April 26–May 10, 2027
Experience the Birthplace of Modern Economics
Starting in beautiful Edinburgh and ending in iconic London, this Travel Study explores the ideas, people, and places that shaped modern economics and the Industrial Revolution. Students will examine how economic thought developed, how societies changed through industrialization, and how these historical developments continue to influence our lives today.
Along the way, you'll experience British culture firsthand, visit historic sites, engage in active learning experiences, and earn academic credit while exploring some of the United Kingdom's most significant cities.
Jump To
Itinerary
Edinburgh (4 Nights)
Beginning in Scotland's capital, students will explore the Scottish Enlightenment and the influence of thinkers such as Adam Smith on modern economics.
Possible Activities
- Guided walking tour of the Royal Mile
- Museum on the Mound
- Edinburgh Castle
- Adam Smith walking tour
- Exploring Edinburgh's historic New Town
- Traditional afternoon tea
Manchester (2 Nights)
Manchester was one of the world's first industrial cities and played a key role in Britain's economic transformation.
Possible Activities
- Quarry Bank textile mill
- Historic factory demonstrations
- Workers' housing tours
- Guided exploration of Ancoats, the world's first industrial suburb
Birmingham (3 Nights)
Students will explore the industries and innovations that powered the Industrial Revolution.
Possible Activities
- Stay at historic Castle Bromwich Hall
- Birmingham canal cruise
- Traditional British carvery dinner
- Day trip to Ironbridge and Telford
- Tours of Industrial Revolution factories
- Back-to-Backs housing museum
Cambridge (1 Night)
Cambridge offers opportunities to explore one of the world's most influential university cities and the legacy of economist John Maynard Keynes.
Possible Activities
- Guided walking tour of Cambridge
- Visits to historic colleges
- Punting on the River Cam
- Evensong at King's College Chapel
London (4 Nights)
The final portion of the trip focuses on twentieth-century economic thought, political systems, and major British institutions.
Possible Activities
- Walking tour from Monument to Trafalgar Square
- National Portrait Gallery
- British Library treasures tour
- British Museum
- Bank of England Museum
- Westminster Abbey service
- Optional West End theatre performance
Academic Experience
This Travel Study goes beyond traditional classroom learning. Students will encounter economic ideas in the places where they emerged and explore the relationship between economics, society, government, culture, and faith.
Students will examine questions such as:
- What contributes to human flourishing?
- How does economic freedom shape societies?
- What factors led to the Industrial Revolution?
- How have capitalism and communism influenced modern history?
- How should we think about economic systems today?
The trip emphasizes discussion, inquiry, and active participation rather than passive observation.
Course Information
Most students will take two courses as part of the Travel Study.
ECON 306 – History of Economic Thought
This course forms the academic foundation for the Travel Study and examines the ideas, individuals, and historical developments that shaped modern economics.
Benefits include:
- Upper-level course credit
- Core Curriculum Historical/Archival Way of Knowing (WoK)
- Experiential Way of Knowing (WoK) when completed as a Travel Study
- Counts toward the Economics Certificate
Additional Courses
The recommended second course for many students is:
FNDN 201 – Ideas That Inspire
This course encourages reflection on major ideas and perspectives that influence how we understand the world. Travel provides a unique context for these conversations.
Additional course options may be offered depending on student interest and academic needs. Students are encouraged to connect with the trip leader early.
Costs & What's Included
Travel Fee: $3,950 CAD
Included
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Not Included
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Payment Schedule
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- Hotels
- Transportation within the UK
- Long-distance train travel
- Public transit and taxis associated with program activities
- Admission fees
- Private tours
- Selected meals
- Tips and gratuities
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- Airfare to the United Kingdom
- Return flight home
- Tuition
- Personal spending money
- Some meals
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- $1,000 deposit due shortly after the application deadline
- Remaining balance payable in installments during spring 2027
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Accommodations & Meals
Students will stay in quality 3- or 4-star accommodations throughout the trip. Whenever possible, historic properties are selected to enhance the overall experience.
Students typically:
- Share a room with another student of the same gender
- Have their own bed
- Receive daily hotel breakfasts
- Participate in several group meals included in the travel fee
Vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-conscious meal options will be accommodated whenever possible.
Active Learning Experiences
Past Travel Studies have included hands-on experiences such as:
- Striking a medieval coin using historical techniques
- Visiting Adam Smith's house
- Touring Birmingham's industrial canals
- Creating tiles using traditional Industrial Revolution methods
- Dining in locations connected to significant historical figures
- Worshipping together at historic churches and cathedrals
- Participating in traditional British afternoon tea experiences
The goal is to make learning tangible, memorable, and deeply connected to place.
Faculty Leader
Tracy Stobbe, PhD
Tracy Stobbe, PhD has taught in TWU's School of Business since 2007 and holds a PhD in Economics. Her academic interests include economic theory and the history of economics, and she describes ECON 306 as one of her favourite courses to teach.
Britain is her favourite travel destination, and this Travel Study represents her eighth trip to the region.
Additional faculty may participate depending on enrollment and course offerings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be an Economics major?
No. Students from a variety of academic backgrounds are welcome. Course planning can be discussed with the trip leader.
How many students will participate?
The anticipated group size is approximately 12–25 students.
When is the application deadline?
November 26, 2026. Students are encouraged to express interest much earlier to assist with course planning.
Is airfare included?
No. Students arrange their own international flights, allowing flexibility to use airline points or extend travel plans.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
Group meals and hotel breakfasts are planned with dietary accommodations in mind, including vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-conscious options.
Contact Information
Tracy Stobbe, PhD
School of Business
Email: Tracy.Stobbe@twu.ca
Interested students are encouraged to connect early to discuss course options, academic goals, and trip planning.