Topics in Microeconomics is a module in intermediate microeconomic theory building upon the level 1 module ‘Introduction to Microeconomics’ and providing the core foundation for more advanced studies. Its objective is to further develop an integrated microeconomic approach allowing students to understand how individuals, policy makers, and firms can use microeconomic tools to analyse and resolve problems. The module equips the student with sound theoretical tools and techniques appropriate for discussing issues such as investments, contracts, the impact of taxes, regulation, strategic interactions of market agents etc.

The topics covered will include: consumer theory, general equilibrium theory and economic welfare, an introduction to game theory, auctions, interest rates, investment and capital, uncertainty and aspects of contract theory (asymmetric information & moral hazard).

The past decade has seen an increased development of new extremism risk assessment tools, some of which are used for practice (Extremist Risk Guidelines -...

The past decade has seen an increased development of new extremism risk assessment tools, some of which are used for practice (Extremist Risk Guidelines - ERG), and some that are intended for research (Violent Extremist Risk Assessment- VERA). As a result, the study of extremism now includes different perspectives and understanding of risk. The proposed module is indented to introduce security and crime science students to the ongoing developments in extremism risk assessments. The module will begin by discussing what we mean by risk; risk of becoming radicalised or risk of committing an act of violence? The module will examine how different types of risk can arise from systemic (such as social and environmental) and individual (such as age and gender) circumstances.

Students will learn about the different types of risk assessment tools that have been developed (actuarial versus structured professional judgement), and the different types of risk factors that are considered (static versus dynamic). Adding to this, students will learn about the research that is required to understand risk of extremism: baseline and comparative data to develop risk assessment tools, experimental testing of tools, and reliability and validity testing of existing tools. Further, the module will offer a discussion on the lessons we can learn from past real-life examples, and allow students to reflect on the implications that different types of risk assessments may have on historical cases. Throughout the module, students will be introduced to theoretical and empirical material from different fields of study, such as criminology, medical sciences, and psychology. The module assessments allow students to demonstrate their theoretical knowledge (through an essay), and to apply this knowledge to a real-life case. Finally, the module will provide forum for discussion on the potential shift from risk assessments to needs assessment.