ECON6440Economic Planning and Project Evaluation

Course handbook

Description

Students are introduced to the need for, and the potential of sustainable economic planning and project appraisal, with reference to centrally planned, market and low income countries. Development planning is analysed within the constraints of environment sustainability. Land management issues are examined with lessons drawn from wealthier countries for their lower income counterparts. This includes analysis of urban, regional and rural markets. The introduction of a powerful decision-making tool: the technique of project and policy analysis becomes a core feature.

Various facets and tools of economic planning and project appraisal are examined, including investment criteria, and economic analysis of projects. How markets work and where they fail, in particular in relationship to land use, the environment and natural resource management is analysed. Thus, allowing discussion of sustainable planning, project feasibility and cost benefit analysis.

Availability

Not currently offered.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the course students will be able to:

1. Appreciate the importance of development planning, its evolution, and limitations of central panning theory.

2. Comprehend the techniques of project and policy analysis and their application.

3. Demonstrate understanding of regional planning tools and natural resource management policy.

4. Understand the advantages of sustainable economic planning and project appraisal.

5. Effectively communicate their specialised knowledge.

Content

1. Introduction: The Evolution of economic planning
2. Land use and the environment
3. Economic Development and City Management
4. Economic Planning and Land Reform
5. Input-output Analysis in Planning
6. Central Planning and market socialism
7. Commercial property markets and development
8. Cost-Benefit Analysis: Principles
9. Project Valuation and Investment Criteria

Assumed knowledge

A background in Economics/Business and/or other Social Sciences (e.g. geography, environmental studies).

Assessment items

Essay: Essays / Written Assignments

Formal Examination: Examination: Formal

Written Assignment: Tutorial Assignments