Khon Kaen University - SDG Alignment for M.Econ. in International Economics and Tourism

SDG Alignment for Master of Economics Program in International Economics and Tourism

Overall SDG Alignment Evaluation:

The Master of Economics Program in International Economics and Tourism is strategically designed to produce graduates with advanced knowledge to analyze and manage economic systems in a globalized world. The curriculum's philosophy, which emphasizes the integration of economic theory with practical applications in international trade and sustainable tourism, makes it a powerful contributor to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). By training experts in logistics, tourism management, and regional development, the program is a key driver for SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). The program's focus on international economic relations and cross-border issues also aligns with SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals). As a graduate-level program, it is a flagship for SDG 4 (Quality Education).

SDG Related Course(s)

SDG 4: Quality Education

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Alignment Summary: As a master's program, this curriculum represents a high level of quality education. It is designed to cultivate expert economists and analysts by providing advanced training in quantitative research methods and fostering the lifelong learning skills necessary to address complex global economic challenges.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS487701	Quantitative Research Methods	Provides the core research skills that define high-quality graduate education, equipping students for high-level employment in research and data analysis (Target 4.3 and 4.4).
IS48789X	Thesis/Independent Study	These courses are capstone lifelong learning opportunities (Target 4.3), where students conduct original research or in-depth study, thereby acquiring superior technical and professional skills for employment and innovation (Target 4.4).

SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth

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Alignment Summary: This program is a direct engine for decent work and sustainable economic growth, with a core focus on international trade and tourism. The curriculum provides students with the essential skills in economic analysis, tourism management, and logistics to promote sustainable tourism, create jobs, and foster overall economic development.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS487702	International Trade and Investment	Contributes to sustainable economic growth by providing the skills to analyze and formulate policies that promote trade and investment, which are key drivers of economic development (Target 8.1).
IS487704	Tourism Economics and Policy	Directly supports policies for sustainable tourism that creates jobs and promotes local culture (Target 8.9) by training professionals to manage the tourism sector effectively.
IS487706	Logistics and Transport Economics	Contributes to economic productivity by focusing on the efficiency of transport and logistics, which is essential for trade and economic growth (Target 8.2).

SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure

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Alignment Summary: The program contributes to building resilient infrastructure and promoting sustainable industrialization by focusing on logistics and transport economics. This knowledge is essential for developing efficient and sustainable transport and trade infrastructure, which is a cornerstone of modern industry.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS487706	Logistics and Transport Economics	Supports the development of sustainable and resilient infrastructure (Target 9.1) by focusing on the effective and efficient management of logistics and transport systems.

SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities

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Alignment Summary: The program contributes to reducing inequalities by analyzing the economic dynamics between countries and regions. The curriculum equips graduates to understand the complexities of international economic relations and regional integration, enabling them to contribute to policies that promote more equitable development.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS487703	International Economic Relations	Contributes to reducing inequalities within and among countries (Target 10) by examining the global economic system and its impact on development.
IS487705	Regional Economic Integration	Aligns with Target 10 by analyzing the economic benefits and challenges of regional integration, which can promote more balanced development among member countries.

SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities

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Alignment Summary: This program is central to creating sustainable communities by focusing on regional economic development and tourism. Graduates are equipped to contribute to integrated policies and plans for sustainable urban and regional development, including the promotion of sustainable tourism that safeguards local culture and heritage.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS487704	Tourism Economics and Policy	Directly supports efforts to safeguard the world’s cultural and natural heritage through the development of sustainable tourism policies (Target 11.4).
IS487705	Regional Economic Integration	Contributes to strengthening national and regional development planning (Target 11.A) by linking urban, peri-urban, and rural development strategies within a regional context.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

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Alignment Summary: The program's international focus and research-intensive nature foster partnerships for sustainable development. Through seminars, research, and specialized courses on international economic relations, students engage with diverse stakeholders, promoting the knowledge-sharing and multi-stakeholder collaborations essential for achieving the SDGs.

Course Code	Course Title	Alignment Rationale
IS487703	International Economic Relations	This course is foundational to SDG 17, promoting an understanding of global economic systems and the need for international cooperation to achieve sustainable development (Target 17.16).
IS48789X	Thesis/Independent Study	Represents a significant contribution to global partnerships (Target 17.16) by creating new, publishable knowledge that is shared internationally to solve critical economic challenges.