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Unit of study_
OECO5017: Causal Effects in Practice
2026 unit information
In this unit we unpack the interpretation of data analysis methods to appropriately measure treatment effects in observational data, gather a deep understanding of bias, distinguish correlations from causations, and critically answer questions of interest to business, policymakers, and researchers. Emphasis will be placed on interpretation of regression estimates, understanding the assumptions required to allow inferences to be causal, and learning a toolkit of methods for causal interpretation using observational data. Students will use statistical software to implement these methods and craft a comprehensive policy evaluation for the private or public sector.
Unit details and rules
Managing faculty or University school:
Arts and Social Sciences
| Study level | Postgraduate |
|---|---|
| Academic unit | Economics |
| Credit points | 6 |
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Prerequisites:
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ODAT5021 |
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Corequisites:
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None |
| Prohibitions:
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None |
| Assumed knowledge:
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Strong statistical knowledge and coding experience (e.g., successful completion of ODAT5011, ODAT5021 and ODAT5022) |
At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:
- LO1. Formulate causal effect questions to examine real-world problems from the perspective of individuals, organisations, and/or policymakers.
- LO2. Effectively use and interpret descriptive data, and articulate its limitations when answering causal effect questions.
- LO3. Critically evaluate the assumptions and limitations of empirical methods and arguments discussed in class.
- LO4. Develop effective writing skills tailored to answering causal effect questions.
- LO5. Effectively employ technology to gather information from written, oral, and digital sources.
- LO6. Develop effective oral communication skills tailored to answering causal effect questions.
- LO7. Develop the ability to efficiently and effectively manage, analyse, evaluate, and use fact-checked information.
- LO8. Plan, write, and present a causal effect question along with a well-reasoned answer.
- LO9. Participate effectively in workshop discussions.
Unit availability
This section lists the session, attendance modes and locations the unit is available in. There is a unit outline for each of the unit availabilities, which gives you information about the unit including assessment details and a schedule of weekly activities.
The outline is published 2 weeks before the first day of teaching. You can look at previous outlines for a guide to the details of a unit.
| Session | MoA ? | Location | Outline ? |
|---|---|---|---|
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PG Online Session 2B 2026
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Online | Online Program |
Outline unavailable
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There are no availabilities for previous years.
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Modes of attendance (MoA)
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