This course introduces microeconomic analysis of consumers, firms, and government, with an emphasis on policy applications. It assumes no prior training in economics and is appropriate for graduate students in public policy administration, nonprofit management, political science, gerontology, criminology and criminal justice, and other related fields. Independent study through readings, reports, research projects, and conferences. Examination of federal, state, and local policies that affect the economic wellbeing of the elderly. The development of social security programs and pension programs is explored within a historical context.
Emphasis is placed on the analysis of current policy problems and proposed solutions.
A study of municipal and federal financial control and budgeting procedures with emphasis on public policy. The impact of financial control on top management decisions and the effect of budget strategies on the allocations of public funds. Intensive analysis of several public policy cases. Cases will be problemsolving exercises in areas such as personnel management, program financing, budget preparation, and planning. Application of tools of intermediate microeconomics to address public sector issues.