EC318-Econometric Methods

Module Provider: School of Politics, Economics and International Relations
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites: EC204 Introductory Econometrics
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Mr Chaowen Zheng
Email: chaowen.zheng@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

An advanced level course in econometrics.

Develops a theoretical understanding of econometric methods with a focus on causal inference.

Prerequisites include a good understanding of introductory econometrics.

Extends the standard linear regression model to include departures from the standard assumptions.

Enables a deeper understanding of causal inference concepts and estimation approaches. 

Aims:
To provide an up-to-date treatment of econometrics and illustrate the problems that arise in the practical application of econometrics.
To enable a student to apply and interpret econometric techniques in the context of real economic examples.

Assessable learning outcomes:

At the end of the module students should be able to:

• understand the core methods of econometrics at an advanced level;


• interpret articles and books which make use of econometric techniques;


• critically assess empirical econometrics;


• undertake simple estimation tasks using computer programming. 

Additional outcomes:

Improved understanding of mathematical arguments. A general ability to structure and solve problems. Greater familiarity with econometric software and programming.

Outline content:

• The linear regression model and OLS.


• The causal model.


• Treatment Effect Models.


• IV and Regression Discontinuity design


• Panel Data


• Binary and Poisson Models 

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Formal lectures and practical classes; supported independent study.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures	20		2
Tutorials	5
Guided independent study:	155		18
Total hours by term	180	0	20
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	50
Project output other than dissertation	50

Summative assessment- Examinations:

One 3 hour unseen written paper which counts towards 50% of the overall module mark.

Part 3 examinations are held in the Summer term.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

A final project which includes finding a dataset and evaluating causal effects in R programming.  This project will count towards 50% of the overall module mark.

Formative assessment methods:
Problem sets are undertaken by students during the Autumn term with feedback provided.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
A minimum overall mark of 40%.

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:  Hansen, B (2021), Econometrics, online manual. Available at https://www.ssc.wisc.edu/~bhansen/econometrics/Econometrics.pdf

2) Specialist equipment or materials:  None

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:  None

4) Printing and binding:  There may be optional costs associated with photocopying or printing sources listed on the reading list relating to this module. Please note that the Library charges approximately 5p per photocopy.

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:  None

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:  None

Last updated: 22 September 2022