econ phd gre

Have questions about applying? Please check our FAQ page  before emailing us at [email protected] . We partner with Harvard Economics to connect prospective students from underrepresented groups with graduate student mentors. Details of this Application Assistance and Mentoring Program are available below.

Application requirements

The application to our doctoral program is open annually from September 15-December 15 for admission the following September. The application for September 2024 admission is now closed.

Your application is considered complete when you have successfully submitted the following requirements by the December 15 application deadline:

• Online application
• $75 application fee
• Scanned copy of college transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English Qualification (C1 & C2) test score (any one) for international students whose native language is not English
• The GRE is required as part of applications for the 2025-2026 cycle (for September 2025 admission)

To request a fee waiver, please complete MIT's application fee waiver form . You should carefully review the eligibility criteria prior to applying. A representative from MIT’s Office of Graduate Education will be in touch about the outcome of your request.

Transcripts

Please upload one copy of each transcript from all universities you have attended. If you're admitted to the program, we'll require you to have an official copy of your transcript(s) sent to us from the university's registrar. Your transcript will be verified upon receipt and any discrepancy between the transcript you uploaded and the official transcript will result in a withdrawal of our offer of admission.

Letters of recommendation

Letters must be submitted/uploaded by the letter writers by December 15. Please send the email request to your letter writers via the 'Letter Status' section in your application.

TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English Qualification scores

International students whose first language is not English are required to submit   English language proficiency test scores unless they are a US citizen or permanent resident. The department will also waive the requirement for international non-native speakers of English who have spent three or more years studying in an accredited school or university where English is the language of instruction.  (Please note: verification of the institution’s language of instruction may be requested.)

We accept the following test scores:

• Cambridge English C1 Advanced
• Cambridge English C2 Proficiency

If you meet the criteria for a waiver, you can make a request to waive the English proficiency exam requirement on the online application, under the "test scores" section.

TOEFL, IELTS, and Cambridge English Qualification scores are valid or accepted for two years. Scores that expire while an application is under review will be considered valid.

Submitting your scores

Your online application will prompt you to attach a scanned copy of your test scores. Your scores must also be sent directly to MIT from ETS, IELTS, or Cambridge. MIT's school code for the TOEFL is 3514. The TOEFL code for the Department of Economics is 84. IELTS and Cambridge do not require a code. Please enter "Massachusetts Institute of Technology- Graduate Admissions."

Official scores must be received from ETS, IELTS, or Cambridge by December 15. Please take your proficiency exam of choice by November 30 to allow for proper reporting time. If your score report arrives shortly after the deadline, it will be accepted, but your application may not be reviewed until your scores are received.

Minimum score requirements

The minimum requirement for the TOEFL is PBT: 600, iBT: 100. The minimum requirement for the IELTS is 7.  The minimum requirement for the Cambridge English Qualifications is a CEFR score of 185.

Your online application will give you the option to attach a scanned copy of your test scores or a screenshot of the scores from the ETS website. You can also send a score report directly to MIT from ETS. MIT's school code for the GRE is 3514. The code for the Department of Economics is 1801.

To allow for your scores to arrive by the application deadline, you should take the GRE by November 30 to allow for reporting time.

Personal statement (optional)

We encourage applicants to include a statement of objectives/personal statement with their application, though it is not required. The statement is an opportunity to explain what makes you a good candidate for the program. You should describe why you wish to attend graduate school, what you would like to study, and any research experience. Describe one or more accomplishments you are particularly proud of that suggest that you will succeed in your chosen area of research. You can also share any unique perspective or life experience that would contribute to the program.   Statements are typically two single-spaced pages.

Application Assistance and Mentoring Program

Many students interested in an economics PhD experience disparate degrees of support in the application process. The Application Assistance and Mentoring Program (AAMP) aims to mitigate these gaps by helping students from underrepresented groups connect with a graduate student mentor in MIT or Harvard’s PhD economics programs.

Mentors can provide:

• Advice on graduate school and fellowship applications, including questions about the application process and feedback on application materials.
• Information about economics research, life as a PhD student or in an academic career, for students who are deciding whether a PhD in economics is the right choice for them.

The AAMP aims to increase the pipeline of diverse talent in economics PhD programs and welcomes participation from all groups underrepresented in economics, including but not limited to: Black, Hispanic-Latinx, Native American, low-income, and LGBTQ+ students, women, students with disabilities, and students who are the first in their families to go to college. The AAMP welcomes participation among students at various stages of their economics studies, including undergraduates and college graduates. The AAMP is open to students who are curious about the academic economics experience and interested in figuring out if it’s right for them. 

Interested participants should fill out the application linked below. We will accept applications until July 17, 2023. Mentorship will begin over the summer and continue through Fall 2023. Mentees who prefer to meet for a single “coffee chat” may indicate their preference on the form. We will do our best to match all interested applicants with a mentor; however, demand may exceed the availability of mentors.

Please note that the MIT / Harvard Economics AAMP is a volunteer-based, student-run program. This program is not considered part of the admissions process for the Economics PhD at MIT or Harvard, nor will any student's participation in the AAMP be considered by the Graduate Admissions Committee at either school.

Please direct any questions to [email protected] . To join the program, please click the link below to fill out the form.

Click here for the application form If you are a faculty, program advisor/coordinator, or student interested in being notified when 2024-2025 AAMP applications open, please fill out this form .

Jump to navigation

Search form

• History of Women Faculty in Economics
• Chairs & Managers
• Research Centers
• Publications
• Year-end letter: Berkeley Economics
• Faculty Profiles
• In Memoriam
• Graduate Program
• Current Students
• Graduate Profiles
• 2023-2024 Job Market Candidates
• 2023-2024 Ph.D. Job Market Infopage
• Undergraduate Program
• Course Enrollment
• Prospective Majors
• Current Majors
• Student Organizations
• Commencement
• Course List
• This Week's Seminars
• Next Week's Seminars
• Spring 2024 Economics Classes
• Summer 2024 Economics Classes
• Charter Hill Society for Economics
• Submit a note
• Alumni Notes

Ph.D. in Economics

The Ph.D. program at Berkeley is designed for students interested in pursuing advanced study and conducting original research in Economics. The Ph.D. degree is awarded in recognition of the recipient's qualifications as a general economist and of the ability to make scholarly contributions in fields of specialization. Additionally, the Economics Ph.D. program is residential, there is no remote enrollment option. 

In advancing to the Ph.D. degree, students pass through two major stages:

• Preparation for candidacy typically takes two to three years. During the first two semesters, students take courses to achieve competence in econometric methods, methods of economic history and fundamentals of microeconomic and macroeconomic theory. During the next two years, students prepare for examination in two fields of specialization of their choosing, prepare a dissertation prospectus, and take an oral examination. When these steps are completed, students are advanced to candidacy.
• Completion of a dissertation after advancing to candidacy typically takes one to two years. The dissertation must be based on original research and represent a significant contribution to the body of Economic knowledge.

The entire process takes approximately five to six years, although some students are able to complete the program in less time. Below is an overview of the program requirements by year and other pertinent information.

The UC Berkeley College of Letters & Science   provides students helpful resources, links, and tools for successfully completing the Ph.D. in Economics.

ECONOMICS GRADUATE STUDENT SERVICES

The economics student services mission is to advise our students holistically by providing a high standard of service in a supportive and collaborative environment.  professional and peer advisors work as a team to provide accurate information in a timely manner.  we partner with faculty to assist students in engaging with the campus and the global economic community.  we value fairness, diversity, and the important roles our students, faculty, and staff in the department of economics play at the university of california, berkeley..

If you or someone you know is experiencing financial, food, housing or other basic needs challenges - you can find support and services at:  http://tinyurl.com/UCB-BNC-C19 .

Meet the members of the Economics Graduate Student Services advising team!

Graduate Office Address:

Secondary Menu

• Application and Admission Information

Duke University offers a world-class doctoral program in economics, featuring a vibrant faculty of exceptional scholars and teachers, superior research facilities, and opportunities to interact with leading scholars in related disciplines here at Duke and from around the world. Application information can be found in the menus below, and more information about our program requirements, funding, job market placements, and life in Durham and North Carolina through the menu items on the right. 

Duke Economics does not pre-screen potential applicants. We are unable to evaluate a student's "chances" for admission to our program simply from looking at their self-reported scores and academic history. We judge each applicant's potential against the strength of the entire applicant pool, which varies from year to year. We do not measure students against a set of minimum criteria in order to decide upon admission, but instead gauge them against the overall caliber of all applicants. Students who are viewed as the most competitive for the Ph.D. program will typically demonstrate a solid academic or professional history with mathematics, including multi-variable calculus, linear algebra and real analysis, as they are the cornerstones of the program, which is quite math intensive. While prior experience in the field of economics is preferred, many successful applicants to the Ph.D. program have come from a variety of backgrounds, including public policy, political science, math, computer science, business, accounting, and engineering.

The usual profile of a matriculant who receives financial aid from Duke for study in the first year would be: (1) an undergraduate record strong in economics, mathematics, or physical science; (2) a perfect or near-perfect score on the quantitative section of the GRE; (3) mathematical skills, including multi-variable calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, real analysis, and introductory statistics and probability; (4) a GPA of 3.5 or better; (5) letters from individuals which confirm the intellectual strength of the candidate. Prospective students not presenting qualifying credentials are discouraged from applying for the Ph.D. program. For more information please refer to the Graduate School's  Degree Programs  page.

Applicants interested in pursuing a graduate degree in economics must apply through the Duke University Graduate School. Please refer to The Graduate School's  website   for information about application procedures and requirements. For general admissions questions or questions about the university requirements, you may also contact the Duke Graduate School at  [email protected] .

​ The Economics Department requires Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores from applicants. In order to meet the January application deadline, GRE tests should be taken no later than the preceding November test date. Only the GRE general test is required, not the subject test. The Ph.D. program does not accept, nor will it review, the GRE subject test or the GMAT in lieu of the GRE general test for admissions purposes. The Department of Economics does not eliminate any applicant solely on the basis of the GRE; however, 80 percent of all applicants to the Ph.D. program earn scores in the top 10 percent on the Quantitative section. Scores that are significantly lower and are supported by less-than-impressive grades in mathematics and economics-related courses may result in rejection on the basis that the applicant is not competitive with the rest of the applicant pool.  Please refer to The Graduate School for more information about score requirements and how to submit your score(s).

English Language Proficiency Test Scores 

If your first language is not English, you must submit scores from either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the academic modules of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS). The scores will be a decisive factor during the application review process. Some applicants may be eligible for a TOEFL/IELTS waiver.  Please refer to The Graduate School for more information about score requirements, score submission, and waiver policy.

• Graduate Mentorship Program

Our Graduate Mentorship Program helps applicants from under-represented backgrounds in the field prepare their applications to Economics Ph.D. programs by matching them to mentors in the Duke Econ Ph.D. program. Read about the program.

Application fee information can be found on The Graduate School Application Fee website.

Fee Waivers :

• The Graduate School offers an application fee waiver option to support prospective students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents from various populations, including those who may be experiencing economic stresses. Please refer to the website for more information.
• The Department of Economics does not offer a separate application fee waiver.

After submitting your online application, you can check the status of your application materials via the  Applicant Portal . You should log in to this system periodically to ensure that all required application materials have been received. Incomplete applications will either not be considered or will be rejected on the basis of incompleteness.

After you submit your online application, it will be made available to your department of interest within one to two business days. The actual in-depth review of your file is conducted by an admissions committee. All applications are reviewed with respect to openings in the department and the strength of other applicants. Attention is given to every aspect of an application, with an attempt made to evaluate past achievement as well as scholarly potential. Academic records, letters of recommendation, GRE scores, and your statement of purpose are all taken into consideration. Admission to the Duke University Graduate School is a competitive process, and your chances of being admitted will differ from year to year depending on the strength of the applicant pool. Decisions about fall admission are generally made in February and March.

Aid offers are made on a rolling basis, as funds permit, beginning in late February. 

Decision Notification

All applicants are notified of admission decisions via e-mail (we do not mail paper copies of notifications). The notification e-mail will provide instructions for accessing the online decision letter.

If You Are Accepted

If you are offered admission, unless otherwise indicated, you must notify The Graduate School of your enrollment decision through the  Applicant Portal  by April 15 or within 15 days of your receipt of the admission letter, whichever is later. If we do not hear back from you by then, we will assume that you have declined the offer of admission, and your application record will be withdrawn.

Your admission offer is valid only for the term and program indicated in the admission letter. Requests for deferral are rarely approved by The Graduate School. Valid reasons for a deferral include serious health issues, visa issues beyond the student’s control, or military service.

Each year more than 700 people apply to the Ph.D. program in economics. Of those applicants, fewer than 10 percent are offered admission. We do not discriminate against any applicant based on country of origin or previous educational experience in deciding which students receive financial aid. Of the students offered admission to the Ph.D. program, about 23 percent decide to come to Duke, and we matriculate an average of 14 students each year. Approximately 75 percent of the students in our program are from outside of the United States. We pride ourselves on our broad spectrum of academic talent from all over the world.

The Graduate School also provides a statistical summary our graduate programs' past admissions and enrollment. For information on offers of admission and matriculation according to demographics, go to  Admissions and Enrollment Statistics .

More FAQs about the admission process can be found on the Duke Graduate School website . 

If you have questions or need additional assistance, please reach out to us!

• Location & Directions
• Our Newsletter
• EcoTeach Center
• Standards of Conduct and Values
• Commencement 2024
• What Economists Do
• Career Paths
• B.S. Concentration in Financial Economics
• B.A. in Economics
• Economics Minor
• Financial Economics Minor
• Differences between the B.A. and B.S. Degrees
• Major Declaration & Registration
• Independent Study
• Co-Curricular Finance Programs
• Duke Economic Analytics Laboratory (DEAL)
• Duke Journal of Economics
• Economics Student Union
• Work-Study Jobs, Internships & Funding
• Commonly Used Forms
• Tutoring & Support Services
• Mentors for Majors
• Instructions, Dates, Resources & Templates
• Showcases, Awards & Past Theses
• Paths to Honors and Suggested Courses
• Trinity Ambassadors
• M.A. Economics
• M.A. Analytical Political Economy
• M.S. Economics & Computation
• M.S. Quantitative Financial Economics
• Info for Prospective Applicants
• Resources for Current Students
• Master's Alumni Advisory Board
• Master's Program Alumni Spotlights
• Master's Program News
• Fields of Study
• Year-by-Year Overview
• Advising and Mentoring of Ph.D. Students
• Financial Support
• Job Market Placements
• Graduate Life
• Pre-Graduate Fellows Program
• Year-By-Year Overview
• Preliminary Exam
• Job Market Paper
• Dissertation
• Modules, Seminars & Workshops
• Research & Travel Funding
• Teaching Assistant Resources
• Student Grievance Process
• Job Market Candidates
• All Courses
• Core Undergrad Economics Courses
• Ph.D. Modules, Seminars & Workshops
• Regular Rank Faculty
• Secondary Faculty
• Instructional Faculty
• Emeritus Faculty
• PhD Students
• Doctoral Candidates
• Development
• Econometrics
• Energy & Environment
• History of Political Economy
• Industrial Organization
• International Economics & Trade
• Labor & Health
• Macroeconomics & Finance
• Microeconomic Theory
• Public & Political Economy
• Conferences, Jamborees, & Lectures
• Visitors Program Speakers
• Working Paper Series
• Journals & Editorships
• Featured Publications
• Selected Faculty Books
• Center for the History of Political Economy
• Duke Financial Economics Center
• About the DEAL
• DEAL Events
• Woodman Scholars
• Woodman Scholar Accomplishments
• Learning Resources
• Duke Help Resources
• For Our Students
• Assisting Duke Students

• Faculty Intranet

DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS

• Prospective Ph.D.s

The Department of Economics at Northwestern is committed to an individualized and holistic review of each application to the PhD program.  This review will take into consideration the substantive disruptions of the COVID19 pandemic as well as other challenges that influence personal circumstances.  We recognize that many institutions converted to a Pass/No Pass (P/N) grading system in response to the pandemic. Finally, we understand that there are circumstances which may prevent students from submitting a complete application. Please email [email protected] with any individual requests or concerns.

The Department of Economics and The Graduate School (TGS) at Northwestern  encourages underrepresented students  to apply for admission to our doctoral program.

The application will be available in September. The application deadline is January 4, 2024, 11:59pm CST

Before You Apply

Degrees offered.

The Department of Economics offers a full-time Ph.D. program in Economics.

The Department of Economics and the Finance Department in the Kellogg School of Management offer a joint full-time Ph.D. program in Financial Economics.  Read more about the program requirements and how to apply.

Applicants who wish to pursue graduate education in an Economics-based program at Northwestern University, either in the Kellogg School of Management or Department of Economics, are permitted to submit one application for a primary or first choice PhD program while requesting additional consideration for a second choice PhD program. Read more about the dual application process and requirements.

Please note that the department does not admit students for a terminal MA degree. An MA degree is only available to Economics Ph.D. students who have successfully completed the first year of the doctoral program, and to students enrolled in other doctoral programs at Northwestern.

Prerequisites

• Applicants must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent by the time they begin graduate work.
• Applicants are not required to have majored in economics but must possess a solid mathematics background. All students are expected to have a total of four quarters of differential and integral calculus plus linear algebra before entering the program. Students occasionally are admitted with an inadequate mathematical background if their record is extremely strong otherwise and they agree to take remedial math courses upon arrival. In most cases, however, students with inadequate mathematical training are advised to delay graduate school and take a year of math first.

Application Steps

Step 1: complete the university's application form.

All applicants must complete the standard application form , and pay the application fee. Procedures and qualifications for fee waivers can be found here . The application is available in September of the application year. 

Program Code  for the Ph.D. program in Economics is E05PH.

Application Fee:  The fee is $95.

Deadline: The application deadline is January 4, 2024 at 11:59pm.  Applicants are considered for admission to the fall term only. There are no winter or spring admissions.

Applicants from underrepresented groups:  The Department of Economics welcomes applications by students from underrepresented groups. Northwestern participates in the Big Ten Academic Alliance and accepts the FreeApp. Interested applicants who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and have a serious intent to pursue a career in teaching and academic research may use the FreeApp to request an application fee waiver at Northwestern. Eligibility criteria and the FreeApp online application can be found at the Big Ten Academic Alliance site:  https://btaa.org/resources-for/students/freeapp/eligibility

CV/Resume:  A concise CV/resume is very important. It should make clear what you have done since graduating from high school without leaving any gaps. It should describe briefly any full time jobs that you have held, research experience while a student, publications (if any), and awards and honors. 

Courses Form: You will be prompted to complete a courses form in the application.  It summarizes the six most advanced college courses you have completed in both economics and mathematics. You can download this form as a fillable  PDF.

If you cannot download this form, then it is acceptable if you create your own form which contains the same information in a similar format.

• List only courses that have been already graded, and not courses that you are currently taking, or are planning to take.
• In the first five columns, you should fill in the course number, title, the school at which it was taken, date of completion, and grade exactly as they appear on your transcript.
• In the sixth column, mention the main textbook for the course, if there was such a text (it is enough to write the author(s) name(s) and the first few words of the title as space permits).
• If you have taken more than six courses in any of these disciplines, pick the six most advanced ones (but ensure that you mention core courses in intermediate microeconomics, intermediate macroeconomics and econometrics).
• If you are taking substantial courses during the fall term and do not have the grades in time to be included in this application, you may send an updated version of the form as an e-mail attachment to  [email protected]  after you know your grade. By substantial courses we mean advanced math courses such as Real Analysis or graduate economics courses.
• If your fall courses are standard economics courses of a similar level to those you have taken before, there is no need to report their results after submitting the application.

Academic Statement of Purpose (500 to 1,000 words):   The academic statement of purpose should be between 500 and 1,000 words and should focus on your research interests and goals, and how your qualifications and strengths will enable you to formulate important and creative research topics and convincingly execute the research.   Writing Sample:  The standard application allows the possibility of submission of writing samples. The Economics Department does not require writing samples. However, if you have a research paper you wish us to consider as part of the application, you can upload it in this part of the application. Do not upload more than one paper.  Students may also submit grant applications, such as the NSF research proposal, as a writing sample. Letters of Recommendation  are required from at least three people. You will provide emails for your recommenders in the application. The university then contacts the recommender directly with instructions on how to submit their letters. Up to five letters of recommendation will be accepted. Scanned Copies of GRE, and (if necessary) TOEFL/IELTS results . If you have already received your GRE and TOEFL/IELTS results, scan the results and upload them as part of your application. More details on these tests are described in Steps 2 and 3 below.  Results should be submitted by the January 5 deadline. Note that the university verifies your results based on information provided directly to the university from the testing companies. Scanned Copy of your Transcript(s).  An official transcript is required from each institution attended. Transcripts must bear the registrar's signature or official seal to be considered official and acceptable. Scan the transcript(s) and upload them as part of your application.  Please wait to upload your transcript(s) until after your fall grades have been posted.  If your fall grades aren’t available by January 5 (application deadline), upload your most current transcript.  If you ultimately enroll at Northwestern, you will be asked to supply the university with an official hard copy of your transcript(s).

For more information on the University's admission process , see  The Graduate School Admissions  page.

Step 2: Complete the GRE

The institution code for Northwestern University is 1565.

Step 3: Certify English Proficiency

Your success in graduate study of economics depends on your ability to understand, read, write and speak English. If English is not your native language, evidence of proficiency in its use will be decisive in reviewing your application for admission. Because of the nature of economics, the department has stricter language requirements than the minimum required by the University.

You can demonstrate English proficiency in only three ways:

• be a native English speaker;
• by earning an undergraduate degree at an accredited institution where the language of instruction is English, and you attended this institution for all years of your undergraduate study; or
• by providing official scores for either the  Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)  or the  International English Language Testing System (IELTS)  examination.

Earning a graduate degree at an English-speaking institution without having attended an English-speaking institution for your undergraduate degree is insufficient demonstration of proficiency in English. You should take the TOEFL/IELTS to support your admission to the Department of Economics.

Students taking the TOEFL must score a minimum of 600 on the paper-based exam, 250 on the computer-based exam, or 100 on the internet-based exam (TOEFL iBT).  We accept MyBest Scores for the TOEFL iBT. Students taking the IELTS must have a minimum overall score of 7.0. The tests must have been taken no more than two years before the intended date of entry (which  means no more than 15 months prior to your application). Results of the TOEFL/IELTS test are reported directly to the Graduate School. However, if you already have your results, upload a scan as part of your application. 

The institution code for Northwestern is 1565, and the relevant department code is 01.

In addition to these language requirements, most international students from non-English speaking countries will take the Versant English Test on their arrival at Northwestern to demonstrate their spoken English. Obtaining a score of at least 65 on this test is required to make a student eligible to be considered for appointment as a Teaching Assistant, a common form of financial support in the second and subsequent years.  However, students scoring 26 or higher (out of a possible 30) on the speaking section of the TOEFL internet-based test will be considered as meeting the spoken English proficiency requirement and will not need to take the Versant test.

Step 4: The Decision Process

Step 5: visas for international applicants.

For general information on the visa process once you have been admitted, please visit Northwestern's International Office website at  www.northwestern.edu/international

Northwestern University reserves the right to change without notice any statement in this publication concerning, but not limited to, rules, policies, tuition, fees, curricula, and courses.

It is the policy of Northwestern University not to discriminate against any individual on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, parental status, marital status, age, disability, citizenship, or veteran status in matters of admissions, employment, housing, or services or in the educational programs or activities it operates, in accordance with civil rights legislation and University commitment.

Any alleged violations of this policy or questions regarding the law with respect to nondiscrimination should be directed to Director of Equal Employment Opportunity, Affirmative Action, and Disability Services, 720 University Place, Evanston, Illinois 60208-1147, phone +1-847-491-7458.

College of Arts & Sciences

PhD Admissions

Thank you for your interest in the Georgetown University Ph.D. in Economics program. The Ph.D. program in Economics is a full-time program that admits students with outstanding analytical skills; a strong preparation in mathematics is essential for successful application. Undergraduate training in economics is desirable, but exceptions are made in cases of students with appropriate alternative backgrounds. Undergraduate training in statistics and multivariable calculus is required, plus superior performance on the verbal, quantitative, and analytical aptitude sections of the GRE. Students with previous training in economics are encouraged to take the economics achievement section of the GRE. Other admissions requirements include three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, academic statement of purpose, and application fee. An academic writing sample is not required for consideration to the program. The core courses in typical Ph.D. programs in economics, including Georgetown’s, are highly mathematical. The typical matriculate to the Georgetown Ph.D. program has a strong mathematics background and achieves above the 80th percentile on the quantitative section of the GRE. Ideally, applicants should have completed three semesters of calculus and one semester each of linear algebra and differential equations.

The application deadline for admission to the program in the Fall 2024 is January 15, 2024 .  

Application Information

Applications In order to apply to the Economics Program, you will need to complete the Economics Ph.D. Application administered through the Georgetown University Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Admissions office.

Unfortunately, the Department will not offer an application fee waiver under any circumstance.

GRE Exam Applicants must take the GRE exam as it is mandatory for your application to be considered. The GRE code for Georgetown University is 5244.

TOEFL / IELTS All applicants must provide proof of English language proficiency to be eligible for admission. Please note that citizenship does not determine English language proficiency.  Proof of English language proficiency can be demonstrated by: 

• the receipt of a bachelor’s or advanced degree from an accredited institution of higher education in the United States or from a university where English is the primary language of instruction. The degree does not have to be earned by the time of application but will need to be conferred by the start of the semester to which the applicant is applying. (Please note that applicants receiving degrees at universities in U.S. territories, such as Puerto Rico, are required to submit the TOEFL or IELTS unless the primary language of instruction at the institution is English.)
• submission of an official Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score report with a minimum score of 550 (paper-based test) or 80 (internet test). Many departments and programs require submission of a TOEFL score of 600 (paper-based test) or 100 (internet test) or higher.
• submission of an official International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Module score report with a minimum score of 7.0. Some departments and programs require submission of an IELTS score of 7.5.

The TOEFL code for Georgetown University is 5244. Transcripts Applicants are required to upload to the application system unofficial transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Do not send electronic or paper copies of your transcripts before receiving an offer of admission. Review the unofficial transcript requirements for additional details and FAQs.  

Letters of Recommendation Three letters of recommendation are required. If you would like to submit a fourth letter of recommendation you may send it to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Admissions office via email. The Department can not guarantee the Admissions Committee will review all four letters of recommendation.

Materials Please send all application materials directly to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Admissions Office. Please DO NOT send transcripts, letters of recommendation, copies of your GRE scores, or IELTS/TOEFL documentation to the Economics Department . The Department is not allowed to keep these materials nor are we allowed to forward these materials  to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences on an applicant’s behalf,  unless they are in a sealed envelope.  

Contacts/Questions For any programmatic related questions, please feel free to contact: Julius J. Shapiro, Ph.D. Program Coordinator Email: [email protected] Phone: 202-687-5601

For any application-related questions, please contact the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences Admissions Office Phone: 202-687-5568 E mail:  [email protected]  

Please DO NOT send e-mail questions to individual faculty members. If you have any questions for Faculty members, please email Julius J. Shapiro, Ph.D. Program Coordinator instead.  

Once again, thank you for your interest in Georgetown University’s Economics Ph.D. Program. We look forward to receiving your application.

Regards, Julius J. Shapiro,  Ph.D. Program Coordinator

• Skip to Main
• Faculty Openings
• Administrative Support for Virtual Instruction
• Faculty Spotlight
• B.A./M.A. Program
• Study Abroad
• Undergraduate FAQs
• Activities and Awards
• Internship Offers
• Jobs & Research Opportunities
• Contests and Awards
• Conferences
• Edgenomics Series
• Major in Economics
• Honors Program
• Minor in Economics
• Joint Major Programs
• M.A. in Economics
• M.S. Program

Ph.D. Program

• FAS Econ Workshops
• FAS Econ Student Workshops
• Colloquium on Market Institutions and Economic Processes
• Conferences/Workshops
• Stern Economic Seminars
• Stern Finance Seminars
• Stern Research Centers
• Miscellaneous Seminars
• Miscellaneous External Webinars
• Prior Year Seminars
• Spring 2024
• PhD Students
• Job Market Placements
• Job Market Candidates 2023
• Administration and Staff
• Department Directory

The Doctor of Philosophy is a research degree.  It signifies that the recipient is able to conduct independent research and has both a broad basic knowledge of all areas of economics and a comprehensive knowledge of one area in particular.  The Ph.D. program equips its graduates with modern economic techniques, enabling them to take leadership positions in economic research in the academic, business, and government worlds.

The Department of Economics has risen to prominence in recent years by attracting internationally renowned scholars to its faculty and by carefully selecting its student body.  There are many reasons to believe that we can offer students an outstanding intellectual environment.  Seven members of our department are Fellows of the Econometric Society, and one is a Nobel Laureate.  Many currently serve or have served on the editorial boards of major journals, including the  American Economic Review ,  Econometrica , the  Review of Economic Studies , and the  Journal of Economic Theory .  Perhaps most significantly, the department placed among the top ten in the Tilburg University  ranking  of economics departments.

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Admission to graduate studies in economics is limited to students of outstanding promise. All applicants must submit scores from Graduate Record Examination (GRE), which is administered by the Educational Testing Service, Princeton, N.J. 08540, to complete their application and be considered for admissions. All international students must take the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) examination or the IELTS (International English Language Testing System). Exceptions to this rule include students who attended English speaking college-level institutions. Students from English speaking countries, such as the U.K. or Ireland are also exempt from taking the TOEFL or IELTS exams.

The Ph.D. program is designed for full-time students only. In evaluating applicants for this program, members of the departmental admissions committee consider the following criteria: previous academic performance, quantitative GRE scores, letters of recommendation, personal statement, and background in economics and mathematics. Because of the diverse nature of such information, we do not adhere to strictly defined cut-off points on grade-point averages or GRE scores. Applicants should also remember that the Ph.D. and the M.A. programs are very different and have different objectives and  admissions criteria. Admission into the M.A. program does not guarantee eventual admission to the Ph.D program. Those interested in the Ph.D. program are encouraged to apply directly to the Ph.D. program, and not to the M.A. program.

DEPARTMENTAL FELLOWSHIPS, PRIZES, AND AWARDS

There are various sources of funding for students in the Ph.D. program. Our top students receive MacCracken fellowship awards. These fellowships guarantee funding for five years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) in the form of payment of the basic tuition fee as well as a living allowance for the year. Many other students work as teaching adjuncts, sometimes assisting a professor and sometimes teaching a course of their own. Many professors also have research grants from a variety of sources (National Science Foundation, C.V. Starr Center, etc) which provide research assistantships (R.A.'s) to graduate students.

REQUIREMENTS FOR A Ph.D.

Program Requirements

Field Requirements

Assessing Progress in the Economics PhD Program

Responsible Conduct of Research

Graduate Handbook

Related Information

• Fellowship Information
• FAQ for Doctoral Students
• Advisor Report Form
• Field Completion Form
• Requirements and Deadlines for Applying to the Economics PhD Program
• GSAS Application Resource Center
• GSAS Academic and Professional Development
• New Student Checklist
• NYU Economics Alumni Club
• Instructions for Visiting PhD Students
• Preliminary Oral Defense Form
• P.h.D. Fall 2020 Curricular Plan
• CV Template

• Research Centers
• Academic Programs
• Princeton University
• News & Activities
• Prospective Majors
• Major Requirements
• Course Selection
• Independent Work
• Other Rules and Grading Guidelines
• Economics Statistical Services (ESS)
• Minors and Programs
• Study Abroad and Internship Milestone Credit
• Funding, Research Assistant, and Career Opps
• Common Questions

Ph.D. Admissions

Current Students

• Course Offerings
• Job Market and Placements
• Graduate Student Directory

Graduate Program

Ph.d. studies at princeton economics.

The Ph.D. program at Princeton Economics is one of the premier economics programs in the world. The small number of students admitted each year receive training in an exceptional research environment, supported by faculty members who are working at the forefront of research in their fields.

Admission to the program is extremely selective. Each year, the department receives approximately 800 applications for a class of 20 to 25 students. Students come from diverse backgrounds and from dozens of countries around the globe.

Princeton provides all admitted Ph.D. students tuition and fellowship support for the academic year. Admitted students also receive fellowship support through the summer months so they can continue their study and research when classes are not in session.

The Economics Department at Princeton does not offer a Master’s Degree. Students looking for information about the Master in Finance can learn more on the Princeton Bendheim Center for Finance website .

Job Market Placements

Share this page

The Harvard Department of Economics has long tried to use scholarship to find answers for some of the world’s most pressing questions including the future of work, ending global poverty, and improving the environment. We believe nothing should limit the economist’s imagination.

You will be part of a program that includes people working in many fields, such as finance, economic history, behavioral economics, political economy, and many more. The program will prepare you for a productive and stimulating career as an economist. You will attend seminars given by top scholars from both domestic and international communities and will have access to over 13 million books and pamphlets from 90 separate library units at Harvard.

Examples of student research include how investor base composition is an important determinant of bond price dynamics and capital allocation outcomes in response to aggregate credit cycle fluctuations, and the long-term effects that temporary upstream steel tariffs on US manufacturing have on downstream industries.

Graduates have secured academic positions at prestigious institutions like MIT, Stanford University, and Yale University. Others have gone on to careers at organizations like the International Monetary Fund, Vanguard, Federal Reserve Bank of New York, and Amazon.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Department of Economics and requirements for the degree are detailed in Policies .

Admissions Requirements

Please review admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Department of Economics .

Academic Background

Applicants should have an understanding of economics and have taken at least some economics courses beyond the principles level. Applicants should be able to demonstrate their ability to do research by either having done research previously or via experience as a research assistant. In the latter instance, a letter from the supervisor indicating the ability to do research is critical.

Writing Sample

A writing sample is required and must be no less than 15 pages.

Math Preparation

The minimum level of mathematical preparation to be considered for admission includes calculus and linear algebra and demonstration of proficiency with mathematics. Increasingly, successful applicants will have taken more mathematics classes. In particular, most successful applicants now take real analysis, although that is not a requirement.

Standardized Tests

GRE General: Required GRE Subject Test: Optional

Applying to More Than One Program

Harvard has several PhD programs that may also be of interest to students considering applying to the PhD program in economics. These include Business Economics , Public Policy , and Health Policy . Many students in these programs have considerable overlap in their coursework with courses offered to PhD students in economics. Many also have dissertation committees that include faculty members of the economics department.

We encourage those with interest in any of those programs to also apply to those programs. The Department of Economics will make admissions decisions independently, so application to or admission to other programs will not adversely affect admissions decisions within the department. However, please note that if you choose to apply to additional programs, you can only submit three applications to Harvard Griffin GSAS during the course of your academic career.

Campus Visits

The department arranges for campus visits for all admitted students and we cover a portion the costs associated with these visits. We do not encourage visits prior to being admitted. Since the department receives an overwhelming number of applications, it’s simply more efficient to arrange meetings with faculty after students are accepted rather than before.

Theses & Dissertations

Theses & Dissertations for Economics

See list of Economics faculty

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Questions about the program.

Apply for a PhD

Our graduate admissions process is highly selective. However, in keeping with our international character, we recognize that students from different backgrounds demonstrate high potential in a variety of ways.

Any well-qualified individual with a baccalaureate degree from a recognized college or university (or with equivalent education) may apply for admission to graduate Economics programs.

Follow this link to see data on acceptance rates, demographics of our PhD students, and career outcomes.

Students applying for entry into our STEM designated PhD program are normally expected to have passed some advanced undergraduate or graduate courses or seminars in economic theory, and to have had extensive training in mathematics, statistics, and econometrics, as well as a working knowledge of computer programming.

A score above the 90th percentile on the GRE-Quantitative section provides strong evidence of PhD-level ability; this indicator is neither necessary nor sufficient for admission, however, as the candidate’s full dossier is taken into account.

GRE Requirement

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is required .  

Applicants must take the GRE General Test at least one month before the application deadline. The GRE Subject Tests are not required. The GRE is a major component in the admission decision. We do not accept the GMAT. Although GRE scores are valid for five years, we prefer to receive scores no older than two years old, if possible. Please note, however, that we do not reject or in any way penalize an applicant for submitting GRE scores up to five years old. The ETS Institution Code for the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences is 3087. You do not need to specify a Department Code when requesting test scores be sent to the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences.

English Proficiency Language Requirement

All international applicants are required to demonstrate proficiency in English, typically through English proficiency scores.

Accepted standardized tests include Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), TOEFL iBT Home Edition, International English Language Testing System (IELTS), Cambridge English Qualifications, and Duolingo. Please note, t he TOEFL ITP exam will not be accepted as proof of English proficiency.

Minimum English proficiency tes ting requirements:

• TOEFL :   100  Overall Score (25 recommended in each section). Internet-based Test (iBT) only. We do not accept “MyBest Scores.”
• IELTS :    7.0   Overall Band Score
• CAMBRIDGE ENGLISH QUALIFICATIONS :   185   Overall Score on B2 First, C1 Advanced, or C2 Proficiency exams
• DUOLINGO :    130   Overall Score

For more information, please click here.

The Graduate School   does not waive   the English proficiency requirement in advance.  The requirement   will be waived   at the time of the   application review   if you meet at least   one   of the following criteria:

• You are a citizen or permanent resident of the United States.
• You are a citizen of one of the following countries: Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Bermuda, Botswana, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Dominica, Gambia, Ghana, Grenada, Guyana, Jamaica, Kiribati, Lesotho, Liberia, Micronesia, Montserrat, Namibia, New Zealand, Nigeria, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, Uganda, United Kingdom, Zimbabwe.
• You are a citizen of Cameroon or Canada and your post-secondary degree is from a university in which English is the language of instruction.
• You have studied in the United States (or one of the before-mentioned countries) at an accredited college or university for at least  two years .
• You have received, or expect to receive, an undergraduate or graduate degree from an institution where the   official language of instruction   is English. If your transcript does not clearly state that the language of instruction is English, then please upload supporting documentation on institutional letterhead along with your transcript.

This waiver  does not apply to students who have earned or are earning undergraduate or graduate degrees  from an institution in a country listed above while enrolled in a “dual degree” program with an institution in another country. Studying as an exchange student in an English-speaking country is not sufficient to waive the English proficiency requirement.

Applicants are urged to take the English Proficiency test at the earliest possible date.

For more information regarding the English Proficiency tests, please click here.

English Language Test Scores Validity Period

The  Cambridge English Qualifications  test does not expire.  All  other  English proficiency tes t scores (TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo) are valid for  two years.  For more information, please visit the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences English Language Testing Proficiency page.

All applications must be submitted and received by the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences by December 15.  Letters of recommendation and official GRE scores may follow after this deadline, and will be considered until January 15th.

Please note that we will not review or evaluate incomplete applications, and we will not review or evaluate applications for candidates who did not pay the application fee. Applications must include all components . No component will be waived for any applicant. Such applications will be withdrawn and no admission decision will be made. We do not do pre-evaluations by email. Additionally, we do not accept late applications. There are no exceptions to these policies.

Materials to Submit

Please do not send any application materials directly to the Economics Department.

Application form and application fee

Apply online at the (GRS) Graduate School of Arts & Sciences website . Please use the online application. The online application system requires a payment in the amount of $95 dollars payable by credit card. The Department of Economics does not waive application fees.  However, GRS offers application fee waivers based on different criteria for both US and Non-US applicants. Note that our PhD program counts as “a STEM program in which women are significantly underrepresented” as described on the waiver criteria page. Please visit this link for further information.

2–3 months before application deadline:

• Contact recommenders; inform them that recommendations should be submitted weeks before deadline
• Contact ETS and request an official copy of your GRE results (English language testing reports for international students)
• Contact all previous colleges/universities and request official transcripts

2–3 weeks before application deadline:

• Complete application and prepare to submit before deadline
• Contact any recommender who has not submitted a recommendation and request he/she do so before the deadline.  We will be accepting letters of recommendation until January 15h for this admission cycle.

Official transcripts

Official transcripts are not required as part of the application. All applicants are required to upload unofficial transcripts directly to the online application. Transcripts that are sent directly to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences can not be added to your application.

If you are admitted, you will be required to send in official transcripts to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences from all colleges attended prior to matriculation in the Fall.

Three letters of recommendation

We require a minimum of 3 original letters of recommendation. We generally prefer academic letters; however, professional letters of recommendation are acceptable in the case of an applicant who has been away from student status for more than 2 years. Academic recommendation letters should be written by university instructors who have taught the applicant in 1 or more classes, or have another basis for knowing well the applicant’s academic aptitude.

Recommenders must submit an online recommendation. An email request will automatically be sent to your recommenders once you have saved an online recommendation. Please advise your recommender to look for this email in their inbox, as well as their spam or junk-mail folder, as emails do occasionally get filtered out.

Test scores

Standardized test scores (GRE and English Testing Scores Reports) should be sent to BU directly from ETS.

The ETS Institutional Code for the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences is 3087. You do not need to add a department code.

Personal statement/statement of purpose

Applicants to every degree program offered by the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences are required to submit a Personal Statement/Statement of Purpose of not fewer than 200 words. This statement must describe your qualifications and the objectives of your intended educational program at the Department of Economics. Additionally, applicants may submit a resume or CV with the personal statement. Writing samples are not required.

Additional forms required for international applicants only

Only if you are recommended for admission:

If you are an international student recommended for admission, you will be notified by the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences Admissions office to submit the following documents for student visa processing. You cannot be officially admitted until GRS receives and processes these documents.

• A completed, signed International Student Data Form or International Applicant Coversheet ( available with the online application ). Please note that this form cannot be emailed or faxed.
• A copy of the personal information page of your current passport.
• Copies of all current visas, if applicable.
• Financial support documentation ( Sponsorship Certification Form and Bank Statement ).

You must provide a bank statement or other appropriate evidence of financial support adequate to cover travel to and from Boston, and for tuition and living costs for at least 1 full year at Boston University. The estimate of expenses can be found on the International Students & Scholars website . Please note the minimum amount listed may be increased by up to 5% each academic year. Immigration regulations prohibit most international students from accepting any employment except University appointments during the first year of study in the United States.

Submit this documentation promptly to ensure sufficient time to process the student visa. It is strongly recommended that you send this documentation via express mail (DHL, FedEx, etc.) to the GRS Admissions office, as visa processing sometimes requires 2 months or more. It is not the policy of Boston University to send visa documents via express mail. Be sure to submit all required documentation for your visa as soon as reasonably possible so there is sufficient time for your visa documents to reach you through the regular mail. Once GRS processes these documents and notifies you that you have been officially admitted, they will let you know how you can request your visa documents be sent by express mail, but you must pay the cost of postage.

Please do not send any materials directly to the Economics Department. 

Forms should be sent via email at [email protected] or postal mail to:

Graduate School of Arts & Sciences Admissions Office Boston University 705 Commonwealth Avenue, Suite 112 Boston, MA 02215 USA

All application inquiries should be directed to the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences at  [email protected]  or 617-353-2696. A complete GRS Application Checklist can be found here .

To be considered for the Economics doctoral program, all applications must be submitted and received by the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences by December 15.  Letters of recommendation and official GRE scores may follow after this deadline, and will be considered until January 15.

Questions? Visit our  PhD Admissions FAQs and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences FAQs

Please be in touch if you have any questions or concerns.

• University of Pennsylvania
• School of Arts and Sciences

Search Results

Admissions information to the ph.d. program in economics.

Students may enter the Ph.D. program  only in the fall . Applicants must present evidence of a baccalaureate degree or its equivalent, or show that they can expect such a degree by the time they begin graduate work. The University requires that applicants utilize the  CollegeNet  on-line application system. Applicants must upload a personal statement and their transcript (unofficial or official) from each university attended. If an applicant is accepted into our program then they must provide an official transcript mailed directly to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences. Three letters of recommendation are also required, usually from professors who can judge the student's potential for high-quality academic work. Results of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) must also be submitted. This test should be taken as early as possible to ensure that the results are received in time to be considered by the admissions committee.  Our GRE institution-department code is 2926-1801 . International students must submit a TOEFL score unless they have or will receive an undergraduate degree from a college/university in the US, Canada, UK, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, or Ireland or they have completed, at the time of application, four semesters of graduate study at an institution in the above mentioned countries.

The program's goal is to admit 16 students a year. Applicants should be aware that the admissions committee reviews a large number of applications (over 600 last year). Our decisions on admission and financial aid are facilitated when application materials are clearly presented, well written, and concise. The committee tries to form an image of the intellectual and personal qualities of applicants, and then admits those who seem most likely to do high quality work. All applicants are encouraged to provide a personal statement (see below) and any additional information that might help the admissions committee in their task. For example, students might wish to submit research papers that they have written or a description of some major job experience related to economic analysis. 

Mathematics prerequisites

Proficiency in mathematics is crucial for successful completion of the first year of study, in the Department of Economics, at the University of Pennsylvania.

A minimal level of preparation  consists of two years of mathematics courses in college, including courses in:

• multivariable calculus
• probability theory and statistics
• linear algebra

An excellent level of preparation  consists of additional courses in:

• real analysis
• point-set topology
• measure-theoretic probability theory

We strongly suggest you obtain an excellent level of preparation, for your application to be competitive.

Requirement for Personal Statement:

In the personal statement, all Ph.D. applications within the Graduate Division of Arts & Sciences should address the following: Please describe how your background and academic experiences have influenced your decision to pursue a graduate degree and led you to apply to Penn. Your essay should detail your specific research interests and intellectual goals within your chosen field. Please provide information about your educational trajectory, intellectual curiosity and academic ambitions. If you have overcome adversity and/or experienced limited access to resources or opportunities in your field of study, please feel free to share how that has affected the course of your education. We are interested in your lived experiences and how your particular perspective might contribute to the inclusive and dynamic learning community that Penn values and strives to create.

In the Economics Graduate Group, we also ask that applicants discuss their relevant research experience, if any, that make Penn Economics a good fit for what you would like to accomplish in your PhD. Your statement can include specific fields of interests and specific faculty members that you think could be potential advisors. 

Deadline for admission:

All applications must be completed and submitted by 11:59pm eastern US standard time on December 15th. The admissions committee then examines completed applications which have been received. Notification of its decision is sent by April 15th.

Follow this link to apply on-line:  CollegeNet

Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program

Applicants to the Department of Economics should also consider applying to the  Knight-Hennessy Scholars program .

Applying to Stanford

Applicants to the Department of Economics should also consider applying to the  Knight-Hennessy Scholars program , which annually admits up to 100 select applicants each year from across Stanford’s seven graduate schools, and delivers engaging experiences that prepare them to be visionary, courageous, and collaborative leaders ready to address complex global challenges. As a scholar, you join a distinguished cohort, participate in up to three years of leadership programming, and receive full funding for up to three years of your studies at Stanford.

Candidates of any country may apply. KHS applicants must have earned their first undergraduate degree within the last seven years, and must apply to both a Stanford graduate program and to KHS. Stanford PhD students may also apply to KHS during their first year of PhD enrollment.

·          The application for the 2024 cohort is open and available at https://kh.stanford.edu/apply .

·          The deadline to apply to the Knight-Hennessy Scholars program is Wednesday, October 11, 2023, 1:00pm Pacific Time

The application for admission in academic year 2024-25 is now closed. Please return to this page in September 2024 when the new application cycle opens for the most up to date information on our admission process and requirements.

Stanford’s  Office of Graduate Admissions  begins accepting  graduate program applications  in late-September for students wishing to be considered for admission to the Economics Ph.D. program the following September.  The application deadline for the Economics Ph.D. is 29 November 2023 (11:59pm Pacific Time).  

The Department of Economics recognizes that the Supreme Court issued a ruling in June 2023 about the consideration of certain types of demographic information as part of an admission review. All applications submitted during upcoming application cycles will be reviewed in conformance with that decision.

Stanford is committed to fostering intellectual excellence in graduate education by enrolling a diverse student body and creating a vibrant and supportive educational environment. The Department of Economics welcomes graduate applications from individuals with a broad range of life experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds who would contribute to our community of scholars. Review of applications is holistic and individualized, considering each applicant’s academic record and accomplishments, letters of recommendation, and admissions essays in order to understand how an applicant’s life experiences have shaped their past and potential contributions to their field.

As a department, we strive to admit applicants with the potential to excel at economic research and/or the potential to apply economics to benefit society, and who themselves contribute to a rich educational environment for our students.  At least one and usually multiple faculty members serving on our Ph.D. admissions committee gives an individualized and holistic review to every complete application submitted to our Ph.D. program.

Application forms cannot be downloaded, and materials must be submitted online. Applicants must submit the following materials:

1.  A statement of purpose  (not exceeding two pages in length)

2.  Three letters of recommendation

3. Please upload scanned (unofficial) copies of transcripts from every college and university you attended for at least one full year as a full-time student by the application deadline as part of your online application.  Do not send official transcripts at this time and do not send anything by mail, it must all be uploaded to the application online.   Official  transcripts  should be sent to the central university admissions office (not the Department) at the time you accept an offer of admission. 

4 .  To be eligible for admission to graduate programs at Stanford, applicants must meet  one  of the following conditions:

• Applicants must hold, or expect to hold before enrollment at Stanford, a bachelor’s degree from a U.S. college or university accredited by a regional accrediting association.
• Applicants from institutions outside the U.S. must hold the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor’s degree from a college or university of recognized standing.  See minimum level of study required of International applicants .

5. For applicants whose first language is not English (with some exceptions as clarified  here ),  TOEFL scores  are required.  Stanford’s ETS institutional code for submission of scores is 4704. 

• Stanford will temporarily accept the TOEFL ITP Plus test with the Vericant interview for applicants from Mainland China who are unable to sit for the TOEFL iBT. This exception is requested only for the 2020-2021 application cycle. Applicants may be asked to re-test at a later time once the Stanford TOEFL iBT becomes available, or applicants may be asked to re-test through the Stanford Language Center.
• To meet the needs of students who are unable to take the TOEFL iBT® test at a test center due to public health concerns, ETS is temporarily offering the TOEFL iBT Special Home Edition.

6. The Economics Department DOES require GRE scores for 2023-24 admission. They will be evaluated with your application in a holistic manner.

7. Stanford’s Economics Department also requires that students complete a coursework spreadsheet as part of the online application.  The reason we require this is that we receive and review transcripts from many schools, and it is extremely helpful for us to review applicants’ economics-related coursework in a standardized format.  Stanford's  course catalog  will likely be helpful in determining which Stanford courses are most similar to those you have taken.   

No additional materials that become available after the deadline (e.g. updated transcripts) will be accepted. 

If you have any questions throughout this process, please contact econ-grad [at] stanford.edu (econ-grad[at]stanford[dot]edu) .

The non-refundable application fee is $125, but please note that  fee waivers  are available for individuals needing assistance with application fees.

Stanford’s  Office of the Vice Provost for Graduate Education  provides several resources about life at Stanford. See also this  statement of support for undocumented students .

Ph.D. in Economics

The Ph.D. program in the Department of Economics at Columbia University trains students to do cutting edge research in economics.  Students in our program do research in all major areas of economics including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, international economics, labor economics, public finance, industrial organization, development economics, and urban economics.  Our department provides strong training both in theoretical economics and in applied and empirical economics.  The Ph.D. program is primarily designed for students that are interested in pursuing a career in teaching and research within academia but is also useful for student interested in certain positions within governments, research organizations, or private businesses.

The first two years of our Ph.D. program is largely devoted to rigorous coursework. After the second year, however, students devote most of their time to their own research under the supervision of faculty advisors. Students in our program generally complete their Ph.D. in 5 or 6 years.

Admission to the Ph.D. program is highly selective.  We receive approximately 1,000 applications each year for an incoming class of roughly 25 students.  We place a high value on attracting the very best minds, and recruiting members of groups who will both enhance the diversity of research in the field and contribute to the diversity of the university’s academic and professional community.

The Ph.D. program has a long and illustrious history.  Alumni of the program include some of the most distinguished economists of the last century – including Nobel Prize winners Kenneth J. Arrow, Milton Friedman, Simon Smith Kuznets, and William S. Vickrey.

• Program Description
• Admissions Information
• Placement Information
• Student Life
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Program Requirements
• Announcements
• Graduate Student Appointments
• Office Hours
• List of 2nd Year Fields
• PhD Administrative Forms
• Job Market Candidates
• Honors and Prizes
• 1st Year Students (2024)
• 2nd Year Students (2023)
• 3rd Year Students (2022)
• 4th Year Students (2021)
• 5th Year Students (2020)
• 6th Year Students (2019)
• Bridge to the Ph.D. Program

1022 International Affairs Building (IAB)

Mail Code 3308

420 West 118th Street

New York, NY 10027

• Utility Menu

44d3fa3df9f06a3117ed3d2ad6c71ecc

• Administration
• PhD Program

The Ph.D. Program in the Department of Economics at Harvard is addressed to students of high promise who wish to prepare themselves in teaching and research in academia or for responsible positions in government, research organizations, or business enterprises. Students are expected to devote themselves full-time to their programs of study.

The program prepares students for productive and stimulating careers as economists. Courses and seminars offered by the department foster an intellectually active and stimulating environment. Each week, the department sponsors more than 15 different seminars on such topics as environmental economics, economic growth and development, monetary and fiscal policy, international economics, industrial organization, law and economics, behavioral economics, labor economics, and economic history. Top scholars from both domestic and international communities are often invited speakers at the seminars.  The Harvard community outside of the department functions as a strong and diverse resource. Students in the department are free to pursue research interests with scholars throughout the University. Faculty of the Harvard Law School, Kennedy School of Government, and Harvard Business School, for example, are available to students for consultation, instruction, and research guidance. As a member of the Harvard community, students in the department can register for courses in the various schools and have access to the enormous library resources available through the University. There are over 90 separate library units at Harvard, with the total collections of books and pamphlets numbering over 13 million.  Both the department and the wider University draw some of the brightest students from around the world, which makes for a student body that is culturally diverse and likely unequaled in the range of intellectual interests of its members. These factors combine to add an important dimension to the educational process. Students are able to learn from one another, collaborate on research projects and publications, and form bonds that are not broken by distance once the degree is completed and professional responsibilities lead them in different directions.

• Program Requirements
• Job Placement
• Financial Support

Department of Economics

The Ph.D. program in Economics at Brown trains students in economic theory and the tools of economic analysis. Through coursework, participation in seminars, and supervised research students are taught to conduct theoretical and empirical research at the highest level.

The Economics Department will be accepting applications to its PhD program for Fall 2024.  Applications are due by January 1, 2024. Application information is available at  https://www.brown.edu/graduateprograms/economics-phd  . 

FAQ: If you have questions about the program or the admissions process please consult our list of frequently asked questions  . If your questions are not answered there please contact  [email protected] . 

Requirements

The Ph.D. degree usually requires two years of course work, followed by supervised research and the completion of a doctoral dissertation.

The first year involves core courses in:

• Microeconomics (Economics 2050, 2060)
• Macroeconomics (Economics 2070, 2080)
• Econometrics (Economics 2030, 2040)
• One in mathematics (Economics 2010)
• One in applied economics analysis (Economics 2020) 

Students will take microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics in their first year and must receive a passing grade in these courses. Starting in the second year, each student chooses two fields of specialization, and takes an oral field exam. Each field comprises two advanced courses within an area. Beyond the fields, the student takes three additional advanced courses, for a total of seven.  Students must receive a B or better in these courses. The rest of pre-dissertation requirements include a poster presentation in late March, a research paper turned in during May of the third year, and successful seminar presentations each year from the fourth year and on.

Handbook of the Graduate Program

The detailed description of all requirements, along with guidelines for the student, can be found in The Handbook of the Graduate Program.

View Handbook

Dissertation

The culmination of the Ph.D. program is the dissertation, which embodies the results of the student's original research. Work on the dissertation usually takes two-three years after completion of course work. Students working on dissertations participate actively in research workshops. After a faculty committee has approved the dissertation, the student takes a final oral examination on the subject of the dissertation.

High Standards

The work in the Ph.D. program is demanding and the standards of performance are high. The Department's reputation for providing superb training has enabled its graduates to compile an excellent placement record. Some of the institutions at which recent graduates have obtained positions include major research universities (Chicago, Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Michigan, Dartmouth, Minnesota, New York University, Penn State, University College London, University of British Columbia, University of Pittsburgh, University of Toronto, University of Virginia), prestigious liberal arts colleges (Wesleyan University and Williams College), government and international agencies (International Monetary Fund, Federal Trade Commission, World Bank, Congressional Budget Office, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, US Census Bureau), and private industrial, consulting, and research firms. Brown graduates have an outstanding record of research accomplishments and publications.

Exceptional Faculty

The Department currently has about 40 tenure track faculty . The faculty includes several Fellows of the Econometric Society, several Sloan Fellows, several Guggenheim Fellows, several recipients of prestigious prizes and awards, the editor of the Journal of Economic Growth, the editor of the Journal of Financial Intermediation, a past editor of the American Economic Review, and several associates and fellows of the National Bureau of Economic Research and the Center for Economic Policy Research. The Department's faculty publishes regularly their research in the top journals of economics and other disciplines, as well as in top field journals (see our "Selected Faculty Publications"). Members of the faculty in the Department have also delivered numerous named, keynote and plenary lectures in main international scientific conferences. The atmosphere in the Department is highly collegial. Interaction among faculty members and graduate students is easy and extensive. The department collaborates with the  Brown Population Studies and Training Center,  which provides support for students doing research in population economics and economic development. Active workshops provide opportunities for faculty, graduate students, and visiting scholars to discuss current research. Library and computer facilities are excellent. 

Graduate Program

Our Ph.D. program field faculty consists of 91 economists drawn from the Economics Department and other departments and colleges across the university, offering students many opportunities. Students can focus their doctoral research on a wide range of economics-related topics provided at least two Ph.D. program field faculty members approve the topic and agree to supervise the student. 

To view our Ph.D. program field faculty, click here .

The Economics Department is committed to fostering an inclusive culture and positive climate for all at Cornell University and in the Economics profession more broadly.  Learn more about our diversity and inclusion initiatives here.

Job Market Candidates

The department is proud to support and promote the work of our Ph.D. students who are seeking employment following the completion of their doctoral program. At Cornell University, economists are trained in many departments, schools and colleges, and as a part of multiple graduate fields.  All Ph.D. job candidates with training in economics are listed here .  The following websites include the subset of students who are receiving their degrees in Fields outside of Economics:  Field of Policy Analysis and Management  and  Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management .

More About the Graduate Program

Economics news.

Peter Loewen named dean of Arts and Sciences

Coming from the University of Toronto, where he is the director of the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy, Loewen begins his five-year appointment as the Harold Tanner Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences Aug. 1.

Marginal students reap more benefits from STEM programs

Enrolling in a selective college STEM program pays off more for academically marginal students – even though they are less likely to graduate, Cornell economics research finds.

New research initiative tackles pressing global development issues

CIDER unites 24 faculty across campus and the world, along with students, staff, researchers and external partners, to create and share knowledge.

'Our team's research contributes directly to scalable solutions for global environmental issues'

Sophia Su is an economics major.

'Science has a wide community and you can always find people to help'

Shiva Dahagam is a chemistry, biology and economics major.

'I want to keep learning, about people, about culture, about myself'

Emilie Boisrenoult is an economics major.

'Entertain the notion that your "requirements" are actually opportunities'

Adelyn Carney is a mathematics & economics major.

Finding your calling at Cornell

Three members of the A&S Class of 2024 share wisdom for incoming students about taking advantage of all of Cornell's resources.

Upcoming Events

Tepper School of Business

Ph.D. Program in Economics

Graduates have exceptional research training in economic theory and the quantitative tools required for innovative research on complex economic problems..

The purpose of the Ph.D. program in Economics is to educate scientists who will advance the frontiers of economic knowledge through research and teaching.

The program is designed to provide students with sound training in economic theory, and the quantitative tools required for innovative research on economic problems. Equally important, the program is structured to allow students both time and guidance for research activities.

The goal of the doctoral program in economics is to help students learn to do original, creative research. Unlike most graduate programs in economics, we have chosen not to impose rigid course requirements on students. Instead, we emphasize involving students in research early in their graduate careers. Students in the doctoral program in economics at the Tepper School of Business at Carnegie Mellon take courses in order to learn the fundamental principles of economic theory underlying all areas of application, and to master the analytic and modeling techniques of the practicing research economist. In-depth knowledge of specialized areas is required as a by-product of research activity.

At the completion of the Ph.D. program in economics at the Tepper School, a student should have mastered the fundamental principles of economic theory and the quantitative tools required for basic and applied research. Additionally, the student should have attained a level of skill in research techniques which will serve as the basis for continued self-development.

• Students are expected to obtain knowledge of substantive research areas by taking elective courses, attending and participating in seminars, working with the faculty, and reading research papers.
• Students are urged to actively involve themselves in the intellectual life of the school.
• Seminars are a fundamental mechanism for exchange of information throughout the profession, and they are an essential professional activity of a successful research economist.
• Students should plan to attend weekly seminars throughout their stay at the business school.

Research Topics

• Real Business Cycles
• Expectations and Indeterminacy of Monetary Equilibrian Experimental Economies
• Consistent Incentive Mechanism (Contract) Design
• Corporate Financial Policy Under Asymmetric Information
• Bargaining Foundations of Product Innovation
• Variation in Wages and Hours of Work Over the Business Cycle
• Individual Adjustment to Changing Labor Markets
• The Distribution of Income Within and Across Households
• The Results of Deregulation
• Macroeconomic Policy
• International Trade Policy
• Female Labor Supply and Fertility
• The Economics Behind Marketing "New and Improving" Products
• Risk Analysis and Management
• Estimation and Inference for Dynamic Economic Models
• The Duration of Interorganizational Relationships
• The Endogeneity of Appropriability and R&D Investment

P lease visit our Ph.D. Student Profiles page t o view the profiles of our current doctoral candidates.

Program details.

• Requirements
• Tepper 2023
• Course List
• Academic Calendar
• Privacy Policy
• Statement of Assurance
• Tepper Information Center
• Journalists & Media
• Tepper Gear Store

At the New York Fed, our mission is to make the U.S. economy stronger and the financial system more stable for all segments of society. We do this by executing monetary policy, providing financial services, supervising banks and conducting research and providing expertise on issues that impact the nation and communities we serve.

Introducing the New York Innovation Center: Delivering a central bank innovation execution

Do you have a Freedom of Information request? Learn how to submit it.

Learn about the history of the New York Fed and central banking in the United States through articles, speeches, photos and video.

Markets & Policy Implementation

• Effective Federal Funds Rate
• Overnight Bank Funding Rate
• Secured Overnight Financing Rate
• SOFR Averages & Index
• Broad General Collateral Rate
• Tri-Party General Collateral Rate
• Treasury Securities
• Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities
• Repos & Reverse Repos
• Securities Lending
• Central Bank Liquidity Swaps
• System Open Market Account Holdings
• Primary Dealer Statistics
• Historical Transaction Data
• Agency Commercial Mortgage-Backed Securities
• Agency Debt Securities
• Discount Window
• Treasury Debt Auctions & Buybacks as Fiscal Agent
• Foreign Exchange
• Foreign Reserves Management
• Central Bank Swap Arrangements
• ACROSS MARKETS
• Actions Related to COVID-19
• Statements & Operating Policies
• Survey of Primary Dealers
• Survey of Market Participants
• Annual Reports
• Primary Dealers
• Reverse Repo Counterparties
• Foreign Exchange Counterparties
• Foreign Reserves Management Counterparties
• Operational Readiness
• Central Bank & International Account Services
• Programs Archive

As part of our core mission, we supervise and regulate financial institutions in the Second District. Our primary objective is to maintain a safe and competitive U.S. and global banking system.

The Governance & Culture Reform hub is designed to foster discussion about corporate governance and the reform of culture and behavior in the financial services industry.

Need to file a report with the New York Fed? Here are all of the forms, instructions and other information related to regulatory and statistical reporting in one spot.

The New York Fed works to protect consumers as well as provides information and resources on how to avoid and report specific scams.

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York works to promote sound and well-functioning financial systems and markets through its provision of industry and payment services, advancement of infrastructure reform in key markets and training and educational support to international institutions.

The New York Fed provides a wide range of payment services for financial institutions and the U.S. government.

The New York Fed offers several specialized courses designed for central bankers and financial supervisors.

The New York Fed has been working with tri-party repo market participants to make changes to improve the resiliency of the market to financial stress.

• High School Fed Challenge
• College Fed Challenge
• Teacher Professional Development
• Classroom Visits
• Museum & Learning Center Visits
• Educational Comic Books
• Lesson Plans and Resources
• Economic Education Calendar

We are connecting emerging solutions with funding in three areas—health, household financial stability, and climate—to improve life for underserved communities. Learn more by reading our strategy.

The Economic Inequality & Equitable Growth hub is a collection of research, analysis and convenings to help better understand economic inequality.

This Economist Spotlight Series is created for middle school and high school students to spark curiosity and interest in economics as an area of study and a future career.

« Taking Stock: Dollar Assets, Gold, and Official Foreign Exchange Reserves | Main | Can Discount Window Stigma Be Cured?  »

Thinking of Pursuing a PhD in Economics? Info on Graduate School and Beyond

Kasey Chatterji-Len and Anna Kovner

Becoming a PhD economist can provide a fulfilling and financially secure career path. However, getting started in the field can be daunting if you don’t know much about the preparation you’ll need and the available job opportunities. If you’re wondering what it means to be an economics researcher or how to become one, please read on. We’ll review how to prepare for a career in economics research, what an economics PhD program entails, and what types of opportunities it might bring. Economic education is a core component of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s mission to serve the community. To empower would-be economists, this post provides information for students who seek a career in economics research. We hope this information will be helpful to students interested in economics, regardless of their background and economic situation.  This information is most applicable to students applying to programs in the United States.  

The Breadth of Economics Research  

Academic disciplines conduct research in different ways, so it’s important to have a basic understanding of the types of questions economists ask and how they approach answering them. There are many definitions of economics, but a broadly useful one is the study of how people, organizations, and governments make decisions under different constraints, and how those decisions may affect their outcomes. 

When answering these questions, economists seek to ground their analyses in models and to be quantitatively precise about the effects they assign to any given cause. The range of topics economists can study is wide, but the accepted approaches to answering questions are stricter. Some examples of what economists might ask: 

• How do different public housing programs affect the children who live there? 
• Does a certain type of law encourage businesses to innovate? 
• How will a change in the interest rate affect inflation and unemployment rates? 
• How much does affordable health insurance improve people’s health? 
• How can poor countries eradicate poverty? 

There are many different subfields within economics, including, but not limited to behavioral, econometrics, energy/environmental, development, financial, international, monetary, public, and urban economics. You can familiarize yourself with the latest work in economics by subscribing to working paper series, such as NBER’s New This Week or the New York Fed’s Staff Reports . To get an idea of the breadth of questions economists can answer, you could listen to Stephen Dubner’s “ Freakonomics Radio ” podcast. You may also want to explore the Journal of Economic Perspectives , the New York Fed’s Liberty Street Economics blog, VoxDev , or VoxEU .  

What Is a PhD Program Like?    

Economics PhD programs typically last five to seven years. Unlike masters programs, they are often fully funded with a stipend, though most require students to complete teaching assistant and/or research assistant (RA) work as part of their funding package. In the first two years, students take classes, many of which are mathematically demanding. The rest of the program can include additional classes but is primarily devoted to original research with the aim of producing publishable papers that will constitute the dissertation.  

Faculty advisors are a central part of PhD programs, as students look to them for guidance during the research process. Economics PhD programs are offered within university economics departments, but there are similar programs in public policy and business schools. You can look at their websites to understand any differences in coursework and subsequent job placements. 

What Can You Do with an Economics PhD?  

Upon graduation, students can obtain jobs in a variety of industries. Many PhD students hope to become university professors. Governments and public policy-related institutions such as the Federal Reserve System, the U.S. federal government, the World Bank, and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) also hire economists to work on policy, lead programs, and conduct research. Finally, economics PhD graduates can also find employment at a variety of private sector companies, including banks, economic consulting firms, and big tech companies. The pay for these different positions can vary. According to the American Economics Association (AEA), the average starting salary for economics assistant professors in 2022-23 was approximately $140,000 at PhD granting institutions and $98,000 at BA granting institutions. 

Programs often publish the placements of their PhD graduates, so you can look online to see specific employment outcomes. See, for example, the University of Maryland’s placements . Ultimately, economists are highly regarded as authorities on a variety of topics. Governments, nonprofits, philanthropic foundations, financial institutions, and non-financial businesses all look to economists to answer important questions about how to best achieve their goals. Thus, earning an economics Ph.D. can potentially help you to influence issues that are important to you. 

Preparing for an Economics PhD Program  

There are several components to an economics PhD program application: college transcripts, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and personal statements. Please download the Appendix linked below to learn more about transcripts and letters of recommendation. The Appendix details ways in which you can select coursework, obtain research experience, and develop relationships to position yourself for success as a PhD applicant.  

If you feel that you are too far along in your academic career to take enough of the classes described in the Appendix, this does not necessarily preclude you from pursuing an economics PhD. For example, it’s possible to take some of these classes through a master’s program, or through a pre-doctoral RA job. Some pre-doctoral RA jobs, such as the one here at the New York Fed , may enable you to take classes in preparation for graduate school. If you are concerned about your transcript, reach out to an economist at your university for advice; program standards for coursework and grades vary, and it’s a good idea to get more personalized advice. 

Research Experience   

If you’re interested in becoming an economics researcher and applying to PhD programs, it’s best to get research experience as soon as possible. Working as an RA is a great way to learn how to conduct research and get a better idea of whether it’s the right career path for you. Additionally, it can help you obtain a letter of recommendation for graduate school applications and improve your qualifications.  

All types of academic research can be enriching, but it’s beneficial to gain experience working directly with an economist. To find a position, you can reach out to professors whose work you find interesting or find an RA program at your school. Typical RA tasks may involve data collection and cleaning, as well as running analyses and creating charts to represent results. This is where coding skills become crucial; having taken math, statistics, and econometrics courses will also enable you to take on more responsibilities. 

You may also have the opportunity to conduct your own research, possibly under the supervision of a professor at your university. This research could be self-initiated or part of a course such as a thesis workshop. Self-directed research is a great opportunity to learn about all stages of the research process. It’s also an excellent opportunity to create a writing sample for graduate school applications. Ultimately, though, your motivation for conducting your own research project should be that you want to answer a question.  One thing economists have in common is a love of answering questions using data and theory. 

Research experience is also often obtained after completing an undergraduate or master’s degree. Taking on a full-time RA position before applying to PhD programs is very common and can make you a more competitive applicant. You may either get an RA job working for a professor or participate in a pre-doctoral RA program.  

Research assistant programs are more structured than positions with individual professors or projects, which could be helpful. Universities, parts of the government, think tanks, research organizations, and the Federal Reserve System are all good places to look for research assistant programs. To help you decide which opportunities are most desirable, you may want to ask potential employers : Where do people in this program tend to go afterward? Will I be working directly with an economist? How much of my time will be spent on academic research work? Will I be able to take classes as part of this program? Considering whether an economist will be able to evaluate your performance is an important factor for recommendation letters. The ability to take classes, either through tuition reimbursement or waivers, can also be an important benefit. 

The Research Analyst program here at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York is one example of these programs and you should check it out here . The Federal Reserve Board of Governors also has a large program, and many other regional Federal Reserve Banks have similar programs. In addition, the PREDOC website and the  NBER post listings of RA opportunities. J-PAL and IPA also tend to recruit RAs for economic development projects. Another source of RA opportunities is the @econ_ra account on X. 

Who Should Get a PhD in Economics?  

A PhD may not be for everyone, but it is for anyone—people of all genders, religions, ethnicities, races, and national origins have PhDs in economics. Many economists majored in economics, but others majored in math, physics, or chemistry. Because economics is such an integral part of policymaking, it is important that economists come from a wide range of backgrounds so policy can be stronger and more effective. The inclusion of differing perspectives helps ensure that the contribution of economists to work in public policy, academia, and beyond effectively serves the broadest range of society. 

• Coursework Appendix

Kasey Chatterji-Len is a research analyst in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Research and Statistics Group.

Anna Kovner  is the director of Financial Stability Policy Research in the Bank’s Research and Statistics Group.

How to cite this post: Kasey Chatterji-Len and Anna Kovner, “Thinking of Pursuing a PhD in Economics? Info on Graduate School and Beyond,” Federal Reserve Bank of New York Liberty Street Economics , May 31, 2024, https://libertystreeteconomics.newyorkfed.org/2024/05/thinking-of-pursuing-a-phd-in-economics-info-on-graduate-school-and-beyond/.

You may also be interested in: AEA: Resources for Students

PREDOC: Guidance for Undergraduates

RA Positions-Not at the NBER

Disclaimer The views expressed in this post are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the position of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York or the Federal Reserve System. Any errors or omissions are the responsibility of the author(s).

Share this:

Post a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

(Name is required. Email address will not be displayed with the comment.)

Liberty Street Economics features insight and analysis from New York Fed economists working at the intersection of research and policy. Launched in 2011, the blog takes its name from the Bank’s headquarters at 33 Liberty Street in Manhattan’s Financial District.

The editors are Michael Fleming, Andrew Haughwout, Thomas Klitgaard, and Asani Sarkar, all economists in the Bank’s Research Group.

Liberty Street Economics does not publish new posts during the blackout periods surrounding Federal Open Market Committee meetings.

The views expressed are those of the authors, and do not necessarily reflect the position of the New York Fed or the Federal Reserve System.

Economic Inequality

Most Read this Year

• Credit Card Delinquencies Continue to Rise—Who Is Missing Payments?
• The Post-Pandemic r*
• Spending Down Pandemic Savings Is an “Only-in-the-U.S.” Phenomenon
• The Evolution of Short-Run r* after the Pandemic
• Auto Loan Delinquency Revs Up as Car Prices Stress Budgets
• Economic Indicators Calendar
• FRED (Federal Reserve Economic Data)
• Economic Roundtable
• OECD Insights
• World Bank/All about Finance

We encourage your comments and queries on our posts and will publish them (below the post) subject to the following guidelines:

Please be brief : Comments are limited to 1,500 characters.

Please be aware: Comments submitted shortly before or during the FOMC blackout may not be published until after the blackout.

Please be relevant: Comments are moderated and will not appear until they have been reviewed to ensure that they are substantive and clearly related to the topic of the post.

Please be respectful: We reserve the right not to post any comment, and will not post comments that are abusive, harassing, obscene, or commercial in nature. No notice will be given regarding whether a submission will or will not be posted.‎

Comments with links: Please do not include any links in your comment, even if you feel the links will contribute to the discussion. Comments with links will not be posted.

Send Us Feedback

The LSE editors ask authors submitting a post to the blog to confirm that they have no conflicts of interest as defined by the American Economic Association in its Disclosure Policy. If an author has sources of financial support or other interests that could be perceived as influencing the research presented in the post, we disclose that fact in a statement prepared by the author and appended to the author information at the end of the post. If the author has no such interests to disclose, no statement is provided. Note, however, that we do indicate in all cases if a data vendor or other party has a right to review a post.

• February 2024
• January 2024
• December 2023
• November 2023
• October 2023
• September 2023
• August 2023
• February 2023
• January 2023
• December 2022
• November 2022
• October 2022
• September 2022
• August 2022
• February 2022
• January 2022
• December 2021
• November 2021
• October 2021
• September 2021
• August 2021
• February 2021
• January 2021
• December 2020
• November 2020
• October 2020
• September 2020
• August 2020
• February 2020
• January 2020
• December 2019
• November 2019
• October 2019
• September 2019
• August 2019
• February 2019
• January 2019
• December 2018
• November 2018
• October 2018
• September 2018
• August 2018
• February 2018
• January 2018
• December 2017
• November 2017
• October 2017
• September 2017
• August 2017
• February 2017
• January 2017
• December 2016
• November 2016
• October 2016
• September 2016
• August 2016
• February 2016
• January 2016
• December 2015
• November 2015
• October 2015
• September 2015
• August 2015
• February 2015
• January 2015
• December 2014
• November 2014
• October 2014
• September 2014
• August 2014
• February 2014
• January 2014
• December 2013
• November 2013
• October 2013
• September 2013
• August 2013
• February 2013
• January 2013
• December 2012
• November 2012
• October 2012
• September 2012
• August 2012
• February 2012
• January 2012
• December 2011
• November 2011
• October 2011
• September 2011
• August 2011
• Request a Speaker
• International, Seminars & Training
• Governance & Culture Reform
• Data Visualization
• Economic Research Tracker
• Markets Data APIs
• Terms of Use

Graduate Programs

The University of Texas at Dallas offers graduate programs across its eight schools. Students may view semester class schedules, class syllabi, and faculty vitae at coursebook.utdallas.edu .

• School of Arts, Humanities, and Technology

School of Behavioral and Brain Sciences

School of economic, political and policy sciences, erik jonsson school of engineering and computer science, school of interdisciplinary studies, naveen jindal school of management, school of natural science and mathematics, harry w. bass jr. school of arts, humanities, and technology.

Masters Programs

Master of Arts in Art History (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Arts in History (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Arts in History of Ideas (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Arts in Humanities (33 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Arts in Latin American Studies (33 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Arts in Literature (33 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Arts in Visual and Performing Arts (33 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Arts in Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication (30 semester credit hours minimum)

• MA in Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication - Interaction Design Pathway
• MA in Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication - Emerging Media Studies Pathway

Master of Fine Arts Programs

Master of Fine Arts in Animation (54 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Fine Arts in Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication (54 semester credit hours minimum)

• MFA in Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication - Creative Practice Pathway
• MFA in Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication - Game Development Pathway

Doctoral Programs

Doctor of Philosophy in History of Ideas (60 semester credit hours minimum beyond the master's degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Humanities (60 semester credit hours minimum beyond the master's degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Literature (60 semester credit hours minimum beyond the master's degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Visual and Performing Arts (60 semester credit hours minimum beyond the master's degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Arts, Technology, and Emerging Communication (60 semester credit hours minimum beyond the master's degree)

Certificates Offered

• Certificate in Creative Writing (12 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Holocaust, Genocide, and Human Rights Studies (15 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Literary Translation (12 semester credit hours)

Master of Science in Applied Cognition and Neuroscience (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Speech-Language Pathology (48 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Human Development and Early Childhood Disorders (42 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Psychology (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Doctor of Audiology (100 semester credit hours)

Doctor of Philosophy in Cognition and Neuroscience (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Psychology (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Certificate in Pediatric Auditory Technology and Habilitation (PATH) (15 semester credit hours)

Master of Science in Applied Sociology (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Criminology (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Economics (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Cyber Security, Technology and Policy (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Geospatial Information Sciences (36 semester credit hours minimum) 1

Master of Science in International Political Economy (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in International Political Economy Dual Degree (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Arts in Political Science (30 semester credit hours minimum)

• MA in Political Science - Law and Courts Concentration
• MA in Political Science - Legislative Studies Concentration

Master of Public Affairs (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Public Policy (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Social Data Analytics and Research (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Doctor of Philosophy in Criminology (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Economics (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Geospatial Information Sciences (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree) 2

Doctor of Philosophy in Political Science (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Public Affairs (54 semester credit hours minimum beyond the master's degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Public Policy and Political Economy (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

• Certificate in Economic and Demographic Data Analysis (15 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) (15 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Geospatial Intelligence (GeoInt) (15 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in International Banking and Monetary Systems (15 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Local Government Management (12 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Nonprofit Management (12 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Program Evaluation (15 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Public Budgeting and Financial Management (12 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Public Human Resources Management (12 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Remote Sensing (15 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Spatial Data Science (15 semester credit hours)

3. Program jointly offered by the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences and School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

4. Program jointly offered by the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, and School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering (33 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Computer Engineering (30 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Computer Science (33 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Electrical Engineering (30 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering (33 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering (33 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Software Engineering (33 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Systems Engineering and Management (36 semester credit hours minimum) 3

Master of Science in Telecommunications Engineering (30 semester credit hours minimum)

Doctor of Philosophy in Biomedical Engineering (75 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering (75 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science (75 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Electrical Engineering (75 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Geospatial Information Sciences (75 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree) 4

Doctor of Philosophy in Materials Science and Engineering (75 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Mechanical Engineering (78 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Software Engineering (75 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Telecommunications Engineering (75 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree)

• Certificate in Cybersecurity Systems (12 semester credit hours) 3
• Certificate in Cyber Defense (15 semester credit hours)
• Graduate Certificate in Health Data Analytics (9 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Systems Engineering (12 semester credit hours) 3
• Certificate in Systems Management (12 semester credit hours) 3

5. Program offered jointly by the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science and the Naveen Jindal School of Management.

6. Program jointly offered by the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, and School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies (36 semester credit hours minimum)

• Post-Baccalaureate Program for Teacher Certification
• Teacher Education Certification

Master of Science in Accounting and Analytics (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Business Administration (53 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Business Analytics (STEM) (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Energy Management (STEM) (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Finance (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Financial Technology and Analytics (STEM) (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Healthcare Leadership and Management (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Information Technology and Management (STEM) (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Innovation and Entrepreneurship (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in International Management Studies (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Management Science (STEM) (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Marketing (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Supply Chain Management (STEM) (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Systems Engineering and Management (STEM) (36 semester credit hours minimum) 5

Doctor of Philosophy in International Management Studies (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Management Science (STEM) (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Executive Education

Executive Education Programs

• Certificate in Applied Machine Learning (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Business Intelligence and Data Mining (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Corporate Innovation (9 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Cybersecurity Systems (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Intelligent Enterprise Systems (9 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Executive and Professional Coaching (15 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Fintech (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Financial Data Science (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Global Marketing (15 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Healthcare Information Technology (9 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Healthcare Informatics Leadership (11 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Lean Six Sigma (Yellow/Green) in Healthcare Quality (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in New Venture Entrepreneurship (9 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Negotiation and Mediation (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Organizational Consulting (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Product Lifecycle and Supply Chain Management (15 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Project Management (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Research Foundations in Accounting (15 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Strategic Human Resources (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Systems Engineering (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Systems Management (12 semester credit hours minimum)
• Certificate in Transformational Leadership (12 semester credit hours minimum)

7. Program offered jointly by the Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science and the Naveen Jindal School of Management.

Biological Sciences

Master of Science in Bioinformatics and Computational Biology (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Biotechnology (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Molecular and Cell Biology (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Doctor of Philosophy in Molecular and Cell Biology (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Master of Science in Chemistry (30 semester credit hours minimum)

Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Geosciences

Master of Science in Geosciences (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Doctor of Philosophy in Geosciences (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Mathematical Sciences

Master of Science in Actuarial Science (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Science in Mathematics (36 semester credit hours minimum)

• MS in Mathematics - Specialization in Applied Mathematics
• MS in Mathematics - Specialization in Engineering Mathematics
• MS in Mathematics - Specialization in Mathematics
• MS in Mathematics - Specialization in Data Science

Master of Science in Statistics (36 semester credit hours minimum)

• MS in Statistics - Specialization in Statistics
• MS in Statistics - Specialization in Applied Statistics
• MS in Statistics - Specialization in Data Science

Doctor of Philosophy in Mathematics (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Doctor of Philosophy in Statistics (75 semester credit hours beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Master of Science in Physics (30 semester credit hours minimum)

Doctor of Philosophy in Physics (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

Science and Mathematics Education

Master of Arts in Teaching in Science Education (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Master of Arts in Teaching in Mathematics Education (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Interdisciplinary Studies

Master of Science in Geospatial Information Sciences (36 semester credit hours minimum)

Doctor of Philosophy in Geospatial Information Sciences (75 semester credit hours minimum beyond the baccalaureate degree)

• Certificate in Data Science (12 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Genomics (12-13 semester credit hours)
• Certificate in Quantum Information (12 semester credit hours)

1. Program jointly offered by the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences and School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

2. Program jointly offered by the School of Economic, Political and Policy Sciences, Erik Jonsson School of Engineering and Computer Science, and School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics.

A-Z of courses

Use this A-Z and search tool to explore all of Oxford's graduate courses. 

Non-standard application processes

The instructions in our Application Guide are relevant to applications for all graduate courses at Oxford, except for :

• Biochemistry (Skaggs-Oxford Prog.) , DPhil
• Biomedical Sciences (NIH OxCam) , DPhil
• Clinical Psychology , DClinPsych
• EcoWild , NERC CDT
• Medicine (Graduate Entry)  eg BMBCh
• Saïd Business School courses

Important notice

Please note that websites external to the University of Oxford may hold information on our courses.  Those websites may contain incomplete and inaccurate information. Please refer to this website which provides the definitive and up-to-date source of information on any graduate course offered by the University.

Can't find what you're looking for?

If you have a query about graduate admissions at Oxford, we're here to help:

Ask a question

Privacy Policy

Postgraduate Applicant Privacy Policy

Ohio State navigation bar

• BuckeyeLink
• Find People
• Search Ohio State
• Donate and Support
• Undergraduate Degrees Toggle Undergraduate Degrees menu
• Undergraduate Minors Toggle Undergraduate Minors menu
• Academic Enrichment Toggle Academic Enrichment menu
• High School Programs Toggle High School Programs menu
• Advising Toggle Advising menu

As a legislative staffer, it's great to be able to refer back to the practical, hands-on tools and knowledge I gained at the Glenn College.

— Luke Graeter

• Master of Public Administration Toggle Master of Public Administration menu
• Master of Arts in Public Policy and Management (In-Career MA) Toggle Master of Arts in Public Policy and Management (In-Career MA) menu
• Online Master of Public Administration and Leadership Toggle Online Master of Public Administration and Leadership menu
• Dual Degree Programs Toggle Dual Degree Programs menu
• Doctoral Program Toggle Doctoral Program menu
• Graduate Minors Toggle Graduate Minors menu
• Graduate Certificates Toggle Graduate Certificates menu
• Online Programs Toggle Online Programs menu

My degree provides the practical management and policy skills to solve challenging societal problems.

—  Kennedy Romeo

• Master of Public Administration Washington, D.C. Toggle Master of Public Administration Washington, D.C. menu
• Federal Policy and Management Graduate Certificate Toggle Federal Policy and Management Graduate Certificate menu
• Washington Academic Internship Program (WAIP) Toggle Washington Academic Internship Program (WAIP) menu
• Become a Partner Toggle Become a Partner menu

Living, studying and working in D.C. has offered applicable skills and access to competitive jobs and meaningful connections.

— Gabe Jackson

• Student Stories Toggle Student Stories menu
• Student Organizations Toggle Student Organizations menu
• Undergraduate Advising Toggle Undergraduate Advising menu
• Graduate Advising Toggle Graduate Advising menu
• Living Learning Community Toggle Living Learning Community menu
• Location Benefits Toggle Location Benefits menu

My best decision was choosing the Glenn College, which provides a close-knit community on a large campus.

—  J.D. Mooney

• Internships Toggle Internships menu
• For Employers Toggle For Employers menu

My career advisor made every effort to help me achieve my academic and professional goals.

—  Emily Henson

• Research and Impact Toggle Research and Impact menu
• Professional Development Toggle Professional Development menu

Master of Public Administration

• Graduate Programs |

Choose to make a difference.

The Master of Public Administration degree will provide you with the applied skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce. You will be prepared to lead and grow in your career through a solid grounding in the study of public policy, economics, management and data analysis.

MPA Program Modalities

Mpa core curriculum.

The MPA curriculum is 52 total credit hours. Core coursework (32 credit hours) is designed to provide students a solid grounding in the study of public policy, economics, management and data analysis. MPA students often complete core coursework during the first year of study. During year two, students are able to specialize coursework through skills courses, electives and a Capstone course . (Courses may not be offered every term.)

Explore Sample Course Syllabi

Find More Curriculum Information on the MPA Advising Page

Public Policy Stream

PUBAFRS 6000 – Public Policy Formulation and Implementation

Analysis of the operating environment of the public administrator: public policy processes, public organization behavior and policy formulation in the U.S. federal system.

PUBAFRS 6010 – Legal Environment of Public Organizations

Examination of public administration within the managerial, political and legal traditions of the U.S. Constitution with the goal of teaching public managers how to work with the law through an understanding of legal concepts, jargon, skills and issues. The course covers federal and Ohio law

Economics Stream

PUBAFRS 6030 – Public Sector Economics

Economic analysis applied to problems of public policy selection and government management operations; efficiency criteria, market failure and public choice applied to administrative decision-making.

PUBAFRS 6040 – Public Budgeting and Finance

Comprehensive survey and analysis of the principal fiscal activities of contemporary governments; logic of public-sector activity; taxation principles and practice, intergovernmental relations and current fiscal problems. Budgeting as analysis of resource allocation, planning evaluation and control; tools of analysis for program budgeting and measurement of program results; case studies. Prerequisite: PUBAFRS 6030

Management Stream

PUBAFRS 6060 – Managing Human Resources in Public Organizations

Development of analytic and interpersonal skills needed for public sector management. Analytical and experiential learning through reading, lecture, discussion, case analysis, in-class presentations, management decision-making simulations and role-playing.

Choose one:

• PUBAFRS 6050 – Managing Public Sector Organizations Analysis of alternative approaches to the management of public agencies. Examination of alternative strategies that managers may use to link the agency to its operating environment.
• PUBAFRS 7553 - Nonprofit Management and Governance  An advanced survey course on nonprofit management and governance, with a concentrated focus on managing the external environment and evaluating nonprofit capacity for organizational performance and social impact.

Decisions Support Systems Stream

PUBAFRS 6070 – Public Affairs Statistics

Techniques and statistics used in the analysis of public policy issues and problems

PUBAFRS 6080 – Public Affairs Program Evaluation

Survey of the conceptual, methodological, bureaucratic, political and organizational issues surrounding evaluation research. Prerequisite: PUBAFRS 6070

Delivery, Preparation and Work Experience

Program delivery.

This accredited master's degree program is now offered in-person and online. 

• In-Person: No more than one core or elective course can be taken online per term. Availability of online coursework is not guaranteed.
• Online: Majority of coursework must be completed online. 

Learn more about the MPA-DC program.

Sample 2-Year, Full-Time Program Plan

This is a sample plan. Courses and timing are subject to change.

• PUBAFRS 6000: Public Policy Formulation and Implementation (4)
• PUBAFRS 6030: Public Sector Economics (4)
• PUBAFRS 6070: Public Affairs Statistics (4)
• PUB AFRS 6500: (skills) Written and Oral Communication (2)
• PUBAFRS 6010: Legal Environment of Public Organizations (4)
• PUBAFRS 6040: Public Budgeting and Finance (4)
• PUBAFRS 6080: Public Affairs Program Evaluation (4)
• Elective (3 credits each)
• Skills course(s) (1 credit each)
• PUBAFRS 6050: Managing Public Sector Organizations (4) OR PUBAFRS 7553: Nonprofit Management and Governance (4)
• PUBAFRS 6060: Managerial Leadership in Public and Nonprofit Organizations (4)
• PUBAFRS 79__: Capstone course (3)

Review the MPA Advising Page for more information on curriculum and course requirements  including prerequisite information and elective, skills and capstone course options.

Sample Part-Time Program Plan

• Skills course (1 credit each)

Preparation for Program

Students are expected to be familiar with basic concepts of statistics and economics, and knowledgeable about the workings of the U.S. government. Undergraduate courses in microeconomics, statistics and government are strongly recommended. 

Students are also required to have completed a four-year undergraduate degree from an accredited institution to enroll, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. If you do not meet the minimum requirements set by the university, but would still like to apply, contact the Glenn College to discuss additional options.

Work Experience

Most of our MPA students work 20 hours per week in addition to the full-time curriculum.  The Glenn College Career Services staff is available to help students seeking options for gaining work experience while obtaining their master’s degree.

Before applying

Complete our Inquiry Form : Introduce yourself to the Glenn College admissions team, express interest in our programs, and receive additional information about the Glenn College experience and offerings.

Review the step-by-step instructions for applying below, which include important deadlines and other required materials.   PLEASE NOTE: the deadline below is the date in which all application materials must be received including online application form, resume, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, test scores (if applicable) and transcripts. Applications that are not entirely complete by the date set below will not be reviewed.

Application Deadlines:

• Students who apply by November 15 will be considered for University fellowship and College-level scholarship awards. Online students are not eligible for fellowships per Graduate School policy. Details are found on the Masters Program Funding webpage .
• Students who apply by February 15 will be considered for College-level scholarship awards. Priority will be given to in-person students, but online students may be considered based on strength of application.
• April 15:  Final Application deadline date
• September 1: International applicant deadline
• November 1: Domestic applicant deadline

MPA-DC program applicants are encouraged to visit the program webpage for additional information.

Application and Fees

For Autumn 2024, there is one application for online and in-person modalities. After admission to the program, students will be given the option to enroll as an online or in-person student.

For Spring 2025 and beyond, there will be separate applications for online and in-person modalities.

Program Code:  PUBADM-MPA

The status will first become available two to three days after your application is received. Visit the Applicant Center   to check the status of your application during the admissions process.

Application Fee:

• $60 for domestic applicants
• $70 for international applicants
• This fee is nonrefundable

University Application Fee Waivers (U.S. applicants only)

If you feel you qualify for an application fee waiver based on your participation in any of the diversity initiatives through the Graduate School Program or Ohio State’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion, or if you feel you qualify because of economic hardship, please select the appropriate box(es) under the application fee waiver section of the online application. 

• You must submit proof in order to qualify for an application fee waiver. 
• Qualifying criteria are listed on the Graduate Admissions webpage.
• You cannot submit your online application until your application fee waiver request is approved or your application fee is paid. You will be notified if your application fee waiver request is not approved, at which time you should return to the online application and submit the application fee.

Tuition and Funding

We seek to control cost, increase aid for low- and moderate-income families and enhance programs that support success in and out of the classroom. Ohio State is committed to making an excellent college education more accessible and affordable for Buckeyes everywhere.

University Tuition 

College and University Funding Information

Ohio State's ScholarshipUniverse

Statement of Purpose & Resume/CV

Indicate your academic and career goals, your interest in the John Glenn College of Public Affairs, and how your education and work experience qualify you for admission. There is no length requirement for the personal statement. *If you are an internal transfer student who started an Ohio State degree that you do not plan to complete before entering the Glenn College, please describe why you do not plan to complete your current degree (e.g., unable to pass qualifying exams, change in research interests), and why you think that the Glenn College is a better fit.

Resume or CV:  Be sure to include work experience, volunteer activities, academics and professional honors, honorary societies, extracurricular activities, offices held, any publications and other significant activities.

Letters of Recommendation

Three letters of recommendation are required and should reflect the academic and, if relevant, job capability and experiences of the applicant. The letters should speak to the applicant’s ability to excel in an academic professional program. 

Requirements:

• Letters must be submitted electronically using the  online application  (select “Public Policy and Management”).
• While completing your online application, please provide your recommender’s name and email address. The Office of Graduate & Professional Admissions will send an email to the recommenders instructing them to complete a short assessment and upload a PDF recommendation letter. 
• Inform your letter writers that they will receive an email from Ohio State once you submit the online application. It is the responsibility of the applicant to make sure letters of recommendation are completed by posted deadlines. 
• If recommenders experience difficulties accessing the link or using the online system, please contact the Office of Graduate & Professional Admissions directly at  [email protected] .
• Letters of recommendation sent directly to the Glenn College will not be accepted.

Transcripts

Upload transcripts from  ALL  of the universities and colleges you attended with your online application as an attachment. 

• Transcripts are required, even for classes transferred from another institution, including classes attended during high school or completed through a study abroad program.
• Transcripts are not required for coursework completed at Ohio State. 
• Submit copies (front and back) of official transcripts. Please submit only scanned images of official transcripts issued by your institution’s registrar. Ohio State will not accept web reports, advising reports, self-reported scores or transfer credit on another school’s transcript.

Transcripts submitted with the online application are considered unofficial and, if admitted, you will be required to submit an official set of transcripts with statement of degree (if appropriate) prior to enrolling at Ohio State.

Test Scores

GRE Scores are no longer required for any applicant to a master's level program at the John Glenn College of Public Affairs. Applicants with a GPA that fall below a 3.0 are encouraged to contact the Glenn College  for further direction in strengthening their application.

Official GRE Codes:

• Institution Code: 1592
• Department Code: 2204

International Students:

• International students must submit TOEFL or IELTS test scores; scores should be above the equivalent of a TOEFL iBT Total Score of 100 for consideration .

All test scores (if needed), including GRE and English proficiency, must be sent directly to Graduate Admissions .  The proof of English proficiency requirement is handled by the Office of Graduate and Professional Admissions. You can find out more information, including potential exemptions to this requirement, on their International Additional Requirements to Apply webpage.

Attend an Information Session

We will have more information sessions coming in autumn 2024. If you're interested in learning more, visit the Connect with Us page to learn more about how to get in contact to learn more about our graduate programs. 

Live, learn and work in Washington while earning your degree.

The Glenn College MPA-DC program allows you to complete your MPA while gaining professional experience in the nation's capital. 

We're here to help.

• Faculty & Staff
• Faculty & Staff
• Request Info

School of Law graduate from the RGV finds support during J.D. studies

Home » Gold & Blue Magazine » School of Law graduate from the RGV finds support during J.D. studies

Close to home

By Leticia Romero

Hannah Orendain (J.D. ’24) had a family history in the legal field, but when it came to picking a major, she had to decide between following in her father’s footsteps by becoming an attorney or going to medical school.

She decided she was better at arguing and graduated from Baylor University with a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science with a minor in Poverty Studies and Social Justice in 2020.

“I graduated a year early, and I took what would have been my senior year off,” Orendain said. “I worked at the district attorney’s office back in Hidalgo County just to make sure I wanted to study law, and that’s where I was like, ‘Yep, this is what I want to do.’”

Orendain did more than work for the district attorney that year. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, her mom suggested they find a way to help their hometown, McAllen.

In their first week, they raised $900, which they used to bring food to front-line medical workers in the South Texas area, known as the Rio Grande Valley or RGV. Their idea has since transformed into the nonprofit RGV Gives Back, which is “committed to promoting and advancing the educational, cultural, social and economic well-being of all RGV residents,” according to its website.

RGV Gives Back’s focus has evolved to providing college scholarships, giving away $6,000 to $7,000 every spring to Rio Grande Valley students.

When it came time to pick a law school, Orendain considered her undergrad alma mater but believed the St. Mary’s University School of Law was a better fit for her.

“I knew St. Mary’s had a really good pro bono program, and I’m very involved in my community,” Orendain said. “It is also the closest law school to the Valley, and my family is a big priority to me. I didn’t want to spend another three years living seven hours away from them.”

When her dad got sick during her first semester in law school, she knew she had made the right decision to stay close to home. Orendain’s father passed away in the second semester of her first year in law school.

I always had this dream: I was going to graduate law school, and I would join the family firm. My dad was going to be there, and he was going to guide me.” Hannah Orendain (J.D. ’24)

“I always had this dream: I was going to graduate law school, and I would join the family firm,” Orendain said. “My dad was going to be there, and he was going to guide me.”

Orendain said her professors worked with her, sending her recorded sessions and giving her the needed time to attend services and be with family. She returned more determined than ever to finish law school.

“Two weeks later, I came back, and I did better that semester than I did my first semester,” said Orendain. “I know God put me at St. Mary’s for a reason.”

Despite the loss of her father, Orendain made the most of her experience at the School of Law.

She’s been recognized by the School of Law for her work aiding those in need. Involved in student organizations, she also ended her school career as the vice president of the People’s Parity Project, president of the Lawtina Network student organization and alumni outreach chair of the Hispanic Law Student Association.

Orendain is also an advocate of the St. Mary’s 1L Edification Program, or SM1LE, a mentor program that matches first-year J.D. students with second- or third-year J.D. students.

“You need a mentor in law school,” Orendain said. “It’s easier to find success with someone by your side who’s already gone through your struggles.”

Orendain said she’s grateful for the resources on campus, including the School of Law’s Office of Career Strategy, which helped her with résumé and interview prep. She also plans to enroll in the Raise the Bar program, a supplement to a commercial bar prep program offered to all School of Law graduates to prepare for the bar exam.

Orendain still plans to move back home and work at her family’s law firm and to continue her commitment to St. Mary’s Law as an active alumna.

“I would love to be a resource for current or future students at St. Mary’s School of Law,” Orendain said. “I plan on staying involved as it allows me to make a positive impact and help shape the next generation of legal professionals.” 

Tell us what you think:

Share this article:

More from the Summer 2024 Issue

St. Mary’s alumnus uses position to foster growth

Joseph Puntoriero sat in a military base in Lebanon with shaky Wi-Fi just hoping it would hold long enough to submit his final assignment. Ultimately, the International Relations degree aided his journey to become a military mentor to future leaders.

Sister shares her calling to Theology

As a teenager, Sister LaReine-Marie Mosley, Ph.D., had already decided to venture into a life of religious practice. Celebrating 40 years since joining the Sisters of Notre Dame, Gold & Blue magazine sat down to get to know Mosley.

Honoring our legacy, shaping our future

This summer, St. Mary’s University will celebrate its 172nd anniversary. It is deeply moving and inspiring to reflect on the hopes and aspirations the Marianist brothers must have had as they helped boldly lay the first stones of St. Louis Hall in the late 1800s. 

Read More Stories

St. Mary’s community offers up summer reading options

Alumni and faculty from St. Mary's University offer up new reading materials, helping you find a cool way to stay out of the summer heat this year.

St. Mary’s University connections vie for Winter Games glory

Although they had never met, Winter Vinecki and Collin Storms (B.A. '22) paths tie them from not-so-snowy St. Mary’s University to the same Olympic training facilities in Lake Placid, New York.

St. Mary’s employee’s connection to the Marianist mission spans generations

Linda Muller (B.A. ’86, B.B.A. ’86, M.A. ’03), Director of Enterprise Systems and Services, never planned to attend St. Mary’s University. But three degrees, a wedding, eight children and a 30-year career later, Muller is happy with God’s plans for her.

Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World

Read our research on:

Full Topic List

Regions & Countries

• Publications
• Our Methods
• Short Reads
• Tools & Resources

Read Our Research On:

Is College Worth It?

1. labor market and economic trends for young adults, table of contents.

• Labor force trends and economic outcomes for young adults
• Economic outcomes for young men
• Economic outcomes for young women
• Wealth trends for households headed by a young adult
• The importance of a four-year college degree
• Getting a high-paying job without a college degree
• Do Americans think their education prepared them for the workplace?
• Is college worth the cost?
• Acknowledgments
• The American Trends Panel survey methodology
• Current Population Survey methodology
• Survey of Consumer Finances methodology

A majority of the nation’s 36 million workers ages 25 to 34 have not completed a four-year college degree. In 2023, there were 19 million young workers who had some college or less education, including those who had not finished high school.

The overall number of employed young adults has grown over the decades as more young women joined the workforce. The number of employed young adults without a college degree peaked around 1990 at 25 million and then started to fall, as more young people began finishing college .

This chapter looks at the following key labor market and economic trends separately for young men and young women by their level of education:

Labor force participation

• Individual earnings

Household income

• Net worth 1

When looking at how young adults are doing in the job market, it generally makes the most sense to analyze men and women separately. They tend to work in different occupations and have different career patterns, and their educational paths have diverged in recent decades.

In 1970, almost all young men whose highest educational attainment was a high school diploma (98%) were in the labor force, meaning they were working or looking for work. By 2013, only 88% of high school-educated young men were in the labor force. Today, that share is 87%.

Similarly, 96% of young men whose highest attainment was some college education were in the labor force in 1970. Today, the share is 89%.

By comparison, labor force participation among young men with at least a bachelor’s degree has remained relatively stable these past few decades. Today, 94% of young men with at least a bachelor’s degree are in the labor force.

The long-running decline in the labor force participation of young men without a bachelor’s degree may be due to several factors, including declining wages , the types of jobs available to this group becoming less desirable, rising incarceration rates and the opioid epidemic . 2

Looking at labor force and earnings trends over the past several decades, it’s important to keep in mind broader forces shaping the national job market.

The Great Recession officially ended in June 2009, but the national job market recovered slowly . At the beginning of the Great Recession in the fourth quarter of 2007, the national unemployment rate was 4.6%. Unemployment peaked at 10.4% in the first quarter of 2010. It was not until the fourth quarter of 2016 that unemployment finally returned to its prerecession level (4.5%).

Studies suggest that things started to look up for less-skilled workers around 2014. Among men with less education, hourly earnings began rising in 2014 after a decade of stagnation. Wage growth for low-wage workers also picked up in 2014. The tightening labor markets in the last five years of the expansion after the Great Recession improved the labor market prospects of “vulnerable workers” considerably.

The COVID-19 pandemic interrupted the tight labor market, but the COVID-19 recession and recovery were quite different from the Great Recession in their job market impact. The more recent recession was arguably more severe, as the national unemployment rate reached 12.9% in the second quarter of 2020. But it was short – officially lasting two months, compared with the 18-month Great Recession – and the labor market bounced back much quicker. Unemployment was 3.3% before the COVID-19 recession; three years later, unemployment had once again returned to that level.

Full-time, full-year employment

Since the Great Recession of 2007-09, young men without a four-year college degree have seen a significant increase in the average number of hours they work.

• Today, 77% of young workers with a high school education work full time, full year, compared with 69% in 2011.
• 83% of young workers with some college education work full time, full year, compared with 70% in 2011.

The share of young men with a college degree who work full time, year-round has remained fairly steady in recent decades – at about 80% – and hasn’t fluctuated with good or bad economic cycles.

Annual earnings

Annual earnings for young men without a college degree were on a mostly downward path from 1973 until roughly 10 years ago (with the exception of a bump in the late 1990s). 3

Earnings have been increasing modestly over the past decade for these groups.

• Young men with a high school education who are working full time, full year have median earnings of $45,000 today, up from $39,300 in 2014. (All figures are in 2022 dollars.)
• The median earnings of young men with some college education who are working full time, full year are $50,000 today, similar to their median earnings in 2014 ($49,100).

It’s important to note that median annual earnings for both groups of noncollege men remain below their 1973 levels.

Median earnings for young men with a four-year college degree have increased over the past 10 years, from $67,500 in 2014 to $77,000 today.

Unlike young men without a college degree, the earnings of college-educated young men are now above what they were in the early 1970s. The gap in median earnings between young men with and without a college degree grew significantly from the late 1970s to 2014. In 1973, the typical young man with a degree earned 23% more than his high school-educated counterpart. By 2014, it was 72% more. Today, that gap stands at 71%. 4

Household income has also trended up for young men in the past 10 years, regardless of educational attainment.

This measure takes into account the contributions of everyone in the household. For this analysis, we excluded young men who are living in their parents’ home (about 20% of 25- to 34-year-old men in 2023).

• The median household income of young men with a high school education is $75,200 today, up from $63,800 in 2014. This is slightly lower than the highpoint reached around 2019.
• The median household income of young men with some college education is $92,200 today, up from $81,100 in 2014. This is close to the 2022 peak of $93,800.

The median household income of young men with at least a bachelor’s degree has also increased from a low point of $118,700 in 2014 after the Great Recession to $145,000 today.

The gap in household income between young men with and without a college degree grew significantly between 1980 and 2014. In 1980, the median household income of young men with at least a bachelor’s degree was about 38% more than that of high school graduates. By 2014, that gap had widened to 86%.

Over the past 10 years, the income gap has fluctuated. In 2023, the typical college graduate’s household income was 93% more than that of the typical high school graduate.

The 2001 recession and Great Recession resulted in a large increase in poverty among young men without a college degree.

• In 2000, among young men living independently of their parents, 8% of those with a high school education were in poverty. Poverty peaked for this group at 17% around 2011 and has since declined to 12% in 2023.
• Among young men with some college education, poverty peaked at 12% around 2014, up from 4% in 2000. Poverty has fallen for this group since 2014 and stands at 8% as of 2023.
• Young men with a four-year college degree also experienced a slight uptick in poverty during the 2001 recession and Great Recession. In 2014, 6% of young college graduates were in poverty, up from 4% in 2000. Poverty among college graduates stands at 5% in 2023.

Labor force trends for young women are very different than for young men. There are occupational and educational differences between young women and men, and their earnings have followed different patterns.

Unlike the long-running decline for noncollege young men, young women without a college degree saw their labor force participation increase steadily from 1970 to about 1990.

By 2000, about three-quarters of young women with a high school diploma and 79% of those with some college education were in the labor force.

Labor force participation has also trended upward for college-educated young women and has consistently been higher than for those with less education.

After rising for decades, labor force participation for young women without a college degree fell during the 2001 recession and the Great Recession. Their labor force participation has increased slightly since 2014.

As of 2023, 69% of young women with a high school education were in the labor force, as were 78% of young women with some college education. Today’s level of labor force participation for young women without a college degree is slightly lower than the level seen around 2000.

The decline in labor force participation for noncollege women partly reflects the declining labor force participation for mothers with children under 18 years of age . Other research has suggested that without federal paid parental and family leave benefits for parents, some women with less education may leave the labor force after having a baby.

In contrast, labor force participation for young women with a college degree has fully recovered from the recessions of the early 2000s. Today, 87% of college-educated young women are in the labor force, the highest estimate on record.

Young women without a college degree have steadily increased their work hours over the decades. The past 10 years in particular have seen a significant increase in the share of employed noncollege women working full time, full year (with the exception of 2021).

• In 2023, 69% of employed young women with a high school education worked full time, full year, up from 56% in 2014. This share is the highest it’s ever been.
• In 2023, 65% of employed women with some college worked full time, full year, up from 58% in 2014. This is among the highest levels ever.

The trend in the share working full time, full year has been similar for young women with college degrees. By 2023, 78% of these women worked full time, full year, the highest share it’s ever been.

Unlike young men, young women without a college education did not see their earnings fall between 1970 and 2000.

The 2001 recession and Great Recession also did not significantly impact the earnings of noncollege young women. In the past 10 years, their median earnings have trended upward.

• For young women with a high school diploma, median earnings reached $36,000 in 2023, up from $30,900 in 2014.
• For those with some college, median earnings rose to $40,000 in 2023 from $37,700 in 2014.

For young women with a college degree, median earnings rose steadily from the mid-1980s until the early 2000s. By 2003, they reached $62,100, but this declined to $55,200 by 2014. In the past 10 years, the median earnings of college-educated young women have risen, reaching $65,000 in 2023.

In the mid-1980s, the typical young woman with a college degree earned about 48% more than her counterpart with a high school diploma. The pay gap among women has widened since then, and by 2014, the typical college graduate earned 79% more than the typical high school graduate. The gap has changed little over the past 10 years.

Noncollege young women living independently from their parents have experienced large household income gains over the past 10 years, measured at the median.

• In 2023, young women with a high school diploma had a median household income of $61,600, up from $48,100 in 2014.
• The pattern is similar for young women with some college education. Their median income rose to $75,200 in 2023 from $64,600 in 2014.

The median household income for young women with a four-year college degree is significantly higher than it is for their counterparts without a degree. College-educated young women have made substantial gains in the past 10 years.

The income gap between young women with and without a college degree has widened over the decades. In 1980, the median household income of young women with a college degree was 50% higher than that of high school-educated women. By 2014, the income gap had grown to 139%. Today, the household income advantage of college-educated women stands at 121% ($136,000 vs. $61,600).

Poverty trends for young women mirror those for young men, although young women are overall more likely to be in poverty than young men. The past 10 years have resulted in a steep reduction in the share of noncollege women in poverty.

• Today, 21% of young women with a high school diploma are living in poverty. This is down from 31% in 2014.
• 15% of young women with some college education live in poverty, compared with 21% in 2014.
• Young women with a college degree are consistently far less likely than either group to be living in poverty (5% in 2023).

Along with young adults’ rising incomes over the past 10 years, there’s been a substantial increase in their wealth. This part of our analysis does not look at men and women separately due to limitations in sample size.

In 2022, households headed by a young high school graduate had a median net worth of $30,700, up from $12,700 in 2013. Those headed by a young adult with some college education had a median net worth of $52,900, up from $15,700 in 2013.

The typical wealth level of households headed by a young college graduate was $120,200 in 2022, up from $46,600 in 2013.

There has not been any significant narrowing of the wealth gap between young high school graduate and young college graduate households since 2013.

Wealth increased for Americans across age groups over this period due to several factors. Many were able to save money during the pandemic lockdowns. In addition, home values increased, and the stock market surged.

• Most of the analysis in this chapter is based on the Annual Social and Economic Supplement collected by the U.S. Census Bureau. Information on net worth is based on a Federal Reserve survey, which interviews fewer households. Due to this smaller sample size, the net worth of households headed by a young adult cannot be broken out by gender and education. ↩
• Bureau of Labor Statistics data indicates that the labor force participation rate for men ages 25 to 54 has been declining since 1953. ↩
• This analysis looks at the earnings of employed adults working full time, full year. This measure of earnings is not uncommon. For example, the National Center for Education Statistics publishes a series on the annual earnings of 25- to 34-year-olds working full time, full year. ↩
• Other studies using hourly wages rather than annual earnings find that the college wage premium has narrowed. For example, researchers at the San Francisco Federal Reserve report that the college wage gap peaked in the mid-2010s but declined by just 4 percentage points to about 75% in 2022. ↩

Sign up for our weekly newsletter

Fresh data delivery Saturday mornings

Sign up for The Briefing

Weekly updates on the world of news & information

• Business & Workplace
• Economic Conditions
• Higher Education
• Income & Wages
• Recessions & Recoveries
• Student Loans

Half of Latinas Say Hispanic Women’s Situation Has Improved in the Past Decade and Expect More Gains

From businesses and banks to colleges and churches: americans’ views of u.s. institutions, fewer young men are in college, especially at 4-year schools, key facts about u.s. latinos with graduate degrees, private, selective colleges are most likely to use race, ethnicity as a factor in admissions decisions, most popular, report materials.

1615 L St. NW, Suite 800 Washington, DC 20036 USA (+1) 202-419-4300 | Main (+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax (+1) 202-419-4372 |  Media Inquiries

Research Topics

• Email Newsletters

ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER  Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of  The Pew Charitable Trusts .

© 2024 Pew Research Center