Dr. Patrick Francois

Professor

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Biography

Patrick Francois is a Professor at the Vancouver School of Economics and a Senior Fellow of the Institutions and Organizations Growth program at the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research. His work focuses on development economics, with a particular interest in political economy and its implications for non-profit organizations. He obtained his Ph.D. from the University of British Columbia. Francois has made significant contributions to the study of democratic transitions, political quotas, and governance in developing countries, particularly in the context of the Chinese Communist Party and the dynamics of political institutions. His research often explores the interaction between elite power structures and democratic governance, addressing how political norms and institutions evolve, particularly in the face of corruption and accountability challenges. He has also analyzed the role of competition in shaping trust and pro-social behavior in societies, contributing to a deeper understanding of economic development and the conditions that facilitate it. His interests extend to the implications of business cycles on economic growth and the impact of managerial skills on technology adoption across different economies.

Research Interests

Experience

Professor

— Present

Vancouver School of Economics • Vancouver, BC, Canada

Conducting research and teaching in the fields of political economy and development economics.

Requirements for University of British Columbia

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.3
IELTS
Listening
Required:6.5
Reading
Required:6.5
Writing
Required:6.5
Speaking
Required:6.5
Overall
Required:7
TOEFL
Listening
Required:22
Reading
Required:22
Writing
Required:21
Speaking
Required:21
Total
Required:100
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Philosophy or related field 3 credits in formal logic 6 credits at the upper level in history of philosophy 3 credits at the upper level in ethics or value theory 6 credits at the upper level in metaphysics, epistemology, or philosophy of science
Application Checklist
  • Online application form
  • Application fee
  • Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Three letters of recommendation
  • Writing sample (15-20 pages)
  • Statement of intent
  • Evidence of English language proficiency
Specialization Notes

Offers course-only and thesis routes. Focus areas include philosophy of science, mind, ethics, and Asian philosophy.