Economic History: Growth, Stagnation and Inequality in Africa

This course gives you a deeper understanding of Africa’s long-term economic and social development, with a particular focus on agriculture.

You’ll explore how historical challenges and responses have shaped today’s issues of poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment. The course highlights the diversity of development paths across the continent and emphasises the role of Africans in driving change. You’ll examine key themes such as colonial legacies, the tension between peasant and settler agriculture, and the role of states and markets in enabling or hindering growth.

The course also introduces different theoretical and historiographical perspectives, helping you compare development trajectories and critically reflect on the links between agricultural performance and broader economic outcomes. Whether you're interested in history, development, or global inequality, this course offers a solid foundation for understanding Africa’s complex economic landscape.

Teaching is based on close interaction with your instructor and small group discussions. You’ll work independently with readings and assignments, developing your ability to analyse and communicate complex ideas.

Assessment includes short written reflections before each seminar and a final take-home exam. You’ll learn to interpret empirical findings, apply theoretical frameworks, and present your analysis in both written and oral form. The course encourages critical thinking and helps you build the skills needed to understand long-term institutional, technological, and social change.

By the end of the course, you’ll be able to engage with debates on development and inequality in Africa with clarity and confidence – and contribute your own perspective to discussions that matter.

Entry requirements

General requirements for university studies in Sweden

Selection criteria

Seats are allocated according to the following: The general average (GPA) of your higher secondary school leaving certificate: 34 %, The Swedish national university aptitude test: 34 %, number of previous ECTS at application deadline (up to 165): 32 %. If students have equal credentials, seats are allocated based on their results on The Swedish National University Aptitude Test. If this too is equal, seats are allocated based on a draw.

Tuition fees for non-EU/EEA citizens

Citizens of countries outside:

• The European Union (EU)
• The European Economic Area (EEA) and
• Switzerland

are required to pay tuition fees. You pay an instalment of the tuition fee in advance of each
semester.

Tuition fees, payments and exemptions

Full programme/course tuition fee: SEK 16,250
First payment: SEK 16,250

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Note that you may also need to pay an application fee, or provide proof of exemption.

Application fee

No tuition fees for citizens of the EU, EEA and Switzerland

There are no tuition fees for citizens of the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) and Switzerland.