Universitat Internacional de Catalunya

Macroeconomics

Macroeconomics
6
14580
1
Second semester
FB
Main language of instruction: Spanish

Other languages of instruction: Catalan, English,

Teaching staff


Dr. URZAY GÓMEZ, Sergi Òscar - sourzay@uic.es

By appointment. In order to make an appointment, please request one by writing to: sourzay@uic.es

 

Introduction

In this course, students will gain a deep understanding of the key macroeconomic theories and concepts, including GDP, inflation, and unemployment. Through in-depth analysis and measurement of these concepts, students will learn about their interconnections and how they affect the economy as a whole. In addition to exploring macroeconomic theory, we will also examine the policies and tools that governments and central banks use to influence the economy, such as monetary and fiscal policy. By understanding how these policies can affect business operations, students will gain the ability to anticipate and adapt to changes in consumer demand, borrowing costs, and overall economic growth, which will enable them to make more informed and strategic decisions in a dynamic macroeconomic environment.

 


Pre-course requirements

None.

 

 

Objectives

The main objective of an introductory macroeconomics course is to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of macroeconomic principles, including the measurement, analysis, and forecasting of key economic indicators. The course will explore the relationship between these indicators and how they interact to shape the overall economic landscape. Additionally, students will learn about the tools and policies used by governments and central banks to influence the economy, such as monetary and fiscal policies and their impact on business operations. The course will also focus on developing the students' ability to analyze and evaluate the economic environment in which they operate, and make informed decisions based on this understanding.

 


Competences/Learning outcomes of the degree programme

  • 10 - To identify long-term economic growth factors and understand the impact of globalisation.
  • 21 - To be familiar with the main theories in the fields of microeconomics and macroeconomics.
  • 22 - To be able to identify the nature and behaviour of producers, consumers and investors.
  • 23 - To be familiar with and know how to use microeconomic and macroeconomic analysis terminology.
  • 31 - To develop the ability to identify and interpret numerical data.

Learning outcomes of the subject

Ability to compare and contrast macroeconomic models and theories.

Ability to critically evaluate the assumptions and empirical evidence underlying macroeconomic models and theories.

Ability to anticipate the effects of public policies.

Ability to apply macroeconomic concepts and theories to real-world economic problems and policy debates.

 

 

Syllabus

Lesson 1: Introduction.

Lesson 2: Labour Market.

Lesson 3: Economic growth.

Lesson 4: Money and monetary aggregates: supply and demand.

Lesson 5: Short-term macroeconomic equilibrium, IS-LM and Taylor's rule.

Lesson 6: Aggregate supply: inflation and unemployment.

Lesson 7: Analysis of aggregate supply and demand: macroeconomic policies.

 

Note: The content of this course may change based on the needs and pace of the class, subject to the instructor’s discretion.

Teaching and learning activities

In person



  • Master classes
  • Practice sessions
  • Midterms

 

Evaluation systems and criteria

In person



The evaluation of this course follows a “Continued Assessment” path, which includes various components contributing to the final grade. There are also specific attendance requirements and provisions for a second call exam.

1. Continued Assessment:

  • 2 In-class tests: 10% of the final grade (5% each, non-retaken).
  • Mid-term exam: 30% of the final grade (can be retaken).
  • Final exam: 50% of the final grade (can be retaken).

2. Attendance Requirement:

  • Students must attend at least 70% of the classes to be eligible for the continued assessment.

3. Failure to meet attendance requirement:

  • Students who do not attend at least 70% of the classes will not be eligible for continued assessment and will go directly to the second call exam. Additionally, students may be required to complete an extra activity to compensate for the lack of coursework completed during the semester, even if they pass the second call exam.

4. Second call exam:

  • For students who fail the continued assessment or do not meet the attendance requirement.
  • For students who do not meet the attendance requirement (70% of the classes), the exam will account for 100% of the grade, with a maximum grade of 6 out of 10.

In order to pass the subject, you must obtain a minimum grade of 5 out of 10.

Computers and cellphones are prohibited in the classroom. Students can either print the slides in advance and take notes on them, or bring a tablet to do so.

Bibliography and resources

Mankiw, N. G. (2013). Macroeconomics (8th ed.). Macmillan Learning.

Borjas, G. J. (2016). Labor Economics (7th ed.). McGraw Hill.

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