API 111 / API 112: Microeconomic Theory I and II

KSG API-111 / API 112: Microeconomic Theory I and II
 

This course is also listed as Economics 2020a/2020b HBS 4010/4011
Faculty: Nolan Miller, Chris Avery and/or Jerry Greeen.  FALL (API 111) SPRING (API 112)
Course Credit: 1
Limited Enrollment

Description
Audience
Prerequisites
Sample Syllabus

Description:

API 111 and API 112 comprise a two-semeter in microeconomic theory that serves as an applied alternative to the more theoretical microeconomics sequence of Economics 2010a and 2010b. Intended primarily for students who anticipate doing original research employing the tools of microeconomic theory, this doctoral-level course is designed for the dual purposes of giving students a systematic grounding in microeconomics and preparing them to use economic models in their own research. It addresses the broad methodological topics of consumption theory, production theory, general equilibrium, industrial organization, information economics, and game theory. Course readings are chosen to demonstrate how each theoretical idea takes shape in published research on applied topics in microeconomics, organizational analysis and political science. The course is also listed in the Economics department as Economics 2020a and in the Business School as HBS 4401.

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Audience:

The API 111-112 sequence is suitable for doctoral students in any field and for advanced Public Policy (MPP or MPA) students in the Kennedy School. However, it is primarily intended for students who will be reading or producing research with microeconomic content. While the topics in this course are mathematical, the emphasis is on economic content and research methodology rather than proofs and technical details. Nevertheless, mathematical arguments are employed to help explain the intuition of the theories studied. Students without strong background in the areas mentioned below (see prerequisites) will likely be better served by delaying the API 111-112 sequence until they develop the proper background.

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Prerequisites:

Permission of the instructor is required in order to take this course. Prior to enrolling in this course, students should possess competence in the following areas:
 

  • Multivariate Calculus (typically two years of college calculus).
     
  • Probability theory (typically one year of advanced, calculus-based, undergraduate probability).
     
  • Intermediate microeconomic theory (at the level of API-101A or a similar undergraduate course in intermediate microeconomics).
     
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Syllabus

Click here to download a SAMPLE API 111 syllabus.

Click here to download a SAMPLE API 112 syllabus.

Click here to go to the KSG course catalog.
 


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