Module: Introduction to Macroeconomics

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Introduction to Macroeconomics
Module Code	ECO1005 (ITS: EF117)
Faculty	DCU Business School	School	DCU Business School
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

Description

The purpose of this module is to introduce students to macroeconomic economic theory and policy. Economic concepts and models will be evaluated as explanations of the workings and outcomes of the macroeconomy. In turn, the conclusions from this analysis will point to macroeconomic policy proposals (and their evaluation). This module is delivered through a combination of lectures and tutorials and supported by sets of on-line activities.

Learning Outcomes

1. LO1 define key concepts used in macroeconomics
2. LO2 present elementary models and theories describing economic processes in a market economy
3. LO3 apply these economic concepts and theories to analyse numerical data and real world situations
4. LO4 discuss and and assess the role of the government and central bank in the economy.

Total Workload: 0

Section Breakdown
CRN	20246	Part of Term	Semester 2
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Dimitrios Argyros	Module Teacher

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Assignment	Students will complete reflections on each section of the module	10%	n/a
Project	Students will complete projects related to the course material	30%	n/a
Formal Examination	Students will complete a formal end of semester examination	60%	End-of-Semester

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Macroeconomic Objectives and Policies
Introduction to macroeconomics; relationship to microeconomics; introduction of main variables of focus; recent macroeconomic history; macroeconomic debates; measuring national income; short term growth and the business cycle; long run growth and its determinants

Macroeconomic Theory
Circular Flow Model; Aggregate demand and supply; the multiplier effect; Keynesian analysis of unemployment and inflation; rational expectations and the New Classical alternative

Role of Money in the Economy
Role and function of money; demand for money; supply of money and the operations of the Central Bank; the financial sector and its relationship to monetary policy

The Open Economy
Balance of Payments; Current Account, trade, and globalisation; Capital Account and international investment; nominal and real exchange rates; exchange rate regimes; monetary policy in a monetary union

Indicative Reading List

Books:
None

Articles:
None

Other Resources

None