Course Catalog
Applied Econometrics I
94-834
Units: 6
Description
Applied Econometrics I is the first course in a two-course sequence designed to teach the essentials of econometric methodology. The course focuses on estimating the causal effect of a treatment on an outcome. It covers the potential outcomes framework and randomized trials, regression analysis, and instrumental variables. It is a hands-on course. Students learn to read and interpret existing studies and also conduct econometric analyses of their own.
Learning Outcomes
During the course, students will:
- Learn why random assignment is so useful for the purpose of sorting out cause and effect.
- Develop a clear understanding of bivariate and multiple regression, and come to appreciate the value and limitations of regression methods.
- Use instrumental variables to uncover causality in settings where the treatment isn't randomized.
- Learn to read and interpret existing econometric studies.
- Conduct econometric analyses of their own.
Prerequisites Description
A solid grounding in basic statistics, at the level of 90-707 (Statistical Reasoning), 90-711 (Statistical Reasoning with R), or 90-777 (Intermediate Statistics).