Economic History with Economics

Economics and Economic History at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) offers students a comprehensive understanding of the development of economic systems alongside a deep analysis of historical factors shaping modern economies. This interdisciplinary programme is designed to provide students with rigorous training in economic theory, quantitative methods, and historical analysis, equipping them with the skills necessary to understand and interpret economic phenomena within their historical contexts. The course combines foundational coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics with specialized modules focusing on economic history topics such as the Industrial Revolution, global economic development, trade history, financial crises, and the evolution of economic institutions. Students will gain valuable analytical skills through extensive use of quantitative research methods, data analysis, and historical case studies, fostering a critical understanding of how past economic events impact contemporary policy and economic structures. The programme is ideal for students interested in careers in academia, research, public policy, government, international organizations, or the private sector, who wish to develop both theoretical and practical expertise in economic analysis and historical perspective. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect current research and global economic trends, ensuring students are well-prepared for the demands of a rapidly changing economic landscape. With access to LSE’s extensive library collections, research centres, and a vibrant academic community, students will be immersed in a stimulating environment that promotes intellectual growth and professional development. Graduates of this programme are distinguished by their critical thinking, analytical capabilities, and historical insight, making them valuable contributors to a wide range of fields including economic research, policy-making, journalism, and international development. The programme encourages an active engagement with contemporary economic debates and historical scholarship, fostering a nuanced understanding of how economic forces have evolved over time and continue to shape our world today.

The BSc Economics with Economic History programme at the London School of Economics and Political Science offers students a comprehensive understanding of economic principles alongside a deep exploration of historical economic development. This interdisciplinary course is designed to provide students with both theoretical knowledge and practical insights into how economic policies and historical contexts have shaped modern societies. Throughout the programme, students will engage with modules that cover microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and research methods, equipping them with essential analytical skills. In addition, the programme emphasizes the study of economic history, enabling students to analyze past economic events and trends to better understand current economic challenges.

Students will explore topics such as the Industrial Revolution, financial crises, trade history, and economic development across different periods and regions. The curriculum encourages critical thinking about how historical contexts influence economic systems and policy decisions. Practical skills are developed through case studies, data analysis, and projects, preparing graduates for careers in academia, finance, policy analysis, consulting, or international development.

The programme also offers opportunities for specialization within economic history and economics, allowing students to tailor their studies according to their interests. Throughout their degree, students benefit from LSE’s renowned academic staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant intellectual community. The programme aims to foster not only technical and analytical competencies but also a nuanced understanding of the interconnectedness of economic and historical phenomena. Graduates of this programme will be equipped to analyze complex economic issues within their historical context, making them valuable contributors to a wide range of professional fields or further academic research.

Admission requirements for the BSc Economics with Economic History at the London School of Economics and Political Science typically include A-levels or equivalent qualifications with strong grades, particularly in mathematics and economics. Applicants are expected to have achieved high marks in subjects such as Mathematics and Economics, with competitive offers often requiring AAA or similar, including significant mathematics content. International students should demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests like IELTS or TOEFL, with minimum scores usually set at IELTS 7.0 overall and at least 6.5 in each component, or TOEFL iBT scores of 100 or above. Aside from academic qualifications, applicants are encouraged to submit a personal statement outlining their interest in economics and economic history, along with relevant experience or extracurricular activities that demonstrate analytical skills, research interests, and motivation for study. The university values critical thinking, quantitative skills, and an enthusiasm for understanding economic development, historical processes, and social change. While specific subject requirements may vary slightly from year to year, a robust background in mathematics (such as advanced level mathematics or equivalent coursework) is essential for success in the program. The selection process is competitive and based on academic merit, motivation, and potential as indicated by the application materials. For mature students or those with non-standard qualifications, supplementary assessment or interviews may be required to evaluate suitability for the program. The program may also require or recommend prior knowledge of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and statistics, which are foundational for understanding economic history from an economic perspective. The university also encourages applicants with diverse academic backgrounds to apply, provided they can demonstrate the ability to undertake rigorous quantitative and qualitative analysis. Overall, prospective students should ensure they meet or exceed the entry standards and provide comprehensive supporting documents to enhance their application.

The Financing of the Economics and Economic History program at the London School of Economics and Political Science is primarily funded through a combination of tuition fees paid by students, scholarships, and financial aid packages. Tuition fees vary depending on the student's domicile; for international students, undergraduate international fees tend to be higher compared to home students from the UK. The university offers a range of scholarships and bursaries aimed at supporting students financially, including the LSE Undergraduate Support Scheme, which provides means-tested support, as well as various merit-based scholarships. Additionally, students are encouraged to seek external funding sources such as government grants, bursaries from their home country, or private scholarships to ease the financial burden of their studies.

LSE also provides a comprehensive financial aid office that assists students in understanding their options for funding their education. Some students may opt for part-time work opportunities available on or near campus, which are regulated to ensure that employment does not interfere with their academic commitments. The university participates in national student loan schemes for eligible students from the UK, providing further financial support during their studies.

The cost of living is an important component of the overall financing plan for students at LSE, with estimates covering accommodation, food, transport, books, and personal expenses. Many students rely on a combination of personal savings, family support, and financial aid to meet these costs. The university maintains transparent information about the expected financial requirements and offers resources to help students manage their finances effectively.

In recent years, LSE has increased its efforts to promote equitable access to higher education by expanding its financial aid offerings and establishing new scholarship programs. These initiatives help reduce financial barriers and make studying at LSE more accessible to talented students from diverse economic backgrounds. Furthermore, international students are advised to explore embassy-sponsored scholarship schemes and funding options in their home countries, which can significantly contribute to financing their studies at LSE.

Overall, the financing of this programme is designed to be flexible and supportive, reflecting LSE’s commitment to fostering an inclusive academic environment. The combination of tuition fees, scholarships, external funding, and part-time employment opportunities creates a comprehensive financial ecosystem aimed at supporting students throughout their academic journey.

The Economics and Economic History program at the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) offers students a unique opportunity to explore the development of economic systems and their historical context alongside modern economic theories and practices. This interdisciplinary course combines core economic principles with detailed historical analysis, enabling students to understand how economic ideas have evolved over time and how historical events have influenced contemporary economic policies. The program is designed to equip students with both quantitative analytical skills and a solid grounding in economic history, making it ideal for those interested in careers in academia, policy-making, international organizations, financial institutions, or consulting.

Students will undertake core modules in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics to develop rigorous analytical capabilities. Concurrently, they will study specialized courses in economic history, examining topics such as the Industrial Revolution, global trade, financial crises, and economic development in different regions and periods. A distinctive feature of the program is the opportunity to undertake independent research projects, utilizing historical data and applying economic analysis to real-world issues. These projects foster critical thinking and the ability to synthesize complex information.

The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and empirical research methods, with training in data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretative techniques. LSE’s world-class faculty collaborates closely with students, offering seminars, tutorials, and workshops that encourage active engagement with current debates and research in economic history and economics. Additionally, students can benefit from LSE’s extensive library resources, databases, and links to global economic institutions, providing a rich environment for academic growth and professional development.

Graduates of this program often go on to pursue advanced research degrees, such as MSc or PhD programs, or enter careers in research institutions, think tanks, governmental agencies, or the private sector. The interdisciplinary nature of the program ensures that students graduate with a comprehensive understanding of both the economic theories and the historical contexts that shape our world today. Overall, the Economics and Economic History program at LSE combines rigorous academic training with real-world application, preparing students for impactful careers in a range of fields related to economics and history.