Introduction to Cost-Benefit Analysis

Summary

Course Objective: This course introduces cost-benefit analysis (CBA) as a tool for assessing the potential gains and losses of development projects, with applications in conservation, policy, and sustainable development.

Learners can expect to gain:

1. An understanding of CBA strategies, strengths, limitations, and perspectives
2. Knowledge of financial versus economic analysis, including private and social costs, market failures, and solutions
3. Practical skills in feasibility assessment tools such as time value of money, net cash flows, NPV, and IRR
4. The ability to address uncertainty, risk, and equity considerations in CBA
5. Insight into real-world applications of CBA through case studies

Why This Matters: Applying cost-benefit analysis supports evidence-based decision-making, enabling practitioners to evaluate project feasibility, communicate trade-offs, and promote equitable, sustainable outcomes.

Course Duration: 11–13 hours (self-paced)