Economics

This course is divided into two parts: Linear algebra and optimization of several variable functions. Part one offers a study of the properties of matrices and determinants and systems of linear equations. Part two discusses the concept of continuity and calculus of several variables (partial derivatives), among other topics. Students solve linear systems of equations, describe the properties of functions, and approximate a function of several variables. They address economic problems by means of abstract models, interpret and classify different solutions, and apply appropriate conclusions to social contexts.

The course examines the theory of financial decision-making by firms and examines the behaviour of the capital markets in which these decisions are taken. The topics covered are the theory of capital budgeting under certainty in perfect and imperfect capital markets, sources of funds, basic theory of capital structure and the cost of capital, company dividend decisions and financial markets and institutions. This course covers the same topics as FM215. Thus, both FM211 and FM215 are equivalent content-wise. However, compared to FM215, this course puts less emphasis on the underlying statistical theory and relies less on the use of mathematical methods. Nonetheless, the course is quantitative in nature, and familiarity with mathematical and statistical methods taught in first-year courses will be assumed.

This course examines the fundamentals of European integration from an economic, social and political perspectives, with emphasis on both microeconomics and macroeconomics. It mobilizes a very limited mathematical formalized demonstration yet is significantly backed by data collection and analysis. It examines a variety of key EU policies: competition, industry, trade, agricultural, regional, monetary and fiscal policy. Finally, the course offers a thorough analysis of the multilateralism crisis and the war in Ukraine (among economic sanctions efficiency). Various course topics are illustrated with press releases on the latest news or interesting scientific articles and deepened through group presentations, group case studies and an individual term paper.

This course examines eight broadly defined topics that delve into significant events and issues in the history of humanity, spanning from the Neolithic era to the present day. It will delve into pivotal historical milestones, including the birth of civilization, religious reform movements, the Industrial Revolution, the Columbian Exchange, the Black Death, the Great Depression, the World Wars, and more. Diverging from typical history courses that primarily focus on historical facts, this course seamlessly melds economics with history and history with economics. 

This course provides a foundational understanding of sustainability and circular economy principles, enabling critically assessment of environmental challenges and exploring solutions that promote long-term sustainability. The course fosters a systems-thinking approach and encourages responsible decision-making in various professional and everyday contexts by highlighting sustainability's interdisciplinary nature and its relevance across different sectors. Course topics include an introduction to sustainability, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), circular economy principles, life cycle thinking and environmental impact, sustainable materials and design strategies, sustainable energy and resource management, and the challenges and implementation of circular economy.

Money is not just an economic tool: it is a form of power shaped by law. This course uncovers how the legal architecture underpinning the euro structures monetary policy, markets, and sovereignty. By analyzing the design of the Eurosystem and the role of the ECB, students learn to see monetary law as a crucial arena in which the dynamics of integration, power, and inequality are structured and contested. Combining legal analysis with political economy and history, the course equips future policymakers to think (critically) about monetary governance.

This highly interactive course explores the fundamentals and nuances of negotiation across a variety of business and intercultural contexts. Students will learn to negotiate effectively through a combination of theory, experiential learning, and real-world cases. The course combines classical models with modern perspectives on behavioral science, cross-cultural dynamics, and power asymmetries. Special emphasis will be placed on negotiation ethics, emotional intelligence, persuasion, and gender in negotiation.

Students will actively participate in role-plays, simulations, and negotiation challenges, with regular reflection and peer feedback. We will also examine high-profile negotiation cases from Spain, the US, and international business (e.g., labor disputes, sports contracts, peace processes). By the end of the course, students will have a toolbox of strategies and a greater self-awareness of their negotiation style.

This course provides an in-depth introduction to some core topics in modern development economics. The course is divided into two halves. The first half, taught by Dr. Liang Bai, covers more of the macro literature, discussing the roles of institutions, history, international trade, as well as religion and culture in shaping the economic outcomes of different countries. The second half, taught by Dr. Dimitrios Minos, focuses more on the micro literature, discussing the roles of health, education, gender, as well as migration and remittances in shaping the economic outcomes of different individuals/households.