The module provides an introduction to the management of public finances. As governments face both increasing financial pressure and growing demands for their services, it is vital for all students of public administration and management to understand both the context and management of public money.
The aims of the module are to examine the academic theory, policy and practice that related to the management of public finances. The module combines an examination of both the economic perspective and rationale for government spending together with a financial management perspective on issues such as resources allocation, accountability and value for money.
The module will reflect an international context by examining the policies of a range of countries as well as a critical consideration of developments in global initiatives emanating from bodies such as the OECD, IMF, and World Bank.
This module is open to students on the MPA, MPA in International Development, the MA in Public Administration and Public Policy and the MA in International Political Economy.
Module learning outcomes
Students will be required to access a range of materials from a variety of sources. The nature of the module means that it is not appropriate to rely on on textbooks and so journal articles and other academic, professional and government publications are also important.
Indictative texts
Bandy, Gary (2014) Financial Management and Accounting in the Public Sector, Second Edition. Routledge
Barr, N. (2012) Economics of the Welfare State, 5th edition, Oxford University Press
Ulbrich, Holley H. (2011) Public Finance in Theory and Practice Second Edition, Routledge.
One essay of 4000 words (100% of total mark).
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