Econometrics 7590

Spring 2004

Instructor: Peter Philips

Course Description:

This is a "hands-on," data and technique driven, applied approach to econometric analysis.  This is a good course to take prior to the more theoretical approach taken in Economics 7800-7801.  It gives the student experience in the construction and testing of econometric models and in the interpretation of results.  These experiences can form the basis for relating the more theoretical approach in Econometrics 7800-7801 to practical issues that arise when applying econometrics to empirical questions.

This is also a good course to take after or concurrently with Econometrics 7800-7801.  In this course, where the rubber meets the road, students can appreciate and apply the lessons of Econometrics 7800-7801 to practical problems.  Note: due to time constraints, this course will focus on cross-sectional and panel data as opposed to time series issues.

For some, this course may prove to be a useful launching point towards developing the empirical aspects of their masters thesis or Ph.D. dissertation.

Typically, this course requires three papers from students, each worth one-third of the final grade.  Occasionally, students will work on three aspects of one term-long paper often in preparation for thesis research.  Students wishing to follow this second option should discuss it with the instructor towards the beginning of the course.