Economic history analyses how past economies have changed and the factors that have influenced economic development. It focuses on practical questions about real economies. For instance, why are some countries rich and others poor, what forces shape inequality and what does historical experience reveal about current global economic developments and crises? Meanwhile, economics provides an analytical framework with which to approach a wide range of problems. It tackles similar issues to economic history but with a focus on formal modelling of economic relationships and current issues.

This programme combines the two complementary fields of economic history and economics in a joint honours programme, with around half of the programme in economic history, and half in economics. It will appeal if you want training in the application of economic theory and quantitative methods to real problems. You will take the theoretical and statistical learning from economics and apply this to understanding the historical development of economies around the world. Likewise, you will use the contextual knowledge and real-world historical evidence learned in economic history to understand economic concepts more deeply and gain insight into current economic issues.

As part of your programme, you will complete a series of research projects based on primary historical sources. These culminate with a year-long dissertation project in your third year where you undertake an original piece of economic history research on a topic of your choice. These projects will help you develop a range of research skills which are highly valued by employers across a variety of careers. These include the ability to evaluate, analyse and visualise data and to present your findings persuasively in written and oral form.