PP418      Half Unit
Globalisation and Economic Policy

This information is for the 2020/21 session.

Teacher responsible

Professor Andres Velasco

Availability

This course is available on the MPA Dual Degree (LSE and Columbia), MPA Dual Degree (LSE and Hertie), MPA Dual Degree (LSE and NUS), MPA Dual Degree (LSE and Sciences Po), MPA Dual Degree (LSE and Tokyo), Master of Public Administration and Master of Public Policy. This course is available with permission as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit.

Pre-requisites

The expectation is that students will have previously taken PP440 and PP455 or other equivalent courses. Students that have not taken PP440 and PP455 will require permission from the course lecturer to attend the course.

Course content

Over the past two centuries, the global economy has become increasingly interconnected.  This course studies the policy implications of this globalization.  It considers the causes and consequences of increasing international economic integration, focusing particularly on the challenges and opportunities that globalization creates for policy makers.  Key areas covered include: international trade, innovation and growth, migration and wages, international capital flows, borrowing and adjustment in the world economy, monetary and exchange rate policy, and financial crises.  The course builds on the knowledge developed in PP440 and PP455.

Teaching

This course is delivered through a combination of classes and lectures totalling 30 hours in the Lent Term. This year, some or all of this teaching will be delivered through a combination of virtual lectures, a mix of online and in-classroom seminars, and interactive support sessions. 

Formative coursework

The formative coursework will comprise two graded problem sets. The formative coursework will take place throughout the term.

Indicative reading

There is no single textbook that includes all the material covered in this course.  Lectures and readings will primarily focus on journal articles.  Three books that will be used during the course are:

Krugman, P.R., Obstfeld, M and Melitz, M.J. International economics: theory and policy 11th edition (Boston: Pearson, 2018)

Rodrik, D., The globalization paradox: why global markets, states and democracy can't coexist (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2011)

Irwin, D., Free Trade Under Fire (Princeton: Princeton University Press, 2015)

Assessment

Exam (50%, duration: 2 hours, reading time: 15 minutes) in the summer exam period.
Coursework (50%).

The 50% coursework will consist of two graded problem sets worth 25% each.

Important information in response to COVID-19

Please note that during 2020/21 academic year some variation to teaching and learning activities may be required to respond to changes in public health advice and/or to account for the situation of students in attendance on campus and those studying online during the early part of the academic year. For assessment, this may involve changes to mode of delivery and/or the format or weighting of assessments. Changes will only be made if required and students will be notified about any changes to teaching or assessment plans at the earliest opportunity.

Key facts

Department: School of Public Policy

Total students 2019/20: 38

Average class size 2019/20: 13

Controlled access 2019/20: Yes

Value: Half Unit

Guidelines for interpreting course guide information

Personal development skills

  • Self-management
  • Team working
  • Problem solving
  • Application of information skills
  • Communication
  • Application of numeracy skills
  • Specialist skills