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Courses Curriculum Harvard Regulations

Harvard Economics. Courses, Degree Requirements. 1911-12.

DIVISION OF HISTORY, GOVERNMENT, AND ECONOMICS
1911-12

FIRST EDITION

OFFICIAL REGISTER OF HARVARD UNIVERSITY
VOLUME VIII             JUNE 15, 1911          NUMBER 23
Published by Harvard University
CAMBRIDGE, MASS.

 

 

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DIVISION OF HISTORY, GOVERNMENT, AND ECONOMICS

The Division of History, Government, and Economics is one of the eighteen Divisions of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. It comprises the Departments of History, Government, and Economics. The administrative officers of the Division and its Departments are: —

Professor Charles Homer Haskins, Chairman of the Division of History, Government, and Economics.         23 University Hall.

Asst. Professor William Scott Ferguson, Acting Chairman of the Department of History.         17 Chauncy St.

Professor Albert Rushnell Hart, Chairman of the Department of Government.         5 Quincy Chambers.

Professor Frank William Taussig, Chairman of the Department of Economics.         2 Scott St.

Correspondence concerning the degrees of A.M. and of Ph.D. and the degree of A.B. with Distinction should be addressed to the Chairman of the Division; other correspondence should be addressed to the Chairman of the Department concerned.

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INSTRUCTORS
(Arranged in each Department on the basis of collegiate seniority)

 

History

Ephraim Emerton, Ph.D., Winn Professor of Ecclesiastical History. 19 Chauncy St.

George Foot Moore, A.M., D.D., LL.D., Frothingham Professor of the History of Religion. 3 Divinity Ave.

Edward Caldwell Moore, Ph.D., D.D., Parkman Professor of Theology. 21 Kirkland St.

Edward Channing, Ph.D., Professor of History. [Absent (hiring the first half of the year 1911-12.] 74 Sparks St.

Albert Bushnell Hart, Ph.D., LL.D., Litt.D., Eaton Professor of the Science of Government. [See below.]

Worthington Chauncey Ford, A.M., Lecturer on Historical Manuscripts. 1154 Boylston St., Boston.

Frederick Jackson Turner, Ph.D., LL.D., Litt.D., Professor of History. 153 Brattle St.

John Winthrop Platner, A.M., D.D., Andover Professor of Ecclesiastical History. 119 Walker St.

Archibald Cary Coolidge, Ph.D., Professor of History, and Director of the University Library. 4 Randolph Hall.

Charles Homer Haskins, Ph.D., Litt.D., Professor of History, Chairman of the Division of History, Government, and Economics, and Dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. 15 Prescott Hall.

Robert Matteson Johnston, A.M., Assistant Professor of Modern History. [Absent during the first half of the year 1911-12.] 14 Appian Way.

Edwin Francis Gay, Ph.D., Professor of Economics. [See below.]

Charles Howard McIlwain, A.M., Assistant Professor of History.

William Scott Ferguson, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of History, and Acting Chairman of the Department of History. 17 Chauncy St.

Roger Bigelow Merriman, Litt.B., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of History. 175 Brattle St.

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Harold William Vazeille Temperley, A.M. (Fellow of Peterhouse, Cambridge), Lecturer on History.

Howard Levi Gray, Ph.D., Instructor in History. 17 Conant Hall.

Robert Howard Lord, Ph.D., Instructor in History. 27 Perkins Hall.

 

Government

Frederic Jesup Stimson, A.B., LL.B., Professor of Comparative
Legislation
. [Absent during the year 1911-12.] 709 Exchange Bldg., Boston.

Albert Bushnell Hart, Ph.D., LL.D., Litt.D., Eaton Professor of the Science of Government, and Chairman of the Department of Government. [Absent during the second half of the year 1911-12.] 5 Quincy Chambers.

George Grafton Wilson, Ph.D., Professor of International Law. 38 Quincy St.

Charles Howard McIlwain, A.M., Assistant Professor of History. [See above.]

William Bennett Munro, LL.B., Ph.D., Assistant Professor of
Government.
21 Dana Chambers.

Joseph Warren, A.B., LL.B., Lecturer on Persons. 26 Quincy St.

Henry Aaron Yeomans, A.M., LL.B., Instructor in Government. 74 Trapelo Road, Belmont.

Arthur Norman Holcombe, Ph.D., Instructor in Government. 7 Exeter Park.

 

Economics

Francis Greenwood Peabody, A.M., D.D., LL.D., Plummer Professor of Christian Morals. 13 Kirkland St.

Frank William Taussig, LL.B., Ph.D., Henry Lee Professor of Economics, and Chairman of the Department of Economics. 2 Scott St.

Jeffrey Richardson Brackett, Ph.D., Instructor in Charity, Public Aid and Correction. 41 Marlborough St., Boston.

Charles Jesse Bullock, Ph.D., Professor of Economics. 1 Grays Hall.William Morse Cole, A.M., Assistant Professor of Accounting. 35 Langdon St.

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Edwin Francis Gay, Ph.D., Professor of Economics, and Dean of the Graduate School of Business Administration. 58 Highland St.

William Zebina Ripley, Ph.D., Professor of Political Economy. Newton Centre.

Thomas Nixon Carver, Ph.D., LL.D., David A. Wells Professor of Political Economy. 16 Kirkland Road.

Oliver Mitchell Wentworth Sprague, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Banking and Finance. 18 Sumner Road.

Bruce Wyman, A.M., LL.B., Professor of Law. 16 Quincy St.

Ray Madding McConnell, S.T.B., Ph.D., Instructor in Social Ethics. 5 Fuller Place.

William Emmanuel Rappard, Lic.-en-droit, J.D., Instructor in Commercial Organization.

Arthur Stone Dewing, Ph.D., Instructor in Economics. 469 Broadway.

Edmund Ezra Day, Ph.D., Instructor in Economics. 15 Perkins Hall.

James Ford, Ph.D., Instructor in Social Ethics. 35 Walker St.

Robert Franz Foerster, Ph.D., Instructor in Social Ethics. 71 Perkins Hall.

 

ASSISTANTS AND AUSTIN TEACHING FELLOWS

Harry Maxwell Varrell, A.M., in History 1.

Carl Stephenson, A.M., in History 1.

James Grover McDonald, A.M., in History 1.

Frank Erskine Crawford in History 1.

Robert Joseph Kerner, A.M., in History 2.

Samuel Eliot Morison, A.M., in History 13.

Oswald Ryan, in History 13.

Lloyd William Brooke, A.B., in History 17.

Henry Warren Cleary, A.B., in Government 1.

Charles Claflin Davis, S.B., LL.B., in Government 1.

Stuart Cameron McLeod, A.M., in Government 1.

Daniel Badger Priest, A.B., in Government 4.

Eliot Jones, A.M., in Economics 1.

Alfred Burpee Balcom, A.M., in Economics 1.

Joseph Stancliffe Davis, A.B., in Economics 1.

Harold Hitchings Burbank, A.M., in Economics 1.

Julius Klein, Litt.M., in Economics 6a and 6b.

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HISTORY, GOVERNMENT, AND ECONOMICS

HISTORY

Introductory Courses.

I. Ancient and Oriental History.

II. Mediaeval History.

III. Modern European History.

IV. American History.

V. Economic History.

VI. Church History.

VII. History of Religions.

 

GOVERNMENT

I. Introductory Course.

II. Modern Government.

III. Law and Political Theory.

IV. International Law and Diplomacy.

 

ECONOMICS

Introductory Course.

I. Economic Theory and Method.

II. Economic History.

III. Applied Economics.

IV. Courses Preparing for a Business Career.

V. Sociology.

VI. Courses of Research.

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SOCIAL ETHICS

Introductory Courses.

Intermediate Courses.

Courses of Research.

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ECONOMICS

GENERAL STATEMENT

Course 1 is introductory to the other courses. It is intended to give a general survey of the subject for those who take but one course in Economics, and also to prepare for the further study of the subject in advanced courses. It is usually taken with most profit by undergraduates in the second year of their college career. It may not be taken by Freshmen without the consent of the instructor. History 1 or Government 1, or both of these courses, will usually be taken to advantage before Economics 1.

Before taking any of the advanced courses, students are strongly advised to consult the instructors. Courses 2, 4, 9b, 14b, 16, 18, 21, 23, 30 may not be taken without the previous consent of the instructors. It is advised that Course 1 be taken in all cases as a preparation for the advanced courses; but some of them may be taken without this preparation. The conditions of admission to the several courses are stated below in the detailed descriptions.

The courses of research are intended primarily for Graduate Students: but Seniors in Harvard College who have had adequate training in the subject may be admitted.

The attention of students who look forward to a business career, and who have already taken Course 1, is called to Courses 4, 5, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8, 9a, 9b, 11, 16, and 30. In addition, Courses 18 and 21 are offered with a special view to their usefulness in preparing for a business career. Of these courses more is said below, on page 67.

The courses preparatory to business, which are described in the pamphlet of the Graduate School of Business Administration, are open to Graduate Students in Economics.

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INTRODUCTORY COURSES

Primarily for Undergraduates

  1. Principles of Economies. Tu., Th., Sat., at 11. Professor Taussig, assisted by Dr. Day, and Messrs. Jones, Balcom, Davis, and Burbank. (XII)

Course 1 gives a general introduction to economic study, and a general view of Economics for those who have not further time to give to the subject. It undertakes a consideration of the principles of production, distribution, exchange, money, banking, international trade, and taxation. The relations of labor and capital, the present organization of industry, and the recent currency legislation of the United States will be treated in outline.

The course will be conducted partly by lectures, partly by oral discussion in sections. A course of reading will be laid down, and weekly written exercises will test the work of students in following systematically and continuously the lectures and the prescribed reading. Course 1 may not be taken by Freshmen without the consent of the instructor.

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I
ECONOMIC THEORY AND METHOD

For Undergraduates and Graduates

*2. Economic Theory. Mon., Wed., Fri., at 2.30. Professor Taussig. (VII)

Course 2 is intended to acquaint the student with some of the later developments of economic thought, and at the same time to train him in the critical consideration of economic principles and the analysis of economic conditions. The exercises are accordingly conducted mainly by the discussion of selected passages from the leading writers; and in this discussion the students are expected to take an active part. The writings of F. A. Walker, Cairnes, Clark, Marshall, Bohm-Bawerk, and other recent authors, will be taken up. Attention will be given chiefly to the theory of exchange and distribution; but other subjects, such as international trade, and free trade and protection, will also be considered.

 

*4. Statistics. — Theory, Method, and Practice. Tu., Th., at 11. Professor Ripley. (XII)

This course is intended rather as an analysis of methods of research and sources of information than as embodying mere results. A brief

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history of statistics will be followed by an account of census and other statistical methods in the United States and abroad, with the scientific use and interpretation of results. The main divisions of vital statistics, relating to birth, marriage, morbidity and mortality, life tables, etc.; the statistics of trade and commerce, such as price indexes, etc.; industrial statistics relating to labor, wages, and employment; statistics of agriculture, manufactures, and transportation, will be then considered in order. Laboratory work, amounting to not less than two hours per week, in the preparation of charts, maps, and diagrams from original material, will be required. Course 4 is open to students who have taken Economics 1.

 

14a1hf. The Distribution of Wealth. Half-course (first half-year). Tu., Th., at 1.30. Professor Carver. (XIV)

This course begins with an analysis of the theory of value. The attempt is then made to formulate a positive theory of distribution helpful in explaining the actual incomes of the various classes of producers. Finally the question of justice in distribution is considered. This course is open only to students who have passed in Economics 1.

 

*14b2hf. Methods of Social Reform. — Socialism, Communism, the Single Tax, etc. Half-course (second half-year). Tu., Th., at 1.30. Professor Carver. (XIV)

A study of those plans of social amelioration which involve either a reorganization of society, or a considerable extension of the functions of the state. The course begins with a critical examination of the theories of the leading socialistic writers, with a view to getting a clear understanding of the reasoning which lies back of socialistic movements, and of the economic conditions which tend to make this reasoning acceptable. A similar study will be made of the Single Tax Movement, of State Socialism and the public ownership of monopolistic enterprises, and of Christian Socialism, so called.

This course is open only to those who have passed satisfactorily in Course 14a.

 

291hf. Socialism and the Social Movement in Europe. Half-course (first half-year). Mon., Wed., Fri., at 10. Dr. Rappard. (III)

A careful examination is made of the theories of the chief social reformers and of the leading socialists, both “Utopian ” and “scientific.” There follows a study of those revolutionary outbursts of the nineteenth century which were primarily economic in their origin and social in their aims. The course concludes with a summary of the positive political and institutional achievements of the social movement of the nineteenth century.

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Primarily for Graduates

  1. Methods of Economic Investigation. Hours to be arranged with the instructor. Professor Carver.

Course 13 will examine the methods by which the leading writers of modern times have approached economic questions, and the range which they have given their inquiries; and will consider the advantage of different methods, and the expediency of a wider or narrower field of investigation. Methods of reasoning, methods of investigation, and methods of exposition will be considered separately. Selected passages from the works of a considerable number of writers will be studied, with a view to analyzing the nature and scope of their reasoning.

Course 13 is designed mainly for students who take or have taken Course 2 or Course 15; but it is open to mature students having a general acquaintance with economic theory.

 

‡15. History and Literature of Economics to the year 1848. Mon., Wed., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Fri., at 11. Professor Bullock. (IV)

The purpose of this course is to trace the development of economic thought from classical antiquity to the middle of the nineteenth century. Emphasis is placed upon the relation of economics to philosophical and political theories, as well as to political and industrial conditions.

A considerable amount of reading of prominent writers will be assigned, and opportunity given for the preparation of theses. Much of the instruction is necessarily given by means of lectures.

No undergraduates will be admitted to the course who are not candidates for distinction in economics.

 

  1. German and French Economists of the Nineteenth Century. Two consecutive evening hours per week, to be arranged with the instructor. Professor Gay.

In this course selections from the works of a number of the more important German and French economists will be read and informally discussed. The influence of the English classical school will be traced, together with the criticism directed against this school by the socialists and the historical economists. Attention will also be given to the question of methods in economic investigation.

A moderate reading knowledge of German and French will of course be necessary.

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II
ECONOMIC HISTORY

 

For Undergraduates and Graduates

6a1hf. European Industry and Commerce in the Nineteenth Century. Half-course (first half-year). Tu., Th., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 9. Professor Gay, assisted by Mr. Klein. (X)

Course 6a undertakes to present the general outlines of the economic history of western Europe since the Industrial Revolution. Such topics as the following will be discussed: the economic aspects of the French Revolution and the Napoleonic regime, the Stein-Hardenberg reforms, the Zoll-Verein, Cobden and free trade in England, labor legislation and social reform, nationalism and the recrudescence of protectionism, railways and waterways, the effects of transoceanic competition, the rise of industrial Germany.

Since attention will be directed in this course to those phases of the subject which are related to the economic history of the United States, it may be taken usefully before Economics 6b. It is open to students who have passed in Economics 1, and, with the consent of the instructor, to students who have taken or are taking Economics 1.

 

6b2hf. Economic and Financial History of the United States. Halfcourse (second half-year). Tu., Th., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 9. Professor Gay, assisted by Mr. Klein. (X)

The following are among the subjects considered: aspects of the Revolution and commercial relations during the Confederation and the European wars; the history of the protective tariff policy and the growth of manufacturing industries; the settlement of the West and the history of transportation, including the early canal and turnpike enterprises of the states, the various phases of railway building and the establishment of public regulation of railways; banking and currency experiences; various aspects of agrarian history, such as the public land policy, the growth of foreign demand for American produce and the subsequent competition of other sources of supply; certain social topics, such as slavery and its economic basis, and the effects of immigration.

It is open to students who have passed in Economics 1, and, with the consent of the instructor, to all students except Freshmen who are taking Economics 1.

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  1. Modern Economic History of Europe. Tu., Th., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 10. Professor Gay and Dr. Gray. (XI)

At the outset a survey will be made of economic and social conditions in the chief European countries at the close of the Middle Ages. The history of agriculture, industry, and commerce in the succeeding periods down to the beginning of the nineteenth century will then be treated in some detail. England will receive the emphasis due to its increasing importance during this period.

Course 11 is open to students who have passed satisfactorily in Economics 1 or History 1.

 

Primarily for Graduates

[102hf. Mediaeval Economic History of Europe. Half-course (second half-year). Mon., Wed., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Fri., at 2.30. Dr. Gray.] (VII)

Omitted in 1911-12.

After a preliminary examination of early economic and social institutions, this course aims to give a general view of the economic development of society during the Middle Ages. Among other topics, the following will be considered: mediaeval agriculture and serfdom; the manorial system and the economic aspects of feudalism; the beginnings of town life and the gild-system of industry; and the Italian and Hanseatic commercial supremacy.

It is essential that students should possess some reading knowledge of Latin.

 

[261hf. The Economic Development of Antiquity. Half-course (first half-year). Asst. Professor Ferguson.]

Omitted in 1911-12.

A series of lectures upon the agrarian, commercial, and industrial relations of the chief peoples of antiquity. Discussions of labor, money, banking, prices, transport, guilds, monopolies, and their economic, social, and political bearings.

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III

APPLIED ECONOMICS

 

For Undergraduates and Graduates

51hf. Economics of Transportation. Half-course (first half-year). Tu., Th., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 10. Professor Ripley, assisted by Dr. Dewing. (XI)

A brief outline of the historical development of rail and water transportation in the United States will be followed by a description of the condition of transportation systems at the present time. The four main subdivisions of rates and rate-making, finance, traffic operation, and legislation will be considered in turn. The first deals with the relation of the railroad to shippers, comprehending an analysis of the theory and practice of rate-making. An outline will be given of the nature of railroad securities, the principles of capitalization, and the interpretation of railroad accounts. Railroad operation will deal with the practical problems of the traffic department, such as the collection and interpretation of statistics of operation, pro-rating, the apportionment of cost, depreciation and maintenance, etc. Under legislation, the course of state regulation and control in the United States and Europe will be traced.

Course 5 is open only to students who have passed in Economics 1.

 

7a1hf. Introduction to Public Finance. Half-course (first half-year). Mon., Wed., Fri., at 9. Professor Bullock. (II)

This course covers the general field of public finance exclusive of taxation. After a brief survey of the history of public finance, the following subjects are studied: public expenditures, public revenues other than taxes, public debts, financial administration, and financial legislation. Attention is given both to the theory and to the practice of various countries.

A systematic course of readings is prescribed, and most of the exercises are conducted by the method of informal discussion. Candidates for honors will be given an opportunity to write theses. The course is open only to students who have passed in Economics 1. Graduate students are advised to take Economics 16. Course 7a is not open to students who in the year 1910-11 elected Economics 7, but such students may be admitted to Economics 1b with the consent of the instructor.

 

7b2hf. The Theory and Methods of Taxation. Half-course (second half-year). Mon., Wed., Fri., at 9. Professor Bullock. (II)

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In this course the theory of taxation is first examined; then the tax systems of the United States and leading countries of Europe are studied. Finally proposals for reforming the methods employed in the United States are considered historically and critically.

The course will be conducted in the same manner as Economics 7a, and admission is subject to the same conditions. Students who do not elect this course at the beginning of the year will be admitted in February only with the consent of the instructor.

 

  1. Money, Banking, and Crises. Mon., Wed., Fri., at 1.30. Dr. Day. (VI)

This course aims to analyze the principal problems of money and credit. An examination is first made of the more important existing monetary systems. This is followed by a careful review of the more instructive chapters in the monetary history of England, Germany, France, the United States, Austria, British India, Mexico, and the Philippines.

The nature, origin, and early growth of commercial banking are considered. A thorough investigation of present banking practice in England, France, Germany, and Canada is followed by a study of banking history and present banking problems in the United States. In this connection foreign exchange and the money markets of London, Paris, Berlin, and New York are examined.

Finally attention is turned to those problems of money and credit which appear most prominently in connection with economic crises. Though emphasis is thrown upon the financial aspects of the trade cycle, the investigation covers the more fundamental factors causing commercial and industrial fluctuations.

Short papers upon assigned topics will be required of all students. The course is open to those only who have passed in Economics 1.

 

9a1hf. Problems of Labor. Half-course (first half-year). Tu., Th., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 1.30. Professor Ripley, assisted by Mr. ——. (XIV)

This course will deal mainly with the economic and social relations of employer and employed, with especial reference to legislation. Among the topics included will be: collective bargaining; labor organizations; factory legislation in the United States and Europe; strikes, strike legislation and legal decisions; conciliation and arbitration; employers’ liability and compulsory compensation; compulsory insurance with particular reference to European experience; the problem of the unemployed; apprenticeship, and trade and technical education.

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Each student will make at least one report upon a labor union, from the original documents. Two lectures a week, with one recitation, will be the usual practice. This course is open to students who hare passed in Economics 1 and to Juniors and Seniors of good standing who are taking Economics 1 at the same time.

 

*9b2hf. Economics of Corporations. Half-course (second half-year). Tu., Th., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 10. Professor Ripley, assisted by Dr. Dewing. (XI)

This course will treat of the fiscal and industrial organization of capital, especially in the corporate form. The principal topic considered will be industrial combination and the so-called trust problem. This will be broadly discussed, with comparative study of conditions in the United States and Europe. The development of corporate enterprise, promotion, and financing, accounting, liability of directors and underwriters, will be described, not from their legal but from their purely economic aspects; and the effects of industrial combination upon efficiency, profits, wages, prices, the development of export trade, and international competition will be considered in turn.

The course is open to those students only who have passed in Economics 1. Systematic reading and report work will be assigned from time to time.

 

*232hf. Economics of Agriculture, with special reference to American conditions. Half-course (second half-year). Tu., Th., at 2.30. Professor Carver. (XV)

A study of the relation of agriculture to the whole industrial system, the relative importance of rural and urban economics, the conditions of rural life in different parts of the United States, the forms of land tenure and methods of rent payment, the comparative merits of large and small holdings, the status and wages of farm labor, the influence of farm machinery, farmers’ organizations, the marketing and distribution of farm products, agricultural credit, the policy of the government toward agriculture, and the probable future of American agriculture.

This course is open to students who have passed in Economics 1, and, with the consent of the instructor, to Juniors and Seniors of good standing who are taking Economics 1 at the same time.

 

*301hf. The Financial Aspects of Combinations. Half-course (first half-year). Tu., Th., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 12. Dr. Dewing. (XIII)

The course considers the financial aspects of combinations in the United States, giving attention, however, to the economic rather than to the

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business or legal problems involved. Examples of financial history and policy will be considered in some detail. The psychological as well as the economic conditions that determine the market price of railroad and industrial securities will be described with the purpose of formulating general principles. Each student will select a typical episode in the history of some combination and some general subject, such as promotion, minority rights, effect on prices, and will present reports at conferences which will sometimes replace the lectures of the course. This course is open only to those who have passed in Economics 1.

 

Attention is also called to the following courses :—

Government 32a1hf. Public Ownership and Control. Dr. Holcombe.

Government 32b2hf. Selected Problems in Public Ownership and Control. Dr. Holcombe.

 

Primarily for Graduates

*16. Public Finance (advanced course). Mon., Wed., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Fri., at 10. Professor Bullock. (III)

The course is devoted to the examination of the financial institutions of the principal modern countries, in the light of both theory and history. One or more reports calling for independent investigation will ordinarily be required. Special emphasis will be placed upon questions of American finance. Ability to read French or German is presupposed. Undergraduates are admitted only by consent of the instructor.

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IV
COURSES ESPECIALLY PREPARING FOR A BUSINESS CAREER

Among the courses described above, those on the industrial and financial phenomena of modern times are useful for students who propose to enter on a business career. Such are the courses on Money, Banking, and Crises (8), Economics of Transportation (5), Problems of Labor (9a), the Economics of Corporations (9b), the Economic and Financial History of the United States (6b), and European Industry and Commerce in the Nineteenth Century (6a). In addition, the following courses are designed more particularly to aid in the understanding of the problems likely to be met in business

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life, and are arranged with special regard to the needs of those looking to such a career. They are primarily for students who have reached or approached the close of their general education.

 

*18. Principles of Accounting. Mon., Wed., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Fri., at 11. Asst. Professor Cole and assistants. (IV)

This course is designed to show the processes by which the earnings and values of business properties are computed. It is not intended primarily to afford practice in book-keeping; but since intelligent construction and interpretation of accounts is impossible without a knowledge of certain main types of book-keeping, practice sufficient to give the student familiarity with elementary technique will form an important part of the work of the course. The chief work, however, will be a study of the principles that underlie the determination of profit, cost, and valuation. These will be considered as they appear in several types of business enterprise. Published accounts of corporations will be examined, and practice in interpretation will be afforded. The instruction will be chiefly by assigned readings, discussions, and written work.

Course 18 is not open to students before their last year of undergraduate work. For men completing their work at the end of the first half-year, it will be counted as a half-course. It is regularly open only to Seniors and to Graduates who have passed in Economics 1. Students intending to enter the Graduate School of Business Administration are expected to take this course in preparation for the advanced courses in accounting.

 

*211hf. The Law of Competition and Combination. Half-course (first half-year). Mon., Wed., Fri., at 12. Professor Wyman, assisted by Mr. —— . (V)

Course 21 is not open to students before their last year of undergraduate work, and is only open to those who have passed in Economics 1.

The course considers certain rules of the law governing the course of modern trade and the organization of modern industry. As the course deals with adjudication and legislation on questions of first importance in the economic development of modern times, it is of advantage to all those who wish to equip themselves for the intelligent discussion of issues having both legal and economic aspects. In 1911-12 four principal topics will be discussed: competition; combination; association; consolidation, — some very briefly, some with more detail. The conduct of the course will be by the reading and discussion of cases from the law reports, which are contained in an edited series of case books.

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Attention is also called to the following courses : —

Botany 5. Outlines of Economic Botany.

Engineering 4a. Surveying. Asst. Professor Hughes.

Engineering 4d. Railroad Engineering. Asst. Professor Hughes.

Engineering 11a2hf. Steam Machinery. Professor Hollis and Messrs. Markham and ——.

Geology 92hf. Geographic Influences in North America. Asst. Professor D. W. Johnson.

Geology 21hf. Geography of South America. Professor Ward.

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V
SOCIOLOGY
See further the courses in Social Ethics.

 

For Undergraduates and Graduates

Economics 3. Principles of Sociology.—Theories of Social Progress. Mon., Wed., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Fri., at 1.30. Professor Carver, assisted by ——. (VI)

An analytical study of social life and of the factors and forces which hold society together and give it an orderly development. The leading social institutions will also be studied with a view to finding out their relation to social well-being and progress.

Spencer’s Principles of Sociology and Carver’s Sociology and Social Progress will be read in full. Students are expected to take part in the discussion of the books read and of the lectures delivered.

Course 3 is open only to students who have passed in Economics 1.

 

Anthropology 122hf. Primitive Sociology. Half-course (second half-year). Mon., Wed., Fri., at 1.30. Dr. Tozzer. (VI)

This course deals with the early history of such institutions as marriage, the family, property, government, law, and ethical standards. The social organization of primitive peoples will be examined. Totemism in its various phases will also be considered.

 

Attention is also called to the following courses : —

Philosophy 4. Ethics. Professor Palmer.

Philosophy 6a1hf. Philosophy of Religion. Professor E. C. Moore.

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Philosophy 32hf. Philosophy of Nature, with especial reference to Man’s Place in Nature. Asst. Professor G. P. Adams (University of California).

Philosophy 20d. Seminary in Ethics. Professor Palmer.

History of Religions 2. History of Religions in Outline. Professor G. F. Moore.

Anthropology 1. General Anthropology. Dr Tozzer.

Anthropology 5. American Archaeology and Ethnography. Asst. Professor Dixon and Drs. Farabee and Tozzer.

Anthropology 71hf. Ethnography of Oceania. Asst. Professor Dixon.

Anthropology 112hf. Ethnography of Asia. Asst. Professor Dixon.

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VI
COURSES OF RESEARCH

The following courses indicate those fields within which the members of the Department ordinarily undertake to guide students in research: —

Economics 20a. The Economic History of England. Professor Gay.

Economics 20b. Economic Theory. Professor Carver.

Economics 20c. Principles of Corporation Finance. Professor Ripley.

Economics 20d. The Economic History of the United States, with special reference to Tariff Legislation. Professor Taussig.

Economics 20e. American Taxation and Finance. Professor Bullock.

Economics 20f. Currency and Crises. Asst. Professor Sprague.

Economics 20g. Banking. Asst. Professor Sprague.

Economics 20h. Mediaeval Economic History. Dr. Gray.

 

The Seminary in Economics. Mon., at 4.30.

Meetings are held each week by instructors and advanced students for the presentation of the results of investigation. At intervals, other persons are invited to address the Seminary on subjects of theoretic or practical interest, giving opportunity for contact and discussion with the non-academic world. All graduate students of economics are expected to attend.

[…]

[p. 75]

GENERAL INFORMATION

_____________________ 

ORGANIZATION

The Division of History, Government, and Economics comprises three departments: History; Government; and Economics. The Division has charge of the administration of the degree of A.B. with Distinction in History, in Economics, and in Political Science, and of the degrees of Ph.D. in History, in Political Science, and in Economics. The recommendation of candidates for assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships is in the hands of the respective Departments; and each Department has charge of all matters relating specially to its own instruction.

 

DEGREE OF A.B.

The degree of Bachelor of Arts is conferred usually after four years of residence, although a student who enters college without serious deficiency may complete the requirements for the degree in three years or three years and a half. At least one year of residence is required. Graduates of other colleges and students of the higher classes of other colleges are admitted to advanced standing in Harvard College, without examination, on presenting testimonials of scholarship and character, and satisfactory evidence of work well performed in the institutions previously attended.

 

THE DEGREE OF A.B. WITH DISTINCTION IN HISTORY, IN ECONOMICS, AND IN POLITICAL SCIENCE

In the opinion of the Faculty every undergraduate of superior ability should look to a considerable amount of advanced work in some subject or related subjects as a natural part of his undergraduate career; but it is not to be imagined that the Faculty intends to call for anything like original research on the part of undergraduates, or for the passing of examinations similar to those required for the higher degrees. The Degree with Distinction, it is believed, is so planned as to be within the reach of every student of good ability.

[p. 76]

General Regulations. — The candidate for the degree of A.B. with Distinction in History, Government, and Economics shall make application, not later than November 1 of the year in which he expects to receive the degree, to the Division of History, Government, and Economics; he shall, at the same time, record his name and purpose at the office of the Dean of Harvard College. Students intending to become candidates are urged to put themselves, as early as the beginning of their Sophomore year, under the guidance of the Division.

The requirements for the degree cum laude and magna cum laude are the same. The grade of distinction depends on the excellence of the student’s work, as determined by the Division. If his work be judged unworthy of distinction, but worthy of a degree, the Division may recommend him for a degree without distinction.

Special Regulations. — Not later than November 1 of his final year of preparation, the candidate must present, for approval by the Division, a plan of study, which shall comprise at least seven courses, selected from those offered by the Division, and not including more than two from the courses regularly open to Freshmen. This plan of study may, however, with the approval of the Division, include related courses offered by other Departments of the University, and also, by special vote of the Division, suitable work done outside of regular courses. If four or more of the seven courses are courses in History, the candidate, if successful, will be recommended for the Degree with Distinction in History; if four or more of them are courses in Economics, he will be recommended for the Degree with Distinction in Economics; if less than four of them are courses in History, and less than four are courses in Economics, he will be recommended for the Degree with Distinction in Political Science.

Besides this minimum requirement, the candidate may indicate in his plan of study any additional work done in History, Government, Economics, or in related subjects. The character and range of this work will be taken into account in determining the recommendation for the Degree with Distinction. The winning of a University prize in any of the subjects represented in the Division, such as a Bowdoin, Toppan, or Sumner prize, may, at the Division’s discretion, be accepted as evidence towards establishing a candidate’s qualification for the Degree with Distinction.

[p. 77]

Not later than May 1 of his Senior year, the candidate will present to the Chairman of the Division a thesis; and he will be required to pass an oral examination on the general field covered by the courses he offers, or on such portion of the field as the Division may determine. Successful candidates at the oral examination will be excused from the final examinations in their Senior year in the courses offered for the Degree with Distinction; and unsuccessful candidates at the oral examination may be recommended by the Division for the ordinary degree without taking the final examinations in such courses.

In the award of the Dillaway Fellowship preference will be given to the most successful candidate for the Degree with Distinction in History; and the Philip Washburn Prize is offered for the best thesis, of sufficient merit, on an historical subject presented by a successful candidate for the Degree with Distinction in History.

[…]

[p. 78]

Degree with Distinction in Philosophy and Economics

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences have established a degree with distinction in Philosophy and Economics, intended to represent special attainment in the study of social problems, theoretical and practical. This degree is to be administered by a standing committee of three under the following rules : —

As early as possible in his college career, and not later than November 1 of his final year, the candidate must present a plan of study to the Chairman of the Committee on Degrees with Distinction in Philosophy and Economics.

Such a plan must comprise at least eight courses, of which at least two must be in (1) Philosophy, (2) Social Ethics, and (3) Economics, respectively. Of these courses at least one in each of these

[p. 79]

groups and at least six in all must be of the grade not open to Freshmen. The courses in Economics and Philosophy which form a part of the plan must be approved by the Committee as suitable to the general purposes of the degree.

Not later than May 1 of his final year, the candidate must submit a thesis on some topic in social theory or practice. The subject must be approved by the Committee not later than the beginning of the second half of the candidate’s final year. This thesis may, with the instructors1 permission, replace the regular thesis work connected with the courses which the candidate is taking.

At some date after May 1 of the candidate’s final year, he will be examined on the field covered by the courses which he offers in his plan of study. With the consent of the instructors concerned he may be excused from the final examinations in those courses of his programme which fall in his final year.

 

DEGREE OF A.M.

The ordinary requirement for the degree of Master of Arts for a graduate of a college of good standing consists of at least one year of residence and study devoted to advanced work approved by the Administrative Board of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences as affording suitable preparation for the degree and completed with distinction. Graduates of colleges whose requirements for admission and graduation are considerably below those of Harvard College, or of colleges whose standing is not well known to the Administrative Board, and graduates of any college who have not sufficient preparation for advanced work in their particular subject of study, are ordinarily required to devote at least two years to their study for this degree. In special cases this period may be shortened to one year or one year and a half for students whose work in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences shows unusual excellence.

The programme of study for the degree of Master of Arts must form a consistent plan of work pursued with some definite aim, whether it lies wholly in a single department or field of study or in more than one; this work may be done either in, or in connection with, the regular courses of instruction, or independently of them. Programmes should he submitted early in the academic

[p. 80]

year, and no programme will ordinarily be approved that is received after January 15 of the academic year in which the degree is to be taken. All applications should be addressed to the Secretary of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

All candidates must possess an elementary knowledge of two modern foreign languages, ordinarily French and German.

 

DEGREE OF PH.D.

For the degree of Doctor of Philosophy not less than two years devoted to advanced studies, approved as affording suitable preparation for the degree, are required of graduates of colleges of good standing. This degree is not usually taken in less than three years after the attainment of the degree of Bachelor of Arts in Harvard College, or an equivalent. A graduate of another college may ascertain by writing to the Secretary of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences whether any special conditions will be imposed upon him. In order to be admitted to the degree the candidate must show a general training in the whole field of study, firm grasp of his special subject within the field, and independent research in some portion of that subject. He must present a thesis, showing original treatment or investigation, and must pass such examination or examinations as may be required by the Division. The degree is given on the ground of thorough study and high attainments. Appropriate studies carried on in the graduate school of another university may be recognized as a part of the candidate’s preparation for the degree. The minimum period of residence at Harvard University is one year.

The University confers the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in History; in Political Science; and in Economics. Candidates for the degree under any of these heads are subject to supervision and examination by the Division of History, Government, and Economics. In order to indicate the grounds on which it is prepared to recommend candidates for the degree, the Division has adopted the following statements and suggestions.

 

All communications relative to the doctorate should be sent to the Chairman of the Division of History, Government, and Economics.

[p. 81]

General Preparation

Every candidate for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy is required, at an early stage in his preparation, to submit to the Division, through its chairman, evidence of the extent and quality of his general studies. A command of good English, spoken and written, the ability to make free use of French and German books, and a fair acquaintance with general history are expected in all cases. On the evidence presented, the Division will decide, provisionally, as to the sufficiency of the candidate’s general training. No set examinations will be held at this stage, but before he is admitted to the general examination each candidate must present a certificate from some member of the Division stating that he is able to make free use of French and German books. Such a certificate may be given on the basis either of a special test or of the candidate’s use of these languages in connection with the regular courses of instruction. Candidates may be required to make up deficiencies by pursuing specified College courses, or in such other way as the Division may designate. The provisional acceptance of a candidate, as regards this portion of his preparation, does not preclude the Division from rejecting him later, if, in the examination on specific subjects, it shall appear that his general education is insufficient.

Candidates must ordinarily pass two examinations: the first general, the second (after the acceptance of the thesis) on a special field, defined in each case by vote of the Division.

I. General Examination

The first examination will be held not later than the beginning of the last year of study for the degree, and candidates are recommended to present themselves for this examination in the course of the preceding academic year. The object of this test is to ascertain the applicant’s attainments within a considerable range of subjects in the field of History, Political Science, or Economics. He will ordinarily be examined in six subjects in all, chosen from the groups defined below under the respective departments of study, but the ground of his special field will not be covered in the general examination. Candidates are not required, however, to follow the details of these plans. They may present, for the consideration of the

[p. 82]

Division, reasonable substitutes for any of the topics named, and may offer appropriate combinations of parts of the separate subjects. They are advised, in all cases, to submit their plans of study for approval at an early date. In judging of the candidate’s fitness for the degree, regard will be had to the general grasp and maturity shown, as well as to the range and accuracy of his attainments in the specific subjects of examination.

II. Thesis

The thesis must be in the hands of the Chairman of the Division on or before April 1 of the year in which the degree is sought. It must be accepted as satisfactory before the candidate can be admitted to the final examination. It must show an original treatment of the subject, or give evidence of independent research, and must also be in good literary form and suitable for publication.*

_____________________

* A list of the theses which have been accepted for the Ph.D. in the Division of History, Government, and Economics will be found in the list of Doctors of Philosophy and Doctors of Science who have received their degree in course from Harvard University, 1873-1909, published by the University in 1910.

_____________________

III. Special Examination

The second examination will be on a single limited subject agreed upon in advance. It is intended that each candidate should have, as far as possible, freedom of choice in selecting his subject, but it is expected that he will submit, for approval, an outline of work to be presented in satisfaction of this requirement. It is desirable that this outline should be submitted a year in advance of the examination. Ordinarily the ground covered by the special examination will not be greater in extent than one of the subjects offered by the candidate at his general examination, and may be identical with one of these subjects. Or the candidate may limit his more special preparation to an approved portion of this field, which will regularly include the period or topic within which the thesis lies. At the final examination, the candidate will be expected to show such a mastery of his special field, and such an acquaintance with the literature, general and special, bearing on it, as would qualify him to give instruction to mature students.

[…]

[p. 85]

THE DEGREE OF PH.D. IN ECONOMICS

General Preparation

Candidates for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Economics must meet the general requirements stated on page 81. They should also be well grounded in the main outlines of European and American history, and should have had a general view of the nature and growth of political institutions and constitutional law.

[p. 86]

General Examination

This examination (the general conditions of which are stated on p. 81) will include six subjects, chosen from the following list. Of the six subjects, at least one must be taken from each of the groups A, B, C, and D, the first three of these groups being purely economic, while the fourth, more general in character, is intended to secure a somewhat broader basis of preparation. In all cases at least one of the subjects chosen must be historical in character, either economic history under group B or one of the historical fields defined under Group D.

 

Group A

  1. Economic Theory and its History.

 

Group B

  1. Economic History to 1750.
  2. Economic History since 1750.
  3. Sociology and Social Reform.
  4. Statistics (Literature, Methods, and Results).

 

Group C

  1. Money, Banking, and Commercial Crises.
  2. Public Finance and Financial History.
  3. Transportation and Foreign Commerce.
  4. Labor Problems and Industrial Organization.

 

Group D

Selected topics from one or more of the following fields : —

  1. History of Political Institutions in Mediaeval Europe, including England.
  2. History of Political Institutions since 1500 in Europe, including England.
  3. History of American Institutions.
  4. Modern Government and Comparative Constitutional Law.
  5. Jurisprudence.
  6. Philosophy.
  7. Anthropology

In the case of a candidate whose special subject is in the Department of Social Ethics, the six subjects for examination will be chosen

[p. 87]

from the two following groups. The candidate will be examined in all four of the subjects in Group E, and is expected to be proficient in the history of one of them. He will select two subjects from Group F.

Group E

  1. Ethical Theory.
  2. Economic Theory.
  3. Poor Relief.
  4. Social Reforms.

Group F

  1. Sociology.
  2. Statistics.
  3. Economic History.
  4. The Labor Question.
  5. Criminology and Penology.
  6. Problems of Municipal Government.
  7. Anthropology.

 

FELLOWSHIPS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

About $50,000 is distributed annually among undergraduate students, in amounts ranging from $40 to $450. About thirty-five fellowships and ninety scholarships are also annually assigned to graduate students, the former varying in amount from $400 to $1150, the latter from $150 to $400. Many of these appointments are open to persons not already members of the University. Some of the fellowships permit the holders to study abroad as travelling fellows; others require residence in Cambridge. There is also a special endowment of $350,000, the Frederick Sheldon Fund, for Travelling Fellowships. Non-resident appointments are awarded only to persons who have been resident students in some department of the University.

Eleven of the fellowships and scholarships have special reference to historical, political, and economic studies, namely: the Bayard Cutting Fellowship (income $1150), for the study of History; the Woodhury Lowery Fund (income $900), for research in Historical Archives; the Robert Treat Paine Fellowship (income $600), for the study of Social Science; the South End House Fellowship ($600), for the study of Social Problems; the Henry Lee Memorial Fellowship (income $525), for the study of Political

[p. 88]

Economy; the Henry Bromfield Rogers Memorial Fellowship (income $525), for the study of Ethics in its relation to Jurisprudence or to Sociology; the Ozias Goodwin Memorial Fellowship (income $525), assigned to students of Constitutional or International Law; the Charles Wyman Scholarship in History (income $450); the Adams Woods Fellowship ($400), for the study of heredity in American History; the George W. Dillaway Fellowship (income $250), “in favor of the graduate from year to year who passes his examination with highest honor in Modern History”; and a special fellowship of $600 in Social Ethics.

Applications for graduate fellowships and scholarships should be made upon a special form which may be obtained from the Secretary of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, 24 University Hall, Cambridge. Applications must be in the hands of the Committee on Fellowships by March 15. Full information concerning the various fellowships and scholarships will be found in the University Catalogue or in the announcement of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

Through the liberality of the École Libre des Sciences Politiques of Paris, Harvard University has the privilege each year of nominating a scholar for membership in the school without payment of fees.

 

PRIZES

The following prizes are open to competition by students of History, Government, or Economics: three Bowdoin Prizes for Undergraduates ($250, $100, $100) for dissertations upon any subject approved by the Chairman of the Committee on Bowdoin Prizes; a Bowdoin Prize for Graduates ($200) for essays within certain special fields of learning, open for the year 1911-12 to students of History and Political Science; the Philip Washburn Prize ($75) for the best thesis on an historical subject presented by a successful candidate for the degree of A.B. with Distinction in History or in Political Science; the Toppan Prize ($150) for Graduates “for the best essay (of sufficient merit) on a subject in Political Science”; the Sumner Prize ($100) open to any student “for the best dissertation on a subject connected with the topic of universal peace and the methods by which war may be permanently superseded”; the Bennett Prize ($40) open to

[p. 89]

Seniors and third or fourth year Special Students “for the best essay on some subject pi American governmental domestic or foreign policy of contemporaneous interest”; the Ricardo Prize Scholarship ($350) open to those who are Seniors or members of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences in 1911-12, and awarded after a special examination; the David A. Wells Prize in Economics ($500) open to Seniors in the College and Graduates of any department of the University of not more than three years’ standing “for the best thesis embodying the results of original investigation” upon a subject within the field of Economics. The successful thesis will be printed by the University from the income of a fund likewise provided by the will of the late David A. Wells.

Further details concerning these prizes may be found in the University Catalogue.

[…]

[p. 90]

The Department of Economics publishes the Quarterly Journal of Economics, now in its twenty-fifth volume. It also publishes the Harvard Economic Studies, of which the following volumes have appeared:—

  1. The English Patents of Monopoly. By William Hyde Price, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Political Economy in Yale University.
  2. The Lodging House Problem in Boston. By Albert Benedict Wolfe, Ph.D., Professor of Economics and Sociology in Oberlin College.
  3. The Stannaries. A Study of the Early English Miner. By George Randall Lewis, Ph.D.
  4. Railroad Reorganizations. By Stuart Daggett, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Economics in the University of California.
  5. Wool-Growing and the Tariff. A Study in the Economic History of the United States. By Chester Whitney Wright, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of Political Economy in the University of Chicago.
  6. Public Ownership of Telephones on the Continent of Europe. By Arthur Norman Holcombe, Ph.D., Instructor in Government in Harvard University.
  7. The British Post Office. By Joseph Clarence Hemmeon, Ph.D. Assistant Professor of Economies in McGill University. (In press.)

 

Source: Division of History, Government, and Economics: 1911-12 (1st ed.). Official Register of Harvard University, Vol. VIII, No. 23 (June 15, 1911).

Categories
Courses Curriculum Economists Harvard Regulations

Harvard Economics. Courses, Degree Requirements 1897-98

For a Ph.D. in Political Science (that was awarded for government and economics) candidates to demonstrate a “good knowledge” in examination on seven subjects of twelve listed, only three of which economics. Only sections directly bearing on economics included here. Entire document can be downloaded here.

_________________________

Harvard University

FACULTY OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
DIVISION OF HISTORY AND POLITICAL SCIENCE
COMPRISING THE DEPARTMENTS OF HISTORY AND GOVERNMENT[,]
AND ECONOMICS

1897-98

[p. 2]

DIVISION OF HISTORY AND POLITICAL SCIENCE.

The Division of History and Political Science is one of the twelve Divisions of the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. It comprises the departments of History and Government, and Economics. The administrative officers of the Division and Departments are : —

Professor F. W. Taussig, Chairman of the Division, 2 Scott St.

Professor Charles Gross, Chairman of the Department of History and Government, 11 Putnam Ave.

 Professor W. J. Ashley, Chairman of the Department of Economics, 6 Acacia St.

 

[p. 3]

INSTRUCTORS.

History and Government.

James Bradley Thayer, LL.B., LL.D., Weld Professor of Law, 5 Phillips Place.

Ephraim Emerton, Ph.D., Winn Professor of Ecclesiastical History, 19 Chauncy St.

Silas Marcus Macvane, Ph.D., McLean Professor of Ancient and Modern History, 34 Kirkland St,

Abbot Lawrence Lowell, A.B., LL.B., Lecturer on Existing Political Systems, 709 Exchange Building, Boston.

Edward Channing, Ph.D., Professor of History, 1 Brewster St.

Charles Gross, Ph.D., Assistant Professor of History, and Chairman of the Department of History and Government, 11 Putnam Ave.

Albert Bushnell Hart, Ph.D., Professor of History, 15 Appian Way.

Joseph Henry Beale, Jr., A.M., LL.B., Professor of Law, 13 Chauncy St.

John Winthrop Platner, A.B., Assistant Professor of Ecclesiastical History, 14 Avon St.

Archibald Cary Coolidge, Ph.D., Instructor in History, 15 Ware Hall.

George Willis Botsford, Ph.D., Instructor in the History of Greece and Rome, 45 Walker St.

Frank Beverly Williams, A.M., Assistant Professor of Law, 29 Thayer Hall.

James Sullivan, Jr., A.M., Instructor in History and Palaeography .

 

[p. 4]

Economics.

 Charles Franklin Dunbar, LL.D., Professor of Political Economy, 64 Highland St.

Frank William Taussig, LL.B., Ph.D., Professor of Political Economy, and Chairman of the Division, 2 Scott St.

William James Ashley, A.M., Professor of Economic History, and Chairman of the Department of Economics, 6 Acacia St.

Edward Cummings, A.M., Assistant Professor of Sociology, Corner of Irving St. and Scott St.

John Cummings, Ph.D., Instructor in Political Economy, 7 Thayer Hall.

Hugo Richard Meyer, A.M., Instructor in Political Economy, 53 Weld Hall.

Guy Stevens Callender, A.M., Instructor in Political Economy.

 

ASSISTANTS.

Joseph Dana Allen, A.B., in History 1.

John Charles States Andrew, A.B., in History 1.

Sidney Bradshaw Fay, A.B., in History 1.

———— in History 10.

———— in History 12.

Henry Barrett Learned, A.M., in History 13.

Edward Henry Warren, A.M., in History 13.

Charles Edward Seaman, A.M., in Government 1 and 7.

Harry Augustus Bigelow, A.B., in Government 4.

Charles Sumner Griffin, A.M., in Economics 1.

Edward Henry Warren, A.M., in Economics 1.

———— in Economics 1.

———— in Economics 3 and 14.

 

[p. 5]

COURSES IN HISTORY AND POLITICAL SCIENCE.

An asterisk (*) prefixed to the title of a course indicates that it can be taken only with the previous consent of the instructor.

The courses primarily for Graduates are also open to Undergraduates of adequate training. Whether taken by Graduates or Undergraduates, the instructor must first be consulted.

Knowledge of German will be of advantage in any of the courses; and ability to make use of French books will be assumed.

[…]

[p. 30]

ECONOMICS.

 

GENERAL STATEMENT.

Course 1 is introductory to the other courses. It is intended to give a general survey of the subject for those who take but one course in Economics, and also to prepare for the further study of the subject in advanced courses. It is usually taken with most profit by undergraduates in the second or third year of their college career. It may be taken with advantage in the second year by those who are attracted to political and social subjects. A knowledge of general history (such as is given in Course 1 in History) is a useful preparation.

The advanced courses divide themselves into two groups. The first group contains Courses 2, 3, 13, 14, 15, which are concerned chiefly with economic and social theory. Courses 2 and 15 follow the development of economic theory from its beginnings to the present time, with critical examination of the conclusions reached by economists of the past and the present. Course 13, on scope and method in economic investigation, continues the same subjects; it is taken to best advantage after either 2 or 15. Course 3 considers the wider aspects of economic and social study, and reviews the progress of sociological inquiry. Course 14 takes up the history and literature of socialistic and communistic proposals, and leads to a discussion of the foundations of existing institutions.

The second group contains the remaining courses, which are of a more descriptive and historical character. In all of them, however, attention is given to principles as well as to facts, and some acquaintance with the outlines of economic theory is called for.

Before taking any of the advanced courses, students are strongly advised to consult with the instructors. Courses 2, 3, 4, 7, 10, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 may not be taken without the previous consent of the instructors. It is advised that Course 1 be taken in all cases as a preparation for the advanced courses; and such students only as have passed satisfactorily in Course 1 will be admitted to Courses 2, 3, 4, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16. But Courses 5, 7, and 9, may also be

[p. 31]

taken by Juniors and Seniors of good rank who are taking Course 1 at the same time; Course 6 is open to students who have taken or are taking cither History 13 or Economies 1; and Courses 10 and 11 are open to students who have passed satisfactorily either in History 1 or in Economics 1.

The Seminary in Economics is intended primarily for Graduate Students; but Seniors in Harvard College, who have had adequate training in the subject, may be admitted to it.

 

 

  1. Outlines of Economics. —Principles of Political Economy.— Lectures on Social Questions and Monetary Legislation. Mon., Wed., Fri., at 9. Professor Taussig, Asst. Professor Edward Cummings, Dr. John Cummings, assisted by Messrs. Griffin, Warren, and ——.   (I)

Course 1 gives a general introduction to economic study, and a general view of Economics sufficient for those who have not further time to give to the subject. It begins with a consideration of the principles of production, distribution, exchange, money, and international trade, which is continued through the first half-year. In the second half-year, some of the applications of economic principles and some wider aspects of economic study are taken up. Social questions and the relations of labor and capital, the theory and practice of banking, and the recent currency legislation of the United States, will be successively treated in outline.

Course 1 will be conducted mainly by lectures. A course of reading will be laid down, and weekly written exercises will test the work of students in following systematically and continuously the lectures and the prescribed reading. Large parts of Mill’s Principles of Political Economy will be read, as well as parts of other general books; while detailed references will be given for the reading on the application and illustration of economic principles.

 

 

[*10. The Mediaeval Economic History of Europe. Tu., Th., (and at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 12. Professor Ashley.]     (X)

Omitted in 1897-98.

The object of this course is to give a general view of the economic development of society during the Middle Ages. It will deal, among others, with the following topics: — the manorial system in its relation to mediaeval agriculture and serfdom ; the merchant gilds and the beginnings of town life and of trade ; the craft gild and the gild-system of

[p. 32]

industry, compared with earlier and later forms; the commercial supremacy of the Hanseatic and Italian merchants ; the trade routes of the Middle Ages and of the sixteenth century ; the merchant adventurers and the great trading companies ; the agrarian changes of the fifteenth nd sixteenth centuries and the break-up of the mediaeval organization of social classes ; the appearance of new manufactures and of the domestic industry.

Special attention will be devoted to England, but that country will be treated as illustrating the broader features of the economic evolution of the whole of western Europe; and attention will be called to the chief peculiarities of the economic history of France, Germany, and Italy.

Students will be introduced in this course to the use of the original sources, and they will need to be able to translate easy Latin.

It is desirable that they should already possess some general acquaintance with mediaeval history, and those who are deficient in this respect will be expected to read one or two supplementary books, to be suggested by the instructor. The course is conveniently taken after, before, or in conjunction with History 9; and it will be of especial use to those who intend to study the law of Real Property.

 

 

  1. The Modern Economic History of Europe and America (from 1500). Tu., Th., (and at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 12. Professor Ashley. (X)

This course, — which will usually alternate with Course 10 in successive years, — while intended to form a sequel to Course 10, will nevertheless be independent, and may usefully be taken by those who have not followed the history of the earlier period. The main thread of connection will be found in the history of trade; but the outlines of the history of agriculture and industry will also be set forth, and the forms of social organization dependent upon them. England, as the first home of the “great industry,” will demand a large share of attention; but the parallel or divergent economic history of the United States, and of the great countries of western Europe, will be considered side by side with it.

 

 

  1. The Economic History of the United States. Tu., Th., at 2.30, and a third hour at the pleasure of the instructors. Mr. Callender. (XI)

Course 6 gives a general survey of the economic history of the United States from the formation of the Union to the present time, and considers also the mode in which economic principles are illustrated by the experience so surveyed. A review is made of the financial history of the United

 

[p. 33]

States, including Hamilton’s financial system, the second Bank of the United States and the banking systems of the period preceding the Civil War, coinage history, the finances of the Civil War, and the banking and currency history of the period since the Civil War. The history of manufacturing industries is taken up in connection with the course of international trade and of tariff legislation, the successive tariffs being followed and their economic effects considered. The land policy of the United States is examined partly in its relation to the growth of population and the inflow of immigrants, and partly in its relation to the history of transportation, including the movement for internal improvements, the beginnings of the railway system, the land grants and subsidies, and the successive bursts of activity in railway building. Comparison will be made from time to time with the contemporary economic history of European countries.

Written work will be required of all students, and a course of reading will be prescribed, and tested by examination. The course is taken advantageously with or after History 13. While an acquaintance with economic principles is not indispensable, students are strongly advised to take the course after having taken Economics 1, or, if this be not easy to arrange, at the same time with that course.

 

 

*15. The History and Literature of Economics to the Close of the Eighteenth Century. Mon., Wed., (and at the pleasure of the instructor) Fri., at 12.     Professor Ashley. (IV)

The course of economic speculation will here be followed, in its relation alike to the general movement of contemporary thought and to contemporary social conditions. The lectures will consider the economic theories of Plato and Aristotle; the economic ideas underlying Roman law; the mediaeval church and the canonist doctrine; mercantilism in its diverse forms; “political arithmetic;” the origin of the belief in natural rights and its influence on economic thought; the physiocratic doctrine; the work and influence of Adam Smith; the doctrine of population as presented by Malthus; Say and the Erench school; and the beginnings of academic instruction in economics.

The lectures will be interrupted from time to time for the examination of selected portions of particular authors; and careful study will be given to portions of Plato’s Republic and Aristotle’s Politics (in translation) to Mun’s England’s Treasure, Locke’s Considerations of the Consequences of the Lowering of Interest, certain Essays of Hume, Turgot’s Réflexions, and specified chapters of Adam Smith’s Wealth of Nations, and Malthus’ Essay. Students taking the course are expected to procure the texts of the chief authors considered, and to consult the following critical works:

[p. 34]

Ingram, History of Political Economy; Cossa, Introduction to the Study of Political Economy; Cannan, History of the Theories of Production and Distribution; Bonar, Philosophy and Political Economy; Bohm-Bawerk, Capital and Interest; Taussig, Wages and Capital.

 

 

*2. Economic Theory in the Nineteenth Century. Mon., Wed., Fri., at 2.30. Professor Taussig.     (V)

Course 2 is designed to acquaint the student with the history of economic thought during the nineteenth century, and to give him at the same time training in the critical consideration of economic principles. The exercises are accordingly conducted mainly by the discussion of selected passages from the important writers; and in this discussion students are expected to take an active part. Lectures are given at intervals, tracing the general movement of economic thought and describing its literature. Special attention will be given to the theory of distribution.

The course opens with an examination of Ricardo’s doctrines, selections from Ricardo’s writings being read and discussed. These will then be compared with the appropriate chapters in Mill’s Principles of Political Economy, and further with passages in Cairnes’ Leading Principles. The theory of wages, and the related theory of business profits, will then be followed in the writings of F. A. Walker, Sidgwick, and Marshall, and a general survey made of the present stage of economic theory in England and the United States. The development on the continent of Europe will be traced chiefly in lectures; but toward the close of the year a critical examination will be made of the doctrines of the modern Austrian school.

Course 2 is taken with advantage in the next year after Course 1; but Course 15 may also be taken with advantage after Course 1, and then followed by Course 2, or taken contemporaneously with it.

 

 

*132 hf. Scope and Method in Economic Theory and Investigation. Half-course (second half-year). Mon., Wed., Fri., at 11. Professor Ashley.     (III)

Course 13 will examine the methods by which the important writers, from Adam Smith to the present time, have approached economic questions, and the range which they have given their inquiries; and will consider the advantage of different methods, and the expediency of a wider or narrower scope of investigation. Mill’s essay on the Definition of Political Economy; Cairnes’ Logical Method of Political Economy; Keynes’ Scope and Method of Political Economy; certain sections of Wagner’s Grundlegung and Schmoller’s essay on Volkswirthschaft will be carefully examined. The conscious consideration of method by the later writers of the classic school and by their successors in England; the

[p. 35]

rise of the historical school and its influence; the mode in which contemporary writers approach the subject, — will he successively followed.

Course 13 is open to students who take or have taken Course 2 or Course 15. A fair reading knowledge of German as well as of French will be expected of students, and the opportunity will be taken to assist them to acquire facility in reading scientific German. Subjects will be assigned for investigation and report, and the results of such investigations will be presented for discussion.

 

 

*3. The Principles of Sociology. Mon., Wed., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Fri., at 1.30. Asst. Professor Edward Cummings.     (XIII)

Course 3 begins with a general survey of the structure and development of society; showing the changing elements of which a progressive society is composed, the forces which manifest themselves at different stages in the transition from primitive conditions to complex phases of civilized life, and the structural outlines upon which successive phases of social, political, and industrial organization proceed. Following this, is an examination of the historical aspects which this evolution has actually assumed: Primitive man, elementary forms of association, the various forms of family organization, and the contributions which family, clan and tribe have made to the constitution of more comprehensive ethnical and political groups ; the functions of the State, the circumstances which determine types of political association, the corresponding expansion of social consciousness, and the relative importance of military, economic, and ethical ideas at successive stages of civilization. Special attention is given to the attempts to formulate physical and psychological laws of social growth; to the relative importance of natural and of artificial selection in social development; the law of social survival; the dangers which threaten civilization; and the bearing of such general consideration upon the practical problems of vice, crime, poverty, pauperism, and upon mooted methods of social reform.

The student is thus acquainted with the main schools of sociological thought, and opportunity is given for a critical comparison of earlier phases of sociological theory with more recent contributions in Europe and the United States. Regular and systematic reading is essential. Topics are assigned for special investigation in connection with practical or theoretical aspects of the course.

 

 

*14. Socialism and Communism, — History and Literature. Tu., Th., and at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 9. Asst. Professor Edward Cummings.     (VII)

Course 14 is primarily an historical and critical study of socialism and communism. It traces the history and significance of schemes for social

[p. 36]

reconstruction from the earliest times to the present day. It discusses the historical evidences of primitive communism, the forms assumed by private ownership at different stages of civilization, the bearing of these considerations upon the claims of modern socialism, and the outcome of experimental communities in which socialism and communism have actually been tried. Special attention, however, is devoted to the recent history of socialism, — the precursors and the followers of Marx and Lassalle, the economic and political programmes of socialistic parties in Germany, France, and other countries.

The primary object is in every case to trace the relation of historical evolution to these programmes; to discover how far they have modified history or found expression in the policy of parties or statesmen; how far they must be regarded simply as protests against existing phases of social evolution; and how far they may be said to embody a sane philosophy of social and political organization.

The criticism and analysis of these schemes gives opportunity for discussing from different points of view the ethical and historical value of social and political institutions, the relation of the State to the individual, the political and economic bearing of current socialistic theories.

The work is especially adapted to students who have had some introductory training in Ethics as well as in Economics. A systematic course of reading covers the authors discussed; and special topics for investigation may be assigned in connection with this reading.

 

 

  1. The Labor Question in Europe and the United States. — The Social and Economic Condition of Workingmen. Tu., Th., Sat., at 10. Asst. Professor Edward Cummings and Dr. John Cummings.    (VIII)

Course 9 is a comparative study of the condition and environments of workingmen in the United States and European countries. It is chiefly concerned with problems growing out of the relations of labor and capital. There is careful study of the voluntarily organizations of labor, — trade unions, friendly societies, and the various forms of cooperation; of profit-sharing, sliding scales, and joint standing committees for the settlement of disputes ; of factory legislation, employers’ liability, the legal status of laborers and labor organizations, state courts of arbitration, and compulsory government insurance against the exigencies of sickness, accident, and old age. All these expedients, together with the phenomena of international migration, the questions of a shorter working day and convict labor, are discussed in the light of experience and of economic theory, with a view to determining the merits, defects, and possibilities of existing movements.

[p. 37]

The descriptive and theoretical aspects of the course are supplemented by statistical evidence in regard to wages, prices, standards of living, and the social condition of labor in different countries.

Topics will be assigned for special investigation, and students will be expected to participate in the discussion of selections from authors recommended for a systematic course of reading.

The course is open not only for students who have taken Course 1, but to Juniors and Seniors of good rank who are taking Course 1.

 

 

*4. Statistics. — Applications to Social and Economic Problems. — Studies in Movements of Population. — Theory and Method. Mon., Wed., Fri., at 11. Dr. John Cummings.     (III)

This course deals with statistical methods used in the observation and analysis of social conditions, with the purpose of showing the relation of statistical studies to Economics and Sociology, and the scope of statistical inductions. It undertakes an examination of the views entertained by various writers regarding the theory and use of statistics, and an historical and descriptive examination of the practical methods of carrying out statistical investigations. The application of statistical methods is illustrated by studies in political, fiscal, and vital statistics, in the increase and migration of population, the growth of cities, the care of criminals and paupers, the accumulation of capital, and the production and distribution of wealth.

 

 

52 hf. Railways and other Public Works, under Government and Corporate management. Half-course (second half-year). Tu., Th., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 1.30. Mr. Meyer.     (XIV)

 

In this course it is proposed to review the history and working of different modes of dealing with railway transportation, and to deal summarily with other similar industries, such as the telegraph, street railways, water and gas supply. Consideration will be given to the economic characteristics of these industries, the theory and history of railway rates, the effects of railway service and railway charges on other industries, the causes and consequences of monopoly conditions. The history of legislation in the more important European countries will be followed, as well as the different modes in which they have undertaken the regulation and control of private corporations, or have assumed direct ownership, with or without management and operation. Some attention will be given also to the experience of the British colonies, and more especially of those in Australia. In the United States, there will be consideration of the growth of the great systems, the course of legislation by the federal government,

[p. 38]

the working of the Interstate Commerce Act, and the modes of regulation, through legislation and through Commissions, at the hands of the several States. So far as time permits, other industries, analogous to railways, will be discussed in a similar manner.

Written work, in the preparation of papers on assigned topics, will be expected of all students in the course.

 

 

*71 hf. The Theory and Methods of Taxation, with special reference to local taxation in the United States. Half-course (first half-year). Tu., Th., and (at the pleasure of the instructor) Sat., at 1.30. Professor Taussig.     (XIV)

Course 71 undertakes an examination of the theory of taxation, based upon the comparative study of methods as practised in different countries and in different States of the American Union. This examination necessarily includes some discussion of leading questions in revenue legislation, such as the taxation of incomes and personal property, the single tax, progressive taxation, and indirect taxes.

 

 

*72 hf. Financial Administration and Public Debts. Half-course (second half-year). Tu., Th., Sat., at 11. Professor Dunbar.       (IX)

Course 72 is devoted to an examination of the budget systems of leading countries, and their methods of controlling expenditure, the methods of borrowing and of extinguishing debts practised by modern states, the form and obligation of the securities issued, and the general management of public credit.

Topics will be assigned for investigation by the students, and a list of topics, references, and required reading will be used.

 

 

* 121 hf. International Payments and the Flow of the Precious Metals. Half-course (first half-year). Tu., Th., Sat., at 11. Professor Dunbar and Mr. Meyer. (IX)

 

[*122 hf. Banking and the History of the leading Banking Systems. Half -course (second half-year). Tu., Th., Sat., at 11. Professor Dunbar.]     (IX)

Omitted in 1897-98.

Course 121 is taken up with the discussion of the movements of goods, securities, and money, in the exchanges between nations and in the settlement of international demands. After a preliminary study of the general doctrine of international trade and of the use and significance of bills of exchange, it is proposed to make a close examination of some cases of

[p. 39]

payments on a great scale, and to trace the adjustments of imports and exports under temporary or abnormal financial conditions. Such examples as the payment of the indemnity by France to Germany after the war of 1870-71, the distribution of gold by the mining countries, and the movements of the foreign trade of the United States since 1879, will be investigated and used for the illustration of the general principles regulating exchanges and the distribution of money between nations.

In Course 122 the modern system of banking by deposit and discount is examined, and its development in various countries is studied. The different systems of note-issue are then reviewed and compared, and the relations of banks to financial crises carefully analyzed. Practical banking does not come within the scope of this course. The study is historical and comparative in its methods, requiring some examination of important legislation in different countries, practice in the interpretation of banking movements, and investigation of the general effects of banking. The course, therefore, naturally leads to an examination of the questions now raised as to bank issues in the United States.

 

 

*162 hf. Selected Topics in the Financial Legislation of the United States. Half-course (second half-year). Tu., Th., at 2.30. Professor Dunbar.      (XI)

The topics for study in this course for 1897-98 will be: (1) The Legal Tender Issues of the Civil War; (2) Development of the National Banking System. Subjects will be assigned and reports called for, requiring thorough investigation in the debates of Congress and other contemporary sources of information, for the purpose of tracing the history and significance of the legislative acts to be discussed, and a close study of such financial and commercial statistics as may throw light upon the operation of the acts.

Arrangements will be made by which graduate students and candidates for Final Honors in Political Science may take this course in connection with the Seminary in Economics as a full course running through the year.

 

 

  1. Seminary in Economics. Mon., at 4.30. Professors Dunbar, Taussig, and Ashley, and Asst. Professor Edward Cummings.

In the Seminary the instructors receive Graduate Students, and Seniors of high rank and adequate preparation, for training in investigation and discussion. No endeavor is made to limit the work of the Seminary to any one set of subjects. Subjects are assigned to students according to their needs and opportunities, and may be selected from any of the larger fields covered by the courses in which stated instruction is given. They

[p . 40]

may accordingly be in economic theory, in economic history, in applied economics, in sociology, or in statistics. It will usually be advisible for members of the Seminary to undertake their special investigation in a subject with whose general outlines they are already acquainted; but it may sometimes be advantageous to combine general work in one of the systematic courses with special investigation of a part of the field.

The general meetings of the Seminary are held on the first and third Mondays of each month. The members of the Seminary confer individually, at stated times arranged after consultation, with the instructors under whose special guidance they are conducting their researches.

At the regular meetings, the results of the investigations of members are presented and discussed. The instructors also at times present the results of their own work, and give accounts of the specialized literature of Economics. At intervals, other persons are invited to address the Seminary on subjects of theoretic or practical interest, giving opportunity for contact and discussion with the non-academic world. Among those who thus contributed to the Seminary in 1895-97 were President Francis A. Walker, Dr. Frederick H. Wines, Mr. S. N. D. North, Mr. A. T. Lyman, Mr. E. W. Hooper, and Mr. F. C. Lowell.

In 1896-97 the Seminary had fifteen members, of whom twelve were Graduate Students, two were Seniors in Harvard College, and one was a Law Student. Among the subjects under investigation in that year were: The Woollen Industry in England during the 17th and 18th centuries; Over-production and Over-accumulation in Economic Theory; The Taxation of Sugar in the United States and in Foreign Countries; The National Banking System with regard to its operation in the West and South; The Financial History of the Pennsylvania Railway; The Financial History of the Union Pacific Railway; The History of Immigration into the United States.

 

[p. 41]

GENERAL INFORMATION.

ORGANIZATION.

The Division of History and Political Science comprises two departments: History and Government, and Economics. The Division has charge of the administration of Final Honors, and of the Degree of Ph.D., in History and Political Science. The recommendation of candidates for assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships is in the hands of the respective departments; Second-Year Honors in History and Government are administered by the Department of History and Government; and in general each Department has charge of all matters relating specially to its own instruction.

 

HONORS.

Honors are awarded to students who attain high grades in a certain number of courses in one subject or group of subjects, and who give satisfactory evidence, at a special examination, as to the range and accuracy of their general knowledge of the subject in which the Honors are awarded.

Second-Year Honors in History and Government are awarded, at the end of the Sophomore or Junior year, on the following conditions : —

1. Distinguished excellence in the work of three and a half courses in History and Government or of three such courses and one course in Political Economy.

2. Passing with distinction a special examination, which shall be a test of the candidate’s general acquirements in History and Government.

3. The study of a special topic upon which the candidate may be required to report in written form. This report must be presented not later than May 15 to the instructor under whose direction it has been prepared.

Candidates for Second-Year Honors are required to register their names at the office of the Dean of the College, as early as the first

[p. 42]

day of April of the year in which they present themselves for examination.

The examinations for Second-Year Honors are conducted by the Department of History and Government.

Final Honors in History and Government or in Political Science are awarded, usually with the degree of A.B. or A.M., on the following conditions : —

Every student who wishes to be regarded as a candidate must present a written application to the Dean of the College before November 1, in his Senior year. Blank forms of application may be obtained from the Recorder.

 

[…]

In Political Science the candidate will present for approval by the Division of History and Political Science, not later than October 10 of his final year of preparation, a plan of study which shall comprise not less than five courses, not elementary, selected from those offered under History and Government, and Economics, including at least one course in Economics, one in History, and one in Government.

[p. 43]

The candidate may also state in his plan of study further work in Political Science which he desires to have considered in determining the award of Honors.

Not later than May 15, the candidate will present a thesis, which may also be counted as part of his work in one or more courses, and which should be handed to the instructor under whose guidance it is prepared; and he will be required to pass an examination on the general field of his studies in Political Science.

 

DEGREES.

The degree of Bachelor of Arts is conferred usually after four years of residence. At least one year of residence is required. Graduates of other colleges and students of the higher classes of other colleges are admitted to advanced standing in Harvard College, without examination, on presenting testimonials of scholarship and character, and satisfactory evidence of work well performed in the institutions previously attended.

The degree of Master of Arts is conferred on persons who have the degree of Bachelor of Arts from Harvard College (or who have pursued successfully at some other college a course of study accepted by the Faculty of Arts and Sciences as equivalent to the A.B. of Harvard College), and who have pursued at Harvard University advanced studies with high credit for a whole year.

For the degree of Doctor of Philosophy no set period of study is prescribed. It is not usually taken in less than three years after the attainment of the degree of Bachelor of Arts in Harvard College, or an equivalent. In order to be admitted to the degree the candidate must show a general training in the whole field of study, firm grasp of his special subject within the field, and independent research in some portion of that subject. He must present a thesis, showing original treatment or investigation, and must pass such examination or examinations as may be required by the Division. The degree is given on the ground of thorough study and high attainments. Appropriate studies carried on in the Graduate School of any other university may be recognized as a part of the candidate’s preparation for the degree. The minimum period of residence at Harvard University is one year.

[p. 44]

The University confers the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in History and in Political Science. Candidates for the degree under either of these heads are subject to supervision and examination by the Division of History and Political Science. In order to indicate the grounds on which it is prepared to recommend candidates for the degree, the Division has adopted the following statements and suggestions.

All communications relative to the doctorate should be sent to the Chairman of the Division of History and Political Science.

 

 

THE DEGREE OF PH.D. IN POLITICAL SCIENCE.

General Preparation.

Every candidate for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science, will be expected, at an early stage in his preparation, to submit to the Division, through its chairman, evidence of the extent and quality of his general studies. A command of good English, spoken and written, the ability to make free use of French and German books, and a fair acquaintance with general history, are expected in all cases. On the evidence presented, the Division will decide, provisionally, as to the sufficiency of the candidate’s general training. No set examinations will be held in any of these elementary requirements. Candidates may be required to make up deficiencies by pursuing specified College courses, or in such other way as the Division may designate. The provisional acceptance of a candidate, as regards this portion of his preparation, does not preclude the Division from rejecting him later, if, in the examination on specific subjects, it shall appear that his general education is insufficient.

 

Examinations.

Candidates must ordinarily pass two examinations: the first general, the second on a special field, defined in each case by vote of the Division.

I. The aim of the first examination is to ascertain the candidate’s acquaintance with a considerable range of subjects included within the scope of Political Science. He may satisfy this requirement by showing a good knowledge of any seven of the subjects named in

[p. 45]

the following list, — at least one to be taken from each of the three groups :

 

Group A.

  1. Political Institutions of Mediaeval Europe, including England.
  1. History of Political Institutions in Continental Europe since 1500.
  1. Constitutional History of England since the beginning of the Tudor period.
  1. History of American Institutions, including the Colonial period.

 

Group B.

  1. Theory of the State.
  1. Modern Government and Comparative Constitutional Law.
  1. International Law and Diplomatic History.
  1. Roman Law and selected topics in the history of Legal Institutions.

 

Group C.

 

  1. Economic Theory and its history.
  1. Applied Economics : Money and Banking, International Trade, Taxation and Finance.
  1. Economic History: either the outlines of the economic history of Europe and the United States ; or economic history of the United States with special reference to the Tariff, Financial Legislation, and Transportation.
  1. Sociology.

 

Candidates are not required, however, to follow the details of this plan. They may present, for the consideration of the Division, reasonable substitutes for any of the topics named, and may offer appropriate combinations of parts of the separate subjects. They are advised, in all cases, to submit their plans of study for approval at an early date. The examination of each candidate will be confined to the subjects selected by him and approved by the Division; but in judging of his fitness for the degree, regard will be had to the general grasp and maturity shown, as well as to the range and accuracy of his attainments in the specific subjects of examination.

II. The second examination will be on a single limited subject agreed upon in advance. It is intended that each candidate should have, as far as possible, freedom of choice in selecting his subject, but it is expected that he will submit, for approval, an outline of work to be presented in satisfaction of this requirement. It is desirable that this outline should be submitted a year in advance of

[p. 46]

the examination. The ground covered may properly be less extensive than that included in any of the general subjects named above and may lie within one of the general subjects offered by the candidate. At the final examination the candidate will be expected to show such a mastery of his chosen subject, and such an acquaintance with the literature bearing on it, as would qualify him to give instruction to mature students.

 

Thesis.

The thesis must be in the hands of the Division on or before May 1 of the year in which the degree is sought. It must be accepted as satisfactory before the candidate can be admitted to the final examination. It must show an original treatment of the subject, or give evidence of independent research, and must also be in good literary form and suitable for publication.

[…]

[p. 49]

 

[…]

FELLOWSHIPS AND SCHOLARSHIPS.

About $40,000 is distributed annually among undergraduate students, in amounts ranging from $40 to $450. Eighteen fellowships and about forty-seven scholarships are also annually assigned to graduate students, the former varying in amount from $400 to $750, the latter from $150 to $300. Many of these appointments may be given or promised to persons not already members of the University. Some of the Fellowships permit the holders to study either at Harvard University or elsewhere; others require residence in Cambridge.

Four of the Fellowships have special reference to political and economic studies, namely: the Henry Lee Memorial Fellowship (income $450), for the study of Political Economy; the Robert

Treat Paine Fellowship (income $500), for the study of Social Science; the Henry Bromfield Rogers Memorial Fellowship (income $450), for the study of Ethics in its relation to Jurisprudence or to Sociology; the Ozias Goodwin Memorial Fellowship (income $450), assigned to students of Constitutional or International Law.

_______________________________

Source: Harvard University. Faculty of Arts and Sciences. Division of History and Political Science Comprising the Departments of History and Government and Economics, 1897-98.

Categories
Curriculum Harvard Regulations

Harvard Economics. Account of Graduate Department, July 1886

Excerpts from the pamphlet for the Graduate Department of Harvard University. Looking to the future division of History, Government and Political Economy, I have included information on the fields of history, political science and political economy. I have also included the sections on admission, general degree requirements, fees and estimated costs of room and board.

____________________________

HARVARD UNIVERSITY.

ACCOUNT OF THE GRADUATE DEPARTMENT
FOR THE ACADEMIC YEAR 1886-87.
SECOND EDITION.

PUBLISHED BY THE UNIVERSITY.
July, 1886.

[p. 3]

THE GRADUATE DEPARTMENT.
1886-87.

The Graduate Department of Harvard University is under the charge of the Academic Council, which consists of the President and the Professors and Assistant Professors of the whole University.

 

ADMISSION OF STUDENTS.

Applications for admission to the Graduate Department are received by the Academic Council, and should be made at the beginning of the academic year. Admission is ordinarily granted to Bachelors of Arts and Bachelors of Science of Harvard University; and to Graduates of other Colleges and Scientific Schools of good standing, who present satisfactory evidence of character and qualifications. Other persons, of suitable age and attainments, may also be admitted, by special vote of the Academic Council in each case.

An application from any person holding an academic degree may be made by filling out and depositing a registration blank at the office of the University, at No. 5, University Hall, Cambridge. If the applicant is not a graduate of Harvard University, he must also file at the same office, for the consideration of the Council, (1) a diploma, or official certificate, of graduation at some institution of advanced education, and (2) satisfactory certificates of scholarship and character. He may also be called upon for a catalogue of the institution at which he was graduated, and for a statement concerning his course since graduation, and should be prepared to furnish these additional documents, on demand.

The Academic Council will vote on applications for admission to the Graduate Department at the next following stated meeting of the Council. Persons intending to enter the Graduate Department, and desirous of knowing whether their qualifications will probably be deemed sufficient by the Academic Council, may apply for information by letter to The Secretary of Harvard College, No. 5, University Hall, Cambridge, Mass.

Members of the Graduate Department can, on application, obtain information as to the probable time that will be requisite for obtaining any

[p. 4]

degree given by the University, and as to the conditions of study for such degree. But the time required in a given case (especially for the degree of Ph.D. or S.D.) will be largely determined by the qualifications of the candidate, as actually shown during his period of graduate study; and cannot, therefore, be accurately stated at the outset.

 

THE REQUIREMENT OF RESIDENCE.

All members of the Graduate Department, with the special exceptions noted below, are required to pursue their studies at this University; and are generally expected to attend the exercises in some course or courses of instruction, and to perform all the required work (including examinations) in such courses; or to carry on regular work in some laboratory or museum or in the library, under the frequent inspection and criticism of instructors in the University.

But holders of travelling fellowships, pursuing their studies elsewhere with the sanction of the Academic Council, are members of the Graduate Department.

Students who are conducting special investigations which require their absence from the University, and those who have completed a period of residence at the University, and are carrying on actual studies with the purpose of becoming candidates for a degree, may also be allowed to register in the Graduate Department, under such conditions as may be imposed in each case. The requirements of study and residence for the several degrees are stated below (pp. 20-24).

 

REGISTRATION AND REPORT.

Every member of the Graduate Department is required to register at the office of the University, at No. 5, University Hall, at the beginning of each academic year, on or before the first Wednesday in October, and to fill out an official blank there provided. He must at the same time obtain authority at the same office, if he is to be in residence, to attend instruction in the University.

Holders of travelling fellowships and other graduate students who are absent from the University by leave of the Academic Council must register by letter, having previously obtained the necessary blank by application to The Secretary of Harvard College.

A student who omits to register at the prescribed time without a satisfactory excuse is liable to be dropped from the list.

Every student is required to enter in his registration paper, with other particulars there called for, a brief statement of his plan of study for the

[p. 5]

year; and also of his actual work for the preceding year, if he was then a member of the Graduate Department.

A student who continues in the Graduate Department for more than one year, with the expectation of applying for a degree, may also be called upon, or may think it desirable, to submit a more detailed written statement of his work for each year, at its close or at the beginning of the next year.

Holders of travelling fellowships and other non-resident graduate students are required to make a full yearly report to the Academic Council.

Any graduate student who alters his address or his plan of study, or who discontinues his residence at the University, or is absent therefrom for more than one week in term time, or who engages in any regular occupation not stated by him in registering, or who in any way departs from the conditions under which he is understood to be studying, must give immediate notice of the change, and must file a new registration paper (if the change is permanent), at the office of the University.

A student who withdraws from the Graduate Department in the course of an academic year is required to give immediate notice at the office of the University and at the Bursar’s office. No deduction from the full year’s fees will be made in the case of a student withdrawing in the course of a year, unless he gives the notices here called for.

 

STUDIES.

In May of each academic year, the Faculty of Harvard College issue an Announcement of the Courses of Instruction provided for the following academic year. This Announcement (called the Elective Pamphlet) can be obtained on application to The Secretary of Harvard College, No. 5, University Hall, Cambridge, Mass. It includes all the courses offered in the College proper, in the Lawrence Scientific School, and in the Graduate Department. A large proportion of these courses are suitable to be taken by graduates, and are, in fact, regularly taken both by graduates and by advanced undergraduates. Many of them are offered with special reference to graduates; and any course is open to members of the Graduate Department who present sufficient evidence of qualification for that course.

Graduate students may also, in special cases, be admitted to courses given in the professional schools; and any member of the Graduate Department, paying the full fee of $150 per year, is admitted free to the instruction and the examinations given in any other department of the University, with the exception of exercises carried on in the special laboratories.

Graduate students are admitted to work in the Jefferson Physical Laboratory; the Chemical Laboratory in Boylston Hall; the Mineralogical Cabinet and Laboratory; the Museum of Comparative Zoology; the Botanic Garden and Herbaria and the Botanical Laboratory; and (in special

[p. 6]

cases) at the Bussey Institution. All these institutions afford excellent advantages for special study and research. See Appendix.

The University Library embraces various branches, which together contain (June, 1886) about 320,000 volumes. The most important of these branches is the College Library in Gore Hall; which contains about 240,000 volumes, besides a large collection of pamphlets, maps, etc., and is liberally administered for the use of the whole University. An account of this library and of the other libraries of the University will be found on pp. 34, 35. Attention is especially called to the reserved-book system, of which important use is made in many courses of instruction. Every facility is given, especially to students engaged in special studies, for the most advantageous use of the College Library; and great pains are taken to keep up its resources by the purchase of all important new books in the different departments of learning. Graduate students may likewise obtain access to the libraries of the Divinity, Law, Medical, and Scientific Schools, and the other branches of the University Library.

The neighborhood of Boston, moreover, brings within the reach of properly equipped students numerous opportunities for making use of the large and valuable libraries and scientific and art collections which that city contains. The Boston Public Library, in particular, with its great resources and extensive bibliographical aids, is open for consultation to all comers. The privilege of using other important libraries can also frequently be obtained.

As the system of Harvard College is elective, the students are distributed through a great number of courses, and the section in any one advanced course is, in general, a small one, in which each student receives much personal attention. The instruction is given mainly by informal lectures, interspersed with discussion between instructor and students, and aided by theses or other exercises; or by actual practice in the work of composition, or of investigation of authorities, or the solution of problems; or by experimental research in the laboratory or museum, under the guidance, or with the advice, of the instructor. Short examinations are held from time to time; and formal examinations, twice (or in some courses only once) in the year.

Besides the Announcement of Courses, called the Elective Pamphlet, supplementary pamphlets or sheets, containing detailed accounts of the courses offered in the following branches of study:— namely, The Semitic Languages; Sanskrit; Classical Philology; English; French; Romance Philology; Political Economy; Music; Mathematics; Physical Geography, Geology, and Palaeontology; Botany and Zoölogy; —are also issued, and may be obtained on application to The Secretary of Harvard College. These latter publications contain important particulars about the text-books, the methods of instruction, the objects, scope, and mutual

[p. 7]

connexions of the several courses, and the various advantages which students may find outside of the courses. Students unfamiliar with the arrangement of courses at this University, and intending to enter the Graduate Department, are especially advised to consult these publications (which are known as Descriptive Statements).

The following brief statement is intended to call the attention of graduates who may be contemplating a period of study here to such features of the system and apparatus of instruction as are likely to be chiefly interesting to them. But it is to be noted that such students may often find it most judicious to devote at least a part of their time to courses of a less advanced grade than those specially provided for graduates.

When a course is designated by a number, in the following statement, the number is that which denotes the same course in the Elective Pamphlet. A course of which the title or number is contained in square brackets is to be omitted in 1886-87, though probably to be given in 1887-88….

[p. 12]

Political Science

 To graduates desirous of pursuing the study of Political Science facilities are offered by established courses in Political Economy, History, Roman Law, and Philosophy, and at the Law School, and by opportunities for detailed investigation. The scope of the work in Political Economy and Roman Law is described under those heads. In History, a large amount of the instruction given (comprising, in all, the work of more than two years) bears upon the science of Government, Constitutional and Administrative Development, International Law, and kindred subjects. In addition,

[p. 13]

instruction is offered in the Ethics of Social Reform (Philosophy 11); in the oral discussion of topics in Political Economy and History (English 6); and in Constitutional Law by lectures in the Law School. Apart from the arrangements with separate instructors for special study and research, there are more than sixty hours of instruction per week, throughout the year, on subjects of importance to the student of Political Science. A Descriptive Statement is in preparation in this department. The degrees of A.M. and Ph.D. are conferred for work in Political Science upon graduates who fulfill the requirements.

Political Economy.

 For students already well grounded in Political Economy, courses are established which afford opportunities, (1) for a review of the historical development of economic science and for the comparison and criticism of leading writers and their theories; (2) for practice in the investigation and discussion of questions of economic legislation or policy; (3) for the study of land tenures and the methods of land-tenure reform in leading European countries; (4) for a review of the tariff and financial history of the United States, in connexion with general political history, and (5) for the comparative study of the systems of public finance adopted by the leading modern countries. For all students who wish to make an investigation of the broad subjects thus stated, more extended than is possible within the limits of an ordinary college course, the University Library affords ample resources, and the instructors are ready to give all possible encouragement and assistance.

In addition to the courses thus regularly established, the instructors in Political Economy also receive properly qualified students who wish to undertake some special advanced study or research. The subjects to be dealt with are selected by agreement between instructors and students, and with the general purpose of placing the investigator upon ground not previously trodden, and giving him an opportunity for original work. The extent and nature of the cooperation of the instructor, and the frequency of conference with the student, are left to be determined by the nature of the special subject on which the latter is engaged; but it is expected that, as indicated by the experience of 1885-86, the relation will be close. For further information, students are referred to the Descriptive Statement of courses in Political Economy.

History. 

 The department of History offers to graduate students advanced instruction in Ancient, Mediaeval, Ecclesiastical, Modern European, and American

[p. 14]

History, in International Law, and also in the History of Institutions, both political and religious.

Attention is specially called to the courses offered under the general title of Course 20; in which an opportunity is given competent students to do original work in Ecclesiastical History, in the Early History of Institutions, in the Social Condition of Western Europe in the XVIIIth century, in American History, or in the History of Modern Diplomacy. Students in these courses and in the other smaller sections will receive the personal attention of their instructors, who will advise and assist them in their chosen fields of research and in the preparation of suitable theses. In some of the courses offered under this head, special attention will be given to practice in the investigation of original sources. It is intended to make the work useful both to future teachers and historical investigators, and to professional or business men who may wish to become thoroughly familiar with some part of the field of history or to acquire the ability to weigh and examine historical evidences.

The College Library contains an extensive collection of original historical material, especially in Americana, and in documents relating to the history of international disputes. It aims to supply all the more important additions to the material of historical science, and to make its collections useful to all earnest enquirers. The reserved-book system receives much attention in this department, and access to the shelves may be obtained by students engaged in special researches. The libraries of the schools of Theology and Law are accessible to students, who may also, on proper recommendation always obtain the use of many important historical libraries in the immediate vicinity of the University.

Roman Law.

Two courses are offered for 1886-87; one general and introductory, the other advanced and special. The titles will be found in the elective pamphlet….

[p. 20]

DEGREES.

Any member of the Graduate Department may be admitted to examination for the degree of A.B. (if not already an A.B. of Harvard University), by vote of the College Faculty; or to examination for the degree of A.M., Ph.D., or S.D., by vote of the Academic Council; provided that all the required conditions of candidacy have been fulfilled. But, in future, no person will be regarded as a candidate for a degree, but

[p. 21]

only as a graduate student, until he actually presents himself for his final examination.

Applications from graduate students for admission to examination for any degree should be made to the College Faculty or to the Academic Council as early as the tenth day of January in the year in which the applicant wishes to be examined. Later applications may be received, provided all examinations already held in the courses of instruction taken by the student hare been passed, and all other requirements for the degree, up to the time of application, have been complied with. The application should be accompanied, in each case, by a statement of the course or field of study on which the applicant will offer himself for examination, and, if he is an applicant for Ph.D. or S.D., by the title of the thesis which he purposes to submit. Information concerning the conditions on which a graduate student may expect to be admitted to examination for any degree may be obtained, at any time, by application to the Secretary of the Academic Council.

The Degree of A.B.

A student who wishes to be admitted to examination for the degree of A.B. must have studied for at least one year at this University; and must have pursued a course of study approved by the College Faculty as affording suitable preparation for the degree, and have passed all the examinations in that course.

Qualification for candidacy for A.M., Ph.D., or S.D.

A student who wishes to become a candidate for the degree of A.M. or Ph.D. must have attained the degree of A.B. (or an equivalent degree); and, if this degree has not been conferred by Harvard University, it must be accepted by the College Faculty (with or without special conditions) as qualifying the student for candidacy for the degree of A.M. or Ph.D.

A student who wishes to become a candidate for the degree of S.D. must have attained the degree of S.B. (or an equivalent degree); and, if this degree has not been conferred by Harvard University, it must be accepted by the Faculty of the Lawrence Scientific School (with or without special conditions) as qualifying the student for candidacy for the degree of S.D.

Time Conditions.

The least periods of study and residence required for the degrees of A.M., Ph.D., and S.D., of students already properly qualified by the degree of A.B. or S.B., are as follows: For A.M., one year of study at the University, in the Graduate Department, or (in the case of a student who is also a candidate for a professional degree) in a professional department; for Ph.D., two years of study at the University, in the Graduate

[p. 22]

Department; for S.D., three years of special scientific study, of which at least two must be years of study at the University, in the Graduate Department. But the Academic Council may, for sufficient reasons, remit one of the two years of residence (not of study) for the degree of Ph.D. or S.D. to Bachelors of Arts or Science of Harvard University.

These periods must, however, be regarded merely as minimum periods required for the several degrees. They must often be exceeded; especially in the case of persons partly occupied in other work, of graduates of other institutions, and of Bachelors of Arts or Science of Harvard University who are studying for the degree of Ph.D. or S.D.

No year can be counted to a student as a full year of study for a degree which is not entirely devoted to studies approved by the Academic Council as forming a year’s work for that degree. A student who means to become a candidate for a degree should consult the Secretary of the Academic Council, at the beginning of each year, about his plan of study.

Grounds of the Degree of A.M.

The degree of A.M. is conferred on a student who passes, with high credit, an examination on a course of study proposed by the student, and approved by the Academic Council, as a suitable preparation for the degree; and this course of study may be limited to a single department, or may have a miscellaneous character. If no special conditions are imposed on a student’s candidacy, the requirement for the degree of A.M. ordinarily consists of four full courses of instruction, of advanced grade, pursued for one academic year.

The Academic Council will approve studies pursued in the Professional and Scientific Schools as constituents of a one year’s course for A.M.; but only when the Council is satisfied that the candidate has no intention or expectation of offering any of the same studies for another degree. The degree of A.M. may also be conferred on students having the degree of A.B. (conferred by Harvard University, or accepted as sufficient by the College Faculty), simultaneously with the degree of D.B., LL.B., M.D., S.B., or C.E., and on the same course of study. The degree is thus given, on the nomination of the appropriate Faculty, and on the recommendation of the Academic Council, and only after the longest course of study and residence provided for the professional degree, and upon examinations passed with high credit. Professional students, properly qualified, who wish to be candidates for the degree of A.M. on these terms should apply to the Faculty of their School on or before the 1st of June in the year of their graduation at the School. If not Bachelors of Arts of Harvard University, they should make early application to the College Faculty for the acceptance of their degree of A.B. They do not register as members of the Graduate Department.

[p. 23]

Grounds and Standing of the Degrees of Ph.D. and S.D.

The degree of Ph.D. or S.D. is given, not for the mere reason of faithful study for a prescribed time or in fulfilment of a determinate programme (even though approved by the Academic Council), and never for miscellaneous studies, but on the ground of long study and high attainment in a special branch of learning, manifested not only by examinations, but by a thesis, which must be presented and accepted before the candidate is admitted to examination, and must show an original treatment of a fitting subject, or give evidence of independent research.

Any person on whom the University has conferred the degree of Ph.D. or S.D. is thereby recognized as qualified to give instruction to candidates for this degree in the department in which he has taken the degree, and to advance knowledge in that department by his own investigation.

A candidate for the degree of Ph.D. must offer himself for examination in some one of the following departments: Philology; Philosophy; History; Political Science; Mathematics; Physics (including Chemistry); Natural History; and Music. Within his chosen department, he must name some special field of study, approved as sufficient by the committee of the Academic Council in that department. He is liable to minute examination on the whole of that special field; and is also required to prove such acquaintance with the subject-matter of his department in general as the committee in that department shall require.

A candidate for the degree of S.D. must offer himself for examination on two subjects, or fields of study, belonging to the range of the mathematical, physical, and natural sciences. He must show special attainments in one of these subjects, and is liable to minute examination in the whole ground which it covers; and he is also required to have such general knowledge in the department to which his special studies belong as the committee in that department shall require. His thesis must embody some contribution to science or some special investigation.

An applicant for the degree of Ph.D. or S.D. must hand a fair copy of his thesis, on or before the first day of May, to the chairman of the committee in his department of study; and the chairman has power to reject a thesis not plainly written. No candidate is admitted to examination till his thesis has been approved by the committee; and, on the approval of the thesis, and as early as the first day of June, the thesis is deposited at the office of the University, for inspection by any member of the Academic Council, with a certificate of approval, signed by a special committee.

A successful candidate is allowed to print his thesis as one accepted for the degree, with the certificate of approval and the signatures of the approving committee; and either a printed or a written copy of the thesis

[p. 24]

and the original certificate mast be deposited in the Library and must be open to public inspection.

The department of study in which the degree of Ph.D. or S.D. is conferred is named in the quinquennial catalogue of the University; and the department, the special branch of the department, and the title of the thesis are named in the Commencement programme and the next following annual catalogue.

The degree of Ph.D. carries with it that of A.M., the full title of the degree being Doctor of Philosophy and Master of Arts.

A student who has taken the degree of A. M. may count the study and residence, already offered for that degree, towards the degree of Ph.D. also; provided the Academic Council approve such study and residence as in itself suitable to be counted for the degree of Ph.D.

 

FELLOWSHIPS AND SCHOLARSHIPS

The attention of students who purpose to enter the Graduate Department from some other college is specially called to the Morgan Fellowships….

[p. 26]

The Morgan Fellowships. — Four Fellowships of the annual value of $500 each were established in 1884 by the gift of the late Henry T. Morgan of New York. These Fellowships are to be assigned to persons undertaking advanced studies, in the departments in which the degrees of Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Science are given. The applicant need not have received, or be a candidate for, any academic degree, but must exhibit proof of such previous training, attainments, and capacity, as promise special fitness for the work which he undertakes. The holder of a Morgan Fellowship is required to carry on his studies subject to the approval

[p. 27]

and under the supervision of the Standing Committee in the department in which his studies lie, to reside in Cambridge through the academic year, and to engage in no other occupation, except such public instruction as may have been approved by the Academic Council. The term of appointment to a Morgan Fellowship will be one year, but the holder will be eligible for appointment for a second term.

The appointment is made annually by the President and Fellows on recommendation of the Academic Council, at or about Commencement in each year….

[p. 28]

PRIZES.

The following prizes are administered by the Academic Council, and are open for competition to students in the Graduate Department: — …

 

The Toppan Prize.

A prize of one hundred and fifty dollars, the gift of Robert Noxon Toppan, of the class of 1858, is offered for the best Essay (of sufficient merit) on one of the following subjects in Political Science: —

  1. The present condition of Economical Science, and the demand for a radical change in its methods and aims.
  1. The origin, services, and future of a Second House                     [p. 29]
  2. The causes and probable effects of the tendency to Disestablishment of State Churches.

This prize is open to Graduates of the College of not more than three years’ standing, and to all persons who, having received an academic degree, pursue in 1885-86 or 1886-87 regular studies in the Graduate Department or in one of the Professional Schools.

Essays must be deposited at the President’s office on or before the first day of May, 1887. In every case the writer must inscribe an assumed name on the title-page. A sealed letter must be sent in at the same time, under cover with the Essay, containing the true name of the writer, with the date of his graduation; and this letter must be superscribed with the assumed name. Any manuscript not plainly written may be rejected. The prize will not be awarded to any Essay that does not give such evidence of solid study, sound thought, and literary care, as would, in the opinion of the judges, warrant its publication….

[p. 31]

FEES, BONDS, AND EXPENSES.

The full annual tuition-fee of a graduate student is $150.

A graduate student who pays the full tuition-fee is entitled, without further payment, to attend any of the courses of instruction in any department of the University (except exercises carried on in special laboratories), and to be examined in such courses. He has the right to use the University Library; and, on the further payment of certain laboratory fees, he may attend, and be examined in, courses of instruction, and, if properly qualified, may be admitted to work, in the following laboratories and museums: —

The Jefferson Physical Laboratory,

The Chemical Laboratory in Boylston Hall,

The Mineralogical Cabinet and Laboratory,

The Museum of Comparative Zoology,

The Botanic Garden and Herbaria and the Botanical Laboratory.

The special laboratory-fees are as follows: For each laboratory-course in Physics, the fee is $10, which covers all charges. For study in the Chemical and Mineralogical laboratories, there is a general fee, which varies from $5 to $30, according to the nature and amount of the work undertaken, and also an individual fee for the use of materials in special investigations and for breakage, and in payment of fines for violation of the laboratory regulations. For each laboratory-course in Natural History, the fee is $5, which covers all charges.

Graduate students who do not wish to take the full number of courses

[p. 32]

of instruction may register as members of the Graduate Department, and may avail themselves of many of the privileges of full membership in the University, on the following terms : —

For any course of instruction, named in the Elective Pamphlet, and not a laboratory-course, the fee is $45 a year; and for any such half-course, $25 a year; up to $150 a year. But any student who takes a laboratory-course must pay the full tuition-fee of $150, besides the special laboratory-fees. For instruction not given in the regular courses, or at the laboratory, the fee will be computed at the rate of $15 per one hour a week of instruction during the academic year, up to $150. But in no case shall the tuition-fee of a graduate student, whether resident or not (non-resident holders of fellowships being excepted) be less than $30 a year; and it is never more than $150 a year.

A graduate student paying less than $150 a year is not entitled to the privilege of free admission to the instruction and the examinations given in other departments of the University.

The fee for the examination for the degree of Ph.D. or S.D. is $30; but this fee is not charged to any candidate who has paid the full tuition-fee of $150 for at least one year as a graduate student.

Graduates of the University or of other collegiate institutions, desirous of pursuing their studies at Cambridge without guidance, may enjoy the use of the Library on the payment of five dollars a year; but such graduates are not entitled to be classed as students of the University, nor will residence on these terms be accepted as residence constituting membership of the Graduate Department or qualifying for any degree.

Members of the Graduate Department, except the holders of travelling fellowships, must give bonds in the sum of $200, signed by two bondsmen, one of whom must be a citizen of the United States, for the payment of all dues to the University, but the bond of the “American Surety Company,” if made in a form that shall be satisfactory to the Bursar, will also be received. Instead of filing a bond, any student who prefers may pay his fees in advance, and deposit with the Bursar such a sum of money as may be deemed sufficient to secure payment of all other dues to the University.

No officer or student of the University will be accepted as a bondsman. The bills of graduate students are payable in each year on January 12, April 12, and October 10; but the third bill of all candidates for degrees must be paid at least one day before Commencement. Each bill will contain one third of the annual charges. When a student severs his connexion with the University, his whole bill becomes payable at once.

The following deductions are made from the full year’s tuition fee, in cases of absence during a part of the year, arising from any cause: —

[p. 33]

For absence during not less than three consecutive months at any time of the year, $30 will be deducted.

For absence during the whole year, not including the mid-year or final examinations, $100 will be deducted.

No deduction is made, on the ground of absence, from the fees charged for single courses and half-courses.

The necessary expenses of living of a graduate student for an academic year (of thirty-eight weeks) may be estimated as follows : —

Rent and care of furnished room…             $40 to $175

 

Board…                                                               133 to 304

 

Fuel and lights…                                                20 to 50

$193 to $529

For the total yearly expenditure (including the full tuition-fee, books, room, board, fuel, lights, clothing, etc.), $500 is enough for a student who practices strict, but not unhealthful economy; $800, for one of careful and moderate habits; and $1000, to cover all ordinary comforts; while $1400 is a very liberal estimate for any student who does not indulge in mere extravagance.

Members of any department of the University can board at cost by joining the Association which uses the great dining-room of Memorial Hall. The cost may be expected not to exceed four dollars and a half per week. Applications for seats should be made, at as early a date as possible, at the Hall to the Auditor, from whom full information can be obtained. The Hall opens on the last Wednesday in September.

The Hemenway Gymnasium (see p. 39) is open to all students of the University.

[p. 34]

APPENDIX.

LIBRARIES, LABORATORIES, MUSEUMS, ETC.

The University Library.

The College Library in Gore Hall is for the use of the whole University. All students who have given bonds may take out books, three volumes at a time, and may keep them four weeks. Books, reserved at the instance of officers of instruction, as collateral reading for their courses, are shelved in separate alcoves, with tables for consultation, and can be taken out only near the close of library hours, and must be returned upon the reopening of the Library. Students who leave Cambridge for an absence of more than one week must first return all borrowed books.

The College Library is open every week-day, except Thanksgiving day, Christmas day, New Year’s day, Fast day, Memorial day, and the Fourth of July, from 9 a.m. till 5 p.m.; but in winter it closes half an hour before sunset, and in vacation or recess at 2 p.m. On Sundays during term time the Library is open, for readers only, after 1 o’clock p.m.

The College Library may be consulted by all persons, whether connected with the University or not. The privilege of borrowing books is also granted, under special regulations, to persons not connected with the University. Blanks for making applications for such use may be had of the Librarian.

Persons entitled to use the College Library can have access to the departmental libraries, for consultation, by applying to the Superintendent of circulation at Gore Hall; but such libraries are primarily for the special use of the schools and departments, and are placed in the buildings belonging to such schools and departments. An express-box passes regularly between the College Library and the Bussey Institution.

The following was the enumeration of the bound volumes in the several libraries in Sept. 1885 : —

Gore Hall                                                         232,800

Lawrence Scientific School                              2,500

Bussey Institution (Jamaica Plain)                2,700

Phillips Library (Observatory)                        3,300

Botanic Garden (Herbarium Library)           4,000

Law School                                                        21,600

Divinity School                                                 17,400

Medical School (Boston)                                  1,500

Museum of Comparative Zoology                17,600*

Peabody Museum                                                 800

304,800

 

* This does not include the Whitney Collection of Geology and Geography, not yet enumerated.

[p. 35]

The collection of pamphlets and maps in the College Library is very large, and is estimated to be equal in number to the collection of bound volumes. The departmental libraries have also considerable numbers of pamphlet monographs on subjects connected with their specialties; and these are not included in the count of volumes. The College Library has also a collection of coins.

The catalogue of the Gore Hall Collection, including pamphlets, is on cards, accessible to the public, and consists of two parts, the one arranged by authors, the other by subjects. Printed strips of titles added to all the libraries are issued two or three times a week; and they are posted in Gore Hall and in the departmental libraries. Three or four times during the academic year, they are gathered in the Bulletin of the University, and issued with notes on the authorities in different departments of knowledge. From such supplements, another series of publications is made up, as “Bibliographical Contributions,” which are in course of publication. More extensive bibliographical works constitute another series, ” Special Publications,” of which Scudder’s “Catalogue of Scientific Serials” (1633-1876, 8vo, pp. 370) makes No. 1, published in 1879. There has also been issued a Catalogue of the Gray Collection of Engravings (4to, 1869); but this collection has, for the present, been transferred from the Library to the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. The Library also issues for the University a Weekly Calendar, giving announcements not contained in the tabular views….

[p. 39]

The Hemenway Gymnasium.

The new gymnasium, named in honor of Augustus Hemenway of Boston, who gave it to the University, is a handsome and spacious structure, built and equipped with the utmost thoroughness. It is furnished with the best patterns of ordinary gymnastic apparatus, and with many new appliances designed to develop the different parts of the body, and so constructed that they can be adjusted to the strength of the strong or to the weakness of the weak.

The bathing arrangements are complete, and the dressing accommodations are ample.

Facilities for recreative exercise have been provided in the Bowling-Alleys and Ball-Court, and in the Rowing, Fencing, and Sparring Rooms

The Gymnasium is open to all students of the University on week days from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m., and from 3 until 5.30, and from 8 until 10 p.m., except on Saturdays, when it is closed at 6 o’clock.

The attendance is voluntary, and the system adopted is one designed to meet the special wants of each individual. Realizing the great diversity in age, size, and strength, as well as in health, of the students who attend the University, the Director makes no attempt to group them into classes which pursue the same course of exercises.

[p. 40]

Upon entering the University, each student is entitled to an examination by the Director, in which his physical proportions are measured, his strength tested, his heart and lungs examined, and information is solicited concerning his general health and inherited tendencies. From the data thus procured, a special order of appropriate exercises is made out for each student, with specifications of the movements and apparatus which he may best use. After working on this prescription for three or six months, the student is entitled to another examination, by which the results of his work are ascertained, and the Director enabled to make a further prescription for his individual case.

A course of informal lectures is given by the Director, in which the theories and principles of physical training are practically illustrated….

 

Source: Harvard University. Account of the Graduate Department for the Academic Year 1886-87 (Second edition, July 1886),

Categories
Curriculum Harvard Regulations

Harvard Economics. Information Regarding Graduate Degrees, 1947

February 1, 1947

HARVARD UNIVERSITY
Department of Economics
Information Regarding Graduate Degrees

I.       ADMISSION TO THE GRADUATE SCHOOL OF ARTS AND SCIENCES

Application for admission to the Graduate School should be made directly to the Graduate School office in Farlow House, 24 Quincy Street.

II.      REGISTRATION FOR GRADUATE STUDENT PROGRAMS

All graduate students, including veterans, are expected to register for full-time study, or four half-courses. Exceptions may be made on the basis of medical or physical reasons. Consult the Graduate School Dean or Secretary.

III.     REQUIREMENTS FOR THE A.M. IN ECONOMICS

A. Plan of Study Plans of Study must be approved by the Chairman of the Department before the end of the first term in residence.

B. Residence  Two full terms of advanced work with acceptable grades at Harvard are necessary to establish residence.

C. Languages  A reading knowledge of one approved language (other than English) in which there exists a significant body of literature in the field of Economics is required. This requirement is satisfied by passing the written examination given by the Department in the first week of November and March. This requirement must be met before taking the general examination.

D. General Oral Examination

1. The candidate will be examined on four fields, as presented in the Plan of Study, selected from the groups below:

(a) Two from Group A, including Economic Theory.

(b) Two from Groups A, B, and C (not more than one from Group C).

Group A

(1) Economic Theory and its History, with special reference to the Development of Economic Thought since 1776.

(2) Economic History since 1750, or some other approved field in Economic History

(3) Statistical Method and its Application

Group B

(4) Money and Banking

(5) Economic Fluctuations and Forecasting

(6) Transportation

(7) Industrial Organization and Control

(8) Public Finance

(9) International Trade and Tariff Policies

(10) Economics of Agriculture

(11) Labor Problems

(12) Socialism and Social Reform

(13) Economic History before 1750

(14) Consumption Distribution and Prices

(15) Economics of Public Utilities

(16) Social Security

Group C

(17) Forestry Economics

(18) Any of the historical fields defined under the requirements for the Ph.D. in History

(19) Certain fields in Political Science listed under the requirements for the Ph.D. in Political Science.

(20) Jurisprudence (selected topics)

(21) Philosophy (selected topics)

(22) Anthropology

(23) History of Political Theory

(24) International Law

(25) Sociology. Certain fields defined under the requirements for the Ph.D. in Sociology.

2. Under certain conditions three fields of study may be offered for the oral examination. If the candidate is to be examined orally in three fields of study, he must present, in lieu of an oral examination on the fourth field, a full course on the graduate level offered by the Department followed by a seminar in the same field. The approval of the Chairman of the Department is necessary. Grades of at least B+ must be obtained in each course.

3. Preparation

(a) The fields of study are covered in part by formal course instruction, but supplementary reading must be undertaken to meet the requirements.

(b) Preparation for the field Economic Theory and its History will normally require two full courses in the field at the graduate level, or equivalent private reading. Candidates should consult the Chairman of the Department concerning their work in this field.

(c) In Statistics, Economics 21a, or its equivalent, is a prerequisite to graduate instruction. Either Professor Crum or Professor Frickey should be consulted.

(d) Usually three terms of graduate study at Harvard are necessary as preparation for the general examination, but a candidate who has been credited with graduate work of high order at another institution may be able to prepare himself in a shorter period.

4. Excuses from final course examinations

Candidates for the Master’s degree who are not candidates for the Ph.D. degree must take the final examinations in courses.

5. Quality of work

Candidates for this degree must give evidence, in their course records, of the capacity for distinguished work. Ordinarily, candidates whose records at Harvard do not average at least B will not be allowed to present themselves for the general examination.

6. Arranging the examination

The oral, or general, examinations are not set at any specified date. The arrangements for the examination must be made at least six weeks in advance of the date proposed by the candidate. Consult the Secretary of the Department, M-8 Littauer Center.

E. Application for the A.M.

Application for the degree must be filed in the office of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, 24 Quincy Street, by December 1 for a degree at Midyear; March 1 for the degree at Commencement. (August 1 if degrees are awarded at end of summer term.)

F. Special A.M. in Economics for Veterans

The only changes from the stated conditions given above are:

(1) On petition a candidate for a master’s degree may present himself for an oral examination in which quantitatively the requirement in Economic Theory is one that can be met in one year of graduate study.

(2) The requirements regarding the offering of Economic History or Statistics are eliminated.

It must be understood that the oral examination for this degree will not be accepted as part of the formal requirements for the Ph.D. degree.

A. Plan of Study Plans of Study must be approved by the Chairman of the Department before the end of the first term in residence.

B. Residence  Two full terms of advanced work with acceptable grades at Harvard are necessary to establish residence.

C. General Oral Examination  The candidate will be examined on four fields as presented in the Plan of Study. (See list of fields of study above.)

(a) Economic Theory

(b) Three from Groups A, B, and C (not more than one from Group C.)

IV.      REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PH.D. IN ECONOMICS

A. Residence

To establish residence for the Ph.D. degree, the Faculty requires not less than two full years of advanced work (four terms). To count toward this requirement the quality of the work i each course must be maintained at a high level.

1. Two terms (eight courses) must be taken during the academic year in residence at Harvard.

2. Graduate work completed in other departments of Harvard or at another institution may be offered in full or partial fulfilment of the other two terms required. Consult the Chairman of the Department.

B. Languages

The candidate must present a reading knowledge of two approved languages (other than English) in which there exists a significant body of literature in the field of Economics, one passed before taking the general examination, and both passed at least six months before the special examination. This requirement is satisfied only by passing the examination given by the Department of Economics in the first week of November and March.

The candidate may, if he chooses, offer in place of one of the required languages evidence of his capacity to read and understand the more elementary mathematical presentations used or usable in economics.

Such elementary methods are herein defined to include such knowledge of analytic geometry as is frequently given in the first year of college and such knowledge of differential calculus and integral calculus as is frequently given in a single-year course in college.

In terms of present (1947) courses in Harvard College, this means through Math 2.

Evidence that the student has this knowledge shall be furnished by the passage of an examination “in the reading of mathematical economics” to be set by an officer of this Department and held at the usual date or dates of the language examination. By exception, a pass grade in Math 2a and b at Harvard or Radcliffe will be accepted in place of the special mathematics examination. In unusual cases, the examiner may recommend that appropriate grades in similar mathematics courses elsewhere be accepted instead of the special examination.

C. Plan of Study

Every candidate for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy is required to submit to his Department, on a blank provided by the Department office, a plan showing his fields of study and his preparation in those fields. This plan of study must be submitted not later than the end of the first term of graduate work. The Department reserves the right not to approve any plan which seems unsatisfactory, even though the plan meets the formal requirements of distribution in the various groups. Candidates may present, for the consideration of the Department, reasonable substitutes for any of the fields named in the several groups.

1. The plan of study must include six fields, approved by the Chairman of the Department, selected as follows from the list on pp. 1-2 above:

(a) The three subjects in Group A are required, and

(b) Three from Group B, or

(c) Two from Group B and one from Group C.

D. General Oral Examination

1. The general oral examination for the Ph.D. is the same as the examination for the Master’s degree.

2. Excuses from final course examinations:

(a) Consult the Secretary of the Department in M-8 Littauer Center.

(b) Ordinarily candidates are excused from the final examinations in courses included in the fields presented for the general examination provided the general examination is passed after December 1 in the fall term and April 14 in the spring term and before the course examinations are held.

(c)  Students must receive at least a grade of “good” in the general examination to be excused.

E. Fifth Field (write-off field)

The requirement regarding the fifth field of study in the Ph.D. program is usually fulfilled by the passing of the equivalent of a full year graduate course offered at Harvard and completed with the grade of B+ or higher. Seminars offered by the Graduate School of Public Administration are not acceptable for “write-off” purposes. The requirement also may be fulfilled by oral examination at the time of the general. One-half course must have been completed in the write-off field with a grade of B+ or higher before the general examination.

F. Thesis  – written within the sixth (special) field

1. Every candidate for the doctorate is required to report to the Secretary of the Department, as soon as possible after his general examination, the subject of his thesis and the member of the Department under whom he intends to work.

2. Two bound copies of the thesis, the original of which may be printed or typewritten, with a carbon copy clear and legible, must be in the hands of the Chairman of the Department by December 1  and  April 1 for degrees at midyear or Commencement, and August 1 for a fall degree.

3. The thesis must be accepted by the Department before the candidate can be admitted to the final examination.

4. The thesis must show an original treatment of the subject, and give evidence of independent research.

5. Every thesis must be accompanied by two copies of a brief summary, not exceeding 1200 words in length, which shall indicate as clearly as possible the methods, material, and results of the investigation. These summaries will be printed by the University in an annual volume.

G. Special Oral Examination

1. At present it is expected that one year of residence will elapse between the general and the special examinations. The preparation for the doctorate is regarded by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences and by the Department as a continuous process. Ordinarily, the candidate must stand for the final examination within five years after passing the general examination.

2. Applications for the Ph.D. degree must be filed with the Graduate School (24 Quincy Street) and approved by the Administrative Board of the Graduate School before the final examination. The Graduate School requires that the application be filed by December 1 for the degree at midyear, and March 1 for the degree at Commencement (or August 1 if degree is awarded at end of summer term).

3. To arrange for the date of the special examination, consult the Secretary of the Department, M-8 Littauer Center, six weeks in advance of the proposed date, and before December 1, for the degree at midyear, and March 1 for the degree at Commencement.

4. The special examination will include an examination of the candidate on the thesis presented and also an intensive examination on the “sixth field” within which the subject matter of the thesis is included.

5. During the special oral examination, candidates are required to show an acquaintance with the literature in their special field in the two languages approved for their program.

H. For the doctorate in Economics at least three years devoted to advanced study are usually considered as the minimum period of preparation for graduates of colleges in good standing.

I. Candidates for the degree should be well grounded in the main outlines of European and American history, and should have had a general view of the nature and growth of political institutions and constitutional law.

J. Students who wish to pursue special plans of study for the Ph.D., or to work in fields not announced as fields in which the degree may be taken, should consult the Dean of the Graduate School of Arts and Science, since in exceptional cases special arrangements may be made.

K. Special Ph.D. in Economics for Veterans

The only change from the stated conditions given above is that in the case of exceptional performance in graduate study, the requirements regarding the number of fields for the Ph.D may be reduced to five fields, but in each case this program must be voted by the Department.

V.      REQUIREMENTS FOR THE PH.D. IN BUSINESS ECONOMICS

The program of study for the degree will be made up of six fields chosen from the groups given below. Four (or under certain conditions, three) of these fields, including Economic Theory, which is required, will be presented for the general examination. Only two fields, including Economic Theory, may ordinarily be chosen from Group A. Fields other than those here stated may be offered. Emphasis is placed upon an integrated program. in all cases the program of study must be approved by the Chairman of the Department of Economics. For advice, see the Chairman of the Department of Economics. For advice, see the Chairman of the Department of Economics on courses relating to economics and the Secretary of the Doctoral Board at the Graduate School of Business Administration for business subjects.

Group A

(1) Economic Theory and its History, with special reference to the Development of the History of Economic Thought since 1776.

(2) Economic History since 1750.

(3) Public Finance and Taxation.

(4) Economics of Agriculture.

Group B

(5) Accounting

(6) Marketing

(7) Foreign Trade

(8) Production

(9) Money and Banking

(10) Corporate Organization and Finance

(11) Transportation

(12) Insurance

(13) Statistical Method and its Application

(14) Economics of Public Utilities

(15) Labor

Special Examination and Thesis

     The procedure in general follows that outlined for the Ph.D. in Economics. The field for the special examination should ordinarily be chosen from Group B.

SOURCE:  HARVARD UNIVERSITY ARCHIVES.
UAV 349.11 Box 13. Department of Economics/1930-1961 and some earlier/General Exams to Haberler
Graduate Degree Requirements.