This program is designed for students who are interested in critically studying economics beyond the introductory level. In lecture and workshop, we will complete the equivalent of textbook intermediate macroeconomics which focuses primarily on the determinants of economic growth, employment rates, inflation and income distribution. We will assess the "appropriate" roles for the federal government in the economy (e.g., determining the right fiscal and monetary policy mix, setting exchange rates and eliminating/creating trade barriers). While there is no specific math prerequisite, extending our math skills will be an objective of the program. 

In the process, we will critically assess the limits of macroeconomic theory. For example, does the theory adequately consider income distribution effects of policy options? Do macroeconomic prescriptions contribute to gender inequalities? To what extent do ideological predispositions intersect with the science of economics, influencing prescriptions about the size of the money supply or the judged appropriateness of tax cuts?

In seminar, we will survey areas of applied macroeconomics and gain familiarity with the various schools of thought (i.e., Keynesian, Post-Keynesian, Monetarist, Austrian and Marxian approaches).

Program activities will include lectures, workshops, exams, short research papers and seminar.