Transport economics

Course summary

This course equips transport professionals with the essential tools of transport economics and its application in planning and policy. You will explore concepts such as cost-benefit analysis, pricing strategies, and economic appraisal of transport projects. Practical exercises using real-world transport datasets illustrate how economic analysis informs decision-making and policy development.

This course is delivered in person at our Marylebone campus, the course combines lectures and interactive sessions where tutors guide discussions and practical exercises.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the course, students will typically be able to:

• Apply basic economic concepts to transport problems
• Conduct cost-benefit and financial appraisals of transport interventions
• Critically evaluate economic evidence in transport policy
• Communicate economic analysis to stakeholders in a clear and structured way

Teaching and Assessment

The course normally consists of 12 sessions of three hours. In 2025, sessions will take place on consecutive Tuesdays from 2pm to 5pm, running from 23 September to 9 December. 

The sessions will involve lectures from staff and expert guests, and group exercises and discussions.

There are two assessments:

• An in-class test on the content taught during the module 
• A group presentation on economic aspects of a suitable case study

Accreditation

This course is part of the University of Westminster's MSc in Transport Planning. Successful completion earns credits towards a full MSc, Postgraduate Diploma, or Postgraduate Certificate.
 

Course structure

Topics will include:

• Context – governance of transport; the case for transport behaviour change
• The politics of transport behaviour change
• Theoretical background – principal theories relating to transport behaviour change; their application
• The "four Es" of transport behaviour change: education, economy, engineering, enforcement
• Influencing the behaviour of decision makers
• Planning, delivering and evaluating interventions

The course includes two pieces of assessed coursework: a critical evaluation of a transport behaviour-change intervention; and the development of a new behaviour-change intervention from first principles, in response to a defined transport problem or opportunity.

Our tutor

Paulo Anciaes is a Visiting Lecturer at University of Westminster. He is also a Principal Researcher at University College London. Paulo has been involved in transport research and teaching for over 20 years. He is interested in the economic appraisal and evaluation of transport policies and in the health and social impacts of transport, including active travel.

Entry requirements

A first degree in a relevant subject is recommended. Basic numerical and Excel skills are expected. No prior economics experience is required.

Course structure

Delegates will:

• Learn key transport economics principles, including demand, costs, and pricing
• Conduct cost-benefit analysis of transport schemes
• Explore financing and funding mechanisms for transport projects
• Examine case studies illustrating the economic appraisal of transport policies
• Present economic findings and recommendations