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Master courses and course schedule

  • This lecture explores key concepts in behavioral economics and their application to sustainability challenges. The course addresses cognitive biases, value conflicts, and institutional path dependencies that inhibit sustainable transformations. Students engage with theories of behavior and societal change, and critically examine how behavioral interventions can support transitions toward sustainability.

    In the accompanying tutorial, students present and discuss a selected behavioral intervention based on provided topics. These presentations are an integral part of the course. Additionally, students have the opportunity to gain bonus points by writing a blog post on a sustainability topic.

    Note: Presentation slots are assigned during the first two weeks of the semester via the booking tool on ILIAS. Students who fail to register on time may not be able to complete the course requirements.

  • This course introduces the methodology of experimental economics with a focus on social preferences and behavioral game theory. Topics include incentive design, validity, experimental ethics, and the replication crisis. A central component is the integration of AI-assisted tools in experimental design and analysis.

    In the tutorial, students work in pairs to present a selected research paper from the Behavioral Science Uncovered (https://bsuncovered.com) podcast series and propose their own extensions. A final individual paper requires students to develop and document their own experimental design using AI-based tools.

    Note: Presentation slots are assigned during the first two weeks of the semester via the booking tool on ILIAS. Students who fail to register on time may not be able to complete the course requirements.

  • This course provides a broad overview of sustainable development challenges, including poverty, education, health, ecosystems, and energy transitions. Emphasis is placed on rigorous impact evaluation methods, including randomized controlled trials and quasi-experimental approaches.

    As part of the coursework, students are assigned a pair of countries and complete short essays for selected lectures, drawing on empirical data and development indicators. Selected students may be asked to briefly present their analysis during class. A final written exam determines the overall grade.

    Note: The course is mandatory for students in MSc Sustainable Development

  • This intensive seminar takes place at the Marburger Haus in Kleinwalsertal (Austria) and engages Master students in climate adaptation planning under deep uncertainty. Using the Dynamic Adaptive Policy Pathways framework, students explore real-world cases—ranging from urban heat stress to vanishing atoll nations—and alternate between the roles of experts and citizens. Through group presentations, deliberation exercises, and Citizens’ Jury simulations, students develop skills in scenario analysis, stakeholder dialogue, and adaptive decision-making. 

    Note: Participation is limited to 15 students. Applications start already in the summer semester.

 

(tentative) Course Schedule 

summer 25
 winter
25/26		 summer
26		 winter 26/27
Behavioral Economics and Sustainability (lecture & tutorial: Vollan) ✔ ✔
Sustainable Development Economics (lecture: Vollan) ✔ ✔
Experimental Economics (lecture: Vollan & tutorial: Vollan/Burger) ✔ ✔
Interdisciplinary Colloquium (only for students of the MSc Sustainable Development) (Vollan) ✔ ✔
Seminars:(varying topics, see MARVIN) ✔* ✔*

Please note: Detailed course descriptions are provided in MARVIN.

*Seminar in Kleinwalsertal "Deliberating Controversies in Sustainable Development"