This module explores advanced microeconomic theories and models that explain the behaviour of consumers, firms, and markets within different economic environments. The module covers key topics such as consumer choice theory, the theory of the firm, partial and general equilibrium analysis, imperfect competition, game theory, risk and uncertainty, and market imperfections. Students will develop the analytical skills required to evaluate economic decision-making and market outcomes using theoretical and practical approaches. Emphasis is placed on applying microeconomic concepts to real-world South African economic issues, enabling students to assess the relevance and effectiveness of economic theories within contemporary contexts. The module further develops ethical and responsible economic reasoning, preparing students for roles as economic officers, financial advisers, and professionals capable of contributing to economic problem-solving across various sectors.

This module develops students’ understanding of macroeconomic principles and their application through various macroeconomic models and policy frameworks. Students will examine topics including expectations theory, goods and financial markets, foreign exchange markets in an open economy, and the application of fiscal and monetary policy in achieving macroeconomic objectives. The module focuses on analysing economic growth, inflation, unemployment, and economic stability within both local and global contexts. South African examples are incorporated to strengthen students’ ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world economic challenges. The module further develops critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and socially responsible economic analysis, preparing students to contribute meaningfully to economic development and policy discussions across diverse professional environments.

This module provides students with advanced knowledge and practical competence in econometric analysis and quantitative economic research methods. The module introduces advanced econometric topics, including panel data methods, instrumental variable estimation, two-stage least squares, simultaneous equation models, limited-dependent variable models, sample selection corrections, and advanced time-series analysis. Students will use econometric software packages, such as EViews, to perform practical data analysis and interpret empirical results. Emphasis is placed on applying econometric techniques to real economic problems and developing strong quantitative research skills required for advanced academic and professional work in economics. The module serves as a foundation for postgraduate research and doctoral studies in economics.

This module equips students with the mathematical techniques required to analyse and solve linear and non-linear economic problems in both microeconomics and macroeconomics. The module provides a comprehensive introduction to mathematical tools commonly applied across various fields of economics, including econometrics, international trade, public finance, labour economics, industrial organisation, and environmental economics. Students will develop the ability to apply mathematical reasoning and quantitative methods to theoretical and practical economic challenges involving households, firms, and markets. Emphasis is placed on strengthening analytical and problem-solving skills by applying mathematical models to economic analysis and decision-making.

This module provides students with a comprehensive introduction to research methodologies, theoretical foundations, and academic research practices within the field of economics. Students will develop an understanding of the research process, including its cyclical, iterative nature in applied research and academic writing. The module guides students through the identification of research topics, formulation of problem statements and hypotheses, development of research questions, and the organisation of literature reviews. Students will also explore appropriate research designs and methodologies as they develop the skills required to prepare a structured research proposal. Emphasis is placed on independent research, critical thinking, and the development of professional academic writing skills in preparation for postgraduate research.

This module provides students with the opportunity to apply advanced research principles and methodologies to an independent research project in economics. Students will demonstrate the ability to conduct scholarly research by integrating theoretical knowledge, empirical analysis, and critical evaluation in addressing economic issues and challenges. The module focuses on the execution of the research process, including data collection and analysis, interpretation of findings, academic writing, and the presentation of research outcomes. Emphasis is placed on producing a coherent, academically rigorous research report that reflects independent enquiry, methodological competence, and professional research standards in economics.

This module examines the economic factors that contribute to differences in development and wealth across nations. Students will explore various theories and approaches used to explain economic growth, poverty, inequality, and development outcomes across countries. The module focuses on critically analysing existing development economics literature while developing the ability to generate original insights and research within the field. Students will strengthen their research, analytical, and communication skills through written work and engagement with contemporary development challenges. Emphasis is placed on understanding the economic, social, and institutional dimensions of development within both global and local contexts.

This module introduces students to the economic analysis of industry structure and firm behaviour under varying conditions of technology, competition, and organisational arrangements. The module applies advanced microeconomic and econometric techniques to the study of firms, market structures, strategic interaction, market efficiency, and industrial policy. Students will examine topics such as game theory, imperfect competition, collusion, market entry, product differentiation, monopolistic behaviour, vertical integration, and determinants of market structure. Emphasis is placed on understanding the relationship between industrial policy and economic efficiency, as well as the practical application of theoretical concepts to industry analysis and policy evaluation.