Economy and Society: The Rise of Europe and the Atlantic Economy, ca. 1000-1890

In this course, you’ll examine the long-term economic and social developments that laid the foundation for Europe’s industrialisation. Starting around the year 1000, you’ll follow the rise of cities and states, the expansion of trade across continents and the shifting balance of power from the Mediterranean to the Atlantic. You’ll learn how access to global markets and resources influenced growth in regions like the Low Countries and England, while others stagnated. The course concludes with the First Industrial Revolution and the emergence of the modern economy.

This is a first-cycle course taught in English and is part of the Bachelor programme in Economy and Society. It is also open as an elective in other programmes. No prior university studies are required – only general eligibility for higher education in Sweden.

You’ll engage with lectures, group discussions and student presentations that help you build a solid understanding of Europe’s economic history. You’ll develop skills in critical thinking, problem-solving and teamwork – essential tools for academic and professional success.

Assessment is based on written assignments, exams and presentations. You’ll be expected to interpret historical data, present arguments clearly and collaborate in multicultural teams. By the end of the course, you’ll be able to explain how technological, cultural and institutional changes shaped Europe’s path to industrialisation – and how these changes continue to influence the world today.

Prerequisites

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.