ECON 485 F: Garvie. Applied Microeconomics and Public Policy

This seminar provides students with an opportunity to research and write a paper on an economic problem/policy using theory from an applied field of Microeconomics such as Environmental Economics, Law and Economics, or Public Economics. The general focus of papers is to be the application of upper year level microeconomic theory to critically assess a public policy or law. Key learning goals of the course are to (i) develop and improve microeconomics analytical and reasoning skills, (ii) develop and improve ability to apply theoretical microeconomics to understand, explain, and critically assess real world situations, and (iii) develop and improve written and oral communication skills, all using an applied field of economics. Due to the myriad of possible topics, the seminar does not include a lecture series. Instead, I will meet one-on-one with you on Zoom at various stages of the research and writing process to provide help and constructive suggestions as to how to improve your paper and meet course learning goals.