Public policy positions increasingly require an expertise in finance. This expertise includes the ability to analyze investments and projects, to undertake borrowing operations and portfolio management, and to deal with financial instruments, markets, and institutions in a variety of ways. The content of this course is somewhat deeper than typical entry-level finance courses in M.B.A. programs. Although it is nearly impossible to learn modern finance without the use of some mathematics, this should not be a concern for students who have fulfilled the prerequisites described below. This course will cover the central ideas and tools of finance. These ideas and tools are largely independent of whether they are used in the public or the private sector. The policy orientation of the course is reflected in the choices of the contexts and examples. The development of financial intuition is emphasized in every part of the course. Regular class participation is required. Prerequisites: PP32300 and PP32400, or consent of the instructor.
