Course overview
This postgraduate course provides students the tools necessary to understand, analyze, and evaluate recent empirical and theoretical research papers in international trade. This requires strengthening the students' knowledge of trade theory as well as econometric techniques commonly used in international trade. Besides classic trade theory, the course also covers the '(new) new trade theory' which focuses on the role of monopolistic competition and firm heterogeneity in shaping international trade patterns. Special emphasis will be put on empirical and policy-related aspects of international trade.
Course learning outcomes
- Describe the most important theories used in the academic literature to explain observed trade patterns using formal mathematical analysis.
- Sketch the interaction between different stylized facts of international trade patterns and the development of theories which try to explain these stylized facts.
- Apply trade theories to describe the effects of trade liberalization policies and to critically evaluate current trade policy discussions.
- Identify and reflect upon the individual contributions of important research papers in international trade and constructively criticize their shortcomings.
- Have improved their communication skills through presenting their work and by interacting during tutorial sessions and discussions in class.
- Describe the most commonly used econometric techniques in current international trade research.
Fee calculator
To display course fees, please select your status and program below:
We’re updating this Fee Calculator. It currently shows fees for programs only. Please check the relevant program for full fee details.
Study Abroad student tuition fees are available here.
Only some Postgraduate Coursework programs are available as Commonwealth Supported. Please check your program for specific fee information.
The Student Contribution amount displayed below is for students commencing a new program from 2021 onwards. If you are continuing in a program you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, or are commencing an Honours degree relating to an undergraduate degree you commenced prior to 1 January 2021, you may be charged a different Student Contribution amount from the amount displayed below. Please check the Student Contribution bands for continuing students here. If you are an international student, or a domestic student studying in a full fee paying place, and are continuing study that you commenced in 2025 or earlier, your fees will be available here before enrolments open for 2026.