PhD in Economics
Shape the future with data and insight
At the University at Buffalo, our four to five year PhD in Economics program prepares you to lead with data, theory and purpose. Whether you're investigating inequality, modeling markets or helping shape smarter public policy, you’ll develop the tools to ask big questions—and find meaningful answers.
Learn more about:
We train professional economists who thrive in research, education, government and industry. Through a rigorous yet balanced education in both theoretical and applied economics, you’ll gain deep knowledge and real-world experience—alongside personal mentorship and collaborative research with faculty.
International student benefits
This program is STEM-designated, meaning international students may qualify for up to three years of Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the U.S. after graduation. It's a great opportunity to launch a career with impact.
Close mentorship
Work one-on-one with faculty on original research
Teaching workshops
Build skills as a teaching assistant and future instructor
Research seminars
Present and get feedback throughout your PhD journey
Economics is the science of choices. It’s about how people, businesses and governments decide how to use limited resources. And it plays a role in nearly every major challenge facing the world today—from inflation to innovation.
At UB, you’ll build strong foundations in macroeconomics, microeconomics and econometrics in your first year. Then you’ll explore applied fields like labor, urban and public economics, industrial organization and more before diving into your own dissertation research. By the time you graduate, you’ll be able to:
- Analyze complex systems using economic theory and quantitative methods
- Conduct original research and contribute new insights to the field
- Communicate clearly with peers, policy leaders and the public
- Teach, mentor or lead in academic, public or private-sector roles
Total Credit Hours: 72 credit hours
Minimum Economics Credits: 36
Program Length: 5 years (typical)
Enrollment: Full-time only
Application Fee: $75
GRE: Recommended, but not required
Course breakdown
- Macroeconomic Theory I
- Macroeconomic Theory II
- Mathematics for Economists
- Introduction to Econometric Theory
- Econometric Applications and Methods
- Microeconomic Theory I
- Microeconomic Theory II
- Topics in Economics (non-credit, required seminar for first-year students)
- Independent Research (1–6 credits)
- Thesis Guidance (1–6 credits per term)
- Choose from 700- and 800-level ECO courses
- Up to two electives may be from outside the department
Our graduates go on to rewarding careers as:
- Professors and researchers at universities
- Economists at the Federal Reserve or World Bank
- Policy advisors in government and NGOs
- Data scientists in finance, tech and consulting
If you’re ready to make new discoveries, lead groundbreaking research, UB is ready for you.
View PhD Program Metrics
Admissions
We admit new students each fall.
🗓️ Apply by Feb. 1 for full financial aid consideration
🗓️ Apply by Jan. 10 for Presidential Fellowship consideration
For more information, please reach out to us!