Statistics, Causal Inference, Second Cycle, 5 credits

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and understanding

After completed studies, the student shall have

• knowledge of the qualitative differences in drawing inference on causal relationships when using randomized experiments and observational data, respectively
• knowledge of basic statistical methods to study causal relationships based on observational data.

Competence and skills

After completed studies, the student shall be able to

• conduct analyses of data for the study of causal relationships.

Judgement and approach

After completed studies, the student shall be able to

• independently seek new knowledge and judge its relevance for causal relationships
• critically evaluate the quality of results from data analyses.

Content

The course begins with a discussion on the measurement of treatment effects based on randomized experiments, as well as limitations in the use of observational data for the analysis of causal relationships.

Specifically, effects of individuals' selection into the treatment group and the control group are studied, as well as opportunities to control for self-selection. Different methods for analysis when the selection problem can be controlled via the control of observable variables are thereafter studied. Special focus is given to different matching methods. In addition, techniques for analyzing the sensitivity of results to effects of unobservable factors are introduced.

A final part examines approaches for design and analysis of studies based on observational data when selection effects cannot be controlled with known background variables.

Examinations and grades

Examination, 5 credits (Code: A001)
Grades used are Fail (F), Sufficient (E), Satisfactory (D), Good (C), Very Good (B) or Excellent (A).

According to the Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 6, Section 18, a grade is to be awarded on the completion of a course, unless otherwise prescribed by the university. The university may determine which grading system is to be used. The grade must be determined by a teacher specifically nominated by the university (the examiner).

In accordance with university regulations on grading systems for first and second-cycle courses and study programmes (Vice-Chancellor’s decision ORU 2018/00929), one of the following grades is to be used: fail (U), pass (G) or pass with distinction (VG). For courses included in an international master’s programme (60 or 120 credits) or offered to the university’s incoming exchange students, the A to F grading scale is to be used. The vice-chancellor, or a person appointed by them, may decide on exceptions from this provision for a specific course, if there are special grounds for doing so.

The grades used on this course are Fail (F), Sufficient (E), Satisfactory (D), Good (C), Very Good (B) or Excellent (A).

Modes of assessment

Examination, 5 credits (Code: A001)
Written Examination

For students with a documented disability, the university may approve applications for adapted or other modes of assessment.

For further information, see the university's local examination regulations.

Specific entry requirements

First-cycle courses of 90 credits in Statistics, alternatively first-cycle courses of 30 credits in statistics and 60 credits in mathematics, alternatively first-cycle courses of 60 credits in statistics including 7.5 credits of Statistical theory and 7.5 credits of Regression analysis/Econometrics. The applicant must also have the courses Inference Theory, Second Cycle, 5 credits and Econometrics, Second Cycle, 7.5 credits, as well as qualifications corresponding to the course "English 6" or "English B" from the Swedish Upper Secondary School.

For further information, see the university's admission regulations.

Other provisions

The course is given in English.

Students who have been admitted to and registered on a course have the right to receive tuition and/or supervision for the duration of the time period specified for the particular course to which they were accepted (see, the university's admission regulations (in Swedish)). After that, the right to receive tuition and/or supervision expires.

Reading list and other learning resources

Required Reading

Lee, M.J. (latest edition)
Micro-Econometrics for Policy, Program and Treatment Effects
Oxford University Press, Oxford