Time Series and OLS Course Online

Quick Answer

Econometrics 110 introduces time-series data, lags and differences, trends, non-stationarity, spurious regression, cointegration and structural breaks. The recorded package includes a one-hour lecture video, slides, a transcript and a quiz. This is recorded study, with no live meeting. Check the Eventbrite listing for current access and ticket terms.

Key takeaways

A lag refers to an earlier observation; a difference measures a change between observations.
Trends and persistence can affect regression assumptions and interpretation.
Regressing unrelated non-stationary series can produce apparently convincing but spurious relationships.
Cointegration concerns stationary combinations of non-stationary series; structural breaks require attention to changes over time.

What will you be able to do after the course?

The course topics support three learning outcomes. They describe the concepts you will work through, rather than promising mastery from a single session.

Describe time-series transformations. Distinguish lags, differences and growth rates and explain what each represents.
Assess stationarity. Explain why trends and non-stationarity matter for time-series regressions.
Interpret relationships carefully. Distinguish spurious regression concerns from cointegration and recognise the significance of structural breaks.

What does the course cover?

This outline organises the topics described in the course listing. The summaries explain the subject matter in plain English.

Introduction and time-series terminology: the observation structure and key terms for data recorded over time.
OLS assumptions in a time-series setting: why serial dependence and changing statistical properties require attention.
Lags, differences and growth rates: transformations used to represent earlier values and changes over time.
Trends and non-stationarity: how persistence and trends affect the interpretation of relationships.
Spurious regressions: why a strong-looking fitted relationship can arise without a meaningful economic link.
Testing and ensuring stationarity: the purpose of stationarity assessment and appropriate transformations.
Cointegration and structural breaks: long-run relationships between non-stationary series and changes in model relationships over time.

What do the key terms mean?

These definitions support the course topic and help you interpret the material. They are explanatory context, not a promise that every term is a separate lesson.

Term	Meaning
Time series	Observations recorded in time order.
Lag	An earlier value of a series, indexed by how many periods separate it from the current observation.
Difference	The current value minus an earlier value, often the immediately previous observation.
Growth rate	A relative change between periods; it differs from an absolute difference.
Covariance stationarity	A constant mean and variance with covariances depending on lag rather than calendar time.
Spurious regression	An apparently meaningful fitted relationship arising from incompatible statistical properties rather than a substantive relationship.
Cointegration	A stationary linear combination of non-stationary series of the appropriate integration order.
Structural break	A change in parameters or the data-generating process that can affect model interpretation and stability.

Who is the course for?

Econometrics 110 suits learners interested in time-series foundations, stationarity, spurious regression and cointegration. Basic regression and statistics will help. The course is aimed at learners developing time-series skills.

Economists and data analysts
Students and professionals in economics and finance
Policy analysts and researchers
People beginning time-series analysis

Which courses should you take first?

Explore related MCC training below. The cards distinguish live and recorded formats. They are options for further study rather than a compulsory sequence; review each course’s scope and availability before choosing.

Browse every title on the MCC Economics courses page.

Why learn this from MCC Economics?

MCC Economics brings economic and financial analysis to policy, regulation and investment questions. Econometrics 110 offers a focused introduction to time-series foundations, stationarity, spurious regression and cointegration. Explore its economic analysis services, research publications and team profiles to see the wider context of MCC’s work.

MCC Economics has helped us better understand the most important issues for our stakeholders, including: charges, shareholder returns, debt payments and inflation impacts.

Leila N. Nasr, Section Head, Department of Energy, Abu Dhabi · Client feedback on MCC consulting work, supplied in the reference template; not a review of this course.

Questions buyers ask before registering

What does Econometrics 110 cover?

Econometrics 110 introduces time-series data, lags and differences, trends, non-stationarity, spurious regression, cointegration and structural breaks.

Is this a live course or recorded material?

This listing is for recorded course material, with no live meeting. Follow the access instructions provided with your registration.

What is included?

The recorded package includes a one-hour lecture video, slides, a transcript and a quiz.

How long does it take?

The indexed description specifies a one-hour recorded lecture. Allow additional time to review supporting material and complete the quiz.

Who delivers the course?

The course is provided by MCC Economics & Finance. Contact the team to confirm the lecturer for your selected recording.

What preparation is useful?

Basic regression and statistics will help. The course is aimed at learners developing time-series skills.

Is Econometrics 110 about multiple regression or time series?

Its detailed description focuses on time-series data, trends, stationarity, spurious regression, cointegration and structural breaks. The page follows that detailed scope.

Are differences and growth rates the same?

No. A difference is an absolute change; a growth rate expresses a change relative to an earlier value.

Should every non-stationary series be differenced without further analysis?

No. The appropriate treatment depends on the series and model. Cointegration and structural breaks can matter when deciding how to represent the relationship.

Which software or certificate is included?

The retrievable listing does not specify a required software package or a completion certificate. Ask MCC if either matters to your training plans.

Can my organisation arrange team training?

Contact MCC Economics through the consultation page to discuss team access or tailored training.

Time-series econometrics: trends, stationarity and cointegration

Meet your course instructor

MCC Economics & Finance