This course focuses on the problems of developing countries in an international and macro economic context. We shall first discuss theories of economic development and examine how international trade and foreign direct investment contribute to development. Second, in a macroeconomic part, we shall look at the role of different exchange rate systems, currency crises, balance of payment problems and foreign debt.

After this course, participants of this course should be in a position to understand the typical problems of developing countries and their causes and should be able to evaluate efficient measure to overcome them.

Students are requested to attend the course regularly. You can miss the course twice without notice. Further absence only in case of serious reasons.

The main part of the course  will be covered by presentations of the course leader. Home exercises will permit to reflect on the content. Students will prepare a seminar paper. The final part of the course is reserved for the presentation of seminar papers and their discussion.

Final grades are based on the written test (40% of grade), Home exercises (30%) and presentation and submission of the seminar paper (30%),  

To receive a positive final grade, the test must be passed and the seminar presented and submitted in written form!

Each student has to present his (her) homework twice during the term.

Topics for the seminar paper and dates of presentation will be distributed on November 4th. The seminar paper and its presentation will be done as a teamwork by 2 students.

The course has 5 ECTS (for incoming students the ZAS information applies).

Students should attend classes, but can be absent during 2 units. Beyond that a confirmation of severe reasons for absence is requested.

Please reserve the dates of the test and your presentation in your calendar.. Alternative dates cannot be offered.

You must have passed the courses in international macroeconomics and applied microeconomics.

gabriele.tondl@wu.ac.at