This course is available for on-campus & remote (online) learning. All students participate in interactive, real-time classes.
This course offers a comprehensive and engaging introduction to the key theories and concepts used in international trade and foreign investment analysis. It equips students with the essential tools and empirical evidence to understand how and why goods, services, and capital move across borders—and how governments shape these flows through policy.
Students will explore a wide range of foundational theories including the Ricardian Model of comparative advantage, the Heckscher-Ohlin model of factor endowment, the factor-specific model, and models of imperfect competition and scale economies. The course also introduces the latest developments in cross-border digital trade. Students will also examine topics such as globalisation within the multilateral trading system, the political economy of trade and investment, the role of geopolitics, income inequality, multinational firms, global supply chains, and the recent phenomenon of de-globalisation.
After establishing the theoretical foundations, the course concludes with special sessions delivered by leading researchers who will discuss contemporary issues in trade and investment policy. These sessions will provide students with valuable insights into current policy debates and emerging global challenges.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion, students will have the knowledge and skills to:
- Demonstrate understanding of key theories and concepts in international trade and investment analysis.
- Apply theoretical frameworks to understand the global economy and relevant policies and their impacts.
- Analyse contemporary issues in international economics and policies based on empirical evidence.
- Communicate clearly on contemporary issues in international economics.
- Engage effectively in policy debates on international economic issues.
Indicative Assessment
- Quiz (10) [LO 1,2,3]
- Oral presentation (10 minutes) (10) [LO 1,2,3,4,5]
- Research essay (2,500 words) (30) [LO 1,2,3,5]
- Final exam (50) [LO 1,2,3]
The ANU uses Turnitin to enhance student citation and referencing techniques, and to assess assignment submissions as a component of the University's approach to managing Academic Integrity. While the use of Turnitin is not mandatory, the ANU highly recommends Turnitin is used by both teaching staff and students. For additional information regarding Turnitin please visit the ANU Online website.
Workload
The standard workload for a 6 unit course is 130 hours including in-class time and independent study
Requisite and Incompatibility
Prescribed Texts
None.
Preliminary Reading
Advanced International Trade, Feenstra, R.C.: Princeton University Press, Princeton.
The Theory of International Trade, Markusen, J. R. and J.R. Melvin: Harper & Row, Sydney.
International Economics: Theory and Policy, Krugman, P. and Obstfeld, M: Addison Wesley, Sydney, 10th Edition.
Additional readings will be provided on the Canvas course site.
Fees
Tuition fees are for the academic year indicated at the top of the page.
Commonwealth Support (CSP) Students
If you have been offered a Commonwealth supported place, your fees are set by the Australian Government for each course. At ANU 1 EFTSL is 48 units (normally 8 x 6-unit courses). More information about your student contribution amount for each course at Fees.
- Student Contribution Band:
- 34
- Unit value:
- 6 units
If you are a domestic graduate coursework student with a Domestic Tuition Fee (DTF) place or international student you will be required to pay course tuition fees (see below). Course tuition fees are indexed annually. Further information for domestic and international students about tuition and other fees can be found at Fees.
Where there is a unit range displayed for this course, not all unit options below may be available.
| Units | EFTSL |
|---|---|
| 6.00 | 0.12500 |
Offerings, Dates and Class Summary Links
ANU utilises MyTimetable to enable students to view the timetable for their enrolled courses, browse, then self-allocate to small teaching activities / tutorials so they can better plan their time. Find out more on the Timetable webpage.
Class summaries, if available, can be accessed by clicking on the View link for the relevant class number.
First Semester
| Class number | Class start date | Last day to enrol | Census date | Class end date | Mode Of Delivery | Class Summary |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3785 | 22 Feb 2027 | 01 Mar 2027 | 31 Mar 2027 | 28 May 2027 | In Person | N/A |