Economic History London School of Economics and Political Science

Overview

The Economic History programme at the London School of Economics and Political Science offers a sophisticated historical and interdisciplinary perspective on the most pressing economic challenges of the modern world. Students investigate the long-term causes of economic development, the evolution of global financial markets, and the shifting role of government intervention in various international contexts.

This curriculum bridges the gap between the quantitative precision of economics and the qualitative depth of political science and sociology. By mastering social science research methods, participants learn to apply theoretical frameworks to historical data, enhancing their skills in statistical analysis, source evaluation, and professional presentation.

Why Economic History at the London School of Economics and Political Science?

The university hosts one of the largest specialist departments of its kind globally, featuring a diverse faculty of permanent teaching staff and visiting researchers. Academic expertise spans from the Medieval era to the contemporary age, covering major economies across Africa, Asia, the Americas, and Europe.

Research within the department directly influences global policy, with scholars contributing to the work of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. Students benefit from an environment where staff hold editorial roles at prestigious journals such as the Economic History Review, ensuring the teaching is informed by the latest scholarly advancements.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 28900 per year
• National fee: GBP 18300 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum includes a combination of compulsory core units and a selection of advanced survey courses. Modules may include:

• Historical Analysis of Economic Change
• Quantitative Analysis in Economic History
• Topics in Quantitative Analysis in Economic History
• Research Dissertation
• Modern Economic History
• Pre-modern Economic History

Careers with Economic History

Graduates from this programme are highly sought after for their analytical and research capabilities, finding success in both the public and private sectors. Many alumni secure influential roles in economic consultancy, banking, and financial services, while others pursue careers in government policy and administration.

• Financial and Professional Services
• Government, Public Sector and Policy
• Accounting and Auditing
• Economic Consultancy
• Journalism and Media
• Library and Museum Services

The university provides extensive career support, including CV workshops and networking events with top UK employers. This preparation helps graduates transition into diverse industries such as manufacturing, retail, and environmental energy sectors.