This page is primarily for Vanderbilt University students taking
Economics 3010 or Economics 6010
Syllabus for Fall 2026
Course Description
This course is intended as Master’s level introduction to the study of the firms and individuals in their economic roles. Primary attention will be given to developing the basic microeconomic tools essential for more advanced economics courses. As such, the approach will be fairly rigorous and mathematical. A basic background in calculus is required, and students who do not feel comfortable with these techniques may wish to spend some time reviewing.
By the end of the semester, students should be able to figure out the policy implications of various government initiatives, and be intelligent, critical (and hopefully skeptical) readers of popular economics such as might be found in The Wall Street Journal. It should also leave you well-prepared for more advanced field courses in economics.
Textbook
I was unsatisfied with the textbooks I could find for MA level micro. They were either pitched to advanced undergrads, or dim Ph.D. students. I decided to write a book that balanced mathematical rigor with graphical tools and intuitive explanation. Whether I achieved a good balance is for the reader to day. In any event, you can find the full text at the link below.