economic development phd programs

Best Development Economics Programs

Ranked in 2022, part of Best Social Sciences and Humanities Schools

Development economists are

Development economists are concerned with the state of low-income countries and citizens. They may work in research and policy analysis for government agencies and nonprofits. These are the top graduate schools for development economics. Read the methodology »

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PhD Program

Year after year, our top-ranked PhD program sets the standard for graduate economics training across the country. Graduate students work closely with our world-class faculty to develop their own research and prepare to make impactful contributions to the field.

Our doctoral program enrolls 20-24 full-time students each year and students complete their degree in five to six years. Students undertake core coursework in microeconomic theory, macroeconomics, and econometrics, and are expected to complete two major and two minor fields in economics. Beyond the classroom, doctoral students work in close collaboration with faculty to develop their research capabilities, gaining hands-on experience in both theoretical and empirical projects.

How to apply

Students are admitted to the program once per year for entry in the fall. The online application opens on September 15 and closes on December 15.

Meet our students

Our PhD graduates go on to teach in leading economics departments, business schools, and schools of public policy, or pursue influential careers with organizations and businesses around the world. 

Economic Development Graduate Programs in America

1-25 of 26 results

College of Arts and Science

Nashville, TN •

Vanderbilt University •

Graduate School

Vanderbilt University ,

Graduate School ,

NASHVILLE, TN ,

Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

Los Angeles, CA •

University of Southern California •

University of Southern California ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Ithaca, NY •

Cornell University •

Cornell University ,

ITHACA, NY ,

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota School of Business and Technology

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota •

Graduate School •

MINNEAPOLIS, MN

• • Rating 4 out of 5   6

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota

• • Rating 4.61 out of 5   66

School of International Service

American University •

WASHINGTON, DC

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   4

Graduate School of Arts & Sciences - Georgetown University

Nw Washington, DC •

Georgetown University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: The program is highly practical. The professors explain concepts in class and give us home works to submit on each topic discussed on a weekly basis. This enables us to grasp the concepts more. We are informed of the professors office time and so we can email them to make inquiries and get assistance when needed. We make presentations during class which train us to become more bold and be able to communicate the concepts easily. We are able to discuss and critic writings independently. We work on projects in groups of about 3-4 and discuss findings to the entire class and professor. We review research papers and make meta-analyses inform of class projects. The program is well structured and i am gaining skills. My worst experience is having to worry about Tuition and other related school bills. ... Read 2 reviews

Georgetown University ,

NW WASHINGTON, DC ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The program is highly practical. The professors explain concepts in class and give us home works to submit on each topic discussed on a weekly basis. This enables us to grasp the concepts more. We... .

Read 2 reviews.

Laney Graduate School

Atlanta, GA •

Emory University •

Master's Student: I chose the graduate programs at Emory because they are ranked among the best in the country. The school of nursing also provides the clinical experiences, something many of the online only nurse practitioner programs do not do. ... Read 2 reviews

Emory University ,

ATLANTA, GA ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says I chose the graduate programs at Emory because they are ranked among the best in the country. The school of nursing also provides the clinical experiences, something many of the online only nurse... .

Williams College

Williamstown, MA •

WILLIAMSTOWN, MA ,

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Wheelock College of Education and Human Development

Boston, MA •

Boston University •

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   5 reviews

Master's Student: My experience with Wheelock College has been limited since I have not officially started at the University. I have limited experience with the school and faculty. In terms of the counseling department, and the admissions team have been extremely helpful and overall thorough. The faculty seems quite kind and open as well. Wheelock college is definitely a welcoming and unique place for one to take opportunities. ... Read 5 reviews

Boston University ,

BOSTON, MA ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says My experience with Wheelock College has been limited since I have not officially started at the University. I have limited experience with the school and faculty. In terms of the counseling... .

Read 5 reviews.

College of Letters & Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI •

University of Wisconsin •

• • Rating 4.22 out of 5   9 reviews

Alum: Aside from being really cold, UW-Madison is a great school. Needless to say, it is one of the top schools in the U.S. with a beautiful campus that has Lake Mendota and a lot of student life to enjoy. Academic was really good too, but given how the city is college town, you can feel the emptiness when students go back home during summer break. It is known as party school too with Mifflin Street Block Party. But it is also highly academically renowned school. So you can make your campus life as fun or as beneficial as you can. There are many gyms and libraries that can handle 40k + students. In addition, you have to check out Camp Randall, the football stadium and attend The MadHatters A Cappella show. I really miss this campus except for the weather. State street has many diverse restaurants that are authentic and delicious. One of the best campuses in the world. ... Read 9 reviews

University of Wisconsin ,

MADISON, WI ,

9 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Alum says Aside from being really cold, UW-Madison is a great school. Needless to say, it is one of the top schools in the U.S. with a beautiful campus that has Lake Mendota and a lot of student life to enjoy.... .

Read 9 reviews.

School of Liberal Arts - Tulane University

New Orleans, LA •

Tulane University •

Blue checkmark.

Tulane University ,

NEW ORLEANS, LA ,

Brandeis International Business School

Waltham, MA •

Brandeis University •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

Master's Student: Diversity: One standout aspect of Brandeis IBS's faculty is their diversity in terms of academic backgrounds, research interests, and professional experiences. The faculty comprises experts in various fields, including finance, economics, international business, entrepreneurship, and marketing, creating a well-rounded educational experience. Limited Scholarships: A primary concern is the relatively limited number of scholarships and grants offered by Brandeis IBS. The competitive nature of scholarship awards means that only a select few applicants receive financial assistance. This leaves many others searching for alternative funding sources or potentially facing significant student loan debt. ... Read 1 review

Brandeis University ,

WALTHAM, MA ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Diversity: One standout aspect of Brandeis IBS's faculty is their diversity in terms of academic backgrounds, research interests, and professional experiences. The faculty comprises experts in... Limited Scholarships: A primary concern is the relatively limited number of scholarships and grants offered by Brandeis IBS. The competitive nature of scholarship awards means that only a select few... .

Read 1 reviews.

Columbian College of Arts & Sciences

Washington, DC •

George Washington University •

Master's Student: The course work here is rigorous and exciting and will push you to become the best professional that you can be. Client interactions especially for the speech language pathology graduate program is top notch and they get you working hands on within the first couple weeks of starting the program. The support given by the professors and school are outstanding and I have had nothing but great interactions, even when I've needed help figuring things out. ... Read 2 reviews

George Washington University ,

WASHINGTON, DC ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says The course work here is rigorous and exciting and will push you to become the best professional that you can be. Client interactions especially for the speech language pathology graduate program is... .

UC San Diego Division of Social Sciences

La Jolla, CA •

University of California - San Diego •

University of California - San Diego ,

LA JOLLA, CA ,

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• Economic Development Graduate Programs
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College of Arts and Sciences - American University

American University ,

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   4 reviews

Master's Student: The School of International Service is a great school to prepare for a career in any field in international affairs. The faculty, staff and networking opportunities were great facets of the program experience. Career services staff have continued to provide support since graduation and I am in my current role of 5 years based on reference from my program administrator ... Read 4 reviews

4 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says The School of International Service is a great school to prepare for a career in any field in international affairs. The faculty, staff and networking opportunities were great facets of the program... .

Read 4 reviews.

University of Arizona College of Management

Tucson, AZ •

University of Arizona •

Master's Student: I have taken a couple Accounting classes so far and the support of the department as well as the Eller College of Management as a whole is amazing! I became a preceptor for one of my professors and really enjoyed the experience. ... Read 1 review

University of Arizona ,

TUCSON, AZ ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says I have taken a couple Accounting classes so far and the support of the department as well as the Eller College of Management as a whole is amazing! I became a preceptor for one of my professors and... .

Josef Korbel School of International Studies

Denver, CO •

University of Denver •

• • Rating 4.79 out of 5   14 reviews

Master's Student: I am in social work and this is a great program! I entered this program because of how many people around me were recommending it, and they were not wrong. ... Read 14 reviews

University of Denver ,

DENVER, CO ,

14 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am in social work and this is a great program! I entered this program because of how many people around me were recommending it, and they were not wrong. .

Read 14 reviews.

University of Vermont College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Burlington, VT •

University of Vermont •

University of Vermont ,

BURLINGTON, VT ,

School of Arts and Sciences - The Catholic University of America

The Catholic University of America •

The Catholic University of America ,

College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences - North Dakota State University

Fargo, ND •

North Dakota State University •

North Dakota State University ,

FARGO, ND ,

College of Arts and Sciences - Andrews University

Berrien Springs, MI •

Andrews University •

Andrews University ,

BERRIEN SPRINGS, MI ,

College of Business and Economic Development - University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS •

University of Southern Mississippi •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Junior: The program can be difficult at time but the staff is helpful, they are there to help you succeed. I have done most of my academics online, their format is easy to use. ... Read 1 review

University of Southern Mississippi ,

HATTIESBURG, MS ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Junior says The program can be difficult at time but the staff is helpful, they are there to help you succeed. I have done most of my academics online, their format is easy to use. .

College of Arts and Sciences - New Mexico State University

Las Cruces, NM •

New Mexico State University •

New Mexico State University ,

LAS CRUCES, NM ,

Gallaudet University

• • Rating 4.58 out of 5   48 reviews

Doctoral Student: The best part of the Doctor of Audiology program at Gallaudet University is the opportunity to be enveloped in the Deaf community, which is unique for audiology programs in the United States. They provide a different perspective of hearing loss while educating the students in an exceptional manner with clinical and classroom studies. Some things that the program could improve on is communication between the department and students. At times, there are delays in sharing information about deadlines and opportunities. Students can feel rushed and "not in-the-loop" on what is happening in the program which can cause anxiety and uncertainty. ... Read 48 reviews

48 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says The best part of the Doctor of Audiology program at Gallaudet University is the opportunity to be enveloped in the Deaf community, which is unique for audiology programs in the United States. They... Some things that the program could improve on is communication between the department and students. At times, there are delays in sharing information about deadlines and opportunities. Students can... .

Read 48 reviews.

Minneapolis, MN •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   6 reviews

Current Master's student: I am taking an online administration program to receive my business administration license. We meet up once a month otherwise everything else is online. It has been wonderful to do while I am still working my current full time job. ... Read 6 reviews

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota ,

MINNEAPOLIS, MN ,

6 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says I am taking an online administration program to receive my business administration license. We meet up once a month otherwise everything else is online. It has been wonderful to do while I am... .

Read 6 reviews.

College of Business and Management - Hope International University

Fullerton, CA •

Hope International University •

Hope International University ,

FULLERTON, CA ,

American University

• • Rating 4.48 out of 5   152

Tulane University

NEW ORLEANS, LA

• • Rating 4.22 out of 5   37

Showing results 1 through 25 of 26

Doctoral Program

The Ph.D. program is a full time program leading to a Doctoral Degree in Economics.  Students specialize in various fields within Economics by enrolling in field courses and attending field specific lunches and seminars.  Students gain economic breadth by taking additional distribution courses outside of their selected fields of interest.

General requirements

Students  are required to complete 1 quarter of teaching experience. Teaching experience includes teaching assistantships within the Economics department or another department .

University's residency requirement

135 units of full-tuition residency are required for PhD students. After that, a student should have completed all course work and must request Terminal Graduate Registration (TGR) status.

Department degree requirements and student checklist

1. core course requirement.

Required: Core Microeconomics (202-203-204) Core Macroeconomics (210-211-212) Econometrics (270-271-272).  The Business School graduate microeconomics class series may be substituted for the Econ Micro Core.  Students wishing to waive out of any of the first year core, based on previous coverage of at least 90% of the material,  must submit a waiver request to the DGS at least two weeks prior to the start of the quarter.  A separate waiver request must be submitted for each course you are requesting to waive.  The waiver request must include a transcript and a syllabus from the prior course(s) taken.  

2.  Field Requirements

Required:  Two of the Following Fields Chosen as Major Fields (click on link for specific field requirements).  Field sequences must be passed with an overall grade average of B or better.  Individual courses require a letter grade of B- or better to pass unless otherwise noted.

Research fields and field requirements :

• Behavioral & Experimental
• Development Economics
• Econometric Methods with Causal Inference
• Econometrics
• Economic History
• Environmental, Resource and Energy Economics
• Industrial Organization
• International Trade & Finance
• Labor Economics
• Market Design
• Microeconomic Theory
• Macroeconomics
• Political Economy
• Public Economics

3.  Distribution

Required:  Four other graduate-level courses must be completed. One of these must be from the area of economic history (unless that field has already been selected above). These courses must be distributed in such a way that at least two fields not selected above are represented.  Distribution courses must be passed with a grade of B or better.

4.  Field Seminars/Workshops

Required:  Three quarters of two different field seminars or six quarters of the same field seminar from the list below.   

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The doctoral program in Economics at Harvard University is one of the leading programs in the world. Supported by a diverse group of faculty who are top researchers in their fields and fueled by a vast array of resources, the PhD program is structured to train and nurture students to become leading economists in academia, government agencies, the technology industry, finance and banking, and global policy organizations.

Harvard University and the Department of Economics are regularly ranked amongst the top programs in the world, and the consistency of success among our graduates is inspiring. We have educated several foreign heads of state, Nobel Prize Winners, Clark Medal Winners, MacArthur Fellowship Recipients - many of whom have returned to Harvard to offer their expertise and brilliance in shaping and nurturing our students.  Learn more about where we place our  graduates  and explore our  Program  to find out if a PhD in Economics is a good fit for you. 

Program Requirements

As a PhD student in the Economics program, students will spend the first two years in the program engaged in rigorous coursework designed to develop a foundational understanding of economics. In the following years, students transition to research under the guidance of strong faculty mentorship and participate in field workshops. In the final year, students conduct independent research and complete a dissertation.

The department of Economics at Harvard University is committed to seeking out and mentoring scholars who wish to pursue a rigorous and rewarding career in economic research. Our graduates are trailblazers in their fields and contribute to a diverse alumni community in both the academic and non-academic sectors. We invite you to learn more and apply to the PhD program in Economics. 

Financial Support

Students have access to a variety of funding and financial support opportunities.

• Research Funding
• Teaching Fellowships and assistants
• Additional external and internal resources

Learn more about financial support

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Graduate Program

The University of Colorado Boulder (UCB) ranks in the top 50 graduate economics programs in the U.S. Graduate students in our program find they are participating in a program with an excellent job placement record that trains them well for careers in teaching, research and government or private sector employment.

The department strives to maintain a diverse graduate student population. International students, women and minorities are encouraged to apply. Students in the program build supportive, lasting relationships with fellow students and faculty. View our Departmental Diversity Statement .

In addition to academics, the University of Colorado Boulder is considered to have one of the most beautiful campuses in the country. With mountains at your doorstep, recreational opportunities such as skiing, hiking, biking and fishing abound in a relatively mild, often sunny, four-season climate.   

PhD Program 

Our PhD program focuses on a solid core curriculum in economic theory and econometrics. Beyond this, we offer a number of specialized fields of study: econometrics, economic development, economic history, industrial organization, international trade and finance, labor and human resources, natural resources and environmental economics and public economics.

  MA Program 

We do not currently offer a stand-alone MA degree program, although students enrolled in our PhD program will earn their MA degree as they progress toward their doctorate. If you are interested in a masters-only program, you may want to contact the  University of Colorado Denver . 

  Admissions

We understand that the COVID-19 pandemic has been disruptive to all and that student experiences in the wake of this have not been equitable. In response to these events, we recognize that some applicants will have concerns about the impacts these events could have on admissions. The graduate programs at the University of Colorado Boulder are dedicated to recruiting and supporting diverse, talented students, employing holistic application review processes and supporting students when they arrive on campus. 

We want to be clear that we understand 

• students have been facing and will face unprecedented challenges during this time. 
• testing centers have suspended operations, or moved to remote testing.
• many students and institutions have chosen to adopt the Pass/Fail (or Credit/No Credit) option due to these events.
• due to this disruption students may not have performed to their usual abilities during times of remote study or challenging classroom adjustments. 
• some research projects will have been interrupted or will be incomplete as a result of university and facility closures. 
• many students will be unable to take on internships and summer research programs or other professional development initiatives.
• there are myriad other challenging circumstances that have arisen in individuals’ experiences.

We will take all this into consideration as we review applications holistically, understanding that our goal continues to be a graduate student cohort of future leaders, full of diverse life experiences and perspectives that will add new dimensions to our existing graduate community. If you have any questions about your specific circumstances, please contact the our department at  [email protected]   or the graduate school at  [email protected]

Application Prerequisites:

In addition to holding a bachelor's degree from a college or university of recognized standing, prerequisite coursework for admission includes:

• intermediate microeconomic and macroeconomic theory coursework
• 6 college-level hours of calculus and 3 college-level hours of statistics. 
• Minimum requirements and averages for GPA, GRE and TOEFL are listed in the chart in the section below.

Supplement to Admissions Application: Coursework Completed in Economics and Mathematics   Please download 2-page form, fill out, and submit.

NOTE: Applicants demonstrating strength in mathematics are more likely to be admitted. Highly useful math coursework includes calculus (through calc III), linear algebra, intro to real analysis, differential equations, statistics with calculus (mathematical statistics), and probability theory.

Keep in mind that prerequisites listed above and the numbers listed below are only part of the admissions picture. Our committee will look at your application package as a whole before making admissions and funding decisions.

Students are not expected to have a master's degree when they enter the program. They will earn their MA degree in the course of completing their doctorate. We do look at GPAs for graduate level work but do not use this as a standard measure since this is not a requirement for admission.

Graduate Information

International Student Application Deadline : December 1 st  of the year preceding the year of admission. 

Domestic Student Application Deadline : January 15 th  of the year of admission.

After accepting admission, you will automatically be considered for funding in the form of a teaching assistantship. In addition, you may be offered a generous fellowship to help with the cost of relocation expense.

Historically, most students have been funded in years 1-5, sometimes into year 6. In recent years, most incoming first-year students have been offered full funding (full tuition, stipend, health insurance subsidy) in the form of teaching assistantships. Most continuing students who apply for teaching (or other) funded appointments receive offers. This continues to be true going into Fall of 2020. The COVID 19 pandemic has affected what was a very healthy funding picture but we will continue to spread funding as much as possible across students in the program.

Students who carry a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.330 and meet performance expectations are guaranteed full funding through year 5 as long as funds are available. Most of our appointments include full funding as a Teaching Assistant and, in future years, as a course instructor. Full funding includes full tuition remission (9-18 credits), a stipend, and a generous health insurance subsidy.

An appointment as a Teaching Assistant (TA) your first year includes assisting an instructor with an undergraduate economics course. Duties include teaching recitation sections, consulting with students and assisting the course instructor with class preparation and grading. Once a student has earned their masters' degree (typically after the 2nd year in the program) they qualify to be an instructor, teaching their own course. Graduate instructors receive a much larger stipend, full tuition remission, and a generous health insurance subsidy.

In addition to teaching assistantships and, in later years, instructorships, the department also offers research assistantships, graduate fellowships, financial awards and other funding opportunities, including graduate work-study. To qualify for work-study, students must complete a FAFSA no later than June 30th for the following academic year. The earlier FAFSAs are submitted, the better.

Students are informed by the department and graduate school as other funding sources become available.

Click  here for step-by-step instructions  on the application process. Click  here to begin your application .

A completed application consists of: 

• Application form
• Application fee
• Statement of Purpose (serves as your personal statement/writing sample)
• Application supplement: "Coursework Completed" form (provided in your online application)
• Transcripts  (instructions for transcripts and uploading) Domestic applicant transcripts and other  FAQ s International applicant transcripts (in "requirement questions" section) and other  FAQ s
• Officially transmitted (ETS to UCB) verbal and quantitative GRE scores
• Officially transmitted (ETS to UCB) TOEFL scores (for all international students where English is not the native language in your country)
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement on diversity, equity, access and inclusion (optional)

All parts of your application must be submitted online with your application except GRE and TOEFL scores (and paper transcripts, if applicable). Do not submit or mail any additional materials as they will not be reviewed and will delay processing of your file.

GRE and TOEFL scores should be transmitted directly from ETS to UCB. Our institution code is 4841. There is no need to submit a department code as all scores are sent to our admissions department for entry into a data system accessible by the department.

  Decisions/Questions

Admissions and funding decisions are typically made by March for all applications received by the appropriate deadlines. Applicants are notified about decisions via email as soon as possible after they are made. 

For further information click on the button below and fill out the form.

Economics Request for Information

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Additional Resources​​: Academic Integrity Agreement Calendars Courses Coursework Completed Form   Graduate School Graduate Teacher Program Job Openings for Economists Library of Syllabi & Schedules Prospective Students Research Related Financial Support Tuition and Fees UGGS

Graduate School

Economics (ph.d.), economics (ph.d.) | graduate.

Our doctoral program in Economics provides rigorous training in applied economic analysis, microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, game theory, and econometrics. Our graduates are at the forefront of applied economics research spanning fields like public finance, household economics, international economics, behavioral economics, and labor economics.

The Ph.D. program in Economics at Howard’s Graduate School provides students with rigorous technical training in applied economic analysis, microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, game theory, and econometrics. Our program prepares students for careers in academia, public policy, and government as leading economists, consultants, statisticians, and senior researchers. You'll benefit from Howard’s premier location at the center of policymaking in Washington, DC, and have access to a network of top-ranked and nationally recognized economic institutions, consulting firms, think tanks, and government agencies, including the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank, and the Federal Reserve. You may choose from four distinct fields of specialization: growth and development, urban economics, labor economics, and international economics. Our students shape their course of study in a major subfield and in a minor subfield and pursue original policy-relevant research tailored to their individualized program of study. Regularly scheduled graduate seminars and workshops offer a forum for you to present your early-stage research or learn about the latest research in your fields from invited speakers. The Department of Economics is affiliated with research centers like the Center on Race and Wealth, the Center of Excellence in Housing and Urban Research and Policy, and the Center for Urban Progress. You will also benefit from the close mentorship of faculty who are committed to your professional development and are at the forefront of economics research spanning fields including public finance, household economics, environmental economics, international economics, development economics, econometrics, behavioral economics, and labor economics.

Program Snapshot

      ❱  72 credit hours       ❱  Full-time       ❱  On-campus format       ❱  Degree: Ph.D.

Application Deadlines

Spring 2024 entry:         ❱  Nov. 1, 2023  (final deadline)

Fall 2024 entry:         ❱  Dec. 1, 2023  (early deadline)       ❱  Feb. 15, 2024  (priority deadline)       ❱  Apr. 15, 2024  (final deadline)

Applicants should submit their applications as early as possible for earlier consideration of departmental funding opportunities. Applicants have until the final deadline to apply. However, applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the admissions cycle. 

Transfer credits accepted (reviewed by program director; up to 24 approved credits from the student's master's program may be transferred into the Ph.D. program)

Dr. Omari Swinton

Gail pritchett, program details.

• Degree Classification: Graduate
• Related Degrees: Ph.D.

Admission Requirements

Application for admission.

• Online GradCAS  application
• Statement of purpose/ Statement of academic interest ( 500-1,000 words )
• GRE scores not required
• Official transcripts sent to GradCAS
• 3 letters of recommendation
• Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university or the international equivalent 
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae
• Autobiographical statement ( 500-750 words )

GRE Required?

Gre preferred minimums    .

• GRE Verbal Reasoning: N/A
• GRE Quantitative Reasoning: N/A
• GRE Analytical Writing: N/A

GPA Required Minimums    

• Overall GPA minimum: 3.0
• Undergrad GPA minimum: 3.0

Prerequisite Courses 

No expiration date for course prerequisites. Special admission with some conditions will be considered on an individual basis.

• Intermediate Economic Theory (6 semester credit hrs of Intermediate EconomicTheory)
• Economics (12 semester credit hrs of any Economic courses)
• Mathematics for Economists or Differential Calculus (a course or 3 semester credit hrs of Mathematics for Economists or Differential Calculus)
• Statistics (6 semester credit hrs of Statistics)

For students with a master's degree in Economics or a related field:  

Students admitted into the Ph.D. program with a master's degree in Economics or a related field must have a GPA of well over B and a minimum of 24 graduate-level course credits, including at least 6 semester credit hrs in economic theory, 3 semester credit hrs in econometrics, and 3 semester credit hrs in graduate-level statistics. 

Reference Requirements     

Evaluator type accepted:

• Professor (Required)
• Supervisor/Manager

Evaluator type not accepted:

• Family Member

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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 .

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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:

Doctor of Economic Development (DED)

The Doctor of Economic Development (DED) is a professional doctorate offered jointly by the Department of Economics, Applied Statistics & International Business in the College of Business and the Department of Agricultural Economics and Agricultural Business (AEAB) in the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences.

This doctoral degree program is primarily intended to provide advanced training for economic development professionals rather than academic economists. In a sense, the Doctor of Economic Development can be seen as the link between academic research in economic development and "real world" economic development problems.

Degree Requirements

Please visit the DED Program page for more information about this degree.

• DED Degree Requirements - NMSU Catalog

Students interested in pursuing this program should contact Dr. J. Michael Patrick , the DED Program Director .

Office: Gerald Thomas Hall, Room 343 Office phone: (575)646-5682 Cell phone: (575)202-4253 Fax: (575)646-3808 E-mail: [email protected]

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NMSU and USDA are equal opportunity/affirmative action employers and educators: Read the full non-discrimination and accommodation statements . https://aces-about.nmsu.edu/nondiscrimination.html

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Economic Analysis & Policy

Our doctoral program in the field of economic analysis and policy prepares students for research careers in economics. The program offers rigorous training and has several distinct advantages:

Low Student-to-Faculty Ratio

First, enrollment in the program is small. This encourages close faculty-student contact and allows students to become involved in research very early. Students work first as assistants on faculty research projects and, as their interests and skills develop, on their own research. Students often begin their publishing careers before completing their degrees.

Flexible and Innovative Program

Second, the program is flexible and innovative; students can draw on both the school’s and the university’s distinguished faculty. In addition to the faculty in the economics group at Stanford GSB and in the university’s economics department, students have access to faculty in political and behavioral sciences; accounting and finance; mathematics, statistics, and computer science; and many other disciplines.

A Top-Ranked School

Third, the program is part of a top-ranked professional school. This setting allows students to gain a deeper understanding of the actual processes of business decision-making and public policy formulation.

Preparation and Qualifications

Students who enroll in this program have a substantial background in economics and mathematics. They are expected to have, minimally, mathematical skills at the level of one year of advanced calculus and one course each in linear algebra, analysis, probability, optimization, and statistics.

The faculty selects students based on predicted performance in the program. Evidence of substantial background or ability in the use of mathematical reasoning and statistical methods is important. Most successful applicants had quantitative undergraduate majors in economics, mathematics, or related sciences.

In addition to evidence of ability and letters of recommendation, the faculty considers carefully the applicant’s statement of purpose for pursuing the PhD degree. The successful applicant usually has clearly defined career goals that are compatible with those of the program.

Acceptance into the program is extremely competitive. Admitted applicants compare very favorably with students enrolled in the top economics departments of major universities.

Economic Analysis & Policy Faculty

Mohammad akbarpour, claudia allende santa cruz, susan athey, lanier benkard, jeremy i. bulow, modibo khane camara, sebastian di tella, rebecca diamond, yossi feinberg, guido w. imbens, charles i. jones, michael ostrovsky, garth saloner, yuliy sannikov, kathryn shaw, andrzej skrzypacz, paulo somaini, juan carlos suárez serrato, takuo sugaya, christopher tonetti, shoshana vasserman, ali yurukoglu, weijie zhong, emeriti faculty, alain c. enthoven, robert j. flanagan, david m. kreps, peter c. reiss, john roberts, a. michael spence, robert wilson, recent publications in economic analysis & policy, battling the coronavirus ‘infodemic’ among social media users in kenya and nigeria, using wasserstein generative adversarial networks for the design of monte carlo simulations, adaptive novelty detection with false discovery rate guarantee, recent insights by stanford business, nine stories to get you through tax season, a.i. can help “personalize” policies to reach the right people, stanford gsb faculty share their holiday reading lists, placement director.

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PhD in Applied Economics and Management Program

Earn your doctorate at the dyson school—an innovative, immersive phd program.

Prepare for research-rich careers in academia and industry.

Offered by the Charles H. Dyson School of Applied Economics and Management at Cornell University, this PhD program is fully funded, fully residential—and fully designed to prepare you to tackle today’s most pressing economics issues. 

Earning a doctoral-level degree opens you up to exciting opportunities, whether you plan to teach at the college level, want to pursue a research-related career in industry, or wish to use your skills and knowledge in the nonprofit sector.

Why Earn a PhD in Applied Economics and Management at the Dyson School?

Considered one of the best applied economics PhD programs in the nation for research output, the Dyson School’s doctoral offering combines Ivy League rigor, experiential learning, and faculty mentorship. Here are just a few ways our program is unique among applied economics PhD s:

Fully Funded

All applied economics PhD students receive full tuition assistance, plus health insurance and a stipend for all five years

STEM-Designated

Our program prepares you to be a researcher in today’s technologically advanced, big-data-focused landscape.

Flexible and Focused

Choose an industry-focused concentration area, such as food and agricultural economics.

Experience-Rich

Partnerships across Cornell give you unprecedented teaching and research opportunities.

Program Overview: The PhD in Applied Economics and Management at a Glance

Here’s a quick overview of the AEM PhD program, from degree type to program duration:

Degree Awarded

PhD in Applied Economics and Management

Program Format

Full-time residential and STEM-designated

Program Duration

Our Curriculum: PhD Course Requirements

The first two years of the PhD in applied economics and management program include foundational coursework in areas such as economic theory, applied econometrics, and macroeconomic research. Then, you’ll progress into general electives, as well as electives related to your concentration area.

The heart of the PhD program is your dissertation, and this faculty-mentored, research-based project will be the focus of your final three years in the program.

PhD in AEM Concentrations: Developing Your Expertise

As a doctoral student at the Dyson School, you’ll choose one of four concentrations. As you take electives and engage with faculty in one of these research areas, you’ll begin to home in on your own area of expertise. Within this concentration, you’ll develop your dissertation idea and form your special faculty committee.

Environmental, Energy, and Resource Economics (EERE)

Discover how the economy and the environment interconnect. This concentration covers a wide range of existing and emerging environmental issues. EERE students gain environmental economics experience through our partnerships with the Atkinson Center for a Sustainable Future and the Cornell Institute for China Economic Research .

Faculty expertise in the environmental, energy, and resource economics PhD concentration area includes:

• Climate change
• Air and water quality
• Policy evaluation
• Transportation
• Renewable and nonrenewable energy

Food and Agricultural Economics (FAE)

Explore every aspect of the food chain, from farm to market to consumer. Not only will you get to work with experts at the Dyson School, but with our connection to Cornell’s College of Agricultural and Life Sciences (CALS) , Cornell Cooperative Extension , and the Food Industry Management Program (FIMP) , you have unparalleled access to a broad range of experts, including natural scientists, farmers, and food retailers.

Faculty expertise in the food and agricultural economics PhD concentration area includes:

• Agricultural finance
• Behavioral economics
• Food retailing and marketing
• Farm management

International & Development Economics (IDE)

Find solutions to market challenges around the world. This concentration will expand your knowledge of pressing societal issues, including poverty, public health, and agriculture. Teaching and research opportunities for IDE students include the Tata-Cornell Institute for Agriculture and Nutrition , the Emerging Markets Institute , and the Einaudi Center for International Studies .

Faculty expertise in the international and development economics PhD concentration area includes:

• Poverty and inequity
• Nutrition and urbanization
• Public works programs
• Resilience measurement
• Labor markets

Management (MGMT)

Dive into the science of management in industries of all kinds. Concentrating in management gives you flexibility in building your academic plan, including hundreds of electives and endless possibilities for dissertation research topics. Our faculty members have an incredible range of scholarly and professional experience, our management concentration highlights three core areas:

Real Estate Economics (REE)

Faculty in this area examine issues related to real estate and urban development. Research interests include:

• Commercial real estate finance
• Investment performance
• Tall buildings

Strategy and Business Economics (SBE)

Faculty in this area explore a range of strategy-related questions. Their research interests include:

• Digitization
• Human capital management
• Organizational economics

Faculty in this area focus on empirical finance issues. Research interests include:

• Climate finance
• Household finance
• Asset pricing
• Financial institutions

Benefits of a STEM-Designated PhD in Applied Economics and Management

A longtime innovator in economics education, the Dyson School has always prepared its students for the changing marketplace. Our STEM-designated PhD program takes that to another level by ensuring our graduate-level curriculum gives you the technical competencies demanded of today’s researchers. Your studies will cover applied econometrics, machine learning, programming, and other emerging areas relevant to business. 

The STEM designation offers additional benefits to Dyson School students on an F-1 visa, including the opportunity for extended learning and professional experiences in the United States.

After the PhD: Careers in Academia and Industry

A senior data scientist at Citibank. A research agricultural economist at the US Department of Agriculture. An assistant professor at Hong Kong University of Technology. 

Dyson School PhD graduates take their research experience into academia and industry. As scholars, they teach and continue their research at institutions across the US and abroad. They also serve in high-profile economist, data scientist, advisor, and related roles at organizations from federal agencies to global financial services firms to nongovernmental organizations. 

VIEW PhD in AEM CAREER OUTCOMES

Your Dissertation: Putting Ideas into Action

Intellectual curiosity at the Dyson School is strong. Our PhD students devote their research to economics and management topics spanning sectors and industries. Dissertations in recent history take a deep dive into issues such as:

• Tax policy, public health, and government spending
• Food safety and consumer demand in China
• Business process innovation in commercial firms
• Impact of fintech in agricultural economics

Our Faculty: Research with Industry-Leading Scholars

As a PhD student at the Dyson School, you’ll work alongside some of the most brilliant minds in economics and management. In addition to receiving individual mentorship, you’ll get to build your own special faculty committee—an advisory group that will guide you through every step of your dissertation.

Throughout the program—from foundation courses to electives across Cornell—you will learn from award-winning educators, widely published scholars, and industry-leading practitioners.

“One of my favorite aspects of the PhD in Applied Economics and Management program was the abundance of seminars and the regular hosting of conferences. The wide range of seminars and the frequency of conferences created an intellectually stimulating environment and facilitated thought-provoking discussions with experts and peers.” — Natasha Jha ’23

The PhD Student Experience: Living and Learning at the Dyson School

When you join the Dyson School, you will become part of a vibrant, collaborative learning community dedicated to positively impacting people around the world through economic and management research.

Our Community

As a PhD student at Dyson, you will make meaningful connections across campus and beyond. You’ll learn from a world-class faculty, engage with ambitious peers, receive close research mentorship, and have access to a broad range of academic and career support services.

With historic buildings, modern learning spaces, beautiful scenery, and plenty of amenities, Cornell is an amazing place to live and learn. We’d love to show you around campus.

Our Expertise

Our faculty are experts in many areas but perhaps most notably for consulting, consumer packaged goods, financial services, technology, and agribusiness. The breadth and depth of our knowledge is especially helpful as you pursue your doctoral research. 

LEARN MORE ABOUT DYSON

Admissions Overview: How to Apply to the PhD in Applied Economics and Management Program

The ideal candidate for the Dyson School’s applied economics PhD program will have a thorough knowledge of economic theory and quantitative methods, as well as a background in calculus and real analysis. Our admissions page has more details about eligibility requirements, deadlines, and materials you need to submit with your application.

Applied Economics FAQ: Your PhD Questions Answered

As you research and compare applied economics PhD programs , you probably have questions about program length, the admissions process, dissertation requirements, career possibilities, and more. Explore the answers to frequently asked questions to help you learn more about the Dyson School’s program.

Next Steps: Apply to the Dyson School PhD in AEM

Ready to apply to our highly selective, fully funded PhD in Applied Economics and Management? We encourage you to officially start the application process today at the Cornell Graduate Admissions website.

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Community Development and Applied Economics

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Ph.D. in Sustainable Development Policy, Economics and Governance

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College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

The Sustainable Development Policy, Economics and Governance (SDPEG) Ph.D. program offers a transdisciplinary doctoral education in the policies, practices and theories of sustainable development. By offering a core curriculum that includes applied policy and economic analysis, governance and process design, social science methods, and professional skills development, the program produces graduates capable of conducting original, applied research that is designed to support sustainability and resiliency across social, ecological, and technical systems. 

This degree will prepare students to assume positions as policy leaders in government, higher education, public and private sector organizations, non-governmental organizations, and research institutes with the expertise and vision to inform local, state, national, and international policy.  

Asim Zia, Director and Professor of Public Policy and Computer Science

Travis Reynolds, Associate Professor

Dan Tobin, Associate Professor

Trisha Shrum, Assistant Professor

David Conner, Professor

Josh Farley, Professor

Sarah Heiss, Associate Professor

Qingbin Wang, Professor

Anaka Aiyar, Assistant Professor

Joe Ament, Assistant Professor

Kate Mays, Assistant Professor

Benjamin Dangl, Lecturer

Edward McMahon, Adjunct Associate Professor

Pablo Bose, Professor

Stephanie Seguino, Professor Emerita

Gregory Rowangould, Associate Professor

Donna Ramirez-Harrington, Associate Professor

Brian Beckage, Professor

Elizabeth Doran, Research Assistant Professor

Jane Kolodinsky, Professor Emerita

Christopher Koliba, Professor Emeritus

Kelsey Gleason, Assistant Professor

Dana Rowangould, Assistant Professor

Degree Requirements

Milestones, guidelines and timeline to degree completion.

Minimum Degree Requirements

The degree requires a total of 75 credits. A minimum of 51 credits must be completed in residence. The residency requirement is completed by courses that:

1. are taken for graduate credit through the University of Vermont, and

2. are taken after the student has been admitted to the Graduate College.

The program’s course of study includes: 

1. 15-credit core 2. Up to 24 transfer credits from prior master’s degree (12 out of 24 transferable credits must meet pre-requisite requirements in statistical methods, research methodology, economics and policy process theory) 3. 15 credits of a pre-approved Certificate of Graduate Study or a customized sequence of advisor-approved graduate level elective courses 4. 21 dissertation research credits

15 credit core includes:

Requirements for Advancement to Candidacy for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy

Students will advance to candidacy following completion of the core curriculum, passage of a written and oral comprehensive exam, passage of the written dissertation and oral dissertation defense exam, and acquisition of teaching experience in the field of sustainable development policy, economics and governance. A GPA of 3.0 must be maintained.

Tuition Information

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Funding Opportunities

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Application Procedures & Admissions Requirements

We are no longer accepting applications for Fall 2024. Please check back in September 2024 for updated admissions guidelines. 

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE:

• Master’s degree in public policy, public administration, economics, natural resources, engineering, ecology, food systems, political science or a closely related field, including social sciences, professional fields, and STEM
• Completion of graduate level course in statistical methods
• Completion of graduate level course in research methodology
• Completion of graduate level course in economics
• Completion of graduate level course in policy process theory
• Resume or Curriculum Vitae 
• Applicants must submit evidence of experience and success in the research process such as writing sample(s), and/or evidence of research experience(s) (e.g., theses, term papers, class projects, research reports and/or other descriptions of past research experience from academic or professional lives).
• The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is optional.
• For international students whose native language is not English or who have not completed undergraduate or master’s degrees in English, scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the English Language Testing System (IELTS), or Duolingo must be submitted.

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International & Development Economics, MS

The rapid pace of globalization has increased the demand for professionals with training in international economics and economic development. Our one of a kind Master of Science in International and Development Economics (IDEC) provides students with the knowledge and skills to understand how market forces can be harnessed to empower developing countries to break from cycles of poverty.

• Program Overview
• Student Research
• Financing Your Education
• How to Apply

Apply Now for 2024

Applications for Fall 2024 are open and we will continue to review for Fall admission on a rolling basis. We recommend you submit your application as soon as possible to be considered for Fall.

An International Development Economics Program That Prepares You for the Future

Graduates are prepared to pursue PhD programs or professional work as development researchers, program analysts, policy makers, practitioners for government agencies, international business, nonprofits, and NGOs in developing countries.

A Career in International & Development Economics

The intersection of international development and economics provides a wide range of opportunities in both the public and private sectors, as well as within non-governmental and international organizations. Here's a list of job roles you might pursue with this degree.

Read the Article

Learning Development Economics Through International Fieldwork

During the summer, you’ll form a small group with fellow students to collect primary data and access secondary data as part of an internship or partnership with an international institution. Your research will be the basis for your master’s thesis, which you’ll develop under your adviser’s supervision.

STUDENT RESEARCH

A Development Economics STEM Program

We are designated as a STEM program (science, technology, engineering, and math). Eligible international students may apply to work in the United States for up to three years after graduation via the Optional Practical Training (OPT) program and STEM extension.

STEM Program

Summer Bridge Program

The Summer Bridge program is uniquely offered to non-economics, non-math students. The Summer Bridge option allows for flexibility in prerequisites and provides students a refresher in calculus and statistics.

Summer Bridge Option

Faheema Eissar MS '23

Turning development economics theory into action.

I came to USF because I want to learn to do things that will actually help not just in theory but in action — to have a specific focus and to know how to tackle a specific problem.”

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USF Offers a Related Economics Program

Learn to acquire, visualize, and analyze data. Use data to understand consumers, to solve problems, to make smart decisions, and to land a job you love.

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College of Professional Studies

Commerce and economic development.

The Master of Science in Commerce and Economic Development, a STEM-designated program, integrates economics, leadership, technology, and public policy to prepare students for a career in the private or public sector.

Globalization has created a borderless economy with a host of new opportunities and challenges for those engaged in commerce and economic development. While global markets offer exciting growth prospects, navigating the world stage requires in-depth knowledge of the financial, regulatory, and economic environments and institutions that affect the global economy and international trade. 

To meet the need for both insight and skills development, Northeastern University’s College of Professional Studies—in collaboration with Northeastern University’s College of Social Sciences and Humanities—offers the Master of Science in Commerce and Economic Development, which integrates an applied economics study of information, institutions, and innovation designed to develop and hone analytical skills to support private and public decision-making.

More Details

Unique features.

• Online program designed for working, midcareer professionals
• Graduates are positioned for jobs in government, international organizations, nonprofit organizations, universities, or the private sector
• STEM-designated graduate degree
• Required capstone project
• Financial Economics concentration prepares students for the CFA Institute Level I exam

Program Objectives

• Translate economic theory and classroom materials into core competencies
• Apply quantitative skills in the areas of economics, economic theory, policy analysis, and research
• Learn to set prices and output levels
• Use conceptual and mathematical tools to examine fluctuations in employment, prices, and economic growth
• Develop skills in data collection, estimation, and results interpretation
• Apply theories of economic growth, technology, structural changes, industrialization, factor proportions and prices, trade, population, and income distribution
• Evaluate labor markets and the role of human capital
• Assess how art, culture, and entertainment impact economic development
• Analyze the impact of environmental resources on commerce and economic development

Career Outlook

Several major trends—policy convergence, e-commerce expansion, and continued international development—are driving the job growth in the fields of international trade and economic development, and career prospects are expected to remain strong. Jobs in economic analysis and international trade are typically well-paying, with individuals holding advanced degrees expected to enjoy the best opportunities.

Unique Transfer Opportunity

About the CFA, CFP, FRM and PRM Certification Transfer Credit Opportunities: Why consider a Master of Science in Commerce and Economic Development from Northeastern University? We recognize the knowledge and financial competencies demonstrated by those who have earned their CFA, CFP, FRM and PRM certifications. As a result, credential-holders have the unique opportunity to accelerate through a Northeastern University degree.

Successful applicants for a master's degree program with their CFA® certification:

• Will receive 10 credit hours of transfer credit—a 22% savings in tuition.
• Transfer credit is awarded for the following courses: CED 6050 (Commerce & Economic Development), CED 6240 (Financial Ethics), FIN 6161 (Investment Analysis).

Successful applicants for a master's degree program with their CFP™ certification:

• Will receive 11 credit hours of transfer credit—a 24% savings in tuition.
• Transfer credit is awarded for the following courses:  CED 6050 (Commerce & Economic  Development), FIN 6102 (Asset & Liability Management), FIN 6161 (Investment Analysis).

Successful applicants for a master's degree program with their FRM® certification:

• Transfer credit is awarded for the following courses: FIN 6102 (Asset & Liability Management), FIN 6161 (Investment Analysis), CED 6250 (Derivatives & Alt. Investments).

Successful applicants for a master's degree program with their PRM™ certification:

Looking for something different?

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Online application
• Statement of purpose (500–1000 words): Identify your educational goals and expectations of the program. Please be aware that Northeastern University's academic policy on plagiarism applies to your statement of purpose.
• Professional resumé
• Unofficial undergraduate transcripts; official transcripts required at the time of admission
• Two letters of recommendation from individuals who have either academic or professional knowledge of your capabilities such as a faculty member, colleague, or mentor, preferably one from your current employer
• Official associate or bachelor's degree transcript from an accredited college or university in the U.S., stating degree conferral and date
• TOEFL, IELTS, PTE, Duolingo, or NU Global Exam scores

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the College of Professional Studies admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines *

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

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Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.

Learn About Getting Real World Experience

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Youngbok Ryu

Richard Swanson, PhD

Noradeen Farlekas

Mikhail Oet

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our business alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• State Street
• Fidelity Investments

What They Do

• Business Development
• Entrepreneurship

What They're Skilled At

• Customer Service
• Project Management
• Strategic Planning

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

Related Articles

What Can You Do with a Master’s in Economics? 5 Career Paths

10 Economics Careers to Power Your Future

In-Demand Skills Human Resources Managers Need to Stay Competitive

Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics

• Degree Programs

6.0. Doctor of Philosophy Degree Program

The doctoral program in Agricultural and Applied Economics is designed to develop a broad based competence in economic theory and in techniques of quantitative analysis. Dissertation research of students in our department usually addresses applied problems using contemporary economic theory and analytical methods. Students completing our program have demonstrated a high degree of success in academics, business, and government.

Two options are offered for the Doctor of Philosophy in the Agricultural and Applied Economics program. The first option does not require a minor. The second option includes a minor in Family Financial Planning—a joint Ph.D. program between the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics and the College of Human Sciences. Completion of the Doctoral program in Agricultural and Applied Economics with a minor in Family Financial Planning qualifies graduates to take an exam administered by the Certified Financial Planning Board of Standards to become Certified Financial Planners.

6.1. Prerequisites

Most students will have completed the requirements for an M.S. degree or its equivalent before admission to the doctoral program. If the Master's degree does not meet the prerequisite requirements for entering our Master of Science program (see Section 5.1) then those requirements must be met in order to enter the Ph.D. program. Some exceptional students will be offered the opportunity to pursue a Ph.D. directly from a Bachelor's program. In this case, see the Graduate Coordinator for course and program requirements.

Background in algebra, partial and total differentiation, integration and basic matrix or linear algebra operations are very useful to perform well in coursework and research work.

6.2. Credit Hour Requirements

The doctoral program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours of course work beyond the baccalaureate degree and at least 12 credit hours of dissertation research (AAEC 8000).

6.3. Transfer of Credit

Transfer of graduate credit from other academic institutions may be allowed. The request for transfer must be initiated by the student and supported by the student's committee chair. Transfer decisions are made by the department Graduate Coordinator and must be approved by the Graduate School . Information required in support of transfer requests includes academic transcripts and course catalogue descriptions of each course proposed for transfer. Course syllabi may also be requested to support transfer decisions.

6.4. Substitution for Core Courses

Substitutions for core courses are allowed only under unusual circumstances. Requests for substitutions for core courses must be initiated by the student and his or her committee chair, to the department Graduate Coordinator and must be approved by the Graduate School . Final decisions on substitutions for core courses taught outside our department are made by the department Graduate Coordinator . Decisions on core courses taught in the department are made by the current instructor of the core course being replaced.

6.5. Ph.D. Comprehensive Examination

The purpose of the Ph.D. comprehensive examination is to test the student's ability to integrate knowledge from various subject matter areas and apply appropriate concepts and tools to issues and problems relevant to the discipline. The comprehensive exam is administered by a departmental committee twice each year (usually in May and August) and is normally taken at the end of the first full year of coursework. The exam has two parts which are taken separately. Part 1 of the exam focuses econometric methods and Part 2 covers microeconomic theory. Students have two opportunities to pass both parts of the exam. If both parts of the exam are passed on the first attempt then the student has successfully completed this degree requirement. If one or both parts of the exam are failed on the first attempt (usually in May), the student must retake the failed part(s) at the next offering (in the following August). A second failure of either part of the comprehensive exam will result in dismissal from the student's Ph.D. program.

6.6. Qualifying Examination and Admission to Candidacy

Graduate school rules require that all doctoral students successfully complete a Qualifying Examination for admission to candidacy for the doctor's degree. In the Department of Agricultural and Applied Economics the Dissertation Proposal Defense serves as the Qualifying Exam. Students are allowed two attempts to satisfactorily complete this examination. Failure to satisfactorily complete the examination on a second attempt will result in dismissal from the Ph.D. program. Further information on the Dissertation Proposal and Proposal Defense is provided in Section 9.0 of this Handbook.

6.7. Final Examination

All doctoral candidates are required to pass a public final oral examination which is usually over the general field of the dissertation. Candidates should consult the Graduate School for details regarding scheduling of the final examination. After the final examination, the professor conducting comprehensive exams will send a written notification of the results to the Graduate Secretary for the student's graduate file.

Doctoral candidates, with their major advisor, are required to find their own Dean's Representative for the Graduate School for their defense, preferably someone outside of the department.

Public announcement of exams will be done through the department Graduate Secretary. Exams must be announced at least four weeks prior to the exam date, without exception.

6.9. Degree Program Course Requirements

Listed below are the course requirements for the Ph.D. program options. Courses listed specifically by number are core courses. Note that the option II course requirements have been revised in consultation with the Department of Personal Financial Planning.

Ph.D in Agricultural and Applied Economics - No Minor Required (option1) 1

Course number / course title / credit hours.

• AAEC 5303 / Advanced Production Economics / 3
• AAEC 5307 / Applied Econometrics I / 3
• AAEC 6316 / Advanced International Trade and Policy / 3
• AAEC 5321 / Research Methodology in Economics/ 3
• AAEC 6302 / Food, Ag., and Nat. Resource Policy Analysis / 3
• AAEC 6305 / Economic Optimization / 3
• AAEC 6308 / Advanced Natural Resource Economics / 3
• AAEC 6310 / Demand and Price Analysis / 3
• AAEC 6311 / Applied Econometrics II / 3
• AAEC 6301 / Microeconomic Theory II / 3
• AAEC 6315 / Applied Microeconomics I / 3
• ECO 5311 / Macroeconomic Theory and Policy / 3
• Committee Approved Field Courses / / 24
• AAEC 8000 / Doctor's Dissertation / 12

Total Credit Hours 72

Ph.D. in Agricultural and Applied Economics - Minor in Family Financial Planning (option 2) 1,2

• AAEC 8000 / Doctor's Dissertation / 21
• PFP 5371 / Fundamentals of Personal Financial Planning / 3
• PFP 5372 / Asset Management II / 3
• PFP 5373 / Personal Financial Planning Cpstn. / 3
• PFP 5394 / Retirement Planning / 3
• PFP 5497 / Risk Management and Insurance Planning / 4
• PFP 5398 / Estate Planning / 3
• PFP 5362 / Asset Management I / 3
• PFP 5377 / Client Communication and Counseling / 3
• ACCT 5311 / Individual Study in Accounting / 3

total credit hours 85

1 Numbered courses are core courses. 2 Draft revisions pending review and approval of AAEC faculty.

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Doctoral Program FAQs

Frequently asked questions about admission to the Economics Ph.D. program

General Program Questions:

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Do I need to have a Bachelor's degree in economics to apply to the program?

A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited U.S institution or a comparable degree from an international institution is one of the requirements to apply to the graduate program in Economics. You do not need to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Economics to apply to the program. Applicants have Bachelor’s Degrees in Mathematics, Statistics, and other disciplines. For specific information on what is considered a comparable degree from an international institution please refer to the  Graduate School Admission Requirements page .

Do you have a Master's Program?

Yes, we have two master’s programs affiliated with the Economics Department.  We have a Master of Science in Economics and a Master of Science in Financial Economics .

Can I apply to the Ph.D. and Master's programs on the same application?

Yes, the graduate school electronic application allows you to list up to three programs per application. To apply to the economics Ph.D. and our either of our master’s programs, please list the Economics Ph.D. program and the Economics MS -Graduate Foundations program and/or the MS-Financial Economics on your application.

You may upload the same materials for both the Ph.D. and the MS-Graduate Foundations supplemental applications. Please note you will need to meet the earlier application deadline (Ph.D.) and will be first considered for the Ph.D. program.

How long does it take to complete the Ph.D.?

The program is designed to be completed in five years. It is not uncommon, however, for students to complete the program in six years. To learn about the goals and structure of the Economics Graduate Program visit our  Program Overview  web page.

What kind of jobs do your students pursue upon graduation?

Our graduates pursue research careers at colleges or universities and work for government agencies or private firms after graduation. You can find more detailed information on our  placement web page .

What is the cultural makeup of your current student body?

There are students in the program from around the world. Our domestic students are from all areas in the US.

Who do I contact if I cannot find an answer to my question on the web page?

If you cannot find the answer to your question above, you can read the Graduate School frequently asked questions ( FAQs ) for more information. You can also contact us at  [email protected] .

Application Questions:

For questions regarding the graduate school application system, please see the Graduate School FAQs .

Can I make changes to my application after I hit the final submit button?

Yes, you can reenter the graduate school electronic application to make changes.

How do I check my application status?

After you submit your application, you will be sent a link to set up your  MyUW  account and net ID. The submission process is an overnight process, so expect your email within 24 hours. It is very important that you set up your  MyUW  account to check your application status.  If you do not receive this link, please contact the graduate school at  [email protected] . 

How many applications do you receive each year?

The Department receives more than 500 applications for the Ph.D. program each year.

How many admissions are going to be offered this year?

It is not possible for us to tell you how many recommendations of admission are going to be offered this year. We have an Admissions and Aid Committee that makes all admissions and funding decisions. In February, the committee will evaluate the applications. Once the applications have been reviewed, the committee will decide on the number of students recommended for admission. In the past, the committee has planned on an entering class of 25-30 students. To achieve this class size, the number of students admitted the past three years was 116, 109, and 105.

From all the components of my admission file, are there any elements that are more important than others? Is there anything I can do to help improve my chances?

All aspects of your application are reviewed by one or two faculty members. Academic preparation is important; the committee likes to see good grades in hard courses (especially math courses or advanced economics courses). Reference letters are very important; ideally they should be written by people who know you well, and who know what it takes to succeed in a good PhD program.

The Statement of Purpose (SOP) is one of the components of your application packet. Among other things, the SOP can highlight the aspect of your application which is strong and, if you feel it is important, you can explain the reason for any weakness in the application

When will I know if I have been admitted?

The Economics program’s Admission and Aid Committee will inform you of its decision in March.

Can I consult with faculty so I can get further input as to how I could strengthen my application?

Every year the Department receives more than 500 applications for the Ph.D. program. Admission and funding is competitive and it depends on a number of variables including all aspects of your application and the applicant pool. In February, the Admissions and Aid Committee will decide on the number of students recommended for admission. Given the volume of applications, it is not possible to respond to inquiries about the chances of admission, or to provide information about the strengths and weaknesses in individual applications.

Transcripts and Test Scores

Do i have to submit an official paper transcript with my application.

No, paper transcripts are not required to submit with your application. However, it is required that you upload electronic copies of your transcripts or academic record with your application.

If you are recommended for admission, the Graduate School will request an official electronic or paper transcripts.

What are the transcript requirements for applicants who have attended institutions in countries where English was not the primary language?

If you are recommended for admission, the Graduate School will send you the transcript requirements. You will need to submit the transcript in the original language as well as an official English translation. You school should provide an official translation of your documents; otherwise have a translation done by your school or an official translator. In some countries, these people are also notaries. Do not submit an evaluation from a credential evaluation service in lieu of a translation.

Can I send high school transcripts in addition to University transcripts?

No, please do not send or upload high school transcripts.

Can I submit GMAT scores in lieu of the GRE?

No. GMAT scores will not be accepted in place of GRE scores.

How do I submit my GRE scores to the Economics Department?

The UW-Madison institutional code is 1846. Our institution does not use department codes – you may leave that portion blank or pick any code. It is very important  you use the same name and spelling on the application as you used on the test form to avoid delays on the arrival of scores on your file. The format of the date of birth is very important too. Please use month/day/year to avoid delays.

GRE scores are accepted if they are within five years of the start of the admission term.

Can I send paper copies of my GRE or TOEFL scores rather than having ETS send the official scores directly to UW-Madison?

Students must have official scores sent by ETS before admission is finalized. You may upload unofficial PDF copies of your GRE or TOEFL results on your application portal, but only official scores sent by ETS will be evaluated for admission. The UW-Madison institutional code is 1846. Our institution does not use department codes – you may leave that portion blank or pick any code.

What do I need to prove my English proficiency?

Every applicant whose native language is not English, or whose undergraduate instruction was not in English, must provide an English proficiency test score (TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo-starting Fall 2025 for our PhD program). Your score will not be accepted if it is more than two years old from the start of your admission term. Country of citizenship does not exempt applicants from this requirement. Language of instruction at the college of university level and how recent the language instruction was taken are the determining factors in meeting this requirement.

To see if you are exempt from the English proficiency requirement, please see the Graduate School’s requirements page .

What is the profile of the average admitted applicant?

The average Quantitative GRE score for applicants admitted to the program has been 92nd percentile on the exam. The average Writing Analysis score has been 4.49. The average GPA has been 3.84/4.0.

Writing Sample and Mathematics Preparation

Is there a page limit on the writing sample.

No, there is no page limit and the topic is not restricted to economics. However, the average submission runs from 2 to 7 pages.

Is the writing sample required?

Yes, a writing sample is part of the required application materials.

Can I apply if I have not met the math requirements?

Students entering the graduate program are required to have taken at least a three-course sequence in calculus, a course in linear algebra, and a course in mathematical statistics. You can apply  if you have not met all the math requirements.  However, all math prerequisites must be completed by the time you plan to start the program. The admissions committee will be able to evaluate your math ability more thoroughly if you have completed your math requirements at the time of application.  Please remember that  graduate work in economics demands mathematical sophistication of a higher order than the requirements of most U.S. undergraduate economics programs would suggest. The prerequisites above are a bare minimum, and additional background in mathematics and in graduate-level economics courses can ease the transition into the program.

How can I know whether my courses are equal to the required courses?

The  Math Requirements for Incoming Graduate Students  page lists some key topics and some useful references.

Funding and Financial Documentation

What is the deadline for admissions and for funding.

The application fee, math prep form, writing sample, statement of purpose, and transcripts must be received by  December 5 . We will start processing applications after the December 5th due date. Letters of recommendation must be submitted by December 31 .

How is funding awarded?

Funding is awarded to applicants on a competitive basis. Please see our  funding page  for additional information.

How do I apply for funding?

If your application is submitted and necessary materials received by December 5th, you will automatically be considered for funding. Please see our funding page  for more detailed information and the funding packets you would be automatically considered for if you apply on time.

There are other sources of funding such as loans through the Office of Student Financial Aid, as well as sources that are external to the university (e.g. grants, fellowships). However, the application process for those financial sources is not related to the process of admission to the Department of Economics. For more information, visit the Graduate Student Funding Resources page . Those pages will contain basic information detailing the funding resources available at UW-Madison, as well as contact information for initiating a search for other sources of funding.

I am an international student. Do I need to send financial documentation with my application?

No. If you are recommended for admission by the Economics Department and admitted by the Graduate School, you will asked to submit financial documentation once you initiate the immigration document request through our International Student Services (ISS) Office. Please review the ISS page on Becoming a Global Badger , which includes resources about the following:

• Step-by-step process of becoming a UW–Madison international student
• Estimated expenses
• Explanations of visa types, such as the difference between F-1 and J-1
• Resources to help international students transition to life at UW–Madison

Admitted Prospective Students

I received an admissions packet from the department indicating that i have been recommended for admission by the economics department. what does recommended for admission mean have i been admitted to uw-madison.

The admission to the graduate program in economics is a shared process at UW-Madison between the department and the Graduate School. When applicants receive an admission packet from the Economics Department indicating that they have been recommended for admission, this recommendation does NOT mean that they have been fully admitted. The applicant will have to finish the last steps of the admission process with the Graduate School. This includes sending the official transcripts requested by the Graduate School. The Economics Department sends admissions recommendations to the Graduate School with supporting materials. The Graduate School reviews the application and materials to ensure that the  Graduate School minimum requirements are met.

It is important for applicants to continue monitoring their admission progress. Each applicant can check their status in MyUW .

Do you have a Visit Day?

Yes, we invite all students who have been recommended for admission for a scheduled Visit Day in late March or early April. If you have been admitted and would like to arrange for a visit at a different time, please contact us at [email protected] .

I have been admitted to the Ph.D. program at UW. Can I defer my admissions for one year?

Term change (deferral) requests are reviewed on a case by case basis both by the department and the Graduate School. Please reach out to the department admissions contact if you have questions about deferring.

What is the reapplication process?

To reapply, you must follow the current process of admission. If you are required to submit a English proficiency scores, please be sure the score has not expired. Scores are accepted if they are within two years of the start of the admission term for which you are applying. GRE scores are accepted up to 5 years after the test date.

International and Development Economics

The IDE Program is a one-year Master's program intended to help students build the necessary toolkit for embracing obstacles in their future careers.

The global economic environment has become increasingly complex and poses a myriad of new challenges for policy and data analysts and professionals in all fields.

The ability to respond to rapid changes in this environment requires that leaders have a detailed understanding of the economic forces that affect economic outcomes. Careful economic policy analysis requires practitioners who can make use of the most current theoretical academic literature, as well as do empirical and econometric analysis using the latest approaches and methods.

No longer accepting applications

Visit the  GSAS Application site  for more information!

• The Program
• Prospective Students

The IDE program at Yale University, housed within the  Economic Growth Center (EGC) and the Department of Economics, is a one-year Masters program intended to help students build the necessary toolkit for embracing such obstacles in their future careers, whether as career practitioners and economic analysts or to follow a path through the policy analysis field on their way to subsequent Ph.D. work.

This site is to inform prospective students of the program, the university and life in New Haven. We encourage prospective students to also visit the website of the  Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) for more information on the application procedure, policies, living in New Haven and other Yale facilities that are all open to IDE Students.

Additionally, this site will provide current students with access to all information they need on a daily basis and the rich alumni network. In the last 65 years, graduates have followed careers in all sectors of work. We encourage current students to reach out to alumni and benefit from their advice.

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Local Economic Development: Policy, Practice and Theory

Cities are complex hubs of economic and social activity, conducive to efficient means of production. They also present challenging circumstances of inequity, segregation, and political power struggles. In this class, we begin with a formal introduction to the economics and fiscal operations of cities and the theoretical foundations for urban and local development.  What does ‘local economic development’ even mean or encompass from a municipal management or planning perspective? We explore planning and policy approaches to local economic development, such as people- versus place-based strategies, and grapple with their implications for economic wellbeing and equity. We consider local economic development holistically, drawing on insights from local public finance, land use, housing, workforce and small-business development, urban politics, and urban planning. The class provides students with a survey of classic and contemporary literature and casework on local economic development policies, as well as technical knowledge to design actual development interventions. Class discussions will incorporate actual cases of urban economic development scenarios, presentations from practitioners, and local field trips.

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MIT’s Master of Applied Science in Data, Economics, and Design of Policy program adds a public policy track

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MIT’s Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab (J-PAL) and Department of Economics have announced an expansion of their jointly administered Master of Applied Science in Data, Economics, and Design of Policy (DEDP) program . This expansion adds a new public policy track to complement the existing international development track, opening up new avenues for student learning and research. 

Designed to tackle poverty alleviation and other pressing policy challenges in the United States and other high-income countries, the curriculum of the new track spans a diverse set of issues, from domestic concerns like minimum wage and consumer welfare to global matters including trade, climate change, and immigration. Applications for the public policy track will open this fall, with the inaugural cohort set to arrive on MIT’s campus in spring 2026.

The DEDP program, led by MIT professors and Nobel laureates Abhijit Banerjee and Esther Duflo, along with professors Sara Fisher Ellison and Benjamin Olken, was established with the mission of equipping diverse cohorts of talented professionals with the knowledge and skills to tackle poverty using evidence-based approaches. The new master’s degree track will support this mission while also underscoring the program’s commitment to addressing a broad array of critical challenges in the fight against poverty worldwide.

"The DEDP program has proven successful on many dimensions, and we are enthusiastic about leveraging its successes to address a broader set of social challenges,” says Ellison, a faculty lead for the program. “The public policy track will enable us to apply evidence-based methodology to poverty alleviation and other related issues in the context of high-income countries, as well. Given increasing levels of wealth and income inequality in these countries, we feel that the timing is opportune and the need is great."

The DEDP program distinguishes itself with an innovative admissions model that prioritizes demonstrated ability and motivation over traditional credentials, such as standardized tests and recommendation letters. To be eligible to apply to the master’s program, candidates must have earned a DEDP MicroMasters credential by passing five of the DEDP online courses. The courses are completely free to audit. Those who wish to earn a course certificate can pay a fee, which varies by the learner’s ability to pay, to take the proctored exam. While applications are reviewed holistically, performance in these classes is the primary factor in admissions decisions.

This approach democratizes access to higher education, enabling students from typically underrepresented backgrounds to demonstrate their potential for success. Notably, the program has welcomed many students from nontraditional backgrounds, such as a student who enrolled directly from high school (and who is now a second-year PhD student in economics at MIT), reflecting the ambition of its faculty directors to make higher education more accessible.

Sofia Martinez, a graduate of the class of 2023 and now co-founder of Learning Alliance , says, "Without the MicroMasters paving the way, applying to MIT or any similar institution would have been unthinkable for us. Initially, my aim in taking the online courses wasn't to pursue the residential program; it was only after witnessing my own progress that I realized the possibility wasn't so distant after all. This sentiment resonates with many in our cohort, which is truly humbling.”

Since its launch in 2020, the DEDP master’s program has conferred degrees to 87 students from 44 countries, showcasing its global reach and the success of its admissions model. Upon arriving on campus, students embark on an accelerated master's program. They complete a full course load in the spring, followed by a capstone project in the summer, applying the theoretical knowledge and practical skills gained through the program at research and policy organizations.

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School of Planning and Public Affairs

Two faculty promoted to professor.

Congratulations to Haifeng Qian and Phuong Nguyen on their well-deserved promotions to full professor, effective July 1st. 

Dr. Qian joined the School of Planning and Public Affairs (SPPA) as assistant professor in 2014 and was promoted to associate professor in 2018. He has been School Director since 2023. Dr. Qian has published extensively in the areas of entrepreneurship; innovation; urban economic development; and science and technology policy. He is an editor of Regional Studies , an editor of Small Business Economics , and an associate editor of Economic Development Quarterly . He was the Chair of the North American Regional Science Council. He additionally has been a consultant for the World Bank, OECD, and other non-profit organizations. Dr. Qian has received several highly competitive research awards. He earned his Ph.D. in Public Policy from George Mason University and Master of Management Science and Engineering from Tsinghua University.

Dr. Nguyen joined SPPA as assistant professor at the beginning of 2011. He moved up to the rank of Associate Professor in 2017. Dr. Nguyen is a prolific researcher; he has published more than 50 peer-reviewed academic articles and book chapters. Dr. Nguyen has also assumed several essential administrative roles with SPPA, including Associate Director, Director of Graduate Studies, and Chair of the Admissions Committee. Dr. Nguyen is an effective teacher with high student evaluations and has taught core and elective courses for both graduate degree programs, such as Analytic Methods as well as Public Finance and Budgeting. Dr. Nguyen obtained his Master of Public Policy from Duke University and his Ph.D. in Public Administration from Syracuse University.