Course Syllabus for Econometrics for BSc Students in Agricultural
Economics
Program: Agricultural Economics
Course Name: Econometrics (AgEc 312)
Year: III
Semester: II
Credit Hours/ECTS: 4/7
Prerequisites: Statistics for Economists (AgEc 232)
Instructor: Yibeltal B. (PhD Candidate, Quantum Economics)
Course description
This course introduces the fundamentals of econometric techniques used in the
analysis of economic data, with an emphasis on applications in agricultural
economics. The course covers the theoretical foundation of econometrics,
estimation methods, hypothesis testing, and model specification. Students will
learn to apply these techniques to real-world agricultural and economic data
using statistical software.
Course Objectives:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
Understand and apply basic econometric methods for analyzing economic
data.
Formulate econometric models relevant to agricultural economics.
Conduct regression analysis and hypothesis testing.
Diagnose and resolve common econometric problems (e.g.,
multicollinearity, heteroscedasticity, autocorrelation).
Use statistical software for econometric analysis.
Interpret and communicate econometric findings in the context of
agricultural economics.
Contents:
Topic One: Introduction to Econometrics
1.1. Definition and Scope
1.2. Goals of Econometrics
1.3. Methodology of Econometrics
1.4. Elements of Econometrics
Topic Two: Correlation Theory
2.1. Basic Concepts of Correlation
2.2. Coefficient of Linear Correlation
2.3. Types of Correlation Coefficient
Topic Three: Simple Linear Regression Models
3.1. Basic Concepts and Assumptions
3.2. Least Squares Criteria
3.3. Normal Equations of OLS
3.4. Coefficient of Correlation and Determination
3.5. Hypothesis Testing
Topic Four: Multiple Regression Analysis
4.1. Model with two Explanatory Variables
4.2. Notations and Assumptions
4.3. Estimation of Partial Regression Coefficients
4.4. Variance and Standard Errors of OLS Estimators
4.5. Hypothesis Testing
4.6. Other functional forms
Topic Five: Econometric Problems
5.1. Non-normality
5.2. Multicollinearity
5.3. Heteroscedasticity
5.4. Autocorrelation
Topic Six: Non-linear Regression and Time Series Econometrics
6.1. Non-linear regression models Overview
6.2. Time-series Analysis
Grading Breakdown:
Midterm Exam: 25%
Group Project: 35%
Final Exam: 30%
Participation: 10%
Overall course Policy
Attendance and Participation
Attendance Requirements: Students are expected to attend all lectures
and lab sessions. If you miss more than three classes without an excused
absence, your participation grade may be affected.
Participation: Active participation in discussions and group activities is
encouraged. This includes engagement in both in-person and online class
discussions as assigned.
Assignments and Grading
Assignments: Weekly problem sets will reinforce lecture materials. A
midterm exam, a group assignment, and a final exam will make up the
core assessments.
Late Work Policy: Late assignments will be accepted up to one week
after the due date with a 10% penalty. Extensions may be granted under
special circumstances if arranged before the due date.
Academic Integrity
Policy on Plagiarism and Cheating: All work must be original.
Cheating, plagiarism, or unauthorized collaboration will result in a zero on
the assignment and may be reported to the academic integrity office.
Collaboration Guidelines: Collaboration on problem sets is encouraged
for learning purposes, but each student/group must submit their work. The
midterm and final project must be completed independently.
Communication
Office Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 2:00–3:30 PM, or by appointment.
I’m also available via email/telegram and will respond within 24 hours on
weekdays.
Course Announcements: Important updates will be posted on the group
telegram channel, so check it regularly.
Classroom Etiquette and Professionalism
Behavioural Expectations: Students are expected to arrive on time,
silence electronic devices, and show respect for classmates’ ideas.
Respectful Communication: Constructive feedback is encouraged, and
respectful dialogue is expected in discussions.
References
Introductory Econometrics: A Modern Approach by Jeffrey M.
Wooldridge: Widely used and accessible, this book covers econometric
theory with a focus on real-world applications and empirical examples.
Econometric Analysis by William H. Greene: A comprehensive
resource covering theory and application, especially useful for students
who are looking for an in-depth understanding of econometric techniques.
Basic Econometrics by Damodar N. Gujarati and Dawn C. Porter:
This textbook is approachable for beginners, with extensive examples and
applications, making it ideal for first-time econometrics students.
A Guide to Econometrics by Peter Kennedy: Known for its clear
explanations, this book breaks down complex econometric concepts and is
a valuable supplement for those needing more guidance.
Introduction to Econometrics by James H. Stock and Mark W.
Watson: This is another accessible textbook with real-world data
applications, emphasizing statistical thinking and model interpretation.
