Learning objectives: This course aims to equip students with a broad and critical understanding of key empirical issues in development economics. Through a mix of introductory lectures and student-led research projects, the course encourages analytical thinking, independent inquiry, and effective communication on topics relevant to low- and middle-income countries. Knowledge and understanding: • Gain a comprehensive overview of major themes in development economics, including poverty and inequality, human capital, gender and institutions, and international aid. • Understand and critically assess the state-of-the-art empirical literature on development issues. • Learn to identify and evaluate the effectiveness of various development policies and interventions. • Acquire familiarity with key concepts, indicators, and data sources used in development research. Making judgements: • Develop the ability to critically analyze academic research and empirical evidence in development economics. • Assess the strengths and limitations of different methodologies and policy evaluations. • Formulate well-founded opinions on development challenges and the appropriateness of different policy responses. • Reflect on ethical and contextual issues in the design and implementation of development strategies. Communication skills: • Learn to clearly present research findings both orally and in written form. • Develop the ability to structure and deliver seminar presentations to peers. • Practice academic writing through the development of an empirical paper or literature review. • Engage in constructive peer discussion and critique during seminar sessions. Learning Skills: • Strengthen the ability to independently conduct empirical analysis or systematic literature reviews using databases and software tools. • Build the skills needed to identify relevant research questions and formulate coherent, evidence-based arguments. • Enhance capacity for lifelong learning in development economics through critical engagement with current research. • Learn to work autonomously and manage a research project from conception to presentation.

There is no “official” prerequisite. However, students should have completed an Econometrics course and feel comfortable with the interpretation of coefficients of regressions. Previous knowledge in Stata is advantageous but not a prerequisite. Class attendance is an important component of this course and is highly recommended. Active participation in seminars and presentations enhances both individual learning and group discussion. Students who are unable to attend should have valid and serious reasons (e.g., work commitments, serious illness) and are encouraged to inform the instructor in advance.

This course, taught in English, offers insights into development economics and policies. Students will obtain an overview on the state of the art of empirical research on a wide range of issues relevant to less-developed countries. The course is organized in four main themes, with an application, a specific topic or tool for each theme: 1. Poverty and inequality 2. Human capital: education and health 3. Gender, institutions and development 4. International aid and development. Possible additional topics will be included at the beginning of the course and correspond to up-to- date current research interests of the lecturers involved.

The readings for this course (research papers, articles, book chapters and reports) will be provided at the beginning of the course, and made available on Teams.

This course, taught in English, offers insights into development economics and policies. Students will obtain an overview on the state of the art of empirical research on a wide range of issues relevant to less-developed countries. The course is organized in four main themes, with an application, a specific topic or tool for each theme: 1. Poverty and inequality 2. Human capital: education and health 3. Gender, institutions and development 4. International aid and development. Possible additional topics will be included at the beginning of the course and correspond to up-to- date current research interests of the lecturers involved. The readings for this course (research papers, articles, book chapters and reports) will be provided at the beginning of the course, and made available on Teams. The course combines face-to-face lessons with a flipped classroom approach. It begins with a series of introductory lectures covering the four main themes and providing students with the necessary background and tools to engage with empirical research in development economics. Following this, students will select a topic within one of the themes and conduct either an empirical analysis or a systematic literature review. Each student will write an individual essay and present their findings in class, fostering active participation, peer learning, and critical discussion. There is no “official” prerequisite. However, students should have completed an Econometrics course and feel comfortable with the interpretation of coefficients of regressions. Previous knowledge in Stata is advantageous but not a prerequisite. Class attendance is an important component of this course and is highly recommended. Active participation in seminars and presentations enhances both individual learning and group discussion. Students who are unable to attend should have valid and serious reasons (e.g., work commitments, serious illness) and are encouraged to inform the instructor in advance. To earn 6 credit points, attending students are required to write a research paper, deliver a class presentation, actively participate in discussions, and provide a brief discussion of another student’s paper. Any additional topics covered in the course will be assessed through a short written exam. Non-attending students will complete a two-hour written exam covering the full course content. More detailed information will be provided through Teams at the beginning of the second semester.

The course combines face-to-face lessons with a flipped classroom approach. It begins with a series of introductory lectures covering the four main themes: poverty and inequality; human capital (education and health); gender, institutions and development; and international aid. These lectures provide students with the necessary background and tools to engage with empirical research in development economics. Following this, students will select a topic within one of the themes and conduct either an empirical analysis or a systematic literature review. Each student will write an individual essay and present their findings in class, fostering active participation, peer learning, and critical discussion.

More detailed information will be provided through Teams at the beginning of the second semester.

To earn 6 credit points, attending students are required to write a research paper, deliver a class presentation, actively participate in discussions, and provide a brief discussion of another student’s paper. Any additional topics covered in the course will be assessed through a short written exam. Non-attending students will complete a two-hour written exam covering the full course content.

No Poverty, Zero Hunger, Good Health and Well-being, Quality Education, Gender Equality, Clean Water and Sanitation, Decent Work and Economic Growth, Reduced Inequality, Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions