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Dr Jordan Claridge SAR 505

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

The Research Paper builds on the research training provided through the core courses of the MSc Quantitative Economic History and the MRes Quantitative Economic History, augmented by the optional economic history courses taken by students during the MRes. The topic of the Research Paper is chosen by the students in close consultation with their MRes supervisors who, normally, will be their prospective PhD supervisors. The Research Paper will present the results of an original enquiry into a clearly defined historical problem and use appropriate methods of quantitative analysis. It must demonstrate the ability to employ relevant concepts from economics and/or the wider social sciences effectively, an understanding of and critical engagement with the relevant economic history literature, an appreciation of the nature of historical explanation and analysis, and the ability to identify, collect and critically examine relevant quantitative information. Apart from it being an integral core component of the MRes programme, the Research Paper also serves as a first step towards the production of one of the three publishable papers envisaged for the students’ prospective paper-based PhD thesis.

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 must submit a one page summary and a substantial draft for comment by the end of the Summer Term. Supervisors will not normally provide comments on drafts submitted after that date.

Research project (100%).

The Research Paper should be no longer than 10,000 words, excluding tables, references and bibliography. Marks will be deducted for late submission or excessive length. The Research Paper counts for one full unit in the four-unit MRes programme. The relevant marking criteria are set out in the Notes for Students.