The main goal of this course is to introduce the students to econometrics and give necessary tools to conduct empirical research.

Econometrics use statistical methods to answer economic questions.

The main topic of this course will be linear regression models. A special focus will be given on explaining that available data is usually not experimental and what consequences this has on the empirical model. Both theoretical and practical examples will be part of the course. The course will also give an introduction to an econometric programming package.

A candidate who has completed his or her qualification should have the following learning outcomes defined in terms of knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge

• Ability to perform analyses of economic data based on a broad knowledge of the linear regression model
• An understanding of the causality concept in an empirical context
• Basic knowledge of the statistical foundations of regression analysis with OLS
• Knowledge of hypothesis testing
• Basic knowledge of how to detect and treat violations of OLS assumptions, such as omitted variables, heteroscedasticity, and serial correlation
• Basic knowledge of the IV/2SLS method and time series methods

Skills

• Basic use of the statistical computer software Stata for empirical analysis
• Estimation and testing with OLS
• Reporting and interpreting regression results

General competence

• Ability to read and critically discuss empirical papers
• Ability to perform own empirical analyses in a master's thesis

Term paper.

Compulsory assignments that are not accepted on the first try, may be handed in a second time. To be able to get this opportunity, the student must have made a sincere effort the first time around; that is, the student must have tried to answer most of the assignment.

Approved compulsory requirements do not have time limits.

Written exam (4 hours)

The exam will be given in the language in which the course is taught. 
The exam can be submitted in English, Norwegian, Swedish or Danish.

• Mathematical Formula Collection of K Sydsæter, A. Strøm and P. Berck or Mathematical Formulas for Economists of B Luderer, V. Nollau and K. Vetters.
• Simple, non-programmable calculators without graphical display, in accorance with https://www.uib.no/en/student/126858/permitted-support-materials-during-examinationsuniversity guidelines.

The Department of Economics can conduct a sample of aids in the examination room.

Assessment in teaching semester.

 A resit exam is arranged for students with https://www.uib.no/en/student/118764/illness-and-examinationsvalid absence according to UiBs study regulations § 5-5.

If a resit exam is arranged, it is available for students with the following results/absences:

• Medical certificate/valid absence
• Interrupted exam
• Fail/Not passed

If you have the right to take a resit exam and a resit exam is arranged for students with valid absence, you can register yourself in StudentWeb after January 15th/August 1st.

Department of Economics

studieveileder.econ@uib.no