Course - Economics of Human Capital - SØK8632
Economics of Human Capital
Lessons are not given in the academic year 2025/2026
About
About the course
Course content
The course covers the role of human capital in individual, economic, and broader societal outcomes. The course uses a mix of theory and empirical evidence on individual educational choices, educational production, and the role of the education system and education policy. As part of this, a focus is on the role of education in labour market outcomes. How globalization and technological progress affect the demand for, and importance of, human capital is additionally covered.
Learning outcome
Knowledge
You learn
- about supply and demand of human capital
- about the importance of human capital for earnings and economic growth
- about how educational policies affect school quality and the amount and quality of human capital in society
Skills
You should be able to
- criticize and evaluate the findings of relevant journal articles and public reports
- explain and evaluate different types of governing systems in education and labor market policies for skills and productivity
- discuss how governing systems influence the behavior of agents within education and skill formation
General competence
You should be able to
- read and understand research articles and public reports dealing with issues discussed in the course
- use the content of the course in your own academic work such as your master thesis
Learning methods and activities
2 hours of lectures every week. The course has compulsory activities. Specific requirements will be announced at the beginning of the term. The term papers can be written as a joint project. The course is not taught every semester. Check courses that are taught at https://www.ntnu.no/econ/valgfrie-masteremner..
Compulsory assignments
- Mandatory activity
Further on evaluation
Compulsory activity must be completed in the semester the course is taught. The approval also applies to later semesters.
Specific conditions
Admission to a programme of study is required:
Economics (MSØK)
Economics (MSØK/5)
Economics and Management (PHOL)
Recommended previous knowledge
Bachelor's degree in Economics
Required previous knowledge
None
Course materials
Announced at the beginning of the term.
Subject areas
- Economics
- Social Sciences