ECM621-Topics in Business Economics

Module Provider: School of Politics, Economics and International Relations
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2020/1

Email: N.S.Wadeson@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module covers a number of topics in business economics. About half of the material covers the economics of entrepreneurship and also theories of the firm.  A number of other topics are also covered, such as innovation and advertising.  As part of the module, students are required to read and critically evaluate relevant and notable research works in the field. 

Aims:
This module covers various topics in business economics not covered in the Economics of Corporate Strategy module. It aims to give knowledge of the relevant areas of business economics and further improve students' analytical skills.

Assessable learning outcomes:
Students will be assessed on their knowledge and understanding of relevant topics in business economics.

Additional outcomes:

Outline content:

The content of this module is complementary to that of 'Economics of Corporate Strategy’, in covering different areas of business economics. The emphasis is on broadening and deepening the knowledge and analytical capabilities of students and encouraging them to critically evaluate notable research in the field.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Lectures which will include group discussions of relevant topics and problems. Students may also be asked to present their essays. Includes 1x 1 hour revision session. 

Summative assessment- Examinations:
One 2-hour unseen written paper.
Postgraduate examinations are held in the Summer term.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Coursework consists of one essay and a test. It has a total weight of 30% in the final assessment mark.

Formative assessment methods:

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A minimum weighted average mark of coursework and examination of 50%.

Reassessment arrangements:
Re-examination for all modules takes place in August/September of the same year.
Re-assessment is by examination only; coursework is not included at the second attempt.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

Required text books: Waldman and Jensen, Industrial Organization, Theory and Practice (International Student Edition) Paperback, RRP £49.99.  This title is also free to view and read on line.

Last updated: 4 April 2020