Economics: Development Economics

Education facts

Code: NEKG71

<p>In this course, you will examine key development challenges in low- and middle-income countries, including poverty, inequality, health, education, and environmental sustainability. We will focus on how economics can inform policy choices that improve development outcomes.</p><p>In this course, you will be introduced to key issues in development. Why do some countries remain poor while others grow? What factors drive long-term improvements in living standards? We examine how economists approach these questions, focusing on theory, empirical data and real-world applications. </p><p>Core topics include economic growth, poverty, inequality, health, education, gender and environmental sustainability. A recurring theme is how individual decisions - shaped by institutions, constraints and expectations - aggregate into broader development outcomes. We also explore the role of coordination failures, public goods and market imperfections in shaping development trajectories. </p><p>You will learn how to interpret empirical evidence, including experimental and quasi-experimental studies. We emphasise economic reasoning, critical thinking and real-world relevance. At the end of the course, you will be able to assess policy trade-offs, understand key debates in development economics and apply tools from other economics courses in a new context.</p>

Entry requirements

General and at least 20 ECTS basic economics, of which at least 7.5 ECTS basic microeconomics. A course in basic international economics is recommended.

Education offerings

Each offering has its own dates and conditions. Closed offerings are retained as history and do not mean that a new application is open.

• Economics: Development Economics

  Lund University

  Lund

  Start date: 23 March 2026

  End date: 7 June 2026

  Pace of study: 50 %