London School of Economics

The course discusses probability, distribution theory, and statistical inference. It covers mathematical statistics as important discrete and continuous probability distributions (such as the Binomial, Poisson, Uniform, Exponential, and Normal distributions) and investigates properties of these distributions, including use of the moment generating function. The course discusses point estimation techniques including method of moments, maximum likelihood, and least squares estimation. Statistical hypothesis testing and confidence interval construction follow, along with non-parametric and goodness-of-fit tests and contingency tables. A treatment of linear regression models, featuring the interpretation of computer-generated regression output and implications for prediction are also covered.

This course explores the origins of modern economic growth through major themes such as life, love, death, place, and inheritance. The focus is on the world's first breakthrough in Britain during the Industrial Revolution. Students are exposed to frontier debates in economic history. Widespread use is made of intuitive econometrics, interdisciplinary insights, and historical context.

This course provides students with an introduction to the basic concepts, methods, and practices of good accounting. Beginning with a consideration of accounting as an information system, students explore the structure of the double-entry bookkeeping system, the periodic measurement of profit by businesses, and the preparation of the statement of financial position. Students also tackle important topics like the problem of accounting for groups of companies and basic techniques for preparing group accounts. Students engage with the preparation of the three most important financial statements: the income statement, balance sheet, and the statement of cash flow. Through the active application of the content and the use of real-world examples, students understand how investors and others use financial statements and market information to assess a company’s investment potential.

This course explores how anthropologists have evaluated, criticized, and contributed to development. Focusing on both "Big D" development (schemes of improvement or projects) and "little d" development (change which occurs as the result of economic growth or modernization) the course shows how anthropological insights have been used to change practices from within as well as critique development from the outside. From anthropological work which seeks pragmatic engagement to that which deconstructs development as an oppressive and power laden discourse, the course gives students a broad background to the field. Topics covered include the role of the state, participation and farmer first approaches; gender and development; development as discourse and "aidnography"; neo liberalism and global capital; corporate social responsibility; markets and micro credit; and the relationship between "tradition" and modernity. 

Using ethnography from Asia, Africa, USA, Latin America, and Europe, you will examine globalization from the perspective of global elites, the middle classes, and the poor. By engaging with real-world scenarios students unpack the effect of globalization on social and cultural identities, family life, social mobility, and political movements.