About this course

This course builds upon the introductory course on impact evaluation and provides a hands-on approach to estimating and analysing causal impacts using various techniques. These include randomised control trials and designs, regression discontinuity design, difference in differences, propensity score matching and instrumental variables methods. Students will learn how to conduct an in-depth econometric estimation/analysis of causal impacts.

Audio-visual lessons will be provided together with datasets and step-by-step analysis guides to using various impact evaluation techniques in STATA software. Lessons and case studies will give participants a knowledge base to help them understand the applicability of methods to a given set of circumstances. Interested students should have intermediate knowledge of statistical analyses or econometrics.

Tutoring to working professionals is a very enriching task, as students are always seeking to bridge practical situations from their daily lives to theory

Lorena Giuberti Coutinho - Course Tutor

Learning Goals

Having knowledge of:

How to execute randomised and quasi experimental impact estimations.
Software code for data analysis.

Understanding:

How to identify causal estimates of impacts through various techniques
How to assess robustness and validity of each technique.

Key Concepts

Estimation of causal impacts.
Conducting validity tests and sensitivity analyses.
Using STATA for analysis.

Prerequisites

A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Social Sciences.
Knowledge in econometric analysis.
Basic understanding of impact evaluation purposes and methods.

Cost

Individual enrolment: 600 EUR

Group-based enrolment: 500 EUR

Estimated Workload

The estimated workload is 60 hours including:

10-15 hours per week.
10-15 hours per assignments/ oral exams.

Duration: 10 weeks

1 week to access the platform and become familiar with the material
4 weeks of coursework
1 week to submit the final assignment and
2 weeks for potential resits.

ECTS equivalent

Participants will earn 2 ECTS credits and receive certification via an online educational badge.

Application Process

You can apply for each course by using the online application form.

During the application process, you will need to upload the following documents:   

Curriculum Vitae (PDF)
A copy of your (valid) passport (PDF or JPEG)

After completing the application, you will receive a confirmation email along with the payment information. Once we receive the payment, we will register you as a participant for the course, and the Online Courses Administration Team will contact you. The administrative process typically takes an average of 5-10 working days.  

If you have any questions regarding the application documents or the application process or if there are any clarifications you need before applying, please feel free to reach out to the Capacity Development Office at the email address: onlinecourses@merit.unu.edu.