Compulsory for, and exclusive to, MSc Economic History (Research).

Professor Albrecht Ritschl, C415

The dissertation must draw upon the research training provided through the core courses for the MSc (Research) and the generic courses taken by the student, and present the results of an original enquiry into a carefully defined problem. Students are expected to show an ability to draw on relevant social scientific concepts, an understanding of the advanced literature in one or more areas of economic history, and of the nature of historical explanation and analysis. Where appropriate, students are also expected to show the ability to use relevant quantitative techniques for data collection and analysis. The dissertation is intended as preparation for a research degree. Students expecting to continue on the MPhil/PhD programme within the Department may write their MSc dissertation on a different topic from that on which they plan to research at MPhil/PhD level. 

Starting in the first term, students will receive advice on how to choose a topic, and how to tackle it, both from the Department and, individually, from their tutor and from the teacher of any relevant taught course. There will be meetings during the course of the year. The student must submit a draft of the dissertation by the last Monday of the ST. This draft will form the basis of the paper which the student must present to a dissertation workshop held later that week, at which verbal feedback will be provided to teachers and fellow students. A nominated member of staff will also offer written comments on this draft providing it is submitted by the designated time.

The subject and title of the dissertation must be approved by the student's tutor.

The final dissertation, is equivalent to two full modules, and will be awarded two separate percentage marks. The first of these marks will be based on the formulation of the dissertation topic, its historical and historiographical context (including critical literature survey), and the student's research design and discussion of methods and primary resource materials. The second mark will relate to the execution of the project, the quality of analysis of evidence, its creativity and originality, and the overall contribution or achievement of the project. The dissertation should not exceed 15,000 words, excluding tables, references and bibliography. Presentation must be in accordance with appropriate academic conventions as laid down in the MSc Handbook. Work that fails to meet appropriate academic standards of presentation, including English language, will be subject to a maximum deduction of 15% from the first percentage mark. Marks will be deducted for late submission in accordance with the guidelines laid down in the MSc student handbook.