EH238 One Unit
The Origins of Growth
This information is for the 2025/26 session.
Course Convenor
Prof Neil Cummins
Availability
This course is available on the BA in History, BSc in Econometrics and Mathematical Economics, BSc in Economic History, BSc in Economic History and Geography, BSc in Economics, BSc in Economics and Economic History, Erasmus Reciprocal Programme of Study and Exchange Programme for Students from University of California, Berkeley. This course is freely available as an outside option to students on other programmes where regulations permit. It does not require permission. This course is freely available to General Course students. It does not require permission.
Course content
This course explores the origins of modern economic growth through major themes such as life, love, death, place and inheritance. The focus is on the world's first breakthrough in Britain during the Industrial Revolution. Students will be exposed to frontier debates in economic history. Widespread use is made of intuitive econometrics, interdisciplinary insights and historical context.
Teaching
10 hours of lectures and 10 hours of classes in the Winter Term.
10 hours of lectures and 10 hours of classes in the Autumn Term.
This course has a reading week in Week 6 of Autumn and Winter Term.
Formative assessment
During the course students are expected to write four essays or equivalent pieces of written work.
Indicative reading
Clark, A Farewell to Alms (2007)
Clark, Cummins et al. The Son Also Rises (2014)
Allen, The British Industrial Revolution in Global Perspective (2009)
Assessment
Exam (90%), duration: 180 Minutes in the Spring exam period
Course participation (10%)
Key facts
Department: Economic History
Course Study Period: Autumn and Winter Term
Unit value: One unit
FHEQ Level: Level 5
CEFR Level: Null
Total students 2024/25: 53
Average class size 2024/25: 13
Capped 2024/25: Yes(80)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.
Personal development skills
- Self-management
- Team working
- Problem solving
- Application of information skills
- Communication
- Application of numeracy skills
- Specialist skills