ECON3300

Labour Economics

10 Units 3000 Level Course

Not available in 2014

Previously offered in 2011, 2010, 2009, 2008, 2007, 2005

Contemporary policy issues relating to the operation of the Australian labour market are analysed by reference to the most recent theoretical and empirical research. Students are assisted to independently access, analyse and synthesise appropriate resources and material, and opportunities are provided to write formal reports and essays and to defend their arguments in open discussion. Critical thinking, analysis and communication skills identified in the graduate profile become a major focus.

Objectives At the conclusion of this course, students should be able to:
1. Access and analyse Australian Bureau of Statistics and other data pertinent to labour market issues;
2. Demonstrate a deep understanding of contemporary labour market issues;
3. Critically assess the extant literature
4. Demonstrate the capacity to work independently;
5. Exhibit strong report writing skills.
6. Integrate and synthesise material to produce a cogent argument supporting a particular point of view.
Content The course aims to keep abreast of contemporary issues in labour market research and policy analysis. The mix of topics will reflect this. Topics may include, but are not limited to :
1. Employment, Unemployment and Underutilisation definitions and measurement.
2. Unemployment and Employment Theory.
3. Structural/Cyclical Imbalances: Skill shortages and over-education.
4. Full Employment Policy: Welfare to work and job guarantee.
5. The Ageing Labour Force.
6. Minimum Wages, Wage Differentials and Executive Pay.
7. Wage Inequality.
Replacing Course(s) Not applicable
Transition Not applicable
Industrial Experience 0
Assumed Knowledge ECON2300 or ECON2500 and ECON2510
Modes of Delivery Internal Mode
Teaching Methods Lecture
Tutorial
Assessment Items
Essays / Written Assignments Essays
Examination: Formal Final examination
Group/tutorial participation and contribution Tutorial work
Contact Hours Tutorial: for 1 hour(s) per Week for 12 weeks
Lecture: for 2 hour(s) per Week for Full Term