Econ 204B — Winter 2025
A primer on recursive methods in macroeconomics. This course concerns forming, calibrating, and solving models of general equilibrium to match observed economic dynamics. The first portion of the course will focus on solving infinite-horizon problems using recursive methods, especially dynamic programming. The second half will focus on search models using the framework of Mortenson-Pissarides with an emphasis on employment dynamics.
Sections are Fridays at 11:00AM, PST. Office hours are Friday 12:00-1:00PM, or whenever’s best for you all.
Miscellaneous Resources
Some Notes for Macroeconomics
Some Notes for Basic Programming
Econ 204A — Fall 2023
This class focuses on the basics underpinning the neoclassical growth model in both discrete and continuous time. Topics covered include the Solow Growth model, Ramsey-Cass-Koopmans, Overlapping Generations, and an introduction to the discrete time neoclassical growth model through the lens of dynamic programming.
Sections will meet Fridays at 10:00AM, PST in North Hall 2212. Office hours are Friday 11:00-12:00PM, or by appointment.
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Problem Set 1 (Template)
Problem Set 2 (Template)
Problem Set 3 (Template)
Problem Set 4 (Template)
Problem Set 5 (Template)
Problem Set 6 (Template)
Problem Set 7 (Template)
Problem Set 8 (Template)
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Week 1
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Econ 204C — Spring 2023
This class focuses on stochastic general equilibrium models with incomplete markets and heterogenous agents. We will begin with a review of the complete markets Arrow-Debreu model of general equilibrium. The first portion of the course will cover the formulation of these models using recursive and sequential methods as well as the conditions under which the two formulations coincide. Subsequent portions will cover firm heterogeneity and endogenous growth.
Coursework consists of three problem sets and a final exam unless otherwise stated by Professor Ma.
Sections will meet Fridays at 10:00AM, PST in North Hall 2212. Office hours are Friday 11:00-12:00PM, or by appointment.
Econ 204C — Spring 2022
This course focuses on general equilibrium models with incomplete markets or other frictions. The first portion of the course will cover formulation of these models using recursive and sequential methods as well as the conditions under which the two formulations coincide. The course will cover applications include asset pricing, inequality, climate change, monetary policy, and sovereign default.
Sections will meet Fridays at 10:00AM, PST in North Hall 2212. Office hours are Friday 11:00-12:00PM, or by appointment.
Econ 204B — Winter 2022
A primer on recursive methods in macroeconomics. This course concerns forming, calibrating, and solving models of general equilibrium to match observed economic dynamics. The first portion of the course will focus on solving infinite-horizon problems using recursive methods, especially dynamic programming. The second half will focus on search models using the framework of Mortenson-Pissarides with an emphasis on employment dynamics.
Sections will meet over Zoom initially, Fridays at 10:00AM, PST. Office hours are Friday 11:00-12:00PM, or by appointment.