International economics

The course is offered in the first cycle and is included in the third semester of the Bachelor’s Programme in Business and Economics (S1EKA). It is not offered as a fresstanding course.

The course provides an introduction to key concepts in international economics, with a focus on international trade and exchange rates. The course covers the fundamental theoretical models that can be used to explain historical and contemporary trade patterns, as well as the gains and losses that international trade can entail for countries, different groups within countries, and for the world as a whole.

The course also discusses the drivers and effects of trade policy interventions that restrict free trade, and the role that trade agreements and international organisations play and have played in international trade. Furthermore, theories related to foreign exchange markets, exchange rate determination, and exchange rate risks are covered. Some empirical data on international economics and exchange rates from both a Swedish and international perspective are presented and related to the conclusions of the theoretical models.

On successful completion of the course the student will be able to:

1. account for and explain the meaning of basic concepts in international economics,
2.  account for basic facts about international economics from both a Swedish and an international perspective, and of central agreements and organisations relevant to developments in the field of the international economics,
3. account for and apply various basic theoretical models that deal with the origin and pattern of international trade, the gains and losses international trade can give rise to, causes and effects of trade restrictions, foreign exchange markets, and the interplay between interest rates and exchange rates.

Lectures and exercises.

Language of instruction: English.

Learning outcomes 1-3 are examined via a written examination completed individually.

If a student, who has failed the same examined element on two occasions, wishes to change examiner before the next examination session, such a request is to be submitted to the department in writing and granted unless there are special reasons to the contrary (Chapter 6, Section 22 of Higher Education Ordinance).

In the event that a course has ceased or undergone major changes, students are to be guaranteed at least three examination sessions (including the ordinary examination session) over a period of at least one year, though at most two years after the course has ceased/been changed.

The grading scale comprises: Excellent (A), Very good (B), Good (C), Satisfactory (D), Sufficient (E) and Fail (F).

To obtain a passing course grade, students must receive a passing grade on the individual written examination. The course grade corresponds with the total points obtained from the written examination.

Upon completion, the course will be evaluated in accordance with the rules for course evaluations established by the Bachelor’s Programme in Business and Economics at the School of Business, Economics and Law. The results of the evaluation as well as any changes to the course structure shall be communicated to both the students who completed the evaluation and the students who are enrolled in the subsequent round of the course.