Microfinance in Theory and Practice

3 credits · Undergraduate

(3 hrs Lecture) This course provides an overview of the economics of microfinance, a development strategy that provides credit, savings and insurance for individuals and families that are unable to access funds from formal financial institutions. Drawing on readings from practitioners and academics, it examines the strengths and limitations of microfinance as an approach to poverty reduction. Students are introduced to a number of sub-disciplines of Economics, including development economics, financial economics, feminist economics, and institutional economics. Requisite Courses: ECON-1102 and ECON-1103, or ECON-1104 with a minimum grade of C or ECON-1106 with a minimum grade of C [prerequisite(s)].