This class introduces econometric tools that economists use to study the effect of economic incentives, including changes due to laws and public policy, on individual behaviours and outcomes and covers recent applied microeconomic research in the field of labor economics, economics of education, and examples from economic modeling of crime and discrimination

One part of the course is focusing on introducing theoretical models and econometric methods. In particular, illustrations are provided for the translation of theoretical models into econometric specifications and the trade-offs involved in the process. 

The other part of the course aims to broaden the students’ knowledge by introducing a wider range of topics and applications which tie to the discussed theoretical models. Recent contributions to the literature are analysed and students are encouraged to underline the strengths and weaknesses of the chosen models. These discussions take the form of student presentations.

The relevant literature and topics will be available online on Learn@WU and will be discussed during the first lecture.

At the end of the course, the students will become aware of and be able to approach a wide range of topics studied by applied microeconomists.

Students will know, what are the common problems faced by researchers when trying to approach the particular questions and will become aware of some methods to deal with them based on the examples of the transition from theoretical model to econometric methods.

Topics in Microeconomics is a course with continuous assessment (PI), therefore attendance is necessary. Two lectures can be missed without excuse, absence in further lectures has to be excused/ explained via email.

Each topic will consist of a general introduction by the instructor and will be followed by the study of selected research articles. Presentation of articles will be shared between the instructor and students and will be followed by a discussion.

Class presentation (40%)

Each student must present a paper on one of the topics of the class. A reading list will be provided during the first session. Other suggestions are welcome but should be discussed with the instructor. Presentations will last from 30 to 60 minutes depending on registration.

Research proposal (49%)

Each student must make an original research proposal related to one of the topics of the class. Research proposals will be the core assessment of the class. A topic should be proposed by week 7. Final versions will be submitted one week after the last meeting (details discussed in the lecture and in a separate email).

Participation (11%) 

Office hours: by appointment and limited due to COVID-19 restrictions. (Online meetings are possible)

Room D4.2.157. Building D4, 2nd floor.

E-Mail: maria.marchenko@wu.ac.at

Due to the Corona situation currently our courses are  held online. As soon as the circumstances allow, our courses will  be held at the campus again. You will be informed  in time.