The module offered by the School of Economics in the Autumn Term to final year students who have completed at least Stage II level or equivalent modules in macroeconomics and microeconomics.
The market for labour is the crucial mechanism that determines the distribution of income, work and opportunities. Macro factors such as globalisation, (im)migration, technological change and government policy will affect and be affected by the structure of labour markets. Rather than trying to cover the entirety of this very broad subject, the aim of this course is to focus on a few areas of topical interest and importance. We will examine the issues like the following:
1. The relationship between unemployment and wages
2. The impact of immigration on the resources of the lower skilled
3. The differences in pay and opportunities between men and women
4. Government policy towards skills and education
5. Executive pay
Throughout we attempt to integrate theoretical issues, empirical evidence and questions of policy, drawing on research covering a range of OECD countries.
Total contact hours: 17
Private study hours: 133
Total study hours: 150
This module is an optional module for all Single and Joint Honours degree programmes in Economics.
This module is not available to students across other degree programmes in the University.
Presentation 10%
Essay 1,200 words 10%
Examination 2 hours 80%
**Please note that the exam in May/June 2023 will be Online (24 hour window)**
Reassessment methods
Reassessment Instrument: 100% exam
Tito Boeri & Jan van Ours (2008), The Economics of Imperfect Labor Markets, Princeton University
Press.
G. Borjas (2020), Labor Economics, McGraw Hill.
S. Polachek and W. Siebert (1993), The Economics of Earnings, Cambridge University Press
D. Sapsford and Z. Tzannatos (1993), The Economics of the Labour Market, MacMillan.
See the library reading list for this module (Canterbury)
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
8.1 Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of labour market outcomes and their relevance to policy debates
8.2 Critically evaluate the role and contribution of labour market institutions
8.3 Understand how economic data can be used to address policy relevant questions and the problems that arise in this consideration
8.4 Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of recent debates in labour economics
8.5 Demonstrate understanding of why and how economists differ in their analyses of labour markets
University of Kent makes every effort to ensure that module information is accurate for the relevant academic session and to provide educational services as described. However, courses, services and other matters may be subject to change. Please read our full disclaimer.