Intermediate Macroeconomics
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This course builds on your introductory knowledge of national income accounting, calculus, statistics, and spreadsheet analysis. For those eager to deepen their toolkit, there will be optional pathways into econometrics, matrix algebra, and coding.
Classes will combine instructor-led teaching with interactive group discussions. Some sessions will be dedicated entirely to problem-solving or collaborative research – ideal preparation for in-class exams and final essays.
We shall tackle both theoretical and real-world macroeconomic questions. The theory component spans a broad spectrum: from foundational models like the multiplier-accelerator and basic Keynesian demand-supply analysis, through the Solow growth model, and on to modern frameworks including Real Business Cycle theory and New Keynesian DSGE models. Along the way, we shall explore how these models help us understand the world around us.
Expect to engage with contemporary debates such as:
- How should we interpret market-moving data releases?
- Do White House macro objectives add up?
- Is policy uncertainty good or bad for the economy?
- What exactly is R-Star – and why does it matter?
- What are the key macro ingredients for long-term economic success?
- Do tariffs pose a threat to the US economic outlook?
- Is the US budget debt burden out of control?
- How does the Federal Reserve use large-scale macro models to pursue monetary and financial policy objectives?
Whether you are curious about current policy debates or keen to strengthen your analytical skills, this course offers a challenging but rewarding deep dive into modern macroeconomics.
Money & Banking
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Whether you are aiming for a finance career, want to sharpen your investing instincts, or are just curious about what makes the economy tick, this course will give you a strong foundation. Money & Banking is not just for economics majors: it teaches real-world citizen skills: how to borrow and invest wisely, spot scams, and stay clear-headed amid fintech hype and crypto jargon.
This course is designed for students with little background in economics or mathematics – but with plenty of curiosity and a willingness to pick up key tools for financial analysis. You will learn practical techniques such as basic financial accounting, discounted present value, and core statistical concepts like standard deviations, covariances, and correlations.
Classes combine instructor-led teaching with group discussions, hands-on problem-solving, role-playing simulations, and collaborative research projects. These activities help prepare you for in-class exams and your final essays, while also developing your critical thinking and communication skills.
The course includes some historical context: the origins of money, old-style stablecoins, the rise of central banks, early attempts at global monetary coordination, and the evolution of financial regulation. But most of our time will be spent tackling pressing, real-world questions that shape today’s financial landscape. Topics will include:
- What is the difference between debt and equity?
- Are Bitcoins and Altcoins actually money?
- Are traditional banks becoming obsolete?
- How do interest rates and mortgage repayments really work?
- How should you invest $1 million?
- Is modern banking safe – both traditional and “shadow”?
- Can financial crises like 2008 be predicted – or prevented?
- What happened to Silicon Valley Bank?
- How do futures and swaps work?
- What is the difference between hedging and speculation?
- Why does bank regulation matter? Are recent relaxations of capital rules dangerous?
- Do private markets pose a serious threat to financial stability?
- How do market pros try to “read the tealeaves” of Fed policy?
- Will the US dollar lose its global dominance?
- What foreign currency arrangements work best?
Finance has shaped civilisation for thousands of years because it is ultimately about trust, promises, transparency, and accountability. Understanding those basics helps you navigate modern life – and contribute to a healthier society.