EC423
Labour Economics
This information is for the 2024/25 session.
Teacher responsible
Dr Guy Michaels, SAL 2.10
Dr Christiane Szerman
Availability
This course is available on the MSc in Econometrics and Mathematical Economics, MSc in Economics and MSc in Economics (2 Year Programme). This course is available with permission as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit.
Pre-requisites
Students must have completed Introductory Course in Mathematics and Statistics (EC400).
In exceptional circumstances, students may take this course without EC400 provided they meet the necessary requirements and have received approval from the course conveners, the MSc Economics Programme Director and their own Programme Director. Contact the Department of Economics for more information (econ.msc@lse.ac.uk) regarding entry to this course.
Course content
An advanced course in labour economics issues, including theory, evidence, and policy. The course aims to familiarise students with the main theoretical and empirical issues in current labour economics and to provide them with the tools for developing independent research interests. The course has a strong applied focus. For each major topic covered, we will discuss theoretical implications, provide insights into the research methodology, discuss the advantages and limitations of existing empirical work, and where possible draw policy conclusions. The course will include hands-on experience in applying econometric tools, working with data, and thinking critically about results and their interpretation. Topics include labour supply and welfare systems, human capital, immigration, inequality and technological change, discrimination, labour market institutions, local labour markets and place-based policies, and intergenerational mobility.
Teaching
20 hours of lectures and 9 hours of seminars in the AT. 20 hours of lectures and 10 hours of seminars in the WT. 1 hour of seminars in the ST.
There will be a reading week in Week 6 of AT and in Week 6 of WT (no lectures or classes in those weeks).
This course is delivered through a combination of classes and lectures totalling a minimum of 60 hours across Autumn Term, Winter Term and Spring Term.
Formative coursework
At least two marked assignments per term.
Indicative reading
Most of the reading is from journal articles. A detailed reading list is available on Moodle.
Assessment
Exam (50%, duration: 2 hours, reading time: 15 minutes) in the spring exam period.
Essay (50%, 6000 words) in the ST.
Key facts
Department: Economics
Total students 2023/24: 10
Average class size 2023/24: 10
Controlled access 2023/24: Yes
Value: One Unit
Course selection videos
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