EC350-Macroeconometrics

Module Provider: School of Politics, Economics and International Relations
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites: EC204 Introductory Econometrics or EC204NU Introductory Econometrics
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Shixuan Wang
Email: shixuan.wang@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module is one of two applied econometric modules which provide further development of econometric methods introduced in Parts 1 and 2.  EC350 focuses on techniques in the time series econometrics. This module is intended to teach students macroeconometrics, which focuses time series econometrics with applications on macroeconomic datasets. In addition students will develop their econometric software skills in R.

Aims:

The aim of this module is to provide a solid grounding in recent developments in time series econometrics with applications in macroeconomics. It will enable students to understand what is the most appropriate econometric method for a given set of data and problem faced, and gain practical experience (with computer classes) in analysing a wide range of economic questions.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the course, students should be able to:

• Understand the need for, and the nature of advanced time series econometrics.


• Implement time series econometric methods using R.


• Read academic papers in macroeconometrics and understand the suitability of the methods employed.

Additional outcomes:

Students will be able to understand and comment on the quality of econometric report. Additionally, students will gain programming skills in R.

Outline content:

Topics may include: autoregressive model, moving-average model, ARMA model, unit root/stationarity tests, model selection and diagnostics, forecasting, vector autoregressive models, and cointegration.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

Formal lectures and computer classes; supported independent study.

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures		20	2
Practicals classes and workshops		6
Guided independent study:		154	18
Total hours by term	0	180	20
Total hours for module	200

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written exam	60
Project output other than dissertation	40

Summative assessment- Examinations:

One 3 hour in-person exam that consists of an unseen written paper.

Part 3 examinations are held in the Summer term.

The examination for this module will require a narrowly defined time window and is likely to be held in a dedicated exam venue.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Student will need to carry out an R-based course project. Datasets will be provided, and students will use apply what they have learned to answer a set of econometric tasks. There is no world limit for the report of the course project.

Formative assessment methods:

Exercises discussed during the lectures and computer classes.

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):

1) Required text books:  

2) Specialist equipment or materials:  

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:  

4) Printing and binding:  

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:  

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:  

Last updated: 24 August 2023