Introduction to Microfinance for Development, Georgetown University (Syllabus)

This course explores the role of microfinance in economic development. It will discuss how poor people in poor countries use financial services such as credit and savings; the history and practice of delivering such services; what is known about their contribution to development; and how stories and statistical studies shape public perceptions of microfinance.

Course Outline

1. The Puzzle of Impact

2. How People Manage Money

3. History and Variety of Microfinance

4. Microfinance as Business

5. Measuring Impacts on Poverty

6. Development as Freedom

7. Student Presentations