economics phd part time

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PhD in Economics

Producing about 10 graduates each year, the PhD in Economics program is a close community of scholars from around the world. Coursework ranges from microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics to the economics of industry and labor.

PhD students engage in research with faculty as research assistants and publish their own work in respected journals including Economics Letters , Journal of Macroeconomics and European Economic Review . 

The PhD in Economics is a U.S. Department of Homeland Security STEM-designated degree program.  

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PhDs on the Job Market

PhD Graduate Placements

"I greatly benefitted from the doctoral program at GW, both as an economist and as a researcher. The program played an instrumental role in advancing my understanding of economic theory and empirical methodologies, cultivating my research interests and honing my ability to apply these skills in real-world settings. I now work as a development economist at a multilateral organization, where I conduct research on topics like inequality, unemployment, property rights and social protection and contribute to evidence-based policy making."

Abhilasha Sahay PhD '20

Program Timeline

The program is divided into two stages:

• Pre-candidacy stage: The student completes coursework and general examinations in microeconomic and macroeconomic theory as well as a research paper proposal. 
• Candidacy stage: The student participates in a dissertation seminar, completes the written dissertation and conducts an oral defense.

The PhD program is offered primarily on a full-time basis, and students are expected to complete the degree in five to six years. Occasionally, the department will admit highly qualified part-time doctoral students.

View detailed year-by-year timeline of program rules and requirements .

Degree Along the Way Options

Students in the PhD program can earn either a Master of Science (MS) in Economics or a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Economics degree while pursuing the PhD degree.

Students in good standing may apply for the MS once they have completed the 30 required credits: ECON 8301, 8305 and 8375; two courses chosen from 8302, 8306 and 8376; and five 8000-level economics courses. Students may apply for the MPhil degree after they have successfully entered Candidacy.

Degree Along the Way Application

Course Requirements 

Pre-candidacy requirements

Pre-candidacy requirements include satisfactory completion of 48 credits, including 18 credits in required courses and 30 credits in elective courses. Students must also earn a grade of Pass or Pass with Distinction on each part of the general examination, as outlined below.

General Examination

The general examination has three parts: two preliminary examinations taken in the first year—one in microeconomic theory and one in macroeconomic theory—and a research paper due in the sixth semester. To pass the general examination, students must earn a grade of  Pass  or  Pass with Distinction  on both preliminary examinations and on the research paper.

Students who earn a GPA of 3.0 or above in the microeconomic theory course sequence ( ECON 8301 and ECON 8302 ) are considered to have earned a grade of Pass on the preliminary examination in microeconomic theory; students who earn a GPA of 3.0 or above in the macroeconomic theory course sequence ( ECON 8305 and ECON 8306 ) are considered to have earned a grade of Pass on the preliminary examination in macroeconomic theory. Other students must sit the preliminary examinations at the end of the first year.

Students who do not earn a grade of Pass or Pass with Distinction on both preliminary examinations may, with departmental approval, retake one or both examinations before the start of the following semester. Both preliminary examinations must be passed by the second attempt.

Students are also required to earn a grade of Pass or Pass with Distinction on the research paper, which constitutes the second half of the general examination. Students must submit the research paper and deliver a presentation of the content to at least two faculty members for evaluation by the end of their sixth semester in the program. (Part-time students may submit the research paper later, subject to departmental approval.) Students who do not pass the research paper by the end of the sixth semester will receive an academic warning and must pass it by the end of the following semester.

Post-candidacy requirements

Post-candidacy requirements include successful completion of 24 credits at the 8000 level, the formulation of a dissertation proposal, a formal presentation of the proposal by the student to a prospective dissertation committee for approval (where approval of the proposal formalizes the creation of the dissertation committee), and completion of a dissertation that demonstrates the candidate's ability to do original research as determined by the dissertation committee.

Students should successfully defend the dissertation proposal by the end of the eighth semester in the program. Students who do not successfully defend the dissertation proposal by the deadline will receive an academic warning and must successfully defend the proposal by the end of the following semester. Part-time students may defend later, subject to departmental approval.

The 24 credits must include a minimum of 6 credits in  ECON 8999 Dissertation Research .

Once a student successfully completes the 72 credits required for the program, they must register for 1 credit in  CCAS 0940 Continuing Research - Doctoral each subsequent fall and spring semester until they have successfully defended their dissertation to the dissertation oral examination committee, thereby completing the degree program.

Students may apply for the master of philosophy (MPhil) degree after successfully defending a dissertation proposal.

Time limits

The pre-candidacy stage must be concluded within six semesters of matriculation in the program; part-time students may conclude the pre-candidacy stage within ten semesters of matriculation, subject to departmental approval. Upon successful completion of pre-candidacy, students are considered for admission to candidacy, i.e., the dissertation stage. The dissertation stage must be completed within five years of entry into candidacy, or within eight years of matriculation in the program, whichever comes first.

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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Course type

Qualification, university name, part time phd economics.

60 degrees at 37 universities in the UK.

Customise your search

Select the start date, qualification, and how you want to study

Related subjects:

• PhD Economics
• PhD Applied economics
• PhD Development Economics
• PhD Environmental Economics
• PhD Health Economics
• PhD International Economics
• PhD Social Economics

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• Price: low - high

PhD Postgraduate Research in Economics

University of east anglia uea.

The PhD programme in Economics provides PGR students with the opportunity to follow the Doctoral Training Pathway in Economics by joining a Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

PhD in Development Studies

Soas university of london.

Study our on-campus MPhil/PhD in Development Studies at SOAS to realise your potential to tackle global injustice and transform the world Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,860 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,430 per year (UK)

Economics PhD

Newcastle university.

Our PhD in Economics programme aims to develop rigorous scholars who can advance both academic knowledge and practice in the area of Read more...

• 36 months Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
• 72 months Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

PhD Construction Management and Economics

London south bank university.

The wide range of research activities in our School, together with the mix of academic staff, post-doctoral research fellows and visiting Read more...

• 6 years Distance without attendance degree: £4,820 per year (UK)
• 3 years Full time degree: £4,820 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £2,892 per year (UK)

University of Liverpool Management School

University of liverpool.

The University of Liverpool Management School’s (ULMS) Economics PhD programme has a long tradition of developing economists for the next Read more...

• 2 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 4 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Economics, MPhil/PhD

University of greenwich.

Our economics research degree (MPhil/PhD) allows you to undertake rigorous and critical exploration of an area of economics with support Read more...

• 1.5 years Full time degree
• 2.5 years Part time degree

Economics MPhil/PhD

Birkbeck, university of london.

The MPhil/PhD in Economics will train you to conduct research of a high academic standard and to make original contributions to the Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £4,712 per year (UK)
• 7 years Part time degree: £2,500 per year (UK)

PhD Applied Social and Economic Research

University of essex.

For our PhD Applied Social and Economic Research, we offer supervision in quantitative research in sociology and other social sciences. Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 7 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Health Economics & Health Technology Assessment PhD

University of glasgow.

Our aim is to be the world-leading centre for health economic and health technology assessment research and education, working to improve Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,786 per year (UK)
• 5 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

University of Hull

The Hull University Business School provides an inspirational environment for researchers in the early stages of their careers. We offer Read more...

Health Economics PhD

Bangor university.

The PhDprogramme will provide students with research skills relevant to employment in the academic and university sector, Health Service Read more...

Agri-Environmental Economics - PhD

University of kent.

Our four-year PhD programme provides rigorous training for careers in professional and academic economics. It offers a stimulating, Read more...

• 6 years Part time degree: £2,393 per year (UK)

Brunel University London

Research profile Health Economics experts at Brunel aim to improve health and wellbeing through improved decision-making. We focus on Read more...

Economics, Accounting or Finance PhD

Oxford brookes university.

Economics is a broad discipline that helps us understand historical trends by studying the past, interpret today’s major challenges and Read more...

• 3 years Distance without attendance degree
• 4 years Distance without attendance degree
• 4 years Part time degree: £2,356 per year (UK)

PhD Global Political Economy

University of bath.

This course is well-suited to those interested in analysing the diverse experiences and impacts of globalisation. Research political Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £4,800 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £2,400 per year (UK)

Economics MRes and MPhil/PhD

Ucl (university college london).

UCL Economics has an outstanding international reputation in the areas of game theory, fiscal policy, econometrics, applied Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £28,100 per year (UK)
• 7 years Part time degree: £14,050 per year (UK)

Economics PhDs and MPhils

University of portsmouth.

If you're ready to take your expertise in Economics into a postgraduate research degree, Portsmouth is the perfect place to realise your Read more...

Economics, PhD

Swansea university.

If you want to contribute to the field of economics through original and progressive research, the Economics PhD/MPhil is for you. The Read more...

PhD/MPhil Economics

City, university of london.

Our Economics research programme will develop your knowledge of advanced economic theory and econometric methods. Enabling you to produce Read more...

• 2 years Full time degree: £5,110 per year (UK)
• 4 years Part time degree: £2,560 per year (UK)

PhD in Development Economics

The PhD in Development Economics is a research degree offered by the Department of Economics, and is also part of the PhD pathway, Read more...

1-20 of 60 courses

Course type:

• Distance learning PhD
• Full time PhD
• Part time PhD

Qualification:

Universities:.

• Institute of Development Studies
• University of Buckingham
• University of Sussex
• University of Aberdeen
• King's College London, University of London
• University of Reading
• The University of Edinburgh
• University of Lincoln
• Loughborough University
• University of Oxford
• Keele University
• University of Manchester
• University of York
• University of Leicester
• University of Cambridge
• University of Bristol
• Newcastle University London
• University of Exeter

Related Subjects:

College of Arts & Sciences

Ph.D. Program

Welcome to the phd program.

The Georgetown University Economics Ph.D. program is a full-time program designed for students who seek research careers at the forefront of economic science. The Ph.D. program provides an excellent training environment for future scholars. Located in the nation’s capital, it is ideally situated for both students specializing in pure science and those who wish to study policy informed by science.

Main Contacts

• Julius Shapiro serves as the PhD Program Coordinator. Please contact him first with any questions related to the PhD Program.
• Professor  Toshihiko Mukoyama  serves as Director of Graduate Studies and is responsible for the PhD Program.

Information for Applying to the PhD Program

• Frequently Asked Questions
• Supplementary Form

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Current PhDs Students

Razin Lecture and Prize

General Information

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Our PhD Students

• Current PhD Student Profiles

Program Requirements

• Course of Study
• Core Courses
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• Policies and Procedures

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. 

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Spartan Alert

Phd in economics, on campus and online options, a focus on policy research.

Our innovative Ph.D. program provides you with the advanced theoretical, quantitative, and statistical skills required to perform and interpret economic analyses in a wide range of policy-oriented areas. Graduates of the PhD in Economics program work in a broad range of in-demand fields including economic consulting and research, policy analysis and evaluation, forecasting, data science, risk analysis, and academia.

Our program focuses on producing top-quality policy-oriented researchers through rigorous training in advanced empirical analysis and economic modeling. You will be prepared to perform and interpret cutting-edge economic analyses in a wide range of areas including education, environmental policy, health, labor, public economics, macroeconomics and banking, and technology and innovation.

Collaborative research experiences with invested instructors sharing a deep commitment to teaching and scholarship

45-72 Hour Program

Earn a PhD in Economics in as little as three years

Customizable

Select a focus on: Public, labor, health, environmental economics, economics of technology and entrepreneurship, macroeconomics

Admission Requirements

Admission to the Ph.D. program requires the submission of a completed application including Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test scores and a completed bachelor’s degree with coursework in the following:

• Intermediate microeconomics
• Intermediate macroeconomics
• Regression analysis
• Mathematical economics or equivalent

Students who enter the program with a master’s degree in economics may be eligible to waive up to 15 credit hours, depending on their coursework.

General Program Of Study

An established legacy of excellence since 1935, the Department of Economics has celebrated more than 80 years of service in education and developing researchers.

Full & part-time program options.

We offer full-time and part-time options for completing the PhD in economics program. For those who wish to pursue the program full-time, this program can be completed in as little as three years. For those who would rather pursue the program part-time, we will sit down and work out your plan of study to fit your needs and desires. The time to complete the PhD degree part-time will depend on the specifics of that plan of study, but a common plan results in completion in five or six years.

Check Out Our Program Fact Sheet

Program costs.

Estimated program costs are based on completing 45 credit hours calculated by 2021-2022 rates. Costs exclude textbooks and student health insurance. If you would like to view a complete schedule of tuition, fees, meal plans and financial aid opportunities, visit the Spartan Central website .

The Department typically provides tuition waivers to well-qualified doctoral applicants along with a stipend, fellowship, or scholarship to reimburse student fees and the majority of cost of living expenses. Additionally, information on financial assistance is available through the Spartan Central website .

February 1st – Priority deadline

Complete applications submitted by this date are given first priority for admission and for financial support through fellowships, scholarships, and assistantships.

May 15th – Standard deadline

Complete applications submitted by this date will be considered for admission and for financial support after applications that were submitted by February 15 have been evaluated.

2021 Class Profile

Female Students

International Students

Minority Students

Average Class Size

Mean Undergraduate GPA

The Student Experience

Close collaboration with faculty.

Our PhD students work under the guidance of faculty who conduct nationally and internationally recognized research that promotes economic understanding, policy improvements, and economic development. Whether it is classroom interactions or one-on-one discussions, you’ll find our faculty always have time to support you as you make your way through the PhD program.

Classes at the doctoral level are small, and students benefit from direct and frequent interactions with faculty.  Students begin working in applied research early in their programs and are encouraged to work with faculty to identify policy problems they want to investigate through their dissertations.  They frequently work with faculty on grant-funded research, and co-author papers with faculty for presentation at regional and national professional meetings.

Students Who Work (and Play) Together

Because our PhD program is small, you’ll also find that it’s easy to get to know your fellow students. PhD work can be a daunting process, but it’s made easier and more rewarding when students work together. We strongly encourage our students to work together, to help each other out, and share in their successes.

Whether it is work in the classroom, as a graduate assistant, or on a dissertation, you’ll find our students accessible and willing to pitch in to help. That help sometimes extends beyond the formal boundaries of the program; sometimes the best thing you can do for someone is to help them relax!

Opportunities to Share Your Work

Part of being an economist is sharing one’s work, getting feedback, and, yes, sometimes engaging in discussions over contentious issues. As a result, we strongly encourage our PhD students to share their work at all stages of the research process. This can take place informally through one-on-one conversations with faculty or fellow students, casual group conversations at the end of the day, or even by exchanging written work and asking for feedback. But formal interactions are also an important part of the world of the economists, so the Department also strongly encourages PhD students to participate in our informal Brown Bag Presentations intended for work still in the early stages and in our more formal Seminar Series where more complete, polished work can be shared.

Recent job placements of our graduates

• Lead Economist, The MITRE Corporation Washington, DC Area
• Assistant Professor, University of Maine
• Lead Data Scientist , ADP
• Senior Research Economist , RTI International Durham, NC
• Lecturer (U.K. AP equivalent) , University of Strathclyde Glasgow, Scotland
• Consultant , The Lewin Group Washington, DC Area
• Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Northeastern University
• Economist, Amazon
• Research Fellow , Ankara University Ankara, Turkey
• Economist, U.S. Department of Agriculture Washington, DC Area

Have Questions?

To learn more about the PhD in Economics program please contact Dr. Martijn van Hasselt at [email protected] .

Dr. Martijn van Hasselt

Bryan 446 [email protected]

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Ph.D. in Economics

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

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

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

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

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

1022 International Affairs Building (IAB)

Mail Code 3308

420 West 118th Street

New York, NY 10027

Department of Economics

• Graduate Courses
• Program Requirements
• For Admitted Students
• Funding and Financial Aid
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The rigorous PhD economics program at Johns Hopkins is among the best in the nation. With its world-class faculty, individualized attention, and small classes, the doctoral program is the centerpiece of the Department of Economics. From financial analysis to applied research, students are well-prepared to be leaders in the field.

The department is dedicated to maintaining strong research and teaching cores in applied microeconomics, economic theory, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Faculty members are experts in their fields, and they are actively involved in thesis supervision and research seminars . The unique Hopkins difference is the direct interaction and one-on-one attention students receive from faculty. Such attention opens the door to myriad opportunities for students to conduct groundbreaking research, apply complex economic theories, and make educated financial analyses and predictions.

Student Life

Graduate students enjoy a diverse social life outside of the department’s rigorous curriculum and their individual research interests. Faculty and students – from both inside and outside the department – have ample opportunities to spend time together socializing and discussing their studies. 

In addition to frequent student-planned happy hours, social outings, and local events, the Department of Economics and the JHU Graduate Representative Organization host many functions throughout the year.

• At the beginning of the fall semester, the Department of Economics hosts a welcome dinner and party to encourage new students to meet their peers, older students, and faculty.
• The department throws an annual holiday party immediately following completion of the first term, as well as an end-of-year barbecue to celebrate the completion of the spring semester.
• JHU sponsored coffee “happy hours” offer graduate students opportunities to meet people from outside their department.
• Intramural sports are popular among graduate students at Hopkins, and the economics department often forms teams that compete against other departments.

Students and faculty members often know each other by name before taking classes together, and first-year students enjoy straightforward access to faculty members and their more experienced peers. This collegial atmosphere makes for an easy transition into graduate life and comfortable communication once research begins in earnest.

Economics across JHU Schools

Carey business school.

The Johns Hopkins Carey Business School is the graduate business school of Johns Hopkins University and offers full-time and part-time programs leading to the Master of Business Administration and Master of Science degrees.  The School has a number of distinguished economists who interact with the faculty and graduate students in the Department of Economics.

School of Advanced International Studies

The Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies is a graduate school of Johns Hopkins University based in Washington, D.C., United States, with campuses in Bologna, Italy, and Nanjing, China. It is consistently ranked one of the top graduate schools for international relations in the world.  The economists at the school interact with the faculty and graduate students in the Department of Economics.

Advanced Academic Programs Applied Economics

The Johns Hopkins Division of Advanced Academic Programs is a  division of the Krieger School of Arts and Sciences in Washington DC which offers high-level graduate-level education in Applied Economics, with a variety of Masters Degrees designed to build on the intellectual strength and educational requirements of professional adults.

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Economics (PhD)

Take the next step.

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General Admission Contact The New School for Social Research Office of Admission 72 Fifth Avenue, 1st floor New York, NY 10011 212.229.5600 or 800.523.5411 [email protected]

Admissions Liaison Yuki Tada

Department of Economics 6 East 16th Street, room 1124A New York, NY 10003 Tel: 212.229.5717 x3044 Fax: 212.229.5724

Mailing Address 79 Fifth Avenue, room 1124A New York, NY 10003

Chair Teresa Ghilarducci

Senior Secretary Silvina Palacio Student Advisor Daniel Younessi

Economics Student Handbook

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The PhD in Economics is designed for students who have completed the Economics MA at The New School for Social Research or a comparable master's degree from another university.

Core courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics are supplemented by courses in Marxian, post-Keynesian, and neo-Ricardian theory. Students develop two areas of concentration prior to beginning work on a dissertation.

• Degree Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
• Credits 60 credits
• Format Full-time or part-time, on campus
• Start Term Fall

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STEM Designation for International Applicants 

This program is  STEM-designated . After graduating, eligible F-1 students in this program can apply for an additional 24 months of Optional Practical Training at the end of their Post-Completion OPT. 

A full account of degree requirements and procedures is contained in the Economics student handbook .

PhD candidates must earn 30 credits in addition to the 30 credits taken in the Economics MA program, for a total of 60 credits. Three minimum conditions must be fulfilled for the subcommittee to consider a petition to continued study toward the PhD:

• At least 18 credits must have been completed in residence at The New School for Social Research.
• The student must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.5 or better.
• The student must have completed at least one course in the PhD theory core and one graduate-level econometrics course with a grade of 3.5 or better.

Transfer students who already have an MA from or have completed graduate work in economics at another institution may be assigned credit for all or part of their previous graduate studies up to a maximum of 30 credits. If admitted, transfer students must complete a minimum of 12 credits at The New School for Social Research with a grade point average of 3.5 or better, including at least one PhD core course (see below) with a grade of at least 3.5.

PhD Course Requirements To earn the PhD in Economics, a student must complete 30 credits beyond the MA, including four core courses as well as elective courses:

• Advanced Microeconomics I (GECO 6200)
• Advanced Macroeconomics I (GECO 6202)
• Advanced Econometrics I (GECO 6281)
• Advanced Political Economy I (GECO 6204) or Post-Keynesian Economics (GECO 6206)
• Up to nine credits may be taken as Directed Dissertation Study (GECO 7991)
• Electives up to the total of 60 credits

Students must receive grades of 3.0 or better in all four core courses to continue. (A student who receives a grade of less than 3.0 in a core course is permitted to retake the examination in that course within one year of the end of the semester in which the course was taken. No core course examination can be taken more than twice.) Students are not required to take a PhD qualifying examination in the core course material, although they are free to select advanced macroeconomics, advanced microeconomics, advanced political economy, or advanced econometrics as elective fields from the areas of concentration.

Areas of Concentration In addition to the core theory curriculum, each student chooses two areas of concentration, which will be the subjects of the student's comprehensive examinations. The Department of Economics regularly offers the following areas of concentration:

• Advanced macroeconomics
• Advanced microeconomics
• Advanced political economy
• Economic development
• History of economic thought
• International economics
• Labor economics
• Money and banking

Other areas of concentration may be available subject to faculty availability:

• Class and gender
• Economic history
• Industrial organization
• Race and class
• Public finance

All students must select one concentration from the list above. The second concentration can also be selected from the list or students may, if they wish, define their own second concentration or define an interdisciplinary concentration by combining concentrations from the list above. Individually defined concentrations are subject to approval of the department, which may depend on faculty availability.

Graduate Minors Students can use elective courses toward completing one of the university’s  graduate minors . These structured pathways of study immerse master's and doctoral students in disciplines outside their primary field and expose them to alternative modes of research and practice. Completed graduate minors are officially recorded on students' transcript.

Seminar Requirement Three credits must be fulfilled in the form of seminar requirements. Seminar credits can be earned only after a student has completed Advanced Microeconomics I, Advanced Macroeconomics I, and Advanced Econometrics I. Seminar credits can be earned only from work associated with an upper-level course, but not through directed dissertation study. All seminar credits require faculty approval. Transfer credit cannot be used to fulfill the seminar requirement.

PhD Qualifying Exam Students can request permission from the department to take the PhD qualifying examinations after they have:

• Completed 45 credits with an overall grade point average of 3.5 or better in courses taken at The New School for Social Research
• Satisfactorily completed the three-semester requirement in economic analysis and the econometrics core requirement.

The PhD qualifying examination will consist of either:

• A three-hour written exam in each of the two areas of concentration
• A three-hour written exam in one area of concentration and an original research paper of high scholarly quality in the second area. Permission to submit a paper in lieu of examination must be obtained from a faculty supervisor and from the department chair.

Dissertation Oral Examination Dissertation Defense A student is considered a doctoral candidate only after passing a dissertation proposal defense, which also serves as an oral examination. Students must first submit a dissertation proposal to the supervisor of their dissertation committee. This proposal must be approved by the three members of the dissertation committee prior to the oral examination. Students are also responsible for scheduling a date for their oral exam through the University Records Office six weeks prior to the oral defense date. The student must pass this examination in the area of the proposed dissertation research. The written dissertation and its defense in front of a committee of four faculty members constitute the remaining requirements for the PhD.

Mathematics Requirement Although there are no formal requirements in mathematics, students must have sufficient competence to pass all courses that use mathematical techniques, such as the PhD theory core courses.

Foreign Language Requirement All PhD candidates must demonstrate reading knowledge in a foreign language appropriate to their dissertation topic by passing a language examination administered by the department. Alternatively, a student may satisfy the language requirement by showing competence in mathematics, as demonstrated by a grade of 3.5 or higher in GECO 6189 or the equivalent.

MPhil Degree With the permission of the department chair, the Master of Philosophy degree will be conferred upon a registered student who has fulfilled satisfactorily all the requirements of the department for the PhD except the dissertation and dissertation proposal defense. Registered students in satisfactory academic standing who have fulfilled the requirements for the MPhil can petition for the degree and receive it en route to the PhD, or they may take it as a terminal degree. Students cannot be re-admitted or re-enrolled for the purpose of receiving the MPhil.

At any time within ten years from the date the MPhil degree was awarded and subject to approval by the department chair, a recipient of the MPhil in Economics who has not continued studies in residence at the university may present to the university a substantial body of independent and original published scholarly work in lieu of a sponsored dissertation toward completion of the requirements for the PhD degree.

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PhD in Economics

• Advanced Diploma in Economics
• MPhil in Economics
• MPhil in Economic Research
• MPhil in Finance and Economics
• MPhil in Economics and Data Science

This is the most advanced programme of graduate studies in Economics at Cambridge. Upon its completion, candidates are awarded a PhD degree for producing a thesis of high-quality, original, and publishable research over a period of four years (full-time) and seven years (part-time).

A good number of our PhD students receive full or partial funding for their studies, from a variety of funding bodies, such as the ESRC and the Gates Foundation .

Our PhD students receive high quality training on a variety of research methods and are exposed to cutting edge research conducted by our own Faculty members, as well visitors to the Faculty (via the Cambridge-INET Institute , seminars, PhD workshops, locally organised conferences, etc.). Faculty members can supervise a wide range of topics from six broadly defined research areas: microeconomic theory, macroeconomics, econometrics, applied microeconomics, economic history and alternative approaches to economics.

PhD students in Cambridge benefit from a high faculty-to-student ratio and therefore form close relationships with many Faculty members. They also forge strong links with our post-doctoral researchers, and they actively participate in the Faculty’s vibrant research life. They have access to a wide range of facilities, such as their own desk/office space in the same building as regular Faculty members, computing equipment, a variety of software and access to a wide range of databases.

PhD students are encouraged to attend academic conferences and showcase their research work in a variety of ways. Upon completions of their studies, many of our PhD students become academics, or researchers at international or government research institutions (see recent job market placements here ).

Explore here the profiles of our current PhD students.

To obtain the degree of PhD in Economics, students need to:

1. Obtain the Certificate of Postgraduate Study (CPGS) . If accepted for the PhD degree, you will be registered initially for the Certificate of Postgraduate Study (CPGS) in Economics. Students registered for the CPGS are required to:

• Attend the 'How to do Economics' lecture course. Other postgraduate courses in research methods are organised by the Schools of Humanities and Social Sciences and the Physical Sciences, and are available to all PhD students.  
• Undertake a minimum of four courses from PhD or MPhil Modules from at least two subject areas. You must achieve a pass mark (60%) on each component of the coursework. Students who fail any examinations will be called for a viva on the coursework.

• Write a research proposal (maximum length 10,000 words) that should include a review of the relevant literature, a research question, and outline of a research design and methods. The expectation is that this proposal will be for a piece of research that could form the basis of one chapter of a PhD dissertation. You will be given an oral examination on this piece of work and must perform to a satisfactory standard.  
• Attend (a) one of the three research workshops (on microeconomics, macroeconomics or econometrics) at which research students present both their own work and recent papers in the literature - assessment of workshops will be arranged by course organisers; (b) attend at least one of the Faculty's general seminars in which papers are given both by outside speakers and Faculty members;  
• To be registered for the PhD submit an acceptable piece of research (first year chapter) of not more than 20,000 words. The piece of research submitted must be of a standard that would enable it to form the basis of one-third of your eventual PhD thesis. This means that it must contain research that could be expanded upon to constitute one-third of the PhD thesis.

2. Once upgraded to PhD status, a student concentrates on her or his PhD dissertation. In general the thesis format is either in the form of a book divided into chapters, or of three or more connected articles; in either case, the Faculty has a strict limit of 60,000 words. As research progresses, there will be opportunities to present work in progress at research workshops attended by Faculty members and research students. PhD students will also be required to attend research seminars given by outside speakers and Faculty members. 

Upon completion and submission of the PhD thesis, students do an oral examination (viva) with two examiners, one internal to the University of Cambridge (not the supervisor or research advisor), and one external (from any other University in the UK or the rest of the world).

After a successful thesis defence, the examiners recommend awarding the degree of PhD.

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DPhil in Economics

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About the course

Oxford has a thriving group of research students studying for the DPhil in Economics. The DPhil, which is the equivalent to a PhD at most other institutions, is similar in structure to a PhD at leading economics graduate schools worldwide.

The majority of students on the DPhil at Oxford have first completed the two-year Oxford MPhil in Economics . You can also apply for the DPhil if you hold, or will hold a Master’s degree or equivalent in Economics from other universities.

All students starting the DPhil are admitted with Probationer Research Student status (PRS) in the first instance. You will take additional courses from the MPhil menu to deepen and broaden your economic training, while starting to work on your first research project. The PRS status allows for a smooth transition from learning about economic research to producing new economic insights yourself. If you haven’t completed the MPhil in Economics at Oxford, you will usually be required to take a year of coursework taking papers from either the first and/or second year of the MPhil programme. Students progressing from the MPhil in Economics at Oxford will usually complete their coursework by taking additional advanced courses from the MPhil. 

You will join one or more of the department's research groups, becoming part of a vibrant educational research community with a large number of doctoral student-led events, seminars and conferences.

You will have opportunities to present your work at a variety of seminars and sessions in the department.

Further information about part-time study

The department is able to offer the DPhil in Economics as a part-time mode. Although there is no requirement to reside in Oxford, part-time research students must attend the University on a regular basis (particularly in term-time: October and November, mid-January to mid-March, and late April to mid-June) for supervision, study, research seminars and skills training.

The department understands that part-time research students will have non-standard attendance and work patterns. To ensure a comprehensive integration into the faculty's and University's research culture and with their full-time peer groups a pattern of attendance at MPhil courses, training events and research seminars would form part of the general part-time study agreement.

Supervision

The allocation of graduate supervision for this course is the responsibility of the Department of Economics and it is not always possible to accommodate the preferences of incoming graduate students to work with a particular member of staff. Under exceptional circumstances a supervisor may be found outside the Department of Economics. In those cases, the expectation is that a co-supervisor or secondary supervisor from within the Department of Economics will also be appointed.

DPhil students will work closely with their supervisors and will be expected to meet face-to-face on at least two occasions per term with additional contact through online meetings and email exchanges.

Full-time students admitted to Probationer Research Student status are first required to transfer to DPhil status. The Transfer of Status requires the completion of the Qualifying Examinations, necessary coursework, and an interview with two assessors appointed by the department, at which the candidate presents an outline of their proposed thesis and a piece of written work relevant to the thesis. The transfer is normally expected to be completed by the end of the fourth term, and no later than six terms from admission to Probationer Research Student status. In exceptional circumstances, where a student has already successfully completed advanced coursework as part of the MPhil in Economics at Oxford, the department may waive the requirement for Transfer of Status and students may progress directly to DPhil status. Upon a successful transfer to DPhil status, students are required to confirm their DPhil status no later than nine terms after admission to Probationer Research Student status. 

Candidates for Confirmation of Status are required to present a research paper at a workshop or seminar, present a detailed outline of the complete thesis and some complete draft chapters, and will be interviewed by an assessor.

Part-time students admitted to Probationer Research Student status are normally expected to transfer to DPhil status during the first two to three years of study. Upon a successful transfer to DPhil status, students are required to confirm their DPhil status no later than eighteen terms after admission as a Probationer Research Student.

The award of this degree is based on a thesis of not more than 100,000 words in length. It should constitute a significant and substantial piece of research, of a kind which might reasonably be expected of a diligent and competent student in three years of full-time study. The maximum time allowed for completion of the DPhil is four years (eight years for part-time).

Graduate destinations

The interests and strengths of the department's doctoral students are many and diverse and this is reflected in the positions they take up after graduation: most take up tenure track or postdoc positions in academia; others find employment in government, international organisations, or the private sector. The international reputation of Oxford’s doctoral programme also means that its DPhil graduates can be found making a contribution in many different parts of the world.

The department recognises the importance of helping doctoral students find suitable employment and its placement efforts are directed by a senior member of the faculty. The department provides advice and help on all aspects of the job application process, including limited financial assistance to cover travel and conference expenses.

Changes to this course and your supervision

The University will seek to deliver this course in accordance with the description set out in this course page. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision, either before or after registration. The safety of students, staff and visitors is paramount and major changes to delivery or services may have to be made in circumstances of a pandemic, epidemic or local health emergency. In addition, in certain circumstances, for example due to visa difficulties or because the health needs of students cannot be met, it may be necessary to make adjustments to course requirements for international study.

Where possible your academic supervisor will not change for the duration of your course. However, it may be necessary to assign a new academic supervisor during the course of study or before registration for reasons which might include illness, sabbatical leave, parental leave or change in employment.

For further information please see our page on changes to courses and the provisions of the student contract regarding changes to courses.

Entry requirements for entry in 2024-25

Proven and potential academic excellence.

The requirements described below are specific to this course and apply only in the year of entry that is shown. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

Please be aware that any studentships that are linked to this course may have different or additional requirements and you should read any studentship information carefully before applying. 

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:

• an outstanding performance in a rigorous master's course in economics;  and
• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in economics or another approved subject (such as mathematics).

Applicants must demonstrate a strong quantitative preparation. 

Offers will usually be made conditional on obtaining a distinction grade (or an equivalent level of performance where a distinction grade is not officially awarded) at master's level. 

Please note:

• a master's qualification that is only partially in economics would not be considered a suitable background: for example, a master's course in development studies, public administration, or in finance lacks the required level of economics content, even if there are economics courses as part of the training;
• a master's qualification in a specialised field within economics (eg development economics, applied economics, or financial economics) may also be insufficient background. Candidates with these qualifications should provide a written statement as part of their research proposal to demonstrate that the courses on which they have been examined covered all the core material of a rigorous master's course in economics.

Applicants with an insufficient master's background in economics who wish to proceed to DPhil are encouraged to first apply to the joint MPhil+DPhil in Economics.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum cumulative GPA sought is 3.7 out of 4.0.

If your degree is not from the UK or another country specified above, visit our International Qualifications page for guidance on the qualifications and grades that would usually be considered to meet the University’s minimum entry requirements.

GRE General Test scores

If you do not hold, or will not shortly hold, a UK or Republic of Ireland degree, you must submit the results of a GRE Test obtained within the last 5 years. However, we recommend applicants from UK or Republic of Ireland universities also submit a GRE score. Entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants will have a GRE score of Verbal 160, Quantitative 164, Analytical 4.5.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience

• All candidates are expected to have working knowledge in one programming language (of the candidate’s choice) at the start of the DPhil. The department will provide advice to accepted candidates on how to acquire such knowledge.
• Part-time applicants will also be expected to show evidence of the ability to commit time to study and, if applicable, an employer's commitment to make time available to study, to complete coursework, and attend programme and University events and modules. Where appropriate, evidence should also be provided of permission to use employers’ data in the proposed research project.
• Publications are not expected.

English language proficiency

This course requires proficiency in English at the University's  higher level . If your first language is not English, you may need to provide evidence that you meet this requirement. The minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level are detailed in the table below.

*Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English or Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE) † Previously known as the Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English or Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)

Your test must have been taken no more than two years before the start date of your course. Our Application Guide provides  further information about the English language test requirement .

Declaring extenuating circumstances

If your ability to meet the entry requirements has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic (eg you were awarded an unclassified/ungraded degree) or any other exceptional personal circumstance (eg other illness or bereavement), please refer to the guidance on extenuating circumstances in the Application Guide for information about how to declare this so that your application can be considered appropriately.

You will need to register three referees who can give an informed view of your academic ability and suitability for the course. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the types of reference that are required in support of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Supporting documents

You will be required to supply supporting documents with your application. The  How to apply  section of this page provides details of the supporting documents that are required as part of your application for this course and how these will be assessed.

Performance at interview

Interviews are not normally held as part of the admissions process.  

How your application is assessed

Your application will be assessed purely on your proven and potential academic excellence and other entry requirements described under that heading.

References  and  supporting documents  submitted as part of your application, and your performance at interview (if interviews are held) will be considered as part of the assessment process. Whether or not you have secured funding will not be taken into consideration when your application is assessed.

An overview of the shortlisting and selection process is provided below. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide  more information about how applications are assessed . 

Shortlisting and selection

Students are considered for shortlisting and selected for admission without regard to age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partnership status, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality and ethnic or national origins), religion or belief (including lack of belief), sex, sexual orientation, as well as other relevant circumstances including parental or caring responsibilities or social background. However, please note the following:

• socio-economic information may be taken into account in the selection of applicants and award of scholarships for courses that are part of  the University’s pilot selection procedure  and for  scholarships aimed at under-represented groups ;
• country of ordinary residence may be taken into account in the awarding of certain scholarships; and
• protected characteristics may be taken into account during shortlisting for interview or the award of scholarships where the University has approved a positive action case under the Equality Act 2010.

Processing your data for shortlisting and selection

Information about  processing special category data for the purposes of positive action  and  using your data to assess your eligibility for funding , can be found in our Postgraduate Applicant Privacy Policy.

Admissions panels and assessors

All recommendations to admit a student involve the judgement of at least two members of the academic staff with relevant experience and expertise, and must also be approved by the Director of Graduate Studies or Admissions Committee (or equivalent within the department).

Admissions panels or committees will always include at least one member of academic staff who has undertaken appropriate training.

Other factors governing whether places can be offered

The following factors will also govern whether candidates can be offered places:

• the ability of the University to provide the appropriate supervision for your studies, as outlined under the 'Supervision' heading in the  About  section of this page;
• the ability of the University to provide appropriate support for your studies (eg through the provision of facilities, resources, teaching and/or research opportunities); and
• minimum and maximum limits to the numbers of students who may be admitted to the University's taught and research programmes.

Offer conditions for successful applications

If you receive an offer of a place at Oxford, your offer will outline any conditions that you need to satisfy and any actions you need to take, together with any associated deadlines. These may include academic conditions, such as achieving a specific final grade in your current degree course. These conditions will usually depend on your individual academic circumstances and may vary between applicants. Our ' After you apply ' pages provide more information about offers and conditions . 

In addition to any academic conditions which are set, you will also be required to meet the following requirements:

Financial Declaration

If you are offered a place, you will be required to complete a  Financial Declaration  in order to meet your financial condition of admission.

Disclosure of criminal convictions

In accordance with the University’s obligations towards students and staff, we will ask you to declare any  relevant, unspent criminal convictions  before you can take up a place at Oxford.

Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS)

Some postgraduate research students in science, engineering and technology subjects will need an Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate prior to applying for a  Student visa (under the Student Route) . For some courses, the requirement to apply for an ATAS certificate may depend on your research area.

With more than 60 academics in permanent posts and 30+ postdoctoral research fellows, the Department of Economics is a large and vibrant international community of researchers. In the 2021 REF, Oxford was ranked first in terms of overall research ‘power’ and funding market share.

The department hosts research centres such as the Centre for the Study of African Economies (CSAE), which is internationally recognised as a hub for innovative research and outreach to the academic and policy-making communities world-wide through their seminars, workshops and annual conferences.

Within the department, specialised research groups play a key role in bringing together faculty and graduate students working in particular sub-fields, supporting and mentoring doctoral students and postdoctoral research fellows, and promoting research of the highest international standard.

The research groups provide an important interface between the research centres and the department, for example, econometrics and the INET programme on Economic Modelling (EMOD); development economics and CSAE. Other research groups facilitate collaboration across departments, as in the case of the economic history group and economic historians in the Faculty of History. Each research group runs a regular seminar series with external presenters, plus a more informal workshop in which members, including DPhil students, present their research in progress.

Students can access a range of internship programmes through the University Careers Office as well as the RCUK Policy Internship scheme for ESRC-funded students. In addition, the Bank of England and Goldman Sachs each provide a short summer internship for a doctoral student specialising in macroeconomics or finance and the Department of Economics is accredited by the Asian Development Bank to nominate candidates for their internship programme. In recent cohorts, students have benefited from an internship with organisations including the EBRD, European Central Bank, UK Home Office, as well as those identified above.

The Department of Economics is located in the Manor Road Building in central Oxford, alongside the Department of Politics and International Relations. The department contains faculty offices and open-plan workspaces for DPhil students and postdoctoral research, with access to Wi-Fi and print services. A BYOD (Bring Your Own Device) policy is in place within the Economics department, enabling you to access data shares, printing, software and for some, a full Windows desktop via the department's Virtual Desktop environment. The Manor Road IT team support all IT-related infrastructure and systems within the department, including desktops, laptops and tablets, and all associated peripherals (printers, scanners, webcams etc) and software provision.

The Manor Road Building also houses the Bodleian Social Sciences Library (SSL), a first-class research library open to all members of the University. The SSL holds over 250,000 printed books, over 1,000 printed journal titles, as well as statistical publications, working papers, dissertations, pamphlets and reports. Online resources include almost 100,000 e-journals and an extensive collection of databases and archives in the social sciences. Graduate teaching and most seminars take place within the Manor Road Building, where there is also a cafeteria and common room for students' use.

Oxford's Department of Economics is one of Europe's leading research departments and its members include some of the world's most distinguished academic economists.

The department offers its community of around 300 graduate students a rigorous and relevant training in economics, providing a setting in which debate and research can flourish. The department’s graduate courses prepare students for a wide range of careers in academia, government and business.

The department is committed to excellence in teaching and the MPhil and DPhil in Economics are internationally recognised for the quality of the training provided. The University of Oxford is ranked 2nd in Europe in the most recent Tilburg University ranking of Economics departments, based on research contribution for the period between 2016-2020. In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework exercise, that evaluated research output of UK Universities, Oxford was first for overall research strength in Economics and Econometrics, with more research ranked as ‘world-leading’ than any other participating institution.

In a submission of 84 FTE academics, which was the largest number of researchers submitted in the Economics and Econometrics Unit of Assessment, 94% of the department's research output was assessed as ‘internationally excellent’ or ‘world-leading’ (3* or 4*). The scale and breadth of the Department’s research is a product of a vibrant and well-connected community, with particular attention on supporting early career researchers. The Department maintains world-class expertise in the core discipline areas of microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, while building clusters of research strength in more specialist subfields – notably applied microeconomics; behavioural economics and game theory; the economics of climate change and sustainability; machine learning; economic history; development economics.

Oxford has one of the strongest, largest, and most varied groups of economists in the world. Our objective is to engage in innovative research that extends the frontiers of the discipline, deepening our understanding of the operation of modern economies. Research spans almost all the major sub-fields of economics with particular strengths in microeconomic theory, including behavioural economics; econometrics, both micro-econometrics and time series; economic history and development and international economics. Research activity is focused within smaller, specialised groups, with each group holding regular workshops at which research by faculty and graduate students is presented and discussed. Many distinguished researchers from outside Oxford also visit to present their work at seminars.

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The University expects to be able to offer over 1,000 full or partial graduate scholarships across the collegiate University in 2024-25. You will be automatically considered for the majority of Oxford scholarships , if you fulfil the eligibility criteria and submit your graduate application by the relevant December or January deadline. Most scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic merit and/or potential. 

For further details about searching for funding as a graduate student visit our dedicated Funding pages, which contain information about how to apply for Oxford scholarships requiring an additional application, details of external funding, loan schemes and other funding sources.

Please ensure that you visit individual college websites for details of any college-specific funding opportunities using the links provided on our college pages or below:

Please note that not all the colleges listed above may accept students on this course. For details of those which do, please refer to the College preference section of this page.

Further information about funding opportunities for this course can be found on the department's website.

Annual fees for entry in 2024-25

Full-time study.

Further details about fee status eligibility can be found on the fee status webpage.

Part-time study

Information about course fees

Course fees are payable each year, for the duration of your fee liability (your fee liability is the length of time for which you are required to pay course fees). For courses lasting longer than one year, please be aware that fees will usually increase annually. For details, please see our guidance on changes to fees and charges .

Course fees cover your teaching as well as other academic services and facilities provided to support your studies. Unless specified in the additional information section below, course fees do not cover your accommodation, residential costs or other living costs. They also don’t cover any additional costs and charges that are outlined in the additional information below.

Continuation charges

Following the period of fee liability , you may also be required to pay a University continuation charge and a college continuation charge. The University and college continuation charges are shown on the Continuation charges page.

Where can I find further information about fees?

The Fees and Funding  section of this website provides further information about course fees , including information about fee status and eligibility  and your length of fee liability .

Additional information

There are no compulsory elements of this course that entail additional costs beyond fees (or, after fee liability ends, continuation charges) and living costs. However, please note that, depending on your choice of research topic and the research required to complete it, you may incur additional expenses, such as travel expenses, research expenses, and field trips. You will need to meet these additional costs, although you may be able to apply for small grants from your department and/or college to help you cover some of these expenses.

Please note that you are required to attend in Oxford for a minimum of 30 days each year, and you may incur additional travel and accommodation expenses for this. Also, depending on your choice of research topic and the research required to complete it, you may incur further additional expenses, such as travel expenses, research expenses, and field trips. You will need to meet these additional costs, although you may be able to apply for small grants from your department and/or college to help you cover some of these expenses.

Living costs

In addition to your course fees, you will need to ensure that you have adequate funds to support your living costs for the duration of your course.

For the 2024-25 academic year, the range of likely living costs for full-time study is between c. £1,345 and £1,955 for each month spent in Oxford. Full information, including a breakdown of likely living costs in Oxford for items such as food, accommodation and study costs, is available on our living costs page. The current economic climate and high national rate of inflation make it very hard to estimate potential changes to the cost of living over the next few years. When planning your finances for any future years of study in Oxford beyond 2024-25, it is suggested that you allow for potential increases in living expenses of around 5% each year – although this rate may vary depending on the national economic situation. UK inflationary increases will be kept under review and this page updated.

If you are studying part-time your living costs may vary depending on your personal circumstances but you must still ensure that you will have sufficient funding to meet these costs for the duration of your course.

Students enrolled on this course will belong to both a department/faculty and a college. Please note that ‘college’ and ‘colleges’ refers to all 43 of the University’s colleges, including those designated as societies and permanent private halls (PPHs). 

If you apply for a place on this course you will have the option to express a preference for one of the colleges listed below, or you can ask us to find a college for you. Before deciding, we suggest that you read our brief  introduction to the college system at Oxford  and our  advice about expressing a college preference . For some courses, the department may have provided some additional advice below to help you decide.

The following colleges accept students for full-time study on this course:

• Balliol College
• Blackfriars
• Brasenose College
• Campion Hall
• Christ Church
• Corpus Christi College
• Exeter College
• Harris Manchester College
• Hertford College
• Jesus College
• Keble College
• Kellogg College
• Lady Margaret Hall
• Linacre College
• Lincoln College
• Magdalen College
• Mansfield College
• Merton College
• New College
• Nuffield College
• Oriel College
• Pembroke College
• The Queen's College
• Regent's Park College
• Reuben College
• St Anne's College
• St Antony's College
• St Catherine's College
• St Cross College
• St Edmund Hall
• St Hilda's College
• St Hugh's College
• St John's College
• St Peter's College
• Somerville College
• Trinity College
• University College
• Wadham College
• Wolfson College
• Worcester College
• Wycliffe Hall

The following colleges accept students for part-time study on this course:

Before you apply

Our  guide to getting started  provides general advice on how to prepare for and start your application. You can use our interactive tool to help you  evaluate whether your application is likely to be competitive .

If it's important for you to have your application considered under a particular deadline – eg under a December or January deadline in order to be considered for Oxford scholarships – we recommend that you aim to complete and submit your application at least two weeks in advance . Check the deadlines on this page and the  information about deadlines and when to apply  in our Application Guide.

Application fee waivers

An application fee of £75 is payable per course application. Application fee waivers are available for the following applicants who meet the eligibility criteria:

• applicants from low-income countries;
• refugees and displaced persons; 
• UK applicants from low-income backgrounds; and 
• applicants who applied for our Graduate Access Programmes in the past two years and met the eligibility criteria.

You are encouraged to  check whether you're eligible for an application fee waiver  before you apply.

Readmission for current Oxford graduate taught students

If you're currently studying for an Oxford graduate taught course and apply to this course with no break in your studies, you may be eligible to apply to this course as a readmission applicant. The application fee will be waived for an eligible application of this type. Check whether you're eligible to apply for readmission .

Do I need to contact anyone before I apply?

You do not need to make contact with the department before you apply but you are encouraged to visit the relevant departmental webpages to read any further information about your chosen course.

Completing your application

You should refer to the information below when completing the application form, paying attention to the specific requirements for the supporting documents . 

If any document does not meet the specification, including the stipulated word count, your application may be considered incomplete and not assessed by the academic department. Expand each section to show further details.

Referees: Three overall, academic and/or professional

Whilst you must register three referees, the department may start the assessment of your application if two of the three references are submitted by the course deadline and your application is otherwise complete. Please note that you may still be required to ensure your third referee supplies a reference for consideration.

It is recommended that you provide three academic references, however the department will accept one professional reference of the three required overall. Your references will support intellectual ability, academic achievement, and motivation.

Official transcript(s)

Your transcripts should give detailed information of the individual grades received in your university-level qualifications to date. You should only upload official documents issued by your institution and any transcript not in English should be accompanied by a certified translation.

More information about the transcript requirement is available in the Application Guide.

A CV/résumé is compulsory for this course. Most applicants choose to submit a document of one to two pages highlighting their academic achievements and any relevant professional experience.

Research proposal: A maximum of 1,500 words

You should submit a detailed outline of your proposed research, written in English, covering areas such as the background to the research, methodology, expected results and the contribution to the field of learning.

It is not necessary to include your bibliography in the overall word count. 

If possible, please ensure that the word count is clearly displayed on the document.

This will be assessed for:

• your reasons for applying;
• the coherence of the proposal;
• the originality of the project;
• evidence of motivation for and understanding of the proposed area of study;
• the ability to present a reasoned case in English;
• the feasibility of successfully completing the project in the time available for the course (a maximum of 4 years);
• commitment to the subject, beyond the requirements of the degree course;
• preliminary knowledge of research techniques;
• capacity for sustained and intense work;
• reasoning ability; and
• ability to absorb new ideas, often presented abstractly, at a rapid pace.

Written work: One essay of a maximum of 2,000 words

An academic essay or other writing sample from your most recent qualification, written in English, is required. An extract of the requisite length from longer work is also permissible. The written work should be related to the subject you propose to study.

The written work should be typed and in English. The word count does not need to include any bibliography or brief footnotes.

• a comprehensive understanding of the subject area;
• understanding of problems in the area;
• ability to construct and defend an argument;
• powers of analysis; and
• powers of expression.

GRE General Test results

If you do not hold, or will not shortly hold, a UK or Republic of Ireland degree, you must submit the results of a GRE Test obtained within the last 5 years. However, we recommend that applicants from UK or Republic of Ireland universities also submit a GRE score. Entrance is very competitive, and most successful applicants have a GRE score of at least 160 for verbal, 164 for quantitative and 4.5 for analytical.

Start or continue your application

You can start or return to an application using the relevant link below. As you complete the form, please  refer to the requirements above  and  consult our Application Guide for advice . You'll find the answers to most common queries in our FAQs.

Application Guide   Apply - Full time Apply - Part time

ADMISSION STATUS

Closed to applications for entry in 2024-25

Register to be notified via email when the next application cycle opens (for entry in 2025-26)

12:00 midday UK time on:

Friday 19 January 2024 Latest deadline for most Oxford scholarships Final application deadline for entry in 2024-25

*Three-year average (applications for entry in 2021-22 to 2023-24)

Further information and enquiries

This course is offered by the Department of Economics

• Course page on the department's website
• Funding information from the department
• Academic and research staff
• Departmental research
• Social Sciences Division
• Residence requirements for full-time courses
• Postgraduate applicant privacy policy

Course-related enquiries

Advice about contacting the department can be found in the How to apply section of this page

✉ e [email protected] ☎ +44 (0)1865 281290

Application-process enquiries

See the application guide

Other courses to consider

You may also wish to consider applying to other courses that are similar or related to this course:

MPhil + DPhil in Economics

You can study this course as part of our five-year integrated  MPhil+DPhil in Economics  which enables students to first study for the two-year MPhil in Economics and then automatically switch to the DPhil in Economics.

Visa eligibility for part-time study

We are unable to sponsor student visas for part-time study on this course. Part-time students may be able to attend on a visitor visa for short blocks of time only (and leave after each visit) and will need to remain based outside the UK.

Economics, PhD

Zanvyl krieger school of arts and sciences, admission requirements.

The admission of each applicant is decided by the Department as a whole and rests upon their academic record (especially economics and mathematics courses), GRE test scores, recommendations of scholars and instructors, and other pertinent information including a match between the research interests of the applicant and the faculty. To apply for admission, applicants are required to upload unofficial transcripts of all previous college and university study to their online application. Failure to upload unofficial transcripts will result in an inability to complete and submit the online application. In addition, we require at least two letters of recommendation. These recommendation letters should come from individuals who can comment on your scholarly skills. All applicants must submit scores from the Graduate Record Examination. Admitted students nearly always have very high quantitative GRE scores. Applicants must take the TOEFL with a minimum score of 100 (internet based), 600 (paper based) or 250 (computer based), or IELTS with a bandscore of 7.  Applicants with degrees from universities in the United States or the countries listed on the KSAS Graduate Admissions website are exempt from this language proficiency requirement. It is the country in which the university is located that determines whether the requirement applies, not the language of instruction at the university. For the exemption to apply, applicants must have completed at least two years of full-time study at a university in the United States and/or a TOEFL exempt foreign country.

Students should have a knowledge of economic theory and statistics and a strong background in mathematics including differential and integral calculus and linear algebra. Almost all of our students enter with at least two semesters of calculus and linear algebra. In admissions decisions, we like applicants to have taken other mathematics courses as well, including more advanced calculus, differential equations, probability, and real analysis. We especially welcome applications from under-represented populations, as diversity is important in our graduate program.

Program Requirements

Preparation for the Dissertation . The program’s first year is comprised of two semesters each of courses in microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, and statistics/econometrics, along with a one-semester course in mathematical methods. Second-year students take courses in specific fields within economics.  If necessary, students may take relevant courses in other departments such as Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Political Science, Public Health, Sociology, and Anthropology.  Second-year students also begin their exposure to original research through research mentorships with faculty.  A research paper is submitted near the end of the second year.  Third-year students complete any remaining course work and prepare a dissertation proposal

Comprehensive Exam.  This exam is administered by the department and consists of three written examinations designed to test the candidate’s knowledge of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and statistics/econometrics. The written examinations are taken prior to the start of the second year.

Dissertation.  The dissertation is an original investigation worthy of publication, prepared under the supervision of three members of the faculty. A dissertation proposal is due near the end of the third year.  Some students finish the program in five years.  More commonly, students finish in six years.  The final requirement is a Graduate Board Oral Examination on the dissertation.  The committee that administers the examination includes faculty from outside the department. 

Requirements for the M.A. Degree

The department does not admit students from outside Johns Hopkins University who intend to work only for an M.A. However, it does offer this degree as an intermediate step toward the Ph.D. or as a final degree to some of those who do not complete their doctoral work.

Beyond the general university requirements, the department requires for the master’s degree two years of satisfactory graduate course work.

PhD in Economics

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PhD in Economics At a Glance

• 45 credit hours of course work, completed in as little as 2.5 years.
• Study diverse theoretical perspectives, including post-Keynesian, intuitionalist, evolutionary, and feminist economics.
• Tailor your field coursework to best match your research interests.
• Designated as a STEM degree program 
• Program Director: Professor Nathan Larson .

Tailor Your Degree to Your Research Interests

Offering a combination of rigorous technical training and a focus on policy-relevant research, our PhD in Economics will prepare you for careers in academics, research, and government. Our students master economic theory, statistical methods, and applied field knowledge. Then, through the dissertation-writing process, they develop the ability to formulate and empirically answer economic questions.  

• Diverse Perspectives : In addition to a strong foundation in macro and micro theory and econometrics, students learn a more diverse perspective on economics through required courses in economic thought and economic history, as well as optional courses in heterodox theoretical models of economics, including post-Keynesian, intuitionalist, evolutionary, and feminist economics.
• Flexibility : Students choose four applied field courses that best fit their research interests. The department offers a wide selection of concentrations, including courses in development, gender, international, labor, macro/monetary, and other applied micro topics.
• Preparation : Students must successfully pass one comprehensive exam at the end of their first year and produce a journal-quality research paper by the end of their third year. The third-year paper typically serves as a key component of the dissertation, giving students an advanced start on the dissertation writing process.

See complete Admissions and Program Requirements .

Faculty Dedicated to Your Success

At AU, you will take classes from and work with a diverse group of esteemed economists and highly cited scholars who are engaged with practitioners and policymakers around the world. Their wide-ranging research and publications , along with the variety of methodological approaches they use, create a rich environment for innovations in theory and empirical studies. 

Our research centers, including the Program on Gender Analysis in Economics and Infometrics Institute , host guest scholars and research projects, further enhancing the opportunities for graduate students. By working as research assistants and teaching assistants, PhD students gain valuable experience and mentorship in an academic setting.  

Throughout their third year and into the fourth, students work closely with a faculty member of their choosing on their third-year paper and dissertation proposal, eventually adding other experts to their dissertation committee to gain additional insights and expertise. Through this process, students develop lasting collegial, and productive relationships with faculty, classmates and economists at DC-area institutions, often co-authoring and publishing.  

Launch Your Career Amongst Top Economists 

The Washington metropolitan area employs over one-third of all economists in the country. The array of intellectual and professional opportunities offered by the nation's capital make American University the ideal place to study economics. The department's strategic partnerships and our faculty's relationships with nearby institutions will help you make the best use of those opportunities.

Internship and employment opportunities:

• The World Bank 
• International Monetary Fund
• Research institutes
• Think Tanks and NGOs
• US Treasury, Labor, and Commerce Departments 

Economics PhD graduates are well qualified for careers in academia, government agencies, and international organizations. Our students receive career mentorship and placement services that lead to careers in public policy, academia, and government, both domestically and abroad.

Many of our graduates go on to academic posts at universities such as the Saint Louis University, the University of Vermont, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and Franklin College. Domestically, graduates have served in congress and government agencies, including the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the Department of Commerce, and the Department of Labor. Our alumni working outside of the US have founded research institutions and consulted for major organizations such as CGIAR-CIP and the United Nations. 

Read more career information about AU economics alumni.

See the 2017-8 list of job market candidates .

News & Notes

See abstracts from the 2024  Third Year Paper Conference .

Research Seminar Series Wednesdays at noon.

• PhD candidate Amy Burnett Cross received an EHA Dissertation Fellowship from the EHA Committee on Research in Economic History
• PhD student Danielle Wilson was awarded an Economic History Association grant for archival research on Mexican Railroads.
• PhD student Aina Puig's short essay, " The Unequal Effect of Interest Rates by Race, Gender, " was published in the San Francisco Fed's Economic Letter.
• Professor Bernhard Gunter and PhD students Bong Sun Seo & Farah Tasneem were awarded the  International Award for Excellence for their article on the change in labor force participation rates during periods of globalization and marginalization. 

Student Spotlights

More about Aina

San Francisco Federal Reserve Board’s essay contest  called for papers studying economic impacts of gender and racial inequalities. As a winner, Aina’s paper will be published in the Federal Reserve Board’s Economic Letter and will have the opportunity to participate in a 6-week summer research program.

Aina’s paper focused on the impact of monetary policy, through interest rates, on spending patterns among types of U.S. households—those with mortgages, those with women versus men as head of household, and those headed by White versus Black people. By building on her interest in macroeconomic inequality topics with direct policy implications, she intended (and continues to intend) to fill a gap in the literature, adding to the income inequality narrative by bringing gender and racial inequalities to the forefront of discussion.

Through this project, she was able to not only establish the impact of monetary policy shocks on consumption patterns, but also inform the Federal Reserve Board of these distributional impacts. When discussing her research, Aina states that “promoting equal opportunity and understanding the different impacts of policies can help policymakers create policies that promote economic growth while benefitting all groups’ well-being in society.”

Her interest in analyzing inequality topics through lens of distributional effects of macroeconomic policies came to life during her research for this paper and “ties directly into [her] plans for [her] dissertation…, a good starting point for [her] future research.”

Vasudeva Ramaswamy

More about Vasudeva

Economics PhD candidate Vasudeva Ramaswamy credits American University with helping him zero in on his area of research interest and for equipping him with the tools to explore and contribute to his field. 

During his time at AU, Vasu spent two summers working with the World Bank, studying the impact of agricultural aggregators in East Africa — specifically, how they provided income and security to farmer communities. 

Vasu’s dissertation considers the effects of the Federal Reserve Bank’s actions on household inequality. Who gains and who loses when the Fed increases (or decreases) interest rates? And how do these effects propagate through the economy? Because business income and profits play a key role in household inequality, Vasu looks at how businesses respond to the actions of the Fed. 

After he earns his PhD, Vasu says he would love to be able to continue researching the importance of economic heterogeneity in monetary policy transmission. “I am particularly grateful for AU’s faculty, who are leading experts in their field and approachable and encouraging as mentors,” he adds. “I am equally grateful for the rest of my PhD cohort, who are a brilliant and motivated group. I am learning from them continually.”

Elissa Cohen

More about Elissa

Economics PhD candidate Elissa Cohen received an NSF grant to pursue her research about assumptions people make about risk and, building off an idea from a previous project, Elissa continues her interest in the Value of Statistical Life in this one to question the validity of how VSL is used and estimated. In doing so, she contributes to development of a more complete theory of how perceptions of risk guide decision making.

Elissa asks three questions: (1) Is the construct validity of the VSL consistent across measurement approaches? (2) Do people value the mitigation of varying types of fatality risk differently across domains? (3) Do people accurately comprehend the probability of death in a given setting?

To answer these questions, Elissa uses discrete choice experimental (DCE) designs, self-report surveys, and machine learning techniques to evaluate the validity of the VSL as an assessment how people’s risk assessment shapes behavior.

This research improves the understanding of how people perceive fatality risk across domains and how perceptions impact choices about risk exposure. With this research comes the potential to reshape how regulatory agencies construct their aggregated VSL estimates for future cost-benefit analyses, influencing policy decisions and allocation of scarce federal resources.

As she thinks about impact and the research space she can contribute to and develop, Elissa comments, “AU has definitely helped me refine the types of questions I am interested in answering…. I see myself continuing to explore and test feedback loops between emergent human behaviors and macro-level policy decision-making.”

Amy Burnett Cross

More about Amy

Amy Burnett Cross has been selected as one of the three NBER Pre-Doctoral Fellows in the Gender in the Economy program to support her dissertation research on the influence of military policy on the sorting of women into occupations. Through this research, she is able to include her knowledge from AU’s Program on Gender Analysis in Economics as well as her understanding that by bringing more insight from conservative institutions into her research realm, she could enhance the policy space of gender equity.

As she continues her career, Amy desires to conduct research that is directly applicable to policymakers, and through her research on this project, Amy has the chance to do this in addition to engaging with economic history and begin to invest more time in the historical arc of military policy and gender dynamics.

She has three focuses for her dissertation project: (1) evaluate the impact of lifting the ban on women in combat (in 2013) on civilian occupational desegregation; (2) measure the extent to which gender desegregation of the Army (in 1977) signaled a shift in the appropriate role of civilian women at work; and (3) assess whether the structure of the U.S. draft in WWI (in 1917) contributed to the development of the male breadwinner norm.

Amy’s work aims to provide evidence that policy changes can influence social norms constraining women’s work and occupational segregation, particularly in discovering how policies regarding women’s participation in the military go on to influence gender gaps in civilian labor market outcomes. In doing so, Amy also seeks to contribute to the research of information asymmetry as a cause for occupational segregation—does military gender desegregation function as a reduction of information asymmetry?

With the support and accommodation of her peers, professors, and advisor, Mary E. Hansen, Amy has been able to focus on her academic excellence and develop close friendships and bonds during her journey at AU. In discussing her work in gender economics and the community at American University, Amy offered, “AU attracts women economists and I have found some truly excellent ones here.”

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About the Ph.D. Program

The Ph.D. Program in Economics at UCLA prepares students for careers as economists in academia, business and government. The program combines rigorous work in economic theory and careful study of real-world problems and institutions. Graduates from this program work at major universities around the world, national and international government agencies, banks, research centers and in private businesses. Some of our graduates have achieved great prominence, such as William Sharpe , who earned both his B.A. and Ph.D. degrees at UCLA, and was co-recipient of the 1990 Nobel Prize in Economics for his work on the capital asset pricing model.

The department includes internationally recognized scholars in economic theory, econometrics, and all the major applied fields. These outstanding scholars form one of the foremost departments of economics in the world.

The Economics Department is situated within one of the world’s most youthful and vibrant universities. Founded in 1919, UCLA first developed into a major university in the 1950’s. After so short a history, the university was ranked second in the United States among public research universities by the Conference Board of Associated Research Councils in 1982. Thirty-one of its Ph.D. programs are currently ranked in the top 20 in their field–third best in the nation.

The Ph.D. is the degree objective of the graduate program. This degree is awarded to students who demonstrate professional competence by passing written qualifying exams and by completing a major piece of individual research (the Ph.D. dissertation).

Preparation for the qualifying exams through coursework and independent study occupies most student time for the first two years. Thereafter the focus shifts to independent research and finally to the writing of a Ph.D. dissertation. Research in progress by our graduate students as well as our faculty is presented at workshops that meet weekly throughout the academic year. Currently, the Dept. has workshops in Theory and Mathematical Economics, International and Development Economics, Labor and Population Economics, Business Organization and Regulation Economics, Economic History, Econometrics, and Monetary Theory. In addition, many graduate students work as research or teaching assistants for faculty members. The normal time to degree is six years.

This degree program classifies as STEM (CIP Code 45.0603: Econometrics and Quantitative Economics).

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PhD in Economics

Our PhD program promotes practice-based scholarship that embraces the scientific method to better understand how people and societies make decisions.

Students are exposed to cutting-edge research in international economics and behavioral and applied microeconomics. Students are encouraged to collaborate with top scholars impacting the field today. Because we are an all-graduate student program, we mentor our students closely and prepare them for success in a competitive and fast-changing world. We have a long history of both influential research and of training students for careers in academia, government, and the private sector.

Program Highlights

• We closely mentor our students throughout their graduate school experience. CGU is an all-graduate institution & its core faculty are dedicated to enhancing our students’ success.
• We offer an active intellectual environment through informal brainstorming groups, and formal workshops and seminars.
• Students can get teaching and research assistantships at CGU and can also gain valuable teaching experience through lectureships in Los Angeles area colleges and universities.
• Our apprentice/experienced practitioner educational model offers our students research experience by involving them in research projects that require problem solving and the application of analytical skills as well as the ability to effectively collaborate as a member of a research team.
• As members of The Claremont Colleges, Economics PhD students have access to one-of-a-kind support from adjunct faculty and the Consortium’s infrastructure that prepare them for career success.
• This program is STEM designated, allowing international students who hold F-1 visas to apply for OPT work authorizations for a total of 36 months (an initial 1-year period and a 24-month OPT STEM extension) of paid work experience in the U.S. after graduation.

Program At-a-glance

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5-6 years | full time*

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Research Interests

Experimental Economics, Behavioral Economics, Neuroeconomics

Joshua Tasoff

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Behavioral Economics, Experimental Economics, Animal Welfare Economics

Gregory DeAngelo

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Criminal Justice, Law, Applied Econometrics

Robert Klitgaard

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Public Policy, Economic Strategy, Institutional Reform, Corruption

Graham Bird

Clinical Professor of Economic Sciences Program Director: International Money and Finance; International Economics and Development Policy Co-Director: Claremont Institute for Economic Policy Studies

International Finance, International Macroeconomics, Economic Development

Research Opportunities

As a student in the Department of Economic Sciences, you will have the opportunity to contribute to faculty-led research opportunities that offer practice-oriented learning.

Application Guidelines

CGU operates on a priority deadline cycle. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit complete applications by the priority dates in order to assure maximum consideration for both admission and fellowships.

Spring 2024 Priority Deadline – November 1, 2023 Final Deadline (International) – November 15, 2023 Final Deadline (Domestic) – December 1, 2023 Classes begin – January 16, 2024

Fall 2024 Priority Deadline – February 1, 2024 Final Deadline (International) – July 5, 2024 Final Deadline (Domestic) – August 1, 2024 Classes begin – August 26, 2024

Application Checklist

The Claremont Graduate University online application is hosted online by Slate Technolutions via a secure web server. You will create a username and password so that you can return to continue your application over several sessions and check your status after submission. After you submit your application, it is made available for review by our faculty and staff.

Begin your application

The application fee is non-refundable.

Applicants must submit a sealed, official transcript from every undergraduate and graduate institution that has granted the applicant a degree. Electronic transcripts sent to [email protected] are also accepted. For undergraduate coursework, applicants are required to submit proof of a completed bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. Unofficial copies of transcripts are accepted for review purposes, but official copies will be required upon admission.

Applicants currently earning a degree that will be completed prior to attending CGU are required to submit a transcript showing work in progress for evaluation purposes. Once the degree has been granted, a final official transcript documenting the degree conferred must be submitted to CGU.

International applicants are advised to review the International Transcript Guidelines for additional information on submitting international transcripts.

Applicants must submit an up-to-date copy of their resume.

A valid score on one of the following examinations TOEFL, IELTS, Pearson PTE, Duolingo English Test is required of all non-native English-speaking applicants. The examination is not required for the following applicants:

• Citizens or permanent residents of countries where English is the sole official language of instruction, e.g., Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Canada (except Quebec), England, Ghana, Ireland, Jamaica, Kenya, New Zealand, Nigeria, Scotland, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad, Tobago, Uganda, and Wales (see the CGU Bulletin for a complete list of accepted countries).
• Applicants who hold an undergraduate or advanced degree, or will have earned such a degree prior to enrolling at CGU, from an institution in the US or in countries where English is the sole official language of instruction (see above).
• Applicants who have successfully completed an academic English pre-master’s or intensive graduate bridge program from a nationally recognized, regionally accredited four-year college or university in the United States in the last two years, with submitted evidence of successful completion, and subject to curriculum approval.
• CGU allows for an English proficiency waiver if the applicant has received, or will receive prior to enrollment at CGU, an undergraduate or advanced degree from an institution where English is one of the primary languages of instruction for the majority of courses in the student’s program. To receive the waiver, documentation must be provided by the applicant to show that English is the language of instruction at their university/college.

CGU’s school code for the TOEFL exam is 4053 .

International applicants are encouraged to visit our International Applicants page for more information, including score requirements.

When filling out the online application, please enter references acquainted with your potential for success who will submit a written recommendation on your behalf. In most academic departments, references from faculty members who can speak to your academic ability are preferred; applicants with substantial work experience may request professional references. Please do not enter family members as references.

You will be required to input information for your recommenders (whether they are submitting online or not) in the “Recommendations” section of the online application. Please follow the directions in this section carefully before clicking on “Recommendation Provider List” to input the names and contact information for each recommender. You will have an opportunity to indicate if the reference writer will be submitting online. These reference writers will receive an email from CGU with instructions on submitting an online recommendation.

Recommenders who are indicated as offline will not receive an email from CGU with instructions to submit. These reference writers can submit via traditional mail and should use the supplemental New Student Recommendation Form. Recommenders can also email their letter of recommendation to the Office of Admissions at [email protected] .

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Please submit a 2-3 page statement of purpose that details your academic and/or professional achievements, your specific areas of research interest within your desired field of study, why you are a strong candidate for graduate studies at CGU, and your career goals.

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Graduate program.

The graduate economics program at Penn is a Ph.D. program administered by the Graduate Group in Economics, which consists of the  faculty  of the Department of Economics, and some of its secondary appointments in the  Wharton School  and the  School of Arts and Sciences . A master's program in Economics is  not  offered at the University of Pennsylvania.

The program trains students to conduct outstanding research in economics. All major areas of economics are covered, with particular strengths in theoretical and empirical microeconomics and in modern macroeconomics. Graduates of the program obtain positions at leading universities, research institutions, and government agencies around the world.

Students in this program acquire a thorough knowledge of economic theory and econometric methods before they begin their own research. They meet a series of  requirements  during their first years in the program, and thereafter devote most of their time to the writing of a  dissertation . The median length of time required for completion is 5.5 years. Almost all students are supported by combinations of fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships during at least their first five years of study.

We look forward to receiving your applications to our program this fall. Applicants are accepted only for full-time work towards the Ph.D. degree. Part-time  admissions and terminal Master's applications are not considered. The application system for Fall 2024 is expected to open on October 1, 2023.

2023-24 Job Market Candidates

Penn Ph.D. students seeking jobs during the 2023-24 academic year.

Graduate Program Information

Prospective students can learn about the graduate program here.

Graduate Requirements

Necessary requirements forms for all Department of Economics Graduate Ph.D. students.

Ph.D Economics

A research programme designed to provide students who are looking to expand their expertise in the Economics and explore new avenues in the field.

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Doctoral degrees.

The University of Idaho awards the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in recognition of high achievement in scholarly and research activity. The degree of Doctor of Education is granted for high scholarly attainment and in recognition of the completion of academic preparation for professional practice. See the "Ph.D. and Ed.D. Procedures" tab for more details. The Doctor of Athletic Training is offered through the College of Education and the Department of Movement Sciences (see the "DAT Procedures" tab for more details).

The major professor and program offering a particular doctoral program indicate the general philosophy of the degree program, the objectives of courses and seminars, the research specialties available, and requirements unique to the department. Admission to the doctoral program is granted only to those who have a recognized potential for completing the degree.

Requirements for Doctoral Degrees

Credit requirements.

For the Ph.D. and Ed.D., a minimum of 78 credits beyond the bachelor's degree is required.; At least 52 credits must be at the 500 level or above and at least 33 of the 78 credits must be in courses other than 600 (Doctoral Research and Dissertation). A maximum of 45 research credits in 600 (Doctoral Research and Dissertation) including 6 credits of 599 (Non-thesis Research) or 500 (Master's Research and Thesis) may be in the 45 research credits used toward the degree. For the D.A.T., a minimum of 66 credits is required and follows a prescribed set of courses set by the program.

Courses numbered below 300 may not be used to fulfill the requirements for a doctoral degree; courses numbered 300-399 may be used only in supporting areas and are not to be used to make up deficiencies. Individual programs may require additional course work. Applicants having a doctoral degree may obtain a second doctoral degree subject to the approval of the Graduate Council. The Graduate Council will establish the requirements for the second degree.

Credit Limitations for Transfer, Correspondence Study, and Non-degree

For the Ph.D. and Ed.D. degrees, a student must complete at least 39 of the 78 required credits at the University of Idaho (U of I) while matriculated in the College of Graduate Studies. Credits can be transferred to U of I with the consent of the student's major professor, the committee (if required by the program), the program's administrator, and the dean of the College of Graduate Studies. Credits can be transferred only if the institution from which the credits are being transferred has a graduate program in the course's discipline. All credits used toward graduate degrees must be from regionally accredited American institutions or from non-US institutions recognized by the appropriate authorities in their respective countries. Transfer credits are subject to all other College of Graduate Studies rules and regulations. Correspondence study courses may be applied to the degree only with the prior written approval of the College of Graduate Studies. Courses used toward an undergraduate degree, professional development courses, and courses on a professional development transcript are not available to be used toward a doctoral degree.

Time Limits

Of the credits submitted to satisfy the requirements for a Ph.D. or Ed.D. degree, a maximum of 30 may be more than eight years old when the degree is conferred, provided the student's committee and program administrator determine that the student has kept current in the subjects concerned. Graduation must occur no later than five years after the date on which the candidate passed their preliminary or general examination. These time limitations can be extended only on recommendation of the committee and approval by the Graduate Council.

Awarding Doctoral Degrees to Members of the Faculty

Regulations are outlined in Section 4920 of the Faculty-Staff Handbook.

Particular Requirements for the Ed.D. Degree

A period of professional practice is required for the Doctor of Education degree; the period involved is determined by the student's supervisory committee. While the Ed.D. is a College of Education degree, you should consult with the departments in the College of Education to learn of specific emphasis requirements.

Procedures for Doctor of Philosophy and Doctor of Education Degrees

Appointment of major professor and committee.

Refer to " Appointment of Major Professor and Committee for All Degree Seeking Graduate Students " in the preceding General Graduate Regulations section. In addition, a doctoral supervisory committee consists of at least four people: the major professor as chair and at least one additional UI faculty member from the program, the balance of the committee may be made up of faculty members from a minor or supporting area, and faculty members from a discipline outside the major. If the committee has a co-chair, the minimum number of committee members is five.

Qualifying Examination

The qualifying examination is a program option and serves to assess the background of the student in both the major and supporting fields and to provide partially the basis for preparation of the student's study program. A particular program may or may not require a master's degree as a prerequisite for the qualifying evaluation. As soon as the program's qualifications are met, a supervisory committee is appointed.

Preparation of Study Plan

Refer to " Preparation and Submission of Study Plan " in the preceding General Graduate Regulations section.

Preliminary Examination for Ph.D. Degree

The preliminary examination should be scheduled only after the student has completed the majority of the courses on their study plan. The student is required to be registered during the semester the preliminary examination is taken. The student's committee certifies to the College of Graduate Studies the results of the preliminary examination and if passed, the student is advanced to candidacy. Graduation must occur no later than five years after the date on which the candidate passed their examination. If the preliminary examination is failed, it may be repeated only once; the repeat examination must be taken within a period of not less than three months or more than one year following the first attempt. If a student fails the preliminary examination a second time, or the program does not allow the student to repeat the examination after the first failure or the student does not retake the examination within one year, the student is automatically moved to unclassified enrollment status and is no longer in the degree program.

General Examination for Ed.D . Degree

When the student approaches the end of their course work, has completed the professional experience requirement, and has outlined the dissertation subject in detail, the supervisory committee approves the holding of the general examination. The student is required to be registered during the semester the general examination is taken. The examination is both written and oral and is intended to assess progress toward degree objectives. The student's committee certifies to the College of Graduate Studies the results of the general examination and if passed, the student is advanced to candidacy. Graduation must occur no later than five years after the date on which the candidate passed their examination. If the general examination is failed, it may be repeated only once; the repeat examination must be taken within a period of not less than three months or more than one year following the first attempt. If a student fails the general examination a second time, or the program does not allow the student to repeat the examination after the first failure or the student does not retake the examination within one year, the student is automatically moved to unclassified status and is no longer in the degree program.

See the General Graduate Regulations section regarding application for advanced degree, registration requirements, final defense and dissertation requirements.

Procedures for Doctor of Athletic Training

The culminating clinical project.

Students enrolled in the Doctor of Athletic Training (D.A.T.) will engage in research projects during the curricular phase of the program. These project(s) will lead to at least two publication ready manuscripts, and all students must meet professional authorship requirements (regardless of order). See the  Department of Movement Sciences and Doctor of Athletic Training webpages for more information.

The Team (Committee)

All D.A.T. project team committees will have at least four committee members: two members of the athletic training faculty (all with graduate faculty status), the student's attending clinician (who is the student's on-site mentor during the student's residency), and an expert in the student's chosen area of clinical research. The athletic training faculty members will always chair the CCP, provide research guidance, and serve as the experts in the development of advanced practice in Athletic Training. A situation may arise in which one or both of the members of the committee that are outside of the AT program faculty may have a degree less than that of which the student is seeking; however, the intent of the third and fourth D.A.T. committee membership is to provide outside validation of the student's progress toward advanced practice and clinical utility of action research studies.

Culminating Clinical Project Hours

These dissertation hours may be used in instances when the CCP has not been successfully completed and the curricular phase of program has been completed.

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Pros & Cons: Full Time vs. Part Time PhD - Which Is Better?

Kopal Srivastava Aug 22, 2024 1K Reads

Studying for a PhD full-time pays you more. It allows you to focus more on your research, and with more time, libraries, research labs, and easier access to university resources such as faculty support, students can always align their programs with university activity variety and attend seminars and workshops that provide them with a learning experience.

In contrast, part-time students are more likely to face distractions from work or other responsibilities, which can lead to delays in their progress and thesis completion. One of the main advantages of a full-time PhD is that a Part-time PhD takes seven years whereas Full-time PhD only takes 3-5 years to complete it.

This early completion allows full-time PhD holders to enter the workforce earlier, find employment, and advance their careers faster. Their benefits include the prestigious title of "Dr," the possibility of higher salaries, and prior opportunities in selected fields.

Overall, a full-time PhD program provides a focused and efficient path to academic and professional success.  This guide will help you look at the good and bad points of both options, so you can pick the one that fits your aims and how you live best.

Part-Time vs. Full-Time PhD: Which One Is Right for Me?

Going back to school when you're already working is a big choice if you're thinking about a PhD. You've got to figure out how you'll juggle your time and job. The key difference between full-time and part-time PhD programs? It's how long it takes to finish. The coursework and what you need to do are often the same.

What is the Difference between a Full-time PhD and a Part-time PhD Program? 

The main difference between part-time and full-time PhD programs is how long it takes to finish the degree. Both need the same research and study. Still, the experience can change a lot:

Full-time PhD students can spend more time on their studies and research.Part-time students might have other things to do like work or family that compete with their coursework. Money help chances can change based on whether you work full-time or part-time.

Full-time students might get to dive deeper into their research. Picking the best program depends on how well you can balance your school with other parts of your life. Let's look at what full-time and part-time PhD programs give you to help you make a smart choice.

Everything about a Full-Time PhD Program?

A full-time PhD program is like a full-time program, in which you have to visit college daily and you can even choose a specialization of your choice, expanding your understanding of a particular subject matter and schooling you in studies and collaboration competencies. Here's an average definition of what to anticipate:

• Coursework: You'll begin with graduate publications in your field, including studies methods and scholarly writing, to build your expertise base and prepare for the writing you'll do later.
• Research: Outside of training, you'll spend loads of time studying your dissertation, the using the abilities discovered in coursework to discover sources, conduct experiments, or other tasks.
• Meetings: Regular meetings together with your PhD manager are important. These periods are for discussing your development, reviewing research, and getting recommendations.
• Teaching or Fieldwork: Depending on your software, you are probably required to train instructions, entire an internship, or do fieldwork.
• Writing the Dissertation: The dissertation is the culmination of your paintings, combining all of your research, evaluation, and writing. It can take years to finish.
• Defending the Dissertation: After completing your dissertation, you may guard it in an oral exam, supplying your studies and answering questions from a committee. They decide if you've surpassed or if changes are wished.After effectively protecting your dissertation and getting committee approval, you may publish the final version and obtain your diploma.

Course Work 

Each PhD program varies depending on your field and institution or university, but all student information should always be as follows.

• Year 1: You will have a full semester of academic work, including core courses in your field and courses in general research design and methods.
• Year 2: This year includes semesters of study, including further research and development of your thesis proposal.
• Year 3: As you begin researching and writing your dissertation, your course load decreases. If necessary, you may participate in teaching, clinical, or laboratory work.
• Fourth-year and above: You may have a few classes left, but you spend most of your time researching and writing until you finish your thesis.

Commitment 

A complete-time PhD program is in-depth, requiring about 35 to 40 hours in line per week, similar to a complete-time process. Most of the time in the first two years may be spent inside the lecture room. After that, you'll give attention to researching, writing, and finishing other crucial obligations.

What is the Duration?

In 2020, there were 55,283 completed PhDs in the U.S., with an average completion time of 5.8 years, according to the National Science Foundation. Most PhD programs take at least 4 years, but it can take longer, even for full-time students.

How long it takes to finish depends on factors like:

• Struggles with research
• Writing delays
• Extensive revisions needed for your dissertation
• Life circumstances affecting your studies

Remember, taking longer to finish doesn’t lessen your achievement. If you need extra time or revisions, don’t get discouraged.

A Full-Time PhD Program Could Be a Good Fit If..

Full-time PhD programs are a big time commitment. They might be ideal for students who:

You can start full-time and switch to part-time later if your situation changes.

Everything About A Part-Time PhD Program? 

Part-time PhD programs offer students more flexibility. Each student's experience may differ, but common traits include:

• More flexible coursework
• Spread-out costs, reducing the immediate financial burden
• Less disruption to other life commitments
• More time for research

In a part-time program, you have more time for other obligations, but it means being a student for a longer period. The workload is the same as in a full-time program, just spread over more years.

Key differences include:

• Classroom time: You take the same classes but may take three or four years to complete core work instead of one or two.
• Weekly hours: Part-time students spend 15 to 20 hours per week on schoolwork, though this can vary.
• Years to complete: Completion time can range from 5 to 10 years or more.

Part-time PhD programs are variable, especially in terms of how long they take to complete.

Duration of Completion of Part-Time PhD Program

A part-time PhD usually lasts between five and eight years, but this time depends on how much time the university gives you and how much work you put in.

You may end up with more time than you originally thought sooner, or your work and life balance may get in the way So it takes longer.A full-time PhD usually takes three to four years. However, the title period can actually be extended up to four years.

How many hours a week is a part-time PhD?

A part-time PhD usually takes five to eight years, depending on the university's timeline and your effort. You might finish sooner if you have more time than expected, or it might take longer if work and life balance are challenging.

A full-time PhD takes three to four years. However, the thesis deadline can sometimes be extended for up to four years.

A Part-Time PhD Program Might Be Right For You If…

Many students find the flexibility of a part-time PhD program beneficial. You might be a good fit if you:

You can start slowly and gradually take on more work as your circumstances allow.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Studying A Full-Time Ph.D. program?

Full-time Ph.D. It usually takes three to five years, with lots of research and reading. It offers a full-time Ph.D. The program:

• Research and in-depth understanding: Full-time PhD Students can spend more time researching, which gives them a deeper understanding of the subject. This immersion helps them develop specialized knowledge and skills.
• Frequency of contact with faculty: Being on campus full-time means that students can have frequent contact with their faculty and mentors. This constant interaction provides opportunities to ask questions, seek guidance, and clarify doubts, enhancing the learning experience.
• Access to University Facilities: Full-time students have excellent university facilities such as laboratories and libraries. This process is important for conducting research, obtaining research materials, and other resources needed to learn.
• Early graduation: Always PhD The program can be completed sooner than half-time. Students can focus solely on their studies and may graduate in three to five years.
• Degree value increases: Full-time PhD It seems more radical and comprehensive. This concept can add value to a degree, making it more attractive to employers and educational institutions.

While a full-time Ph.D. While this program has many benefits, it also comes with some demanding situations:

• Lost wages: Being a complete-time student often costs you money because you will be focusing on your research more and would not earn a penny, which can price cash. This can be difficult, in particular when you have financial obligations.
• Duration: Full-time Ph.D. A massive time dedication is needed. You spend hours gaining knowledge of, reading and writing, which can be annoying and leave little time for other things.
• High fees: The costs associated with a complete-time PhD, which include lessons, books, and living prices, can upload up. Without consistent profits, managing those charges may be tough and motive economic stress.
• Emotional challenges: Full-time Ph.D. Sometimes emotions of loneliness, anxiety, and despair get up. Seeing buddies develop their careers while you have a look at them can be hard and have an effect on your intellectual well-being. It is important to be prepared for these emotional ups and downs and try to find help when needed.

What Are The Pros And Cons Of Studying A Part-Time Program?

Let’s start with the positives of a part-time Ph.D.

• More manageable finances: While not cheap, a Ph.D. They are usually very manageable. You pay a lower annual fee, spread over several years, making it easier to balance a part-time job. This process also gives you time to apply for funds that may be available during your study period.
• Less stressful: Part-time PhD Program makes it easier to maintain personal and professional commitments. This is especially useful if you are balancing work or family obligations such as pursuing a full-time Ph.D. It can be overwhelming in situations like this.
• Transition : Part-time PhD Roles provide flexibility. You can adjust your workload to suit your needs, such as working harder to meet deadlines or slowing down when necessary. When circumstances change, they can sometimes switch to full-time study.
• More opportunities: The longer you stay in the program, the more opportunities you can encounter, such as seminars, publications, and collaborative projects. This can enrich your learning experience, although it can also be difficult to keep up with changes in your career.
• Timeline: Part-time PhD It gives you more time to think about your career path. You may discover new interests or extracurricular career opportunities that you wouldn’t have considered if you rushed through a full-time program.

Part-time and full-time Ph.D. It’s not straightforward. This would be an easy decision if part-time PhDs were always good, but they are not. Here are some of the reasons:

• Probably not possible: Not all fields or organizations offer part-time Ph.D. The options you have. While this is common in the humanities, part-time courses in other fields are not, especially for self-funding students. International students should also check visa requirements, as some countries only issue student visas for full-time programs.
• Duration: Part-time Ph.D. It often takes longer to complete, which can delay your career progress. This extended timetable can also make it difficult to keep up with your research, as other, more important aspects of life compete for your attention. Over the course of my career, I faced a difficult period where I almost stopped highlighting how difficult it is to stay focused for long periods of time.
• Life happens: When you enroll in a  part-time Ph.D. At first, it doesn’t seem like much of a problem, and life events can affect your learning over time. Later, you will deal with a variety of distractions, from marriage to petting cats to learning to drive. These events sometimes raised eyebrows for full-time students when their path seemed more straightforward.
• FOMO is Real: Part-time PhD Students may experience a sense of loss (FOMO) when they see their full-time peers making rapid progress. This can be frustrating and can lead to feelings of cheating syndrome. It should be remembered that Ph.D. Learning is not a sprint, and seeking help when needed is normal and encouraged.

What Are The Other Types Of A PhD Program? 

There are various types of a PhD programs. Some of them are mentioned below.

PhD programs come in a variety of forms. A selection of them are listed below:

• Regular PhD Program: Regular PhD Program requires regular attendance and takes a minimum of three to five years to finish. In addition, if you wish to choose a traditional PhD program, you must pass an entrance exam. Moreover, you must devote all of your attention to your research.
• PhD Program on a  Part-Time Basis: Part-Time PhD program is specially personalized for professionals who work full-time. You must show up for evening classes. Part-time PhDs are awarded to candidates who work in reputable research organizations, academic institutions, or businesses close to the school. While students must complete the same academic courses and criteria as full-time students, a part-time PhD takes 7-8 years to accomplish. Only a few classes are needed to be attended by PhD candidates who work part-time. They need to have a NOC from their employer and a minimum of one year of work experience. The focus of a part-time Ph.D. program is on corporately beneficial research as opposed to individual studies.
• Online PhD Program : Although online PhD programs are still not approved by the UGC, you can still choose to pursue an online DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) as an alternative. The curriculum, which can be finished in a minimum of three to five years, is also for doctorates. Moreover, you do not need to attend college to pursue it.
• PhD Programs for Professionals in the Workforce: Pursuing a Ph.D. while holding a full-time job could be challenging. However, many universities offer flexible curriculum choices for working individuals, known as PhD for working professionals. These classes help students balance their studies and careers. You must have job experience, a valid GATE/NET score (if applicable), and a Master's degree with at least 60% to be eligible for this PhD program for working professionals.
• PhD Global:   A Global PhD is a PhD for working professionals that can be pursued from a foreign university. It is a little different from a PhD program offered in an Indian university in terms of eligibility criteria, selection process, fees, syllabus, and job roles. In this mode, you have to pass the entrance exam, and once you pass it, only then you can apply for a PhD Global program.
• PhD Abroad: The duration of a Ph.D. abroad is three to six years, with ample chances. To get admitted, candidates must pass entrance examinations such as the GMAT, SAT, GRE, TOEFL, and IELTS. Ph.D. programs are offered by prestigious universities in the United States, United Kingdom, Germany, Australia, Japan, Canada, Singapore, and France.Integrated PhD Program This integrated doctoral program is comprehensive and incorporates both a master’s and a doctorate program. The duration to complete it is a minimum of 5-6 years. You can apply for this program right after your bachelor’s.

PhD regulations for offering a PhD Part-Time PhD Program

Universities in India have rules for part-time PhDs, but there are some common criteria. Part-time PhD programs are usually for those who want to work or have other significant commitments. Students must meet the same academic requirements as full-time students, including a valid master’s degree and a good academic record.

The length of time required to complete a part-time PhD is longer than a full-time program, usually lasting six to eight years. Universities may require part-time students to attend campus events, such as seminars or workshops, over a period of time.

In addition, applicants must seek permission from their employers if they are employed and provide evidence that their PhD research can be used to supervise their employment. Students should consult with specific university regulations, as requirements and policies may vary. 

Is the Part-Time PhD Program Recognised by the UGC (University Grants Commission)? 

Yes, part-time PhDs are valid and recognized by the University Grants Commission (UGC) of India. The UGC allows universities to offer part-time PhD programs, provided they meet certain quality criteria and guidelines.

These programs are particularly suitable for working professionals who are unable to commit to a full-time study program. A key requirement is that research and learning standards must be equivalent to a full-time program.

Students in part-time PhD programs must therefore meet all necessary criteria, including coursework, thesis, and dissertation, just like their full-time counterparts.

PhD Through an Online or a Distance Mode

No university or college can offer PhD programs through distance education or online mode, according to the current regulations. However, candidates who are already employed can pursue a PhD, as long as they meet all the eligibility requirements specified in the existing PhD regulations. Click on the link to check it on the official website of the  UGC. 

Is a Part-Time PhD valid for an Assistant Professor? 

Yes, a part-time PhD is suitable and valid for those aiming to become an assistant professor. Many universities and colleges accept part-time PhDs, as long as the degree meets both academic and research requirements.

The key is to ensure that a part-time PhD program complies with university rules and standards. Universities generally look for strong research candidates, regardless of whether they completed their PhD full-time or part-time.

However, some institutions or universities may have additional or preferred criteria for part-time PhD holders, so it’s a good idea to check with specific university programs. Moreover, although a part-time PhD is valid, it can take longer to complete compared to a full-time program, which can affect the time you can apply for positions.

Balancing research and other commitments can be a challenge, but many successful teaching assistants completed their PhDs part-time. What ultimately matters most is the research you do and how you can support education.

Guidelines of Admission in PhD 2024 

According to the recent updates, the NET score will be counted for PhD admission. Now, universities do not need to take their own entrance exams.

They have grouped NET scores into three categories. These three categories are: 

• Award for JRF & Assistant Professor Appointment 
• Promotion to Assistant Professor and PhD Admission
• PhD Admission Only

Scope of PhD Program

Below is information on PhD salaries in India for Professors, Associate Professors, and other positions. The table shows the salaries of PhD Professors in India.

What are the Guidelines for Change of Registration from Part-Time to Full-Time Ph.D. Program? 

If a student in a part-time PhD program wishes to pursue full-time study, an application may be made at the beginning of the semester.

This requires the approval of the Doctoral Progress Committee (DPC) and the Dean of Research/PhD. The student can also leave their job for at least two years to focus on their research after completing the course.

The student is required to provide two Certificates of Objection (NOCs):

One is from their current employer so that they can become a full-time research scientist at the institution where their supervisor is located.

If it is not a PG college/institution affiliated to the University, where the invigilator is working, it gives access to the centers.

If the student is unemployed and unable to file an NOC, he/she should be given an undertaking to work as a full-time research scholar in the institution of the sponsor for a minimum of two years.

Conversion from a part-time to a full-time position is permitted only once during the PhD program. During this process, the student cannot change his/her discipline, branch, or research topic. Once the transition to full-time status has been approved, the student must follow all rules and guidelines for full-time research scholars.

To calculate study time, half the time spent as a part-time student counts as full-time study.

Is there an Alternative for a PhD Program? 

Yes, there is an alternative to a PhD Program, and the alternative is a DBA (Doctor of Business Administration) It is also a doctorate program that can be completed in a minimum of 3 to 5 years.

Moreover, if you opt for an online DBA, you will be able to earn your doctorate degree from an international university without even relocating to another country.

Furthermore, you even get an opportunity to study from an international faculties who have years of experience and have published their work in top journals, they guide you to the best.

Moreover, there are many universities offering you an online DBA. Some of them are mentioned below :

Conclusion 

Studying a PhD full-time pays off big time. It allows you to focus more on your research, and with more time, libraries, research labs, and easy access to university resources like faculty support, students can always align their programs with university activities and attend seminars and workshops that provide them with learning experiences. In contrast, part-time students are more likely to face distractions from work or other responsibilities, which can delay their progress and dissertation completion One of the major advantages of a full-time PhD is that a part-time PhD takes seven years while a full-time PhD takes only 3-5 years.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

⭐ is a full-time phd more valuable than a part-time phd.

Both full-time and part-time PhDs have similar value in terms of credibility. The main difference is that a full-time PhD can be completed faster, which may offer some advantages in career progression. However, both types can lead to similar job opportunities and salaries.

⭐ Which is better, a full-time or part-time PhD?

The credibility of both degrees is the same. A full-time PhD  takes three to five years, while a part-time PhD takes longer. The best choice depends on your personal circumstances and commitments.

⭐ Do you get paid for a part-time PhD?

If you qualify with JRF (Junior Research Fellowship) and Assistant Professorship, you can choose to do a full-time PhD with a stipend or work as an Assistant Professor while doing a part-time PhD without a stipend.

⭐ Can I convert my part-time PhD to a full-time PhD?

Yes, you can switch from part-time to full-time PhD at the beginning of a semester. This requires a recommendation from the Doctoral Progress Committee (DPC) and approval from the Dean of Research/PhD. You must also be able to leave your job for at least two years to focus on your research.

⭐ Is a part-time PhD valid?

Yes, a part-time PhD is recognized as valid according to UGC guidelines. However, you need a "No Objection Certificate" from your employer and must complete at least six months of coursework full-time.

⭐ Is a part-time PhD difficult?

A part-time PhD is not easier than a full-time PhD. Both require significant effort, commitment, and passion to complete. The main difference is the flexibility in scheduling.

⭐ Do we get JRF in a part-time PhD?

No, the UGC JRF fellowship is only available for full-time PhD students. A part-time PhD does not come with a stipend but is more suited for working professionals who want to continue their job while studying.

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• Kamala Harris

Kamala Harris Rolled Out An Ambitious Economic Plan. Here’s What’s In It

V ice President Kamala Harris unveiled several economic proposals on Friday that would build on existing efforts from the Biden Administration to address higher costs of living—but with a notably more aggressive approach.

Speaking in Raleigh, N.C., Harris promised to create an “opportunity economy” through a series of bold economic measures including a first-ever federal ban on grocery price gouging, expanded down-payment assistance for first-time home buyers, and providing $6,000 per child to families for the first year of the child’s life. 

Harris said her proposals are designed to directly tackle the financial strain facing American families, aiming to curb inflationary pressures more sharply and provide immediate relief in areas like food, housing, and child care. “As President, I will be laser focused on creating opportunities for the middle class that advance their economic security, stability and dignity,” Harris said.

Read More: The Reintroduction of Kamala Harris

The economic proposals come as inflation has fallen in recent months from a peak of 9.1% in June 2022, but remains a pressing concern for many voters. Former President Donald Trump has sought to tie Harris to the worst of inflation that Americans experienced since the start of the Biden Administration. "Harris has just declared that tackling inflation will be a day one priority for her," Trump said in a meandering, 80-minute press conference on Thursday. "But day one for Kamala was 3-1/2 years ago. Where has she been?"

Harris drew a stark contrast to Trump in her speech by criticizing his administration’s economic policies as favoring wealthy corporations and billionaires, while positioning her agenda as combating corporate price gougers and supporting working families. Her strategy reflects a broader shift within the Democratic Party toward more progressive economic interventions, mirroring some of the policies championed by Biden while throwing in new elements aimed at addressing immediate consumer concerns.

Here are some of the most notable proposals from her economic plan.

Groceries and food

While light on details of how it would work, Harris’ proposal to impose the first-ever federal ban on price gouging in grocery stores is designed to draw voters’ attention. Harris said she would authorize the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) to levy substantial fines against grocery chains that implement "excessive" price hikes. The campaign declined to share additional information, such as how Harris defines price gouging and excessive profits, and whether the proposal would require working with Congress to pass legislation.

“My plan will include new penalties for opportunistic companies that exploit crises and break the rules,” Harris said. “We will support smaller food businesses that are trying to play by the rules and get ahead. We will help the food industry become more competitive, because I believe competition is the lifeblood of our economy. More competition means lower prices for you and your families.”

Harris framed the measure as a response to the nearly 26% increase in grocery prices since 2019, which has left many American families struggling to manage their grocery budgets. But the idea of government intervention in grocery pricing has received a mixed response. While some progressive lawmakers praised the proposal, critics argue that price controls could lead to shortages and diminished supply, as companies might be less incentivized to stock and sell goods if their profits are capped.

Affordable housing and homeownership

On affordable housing, Harris proposed a $25,000 subsidy for first-time home buyers and putting tens of billions of dollars to facilitate the construction of three million new housing units over the next four years.

The plan includes an expansion of tax credits for housing construction and a $40 billion fund for local housing solutions, doubling the investment proposed in Biden’s recent budget. While the Harris campaign touted the efforts as critical to combat a national housing shortage exacerbated by the pandemic, critics warn that these measures could inadvertently drive up home prices by increasing demand without producing a corresponding increase in supply.

During her speech, Harris touted her record as California’s attorney general during the housing crisis, when she gained national attention as an unrelenting adversary of big banks and mortgage lenders. “I'm not new to this issue. As state attorney general, I drafted and helped pass a homeowner bill of rights, one of the first in America,” Harris said. “I know how to fight for people who are being exploited in the housing market, and I know what home ownership means. It's more than a financial transaction.”

Healthcare and medical debt relief

Harris reiterated her commitment to the provisions of Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, which includes capping insulin prices at $35 per month and limiting annual out-of-pocket prescription drug costs to $2,000. These measures, currently in effect for Medicare beneficiaries, would be extended to all Americans under her plan.

Harris also vowed to build on the Biden Administration’s efforts to address medical debt, advocating for the cancellation of more medical debt through federal initiatives and partnerships with states. However, experts caution that while eliminating medical debt can alleviate immediate financial pressure, it does not address the underlying issues of high healthcare costs and inadequate insurance coverage.

Tax credits and child care support

Harris wants to use the child tax credit to provide families $6,000 in the first year of a child’s life. The new credit would build on the Biden Administration’s temporary expansion of the child tax credit during the pandemic, which research found dramatically reduced child poverty.

Harris’ proposal follows a suggestion earlier this month from Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, Trump’s running mate, to raise the credit from $2,000 per child to $5,000. The Harris campaign emphasized that her proposal differs in that it aims to provide immediate financial relief to new parents at a time when family’s expenses are highest and many parents are forced to take time off from their job.

Harris also called for restoring the Biden Administration’s child tax credit, which had been set at $3,000 per child before its expiration at the end of 2021. It is not immediately clear how much the restoration would cost.

A contrast to Trump’s economic vision

In her speech, Harris sought to draw a sharp contrast between her economic policies and those outlined by Trump, who has criticized her proposals as “dangerously liberal.” Trump has championed ratcheting up tariffs on America’s trade partners, extending the sweeping array of tax cuts he signed in 2017, and lowering the corporate tax rate to 15% from 21%. He has also said that he could broadly reduce inflation by boosting oil and gas production—which reached record levels under the Biden Administration—and by eliminating job-killing regulations, though he has not specified which regulations.

Harris said that Trump’s approach, including his proposal for new tariffs on imported goods, would exacerbate inflation and amount to a tax increase on working families. “I think that if you want to know who someone cares about, look at who they fight for,” Harris said. “Donald Trump fights for billionaires and large corporations. I will fight to give money back to working and middle class Americans.”

More Must-Reads from TIME

• Breaking Down the 2024 Election Calendar
• Heman Bekele Is TIME’s 2024 Kid of the Year
• The Reintroduction of Kamala Harris
• What a $129 Frying Pan Says About America’s Eating Habits
• A Battle Over Fertility Law in China
• The 1 Heart-Health Habit You Should Start When You’re Young
• Cuddling Might Help You Get Better Sleep
• The 50 Best Romance Novels to Read Right Now

Write to Nik Popli at [email protected]

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News Release FHFA Proposes 2025-2027 Housing Goals for Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac

Washington, D.C. – The Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) issued a proposed rule today that would establish the housing goals for 2025-2027 that Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac (the Enterprises) would be required to meet on an annual basis. FHFA is requesting comments on all aspects of the proposed rule during the 60-day public comment period.

The housing goals ensure that the Enterprises, through their mortgage purchases, responsibly promote equitable access to affordable housing that reaches low- and moderate-income families, minority communities, and other underserved populations.

“Given persistent challenges in the housing market, FHFA is proposing benchmark levels that reflect these dynamics and continue to ensure that the Enterprises remain focused on supporting key affordable housing segments while operating in a safe and sound manner,” said FHFA Director Sandra L. Thompson. “The goals proposed today offer a meaningful and realistic calibration that takes into account current and forecasted economic factors.”

For the single-family housing goals categories, the Enterprises must meet the benchmark level established in the final rule or meet the actual market level determined retrospectively for the year based on Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA) data.

The proposed rule would establish a new process for evaluating compliance with the housing goals. Under the current regulation, if an Enterprise fails to meet a feasible housing goal, FHFA may require the Enterprise to submit a housing plan describing the steps that it will take to improve its performance. The proposed rule would provide that FHFA will not require a housing plan if the Enterprise’s performance met the level required by newly-defined Enforcement Factors. These Enforcement Factors address, in part, the uncertainty in forecasting the market several years in advance as well as the time lag in determining the actual market level retrospectively.

For the multifamily housing goals categories, the Enterprises must meet the benchmark level established in the rule. Each Enterprise must purchase mortgages on multifamily properties with the target share of units affordable to families in each goal category, as well as meet a subgoal for low-income families in small (5-50 units) multifamily properties.

Differences in the proposed benchmark levels relative to prior housing goals are primarily attributable to changes in projected macroeconomic factors that impact market levels for the different affordable housing segments.

Single-Family Housing Goals:

Multifamily Housing Goals:

FHFA invites comments on the proposed rule within 60 days of publication in the Federal Register.

2025-2027 Enterprise Housing Goals Proposed Rule

The Federal Housing Finance Agency regulates Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and the 11 Federal Home Loan Banks.  These government-sponsored enterprises provide more than $8.4 trillion in funding for the U.S. mortgage markets and financial institutions.  Additional information is available at  www.FHFA.gov , on Twitter  @FHFA ,  YouTube ,  Facebook,  and  LinkedIn .

Contacts: MediaInq​[email protected]