TRA410 Transport, Localization and Economic Development (Spring 2024)

About the course

The first part of the course will be an introduction to the major economic theories governing the localization of economic activity. The second part presents economic theories and models that focus more specifically on the importance of transport and transport infrastructure. Theories and models are supported by results from field studies.

The course is connected to the following study programs

• Bachelor in Logistics and Supply Chain Management
• Individual Study Courses/Part- time studies
• Exchange programme - Bachelor's level

Recommended requirements

Knowledge of basic microeconomics and transport economics

The student's learning outcomes after completing the course

You should get an understanding of how economic forces determine the localization of economic activities: businesses, trade, cities, etc. Special attention will be paid to the importance of transport and transport infrastructure as means for regional economic development, and how these economic development effects are measured. At the end of the course, you should be able to advise companies and public authorities about how transportation systems can affect economic development and location behaviour. After completion of TRA410, the student should have aquired the following:

Knowledge

• A good overview of the theoretical foundation for location and economic development from transport infrastructure investments.
• Knowledge about the strengths and weaknesses of this analytical framework
• In-depth knowledge about one selected aspect or topic in which then student choose to specialise

Skills

• Ability to apply the theories and analytical models presented in the course to carry out case studies
• The student should become able to demand and utilize relevant R&D information about this topic as input for strategic planning purposes (e.g. when designing land use and transport plans.
• The course should give a basis for advanced studies within this field.

Competence

• Improved analytical and writing abilities through the process of assignment writing

Forms of teaching and learning

3 hours of lectures and other learning activities per week

Examination

• Form of assessment: School assessment
• Proportion: 60%
• Duration: 4 hours
• Grouping: Individual
• Grading scale: Letter (A - F)
• Support material: All printed and written supporting material + calculator with empty memory

• Form of assessment: Home assessment
• Proportion: 40%
• Duration: 1 semester
• Grouping: Individual
• Grading scale: Letter (A - F)
• Support material: All printed and written supporting material + calculator with empty memory

Syllabus

The current reading list for 2024 Spring can be found in Leganto