Prof Patrick Wallis

This course is compulsory on the MSc in Quantitative Economic History. This course is not available as an outside option.

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. 

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.

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.

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.