Global Economic History (L1093)

15 credits, Level 5

Spring teaching

On this module, you’ll address the big questions in history. The fundamental question, most famously addressed by Adam Smith, will be central: why are some countries rich while others are poor?

You’ll examine these via sub-questions such as:

  • what caused the British Industrial revolution?
  • When and why did China fall behind?
  • What is the role of India and what challenges arise from being a late developer?
  • Has Africa always been poor and will it stay so?

You’ll discuss and assess some of the most important economic growth models and examine the fundamental causes that drove differences in economic performance, including:

  • geography
  • trade
  • religion
  • institutions
  • culture.

Or has chance played a pivotal role in the divergence?

Teaching

67%: Lecture
33%: Practical (Workshop)

Assessment

30%: Coursework (Essay)
70%: Examination (Computer-based examination)

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 32 hours of contact time and about 118 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.

Courses

This module is offered on the following courses: