University of Ottawa - Introduction to Macroeconomics (ECO 1102)

ECO 1102: Introduction to Macroeconomics - provides an introduction to the core principles and tools of macroeconomics, focusing on the study of the economy at the national and global levels. Students will learn how to measure economic performance through key indicators like GDP, inflation, and unemployment, while exploring the dynamics of production, growth, and the financial system. Topics include aggregate demand and supply, the role of fiscal and monetary policy in stabilizing the economy, and open-economy macroeconomics, such as trade balances and exchange rates. The course emphasizes graphical analysis and logical reasoning to help students develop a systematic framework for understanding economic behavior and policy decisions. By mastering these concepts, students will gain insights into real-world phenomena like business cycles, inflationary pressures, and economic instability.

The course is particularly relevant in light of recent economic challenges, including the Great Recession and the global pandemic, which underscore the importance of macroeconomic thinking. Students will analyze debates over stabilization policies and examine the role of the banking system in modern economies. The goal is to instill economic instincts and equip students with the tools to analyze complex macroeconomic events and policy decisions. Serving as a foundation for more advanced studies, this course prepares students to critically evaluate how economic forces shape societies and influence everyday life.