PhD in Economics
Our Mission
The mission of the PhD in Economics program is to produce professional economists by providing graduates with a modern, balanced and high-quality education in both theoretical and applied economics. The department is also committed to examining and improving its program and enhancing the research efforts between faculty and graduate students.
The PhD in Economics program trains students in the core areas of economics (macroeconomics, microeconomics and econometrics) and in quantitative methods, improving their mathematical and econometric skills in the first year. In the second year students gain exposure to several applied fields of economics such as labor, urban and public economics and industrial organization. After the second year students define a field of their choice in which they commence PhD dissertation work. You may read recently completed PhD dissertations topics, as well as selected PhD alumni bios.
The PhD program in Economics is classified as a STEM degree (CIP Code 45.0603: Econometrics and Quantitative Economics). This designation reflects the quantitative orientation of the program and makes international students on F-1 visas eligible for a total of 3 years of Optional Practical Training (OPT) after graduation.
Learning Outcomes
Every fall, the department welcomes approx. 9-14 new doctoral candidates. The PhD degree can take anywhere from four to eight years to complete, depending on the student's individual progress. Upon successful completion of the PhD in Economics, students will:
- Demonstrate an in-depth knowledge of microeconomic and macroeconomic theories and methods of analysis.
- Demonstrate mastery of the issues, theories and latest advances in one of the sub-fields of economics offered by the program.
- Demonstrate ability to conduct independent and original basic and applied research in economics.
- Achieve a high level of competence understanding the most recent theoretical and quantitative methods in economics.
- Acquire employable skills (i.e. teaching experience) to further professional endeavors. Most graduates pursue academic teaching and research careers, while others find rewarding careers in federal, state or local government, or in the private sector, both at home and abroad.
Contact Us
Jameson Yu is the Assistant Director of graduate economics programs. He is responsible for recruiting students from around the world, answering program questions, processing applications and assisting our PhD students. Please feel free to contact Jameson by telephone, email or personal appointment with any questions or concerns.