Master 2025/2026

Experimental Economics

Type: Elective course (Economics and Economic Policy)

Delivered by: Department of Theoretical Economics

When: 1 year, 4 module

Open to: students of all HSE University campuses

Instructors: Soubhagya Sahoo

Language: English

Course Syllabus

Abstract

Experimental economics is a field of economics that aims to study economic behaviors by conducting controlled experiments. It involves setting up a controlled environment to observe how individuals behave under specific conditions and then using this information to test economic theories. Researchers and policymakers can benefit from the findings of experimental economics studies by gaining a deeper understanding of human decision-making, market dynamics, and policy formulation. This course prioritizes student-led paper presentations and discussions, structured into three segments. First, it focuses on methodological foundations, including experimental design (lab, field, and natural experiments), ethical considerations, randomization techniques, and data analysis. Second, it examines applications of experiments to study preferences, market dynamics, and discrimination, with case studies on policy-relevant topics such as nudges, market interventions, and behavioral insights in institutional design. Finally, it explores advanced topics in field experiments, including randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and their role in addressing socioeconomic questions. Students will develop skills in designing, critiquing, and replicating experiments while engaging with both foundational and contemporary research, preparing them to contribute to academic inquiry and evidence-based policy solutions.