Not available in 2021/22
EH472 Half Unit
Essay in Quantitative Economic History
This information is for the 2021/22 session.
Teacher responsible
Prof Patrick Wallis
Availability
This course is compulsory on the MSc in Quantitative Economic History. This course is not available as an outside option.
Course content
The topic of the Essay is chosen by the students in close consultation with their supervisors. The purpose of the essay is to introduce students to the practice of historical research through the completion of a small, self-contained project that involves the use of quantitative methods in the analysis of historical change. It builds on competencies acquired in the core economic history and economics courses of the MSc. It must demonstrate the ability to formulate and motivate a research question, reflect adequate knowledge of the relevant literature in economic history and economics, make effective use of appropriate quantitative methods, and show critical capacity in the interpretation of the evidence and findings.
Teaching
Starting in the first term, students will receive advice on choosing a topic and how to tackle it, both from the Department (in the form of a document) and, individually, from their supervisors. There will be several taught sessions in Michaelmas Term for all students on the programme in addition to meetings with supervisors during the course of the year.
Formative coursework
Students are expected to complete a sequence of preparatory stages during the year. (1) The title must be approved by the student's supervisor; (2) an outline of the Essay must be submitted in Lent Term (3) a one-page project summary and an extended draft by the end of the Summer Term. Supervisors will not normally provide comments on drafts submitted after that date.
Assessment
Essay (100%, 6000 words).
The essay should be no longer than 6,000 words, excluding tables, references and bibliography. Marks will be deducted for late submission or excessive length. The Essay counts for a half-unit in the four-unit MSc programme. The relevant marking criteria are set out in the Notes for Students.
Course selection videos
Some departments have produced short videos to introduce their courses. Please refer to the course selection videos index page for further information.
Important information in response to COVID-19
Please note that during 2021/22 academic year some variation to teaching and learning activities may be required to respond to changes in public health advice and/or to account for the differing needs of students in attendance on campus and those who might be studying online. For example, this may involve changes to the mode of teaching delivery and/or the format or weighting of assessments. Changes will only be made if required and students will be notified about any changes to teaching or assessment plans at the earliest opportunity.
Key facts
Department: Economic History
Total students 2020/21: Unavailable
Average class size 2020/21: Unavailable
Controlled access 2020/21: No
Value: Half Unit
Personal development skills
- Self-management
- Team working
- Problem solving
- Application of information skills
- Communication
- Application of numeracy skills
- Specialist skills
