Introduction to the Making Sense of the Economy Online Course

The Making Sense of the Economy online course is designed to help executives develop a deeper understanding of the wider economic environment within which managers and businesses operate. This course explores economic principles, macroeconomic information, and the role of governments in managing the economy.

Course Structure

The course is offered in two options: a two-module option and a three-module option.

Two-Module Option

The two-module option includes the Bronze and Silver modules, which provide foundational knowledge and explore fundamental principles of the subject.

• Duration: Approximately 10-12 hours, plus reflection activities
• Cost: Ł298
• Individual learner: Yes
• Organisational cohorts: Yes

Three-Module Option

The three-module option includes the Bronze, Silver, and Gold modules. The Gold module takes the learning to the next level with live online interactive workshops led by Cranfield faculty.

• Duration: Approximately 20-24 hours, plus reflection activities
• Cost: Ł950
• Individual learner: No
• Organisational cohorts: Yes (minimum cohort size 10)

Programme Impacts

The programme impacts for the Bronze and Silver modules include:

• Clarity on the importance of macroeconomic data and economic forecasts to organisations and managers
• Deeper understanding of the practical problems and policy challenges facing governments and nations
• Insight into how governments seek to manage a range of macroeconomic issues associated with government financing, inflation, unemployment, and international trade
• Awareness of the latest economic thinking and its role in shaping Government policy
• Ability to interpret key economic indicators, anticipate policy shifts, and evaluate trade-offs that influence markets
• Evaluate economic growth and the implications of different economic policies

The Gold module adds the following impacts:

• Increased confidence to analyse key macroeconomic indicators of the global economy, growth prospects and drivers for change
• Ability to compile and interpret real-world economic indicators and evaluate current state of an economy
• Identify potential implications for your organisation based on the current economy and build actionable scenarios for your business
• Opportunity to pressure-test ideas, refine strategies and leave with evidence-based recommendations

Modules

The course consists of three modules:

Bronze How the Economy Works

• Online self-paced learning (estimated four hours plus reflection activities)
• Understand how the economy affects business
• Demystify economic jargon and data
• Deepen knowledge into how the economy works
• Achieve a better understanding of the economic objectives of governments
• Gain a clearer picture of how governments manage the economy

Silver Understanding How to Manage a Range of Macroeconomic Issues

• Online self-paced learning (estimated six hours plus reflection activities)
• Gain insights into the role and consequences of government deficit financing policy
• Enhance understanding of the policies governments deploy to manage a range of macroeconomic issues such as inflation, unemployment, and international trade imbalances
• Recognise business cycles and reflect on policy options, and how fluctuations in economic activity affect these
• Explore the causes of economic growth and implications of economic policy

Gold Advancing Your Understanding of the Economy

• Live online (two half days, five hours each plus reflection activities)
• Explore the current global economic environment and prospects, including an analysis of the major economies
• Opportunity for detailed examination of a national economy
• Explore the complexities associated with managing economies in the context of economic and financial crises
• Discover potential implications for your business, short term and long term

Digital Badges

On completion of each module, participants will be issued with a digital badge that can be displayed on their professional profiles, serving as compelling evidence of their expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of business and management knowledge.

Programme Directors

• Professor Joe Nellis
• Professor Costas Alexiou

---

Overview:

Cranfield University is a postgraduate-focused institution specializing in science, technology, engineering, and management. It is renowned for its strong industry links and practical approach to education.

---

Services Offered:

Cranfield University offers a wide range of services to students, including:

Careers and Employability Service:

Provides guidance and support for career planning and job searching.

IT Services:

Offers access to computer labs, software, and technical support.

Libraries:

Provides access to extensive collections of books, journals, and online resources.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Industry Links:

Cranfield University has close relationships with numerous organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships, placements, and networking.

Practical Approach to Education:

The university emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, preparing students for successful careers.

World-Class Facilities:

Cranfield boasts state-of-the-art facilities, including laboratories, workshops, and research centers.

---

Academic Programs:

Cranfield University offers a variety of postgraduate programs, including:

Taught Degrees:

MSc programs in various fields, such as aerospace, energy, and management.

Research Degrees:

PhD and MPhil programs for students seeking to conduct advanced research.

Apprenticeships:

Level 7 apprenticeships for professionals seeking to enhance their skills and knowledge.

Professional Development:

Short courses and executive development programs for individuals and organizations.

---

Other:

• Cranfield University has two campuses: Cranfield Campus and Cranfield University at Shrivenham.
• The university is committed to sustainability and has a strong track record in environmental research.
• Cranfield University is ranked highly in various international rankings, including those for sustainability and engineering.