each session, homework will be given to be returned in a two-week time.

Competences, learning outcomes and teaching activities (PDF)