Ateneo - UPO

The module of Public Finance illustrates the role of the government both in principle and in practice. After an analysis of the main reasons for public intervention in markets, the focus is on the main tax and spending programs used to achieve the state economic goals.

BOSI P., Corso di scienza delle finanze, Il Mulino, Bologna, edizione 2023.
BOSI P., GUERRA M. C., I tributi nell’economia italiana, Il Mulino, Bologna, ultima edizione.

The module of Public Finance has the following educational objectives :
- KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING: theoretical reasons underlying public intervention ; basics of the Italian tax system; theoretical issues underlying the main taxes ; government's intervention modes in social security and health care systems.
- ABILITY TO APPLY KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING : ability to assess the main direct and indirect taxes levied in Italy; ability to assess the impact of tax changes; ability to understand the effects of pension and healthcare reforms on the economic system.

Economics (Economia Politica).

The course consists of lectures, exercise classes and possibly testimonials and seminars

The module of Public Finance will be taught in the first semester

The exam of Economic Policy and Public Finance is written and consists of two parts, one for each module, 45 min. each. The exam is passed with a grade of not less than 18. The final grade is the average of the grades obtained in the two parts, rounded up.
Each student can take the exam for a maximum of three times in the course of a year.

The program is organized in four main sections:
1) General principles of the public intervention in markets. Economic justifications of the public intervention (asymmetric information, externalities, public goods, limited competition) and limits;
2) The Public Administration and public finance in Italy. The public budget process and the public debt theory;
3) Economic analysis of the public revenues, with a focus on personal income and corporate taxes. Presentation of the Italian tax system;
4) Economic analysis of the welfare expenditures: pensions, healthcare, education (outline).

Understanding of the role played by the state in the economic system.
Understanding of the economic effects of the taxes and basic knowledge of the Italian tax system.
Understanding of the main Welfare expenditures.