Page 175 - SYU Prospectus

Economics & Finance

ECON 434 International Investment and Transnational Corporations
1 Term; 3 Credits
The course introduces students to the theories and practices of multinational enterprises
(MNE) in the global economy. It examines the evolution of the MNE and alternative contractual
arrangements (exporting, licensing, franchising, international acquisitions, joint ventures and
strategic alliances), and the theories of the internationalization process and foreign direct
investment. It also discusses the relationship between multinational corporations and
governments, and the impact of cultural differences on international business transactions and
management.

ECON 445 Comparative Economic Systems
1 Term; 3 Credits
This course aims to provide students with an overall and comprehensive understanding
of how economic systems work through a comparative study of economic system models and
selected economies. Upon completion of this course, students should be able to describe the
basic institutions of a society and economy, and identify the features that distinguish economic
systems; to explain the four economist’s approaches to economic systems and their impacts
on contemporary economic systems; to critically evaluate how economic systems work and
how economic theory interacts with government policy, history and culture to explain economic
performance; and to use a comparative approach to analyse the economic performance of
different economic systems.

ECON 446 Honours Project
1 Term; 3 Credits
The course enables students to crystallize what they have learnt in the programme. It
permits students the choice of doing a practical project or conducting a piece of research. It
also assists students develop a range of transferable skills (including communication, problem
solving, self-learning, self-management, working with others, computing and statistics) as an
integral part of the study of economics that are relevant to a wide range of careers and further
studies. Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: identify research topics
and design a research project independently; understand the techniques of collecting,
organizing and analysing data and information; acquire the ability to apply economic principles
and quantitative techniques to a range of practical economic issues; and communicate the
research findings in a report concisely and effectively.

ECON 450 Economics and Ethics
1 Term; 3 Credits
This course introduces students to the relevance and importance of ethics and social
responsibility in economics and finance. It aims to increase students’ awareness and
understanding of ethical issues in everyday life and to provide students with useful conceptual
tools to guide their analyses and decisions. After completing the course, students are expected
to be equipped with basic ethical concepts so that they can identify, think critically about, and

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