Regional economics is a distinct sub-discipline which draws on economic theory in an attempt to explain divergent economic performance across space. The module aims to provide a comprehensive survey of regional economic theory and policy, incorporating the most recent new perspectives and drawing on a range of case-study examples.

The sub-discipline of regional economics deals with dissimilar economic performances across space. In trying to understand this, several theoretical perspectives may be drawn upon, and used to justify policies. Both theory and policy are covered in this module, which is split between formal lectures and seminars in which students discuss essays submitted as coursework. Lectures cover a general introduction to the regional policy problem and the calculation of regional GDP; regional economic theory, including econometric models and regional input-output analysis; a brief review of regional policy in Britain, Europe, the USA, and also low income countries. The module concludes by examining new perspectives in regional economics.

Introduction: the regional "problem"; regional gross domestic product: an account and critique; Keynesian regional income and employment multipliers; regional input output modelling; location theory; how regions grow, neoclassical approaches and alternatives; endogenous regional development; small firms and innovation; European Union regional policies; British regional policy; Regional policy in low income countries; the evaluation of regional policies.

Independent work on assessed coursework requiring basic research skills; general economicc analysis of contemporary regional development and policy issues. Use of internet resources to assess relevant pages (such as that of the Office of National Statistics).