POLS 4204 - Public Finance


This course involves an in-depth study of the equity and economic effects of government spending programs, taxes, and debt.

Upon successful completion of the course students will be able to:

  1. Understand the role of government in our society, including the importance of public goods and goods with externalities.
  2. Understand the cost-benefit analysis and its use in public sector decision-making.
  3. Understand the economic effects of various government programs including income assistance for the poor, social security, public education and health care.
  4. Understand the current government taxation and spending policies and their impact on economic efficiency and the distribution of income.
  • Module 1. Hallmarks of Government Economic Policy
  • Module 2. Public Goods and Choices
  • Module 3. Cost-Benefit Analysis
  • Module 4. Government Economic Responsibilities for Citizens
  • Module 5. Public Budgeting
  • Module 6. Individual Taxation
  • Module 7. Corporate and Consumer Taxation
  • Module 8. Fiscal Federalism

Credit Hours

Organizational Leadership


  • POLS 1101
