We may earn an affiliate commission when you visit our partners.

Take this course

Central Banks and Monetary Policy

Ralf Meisenzahl

4.6

Based on 72 ratings

, see reviews

Ralf Meisenzahl

The purpose of this course is to provide you with an understanding of central bank policies and how such policies affect financial markets and the economy. The main aim of this course is to provide you with insights about the macroeconomic relationships between interest rates, inflation, and unemployment that allow you to assess central bank actions and appreciate how this action will affect the economy. The ability to extract relevant information from financial market and economic data about the macroeconomic environment and central bank actions is an important skill that will be useful for your decision-marking in your professional career and your personal financial choices.

Or subscribe to Coursera Plus

And get unlimited access to Coursera

What's inside

Syllabus

Course Orientation

You will become familiar with the course, your classmates, and our learning environment. The orientation will also help you obtain the technical skills required for the course.

Read more

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Suitable for learners looking to understand monetary policy and its effects on markets and the economy

Provides valuable insights into the interconnectedness of interest rates, inflation, and unemployment

Develops critical thinking skills through the analysis of financial market and economic data

Taught by an experienced professor with expertise in central banking policies

Covers essential concepts related to monetary policy and financial crises

Requires familiarity with basic economic principles to fully grasp the material

Save this course

Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.

Save

Reviews summary

Clear foundation in central banking and monetary policy

According to learners, this course offers an exceptionally clear and accessible introduction to central banks and monetary policy, making complex economic concepts easy to understand. Many highlight the phenomenal instructor and the course's ability to provide a solid foundational knowledge, particularly useful for understanding current events like inflation and interest rates. The module on financial crises is frequently praised as eye-opening and highly relevant. While highly beneficial for beginners and professionals seeking a strong base, some learners with prior economics background found the depth somewhat basic or superficial. Overall, it's highly recommended for its clarity and practical relevance.

The instructor is highly praised for clarity and simplifying complex ideas.

"The instructor's explanations were concise..."

"The instructor is phenomenal, explaining complex ideas without jargon."

"The instructor breaks down complex topics into easily digestible parts."

"The instructor's ability to simplify without oversimplifying is remarkable."

Connects theoretical concepts to current economic events and real-world impact.

"The real-world examples really helped to solidify complex concepts. I particularly enjoyed the modules on financial crises, which were highly relevant to current events."

"It truly helped me understand news about inflation and interest rates."

"The financial crises module was eye-opening. Excellent content and delivery."

"I particularly appreciated the focus on real-world relevance."

Provides a comprehensive and logical introduction to monetary policy.

"Highly recommended for anyone wanting a solid foundation in macroeconomics."

"Overall, a good foundational course."

"It's a solid introductory course."

"Excellent course for foundational knowledge. The material is presented clearly and logically."

Simplifies complex economic concepts effectively for all learners.

"This course was an incredibly clear and insightful introduction to central banking and monetary policy. The instructor's explanations were concise..."

"Absolutely brilliant! As someone with no prior economics knowledge, this course made a seemingly daunting topic accessible and engaging."

"The instructor breaks down complex topics into easily digestible parts. I learned so much about the Federal Reserve and its impact."

"I've always struggled with understanding monetary policy, but this course made it so clear. The instructor's ability to simplify without oversimplifying is remarkable."

A few examples or explanations could benefit from modernization.

"I noticed a few instances where the explanations felt a bit dated or could have been updated with more recent examples."

"The material is solid but could benefit from a refresh. It is foundational, but I wished for more current applications."

May be too basic for those with strong prior economic knowledge.

"Some parts felt a bit basic for someone with a prior economics background. I would have appreciated more advanced topics or deeper dives..."

"Found this course to be too superficial. I have a background in economics and was looking for something more in-depth."

"It feels like it's designed for someone completely new to the subject... Not really for intermediate or advanced learners."

"Good for a very general introduction, but not enough depth for an expert."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Central Banks and Monetary Policy with these activities:

Read 'Macroeconomics: Theory and Policy' by Blanchard and Johnson

Show steps

This comprehensive textbook provides a solid theoretical foundation in macroeconomics, essential for understanding the concepts covered in this course.

View Lectures on Macroeconomics on Amazon

Show steps

Read Chapters 1-5, focusing on topics such as output, inflation, and unemployment.
Pay special attention to the sections on monetary policy and its role in macroeconomic management.
Complete the practice problems and discussion questions included in the chapters.

Review Macroeconomic Theory

Show steps

Reviewing these core macroeconomic concepts will help you understand the foundations of central bank policies and their effects.

Browse courses on Macroeconomics

Show steps

Revisit textbooks or lecture notes from an introductory macroeconomics course.
Take practice quizzes or solve sample problems related to macroeconomic topics.

Show all two activities

Career center

Learners who complete Central Banks and Monetary Policy will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Central Banker

Central Banks and Monetary Policy grants a deep dive into the policies and tools used by Central Bankers. The course's focus on economic impacts provides a useful understanding of how Central Bankers' decisions influence macroeconomic variables such as output, inflation, and unemployment. By understanding these relationships and the role of Central Bankers, you will gain valuable insights that can aid in your success within this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Central Banker

Financial Analyst

Central Banks and Monetary Policy will help build a foundation for Financial Analysts by providing an understanding of interest rates, monetary policy, and economic impacts. This knowledge is critical for Financial Analysts as they evaluate investments and make recommendations to clients. The course also enhances your ability to decipher financial market and economic data, a valuable skill for effective financial analysis.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Economist

Economists can benefit immensely from the knowledge provided in Central Banks and Monetary Policy by gaining a comprehensive understanding of monetary policy and its impact on the economy. The course covers the Federal Reserve System, its functions, and the tools used for monetary policy, providing Economists with essential knowledge for analyzing economic trends and forecasting future economic conditions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Economist

Investment Banker

Central Banks and Monetary Policy may be useful for Investment Bankers seeking to advance their understanding of interest rates, monetary policy, and economic impacts. This knowledge assists in evaluating investment opportunities, making informed recommendations to clients, and navigating the financial markets effectively.

See salaries and explore the career path for Investment Banker

Commercial Banker

For Commercial Bankers, Central Banks and Monetary Policy provides valuable knowledge about interest rates and financial instruments, the Federal Reserve System, and the impact of monetary policy on economic variables. This understanding is essential for Commercial Bankers in managing financial risks and making informed lending decisions.

See salaries and explore the career path for Commercial Banker

Risk Manager

Risk Managers can benefit from Central Banks and Monetary Policy by gaining a comprehensive understanding of monetary policy and its impact on financial markets and the economy. This knowledge is critical for Risk Managers in assessing and mitigating financial risks within their organizations.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Manager

Portfolio Manager

Portfolio Managers can enhance their decision-making process by taking Central Banks and Monetary Policy. The course provides insights into interest rates, monetary policy, and economic impacts, enabling Portfolio Managers to make informed investment decisions and effectively manage financial portfolios.

See salaries and explore the career path for Portfolio Manager

Financial Planner

Financial Planners may find Central Banks and Monetary Policy useful in developing a comprehensive understanding of the financial markets and economic factors that influence investment decisions. The course enhances their ability to provide sound financial advice and create personalized financial plans for clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Planner

Credit Analyst

Understanding monetary policy and its impact on interest rates is essential for Credit Analysts. Central Banks and Monetary Policy provides a solid foundation in these areas, enabling Credit Analysts to make informed decisions about creditworthiness and risk assessment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Credit Analyst

Insurance Analyst

For Insurance Analysts, Central Banks and Monetary Policy offers valuable insights into interest rates, monetary policy, and their impact on the economy. This knowledge is crucial in understanding the financial risks and opportunities within the insurance industry, allowing Insurance Analysts to make informed decisions and provide expert advice.

See salaries and explore the career path for Insurance Analyst

Financial Consultant

Financial Consultants can expand their knowledge of monetary policy and its effects by taking Central Banks and Monetary Policy. This course enhances their ability to provide tailored financial advice, considering the impact of interest rates and economic conditions on their clients' financial well-being.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Consultant

Market Researcher

Market Researchers can benefit from Central Banks and Monetary Policy by gaining a deeper understanding of the financial markets and economic trends. This knowledge enables them to conduct more accurate market research, analyze consumer behavior, and make informed recommendations to businesses.

See salaries and explore the career path for Market Researcher

Actuary

Central Banks and Monetary Policy may be useful for Actuaries seeking to enhance their understanding of interest rates and economic factors that influence financial markets. This knowledge assists in developing actuarial models, assessing financial risks, and providing informed recommendations within the insurance industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Actuary

Quantitative Analyst

Quantitative Analysts may find Central Banks and Monetary Policy helpful in developing a foundation in interest rates, monetary policy, and economic impacts. This knowledge complements their analytical skills and enables them to make informed decisions within the financial industry.

See salaries and explore the career path for Quantitative Analyst

Data Scientist

Data Scientists seeking to specialize in the financial domain may find Central Banks and Monetary Policy useful. The course provides insights into financial data analysis and the impact of economic factors on financial markets, enhancing their ability to extract valuable insights and develop predictive models.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Reading list

We've selected eight books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Central Banks and Monetary Policy.

Cover image

Cover image

Two Percent Target

Save

Provides a rigorous and in-depth treatment of monetary policy, covering both theoretical foundations and practical applications. It valuable resource for students, researchers, and policymakers who want to understand the complexities of monetary policy.

Two Percent Target

Two Percent Target

Cover image

Cover image

Financial and Sovereign Debt Crises

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of financial crises, including their causes, consequences, and policy responses. It valuable resource for students, researchers, and policymakers who want to understand the complexities of financial crises.

Financial and Sovereign Debt Crises

Financial and Sovereign Debt Crises

Cover image

Cover image

Financial Markets and Institutions, Global Edition

Save

This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of monetary economics, including the role of central banks and monetary policy. It valuable resource for students and practitioners who want to gain a deeper understanding of the subject.

Financial Markets and Institutions, Global Edition

Cover image

Cover image

Financial Regulation and Stability

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of the role of central banks in economic development, including their functions, policies, and regulations. It valuable resource for students, researchers, and policymakers who want to understand the complexities of central banking in developing countries.

Financial Regulation and Stability: Lessons from...

Cover image

Cover image

The Economic Effects of Constitutions

Save

Provides a theoretical and empirical analysis of the political economy of central banking, including the role of central bank independence and accountability. It valuable resource for students, researchers, and policymakers who want to understand the political dynamics of central banking.

The Economic Effects of Constitutions

The Economic Effects of Constitutions

Cover image

Cover image

Interest and Prices

Save

Provides a comprehensive overview of central bank communication, including its goals, strategies, and effectiveness. It valuable resource for students, researchers, and policymakers who want to understand the importance of central bank communication.

Interest and Prices: Foundations of a Theory of...

Interest and Prices: Foundations of a Theory of...

Cover image

Cover image

Pillars of Prosperity

Save

Provides a theoretical and empirical analysis of the political economy of monetary policy, including the role of central bank independence and accountability. It valuable resource for students, researchers, and policymakers who want to understand the political dynamics of monetary policy.

Pillars of Prosperity: The Political Economics of...

Pillars of Prosperity: The Political Economics of...

Cover image

Cover image

21st Century Monetary Policy: The Federal Reserve...

Save

Provides a collection of essays by leading economists on the challenges and opportunities facing central banks in the 21st century. It valuable resource for students, researchers, and policymakers who want to understand the future of central banking.

21st Century Monetary Policy: The Federal Reserve...

Share

Help others find this course page by sharing it with your friends and followers:

Copy Link

Similar courses

Similar courses are unavailable at this time. Please try again later.

Rating

4.6

Effort

Approx. 16 hours

Level

Intermediate

Via

Coursera

Institution

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Instructor

Ralf Meisenzahl

Language

English

Transcripts

Español Français Português Deutsch Italiano 中文 العربية 한국어 日本語 हिंदी Nederlands Svenska Pусский Türkçe Polski Ελληνικά українська мова magyar nyelv Bahasa Indonesia ไทย қазақша اُردُو, فارسی বাংলা tiếng Việt پښتو آذربایجان دیلی

This course belongs to a collection called Managerial Economics and Business Analysis . It's comprised of six courses:

Central Banks and Monetary Policy (viewing)
Inferential and Predictive Statistics for Business
Exploring and Producing Data for Business Decision Making
Banking and Financial Institutions
Firm Level Economics: Consumer and Producer Behavior
Firm Level Economics: Markets and Allocations

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Suitable for learners looking to understand monetary policy and its effects on markets and the economy

Provides valuable insights into the interconnectedness of interest rates, inflation, and unemployment

Develops critical thinking skills through the analysis of financial market and economic data

Taught by an experienced professor with expertise in central banking policies

Covers essential concepts related to monetary policy and financial crises

Requires familiarity with basic economic principles to fully grasp the material

Share this

Share to help others discover this course.

Link

Begin learning today

Enroll now to gain full access to Central Banks and Monetary Policy.

Enroll now Enroll in this course

Save for later

Add this course to your list. Find it anytime.

Save

Our mission

OpenCourser helps millions of learners each year. People visit us to learn workspace skills, ace their exams, and nurture their curiosity.

Our extensive catalog contains over 50,000 courses and twice as many books. Browse by search, by topic, or even by career interests. We'll match you to the right resources quickly.

Find this site helpful? Tell a friend about us.

Affiliate disclosure

We're supported by our community of learners. When you purchase or subscribe to courses and programs or purchase books, we may earn a commission from our partners.

Your purchases help us maintain our catalog and keep our servers humming without ads.

Thank you for supporting OpenCourser.

© 2016 - 2025 OpenCourser