ECC3810 · Public finance

Overview

The relationship between the public and private sectors is explored from the perspective of both public finance and political economy. Theories of public expenditure and revenue generation are introduced to assess the proper scope of the public sector. Additionally, theories of public choice are presented to examine the effectiveness and decision-making process of the public sector. A project forms a significant part of the assessment in this unit.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. understand the basic economic concepts and principles applied in the public finance area
2. analyse specific policy issues in the area of public expenditure and taxation from the perspectives of both traditional public finance and public choice
3. critically evaluate contemporary public debate on topics in public finance
4. understand the usefulness and limitations of economic analysis in the public finance area
5. identify both market failure and government failure and understand the causes of each.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities. You are expected to complete all pre-class activities prior to your scheduled class, and post-class activities should be completed after your scheduled class. Learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed, peer directed and online engagement activities.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.