phd for development economics

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.   

• Faculty Intranet

DEPARTMENT OF ECONOMICS

• Prospective Ph.D.s
• Fields of Study

Development Economics

Global poverty research lab.

The Global Poverty Research Lab, housed in the Buffett Institute for Global Studies, uses empirical evidence to address the challenges of overcoming poverty and improve well-being in the developing world. The Lab is an academic hub for empirical development economics and related disciplines

VISIT THE  WEBsite

Northwestern has a fast-growing, dynamic group of faculty working in the area of economic development. Development economics increasingly emphasizes research that integrates  cutting-edge theory  and  first-rate empirical work , and Northwestern's development community benefits from interaction with the theory, econometrics, and labor groups within the department, as well as the Mathematical Economics and Decision Sciences, Finance and Management and Strategy groups within the Kellogg School of Management, and the labor and education economists in the School of Education. The department has a weekly Applied Microeconomics seminar and additionally, development faculty and students often attend seminars held by the Institute for Policy Research (IPR), and other departmental field seminars such as theory, macroeconomics, and econometrics.

Within the economics department, Northwestern's development faculty includes affiliates of major research organizations such as the National Bureau for Economic Research (NBER) and Centre for Economic Policy Research, as well as leading development organizations including the Bureau for Research and Economics Analysis of Development (BREAD), Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), and the International Growth Centre.

In an exciting development, 2011 saw the creation of the Center for the Study of Development Economics (CSDE), a research center based in the economics department and dedicated to top-quality empirical development research. The Center for International Macroeconomics (CIM), a joint venture of the Economics Department and Kellogg School of Management's finance group, also funds research in development economics. These affiliations and resources put Northwestern's faculty at the heart of field-based data collection, including surveys, field experiments, and field-based lab experiments.  In 2017, CSDE joined forces with the newly created Global Poverty Research Lab, housed in the Buffett Institute for Global Studies.

Please enable JavaScript in your web browser to get the best experience.

Main navigation

Mphil/phd in development economics.

• Jump to: Key information
• Jump to: Course overview
• Jump to: Structure
• Jump to: Teaching and learning
• Jump to: Fees and funding
• Jump to: Employment

Key information

Home student fees (full-time) : £4,860 per year Home student fees (part-time) : £2,430 per year Overseas student fees (full-time) : £22,490 per year Overseas student fees (part-time) : £11,245 per year

Please note that fees go up each year.   See  research fees  for further details.

Admission and thesis requirements. A good Masters degree in Economics plus one reference is usually required. Students are normally registered for the MPhil degree in the first instance. Once approval of the Research Student's Supervisory Committee has been received, the student's registration is upgraded to PhD status (and backdated to the commencement of the MPhil registration), usually at the end of the first year of study, for which the minimum registration period is double that of full-time study. Candidates are expected to present a thesis of not more than 55,000 words for the MPhil, while for the PhD the maximum length is 100,000 words. International applicants should also see  Doctoral School English language requirements

Course overview

The PhD in Development Economics is a research degree offered by the Department of Economics, and is also part of the PhD pathway, 'International Development', within the Bloomsbury Doctoral Training Partnership.

The latter forms one of the few Centres recognised by the UK's Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), thereby receiving financial support, and especially individual grants, for MSc and PhD students.

Why study PhD Development Economics at SOAS?

• We are ranked 27th in UK for economics (QS World University Rankings 2023)
• We are top 20 in the UK for student satisfaction with teaching (Complete University Guide 2023)
• We are top 40 in the UK for economics (Complete University Guide 2023)
• This PhD pathway is open to applicants whether or not eligible for, or in receipt of, ESRC funding, with ESRC-funded students expected to form a small minority overall. Successful applicants to the MPhil/PhD in Development Economics will normally have a good Master's degree in a relevant subject if entering directly into the MPhil/PhD pathway although each applicant is assessed on merits including work and other experience
• The first year of training involves attendance at courses and/or seminars but not usually formal written examinations. Students are registered for an MPhil in their first (full-time equivalent) year but usually convert to a PhD after their upgrade viva rather than continuing to the MPhil qualification
• An essential feature of the MPhil and PhD process is the close working relationship between research students and supervisors. Supervisors and students meet regularly and consult closely. All research students have a Supervisory Committee to cover theoretical, empirical and regionally-specific supervision, as appropriate

Research student tutors

There are Research Student Tutors with overall responsibility for research students, who are available for discussion of general problems. And the Departmental Empirical Support Committee (DESC) offers detailed and individual advice to students about fieldwork and empirical analysis as appropriate.

As necessary, upon request, DESC will consider individual student needs and allocate one or more members of staff (not necessarily the supervisor) to advise.

Workshop/seminar

Students are required to participate in a workshop/seminar in which research topics and results are presented and discussed by staff and students. In addition, there is a regular Departmental seminar, to which members of the Department and visiting speakers present papers.

There is a strong interdisciplinary basis for research and teaching in political economy, development economics and area or specific country studies. London, moreover, provides an unrivalled opportunity for students to hear papers read by leading authorities in African and Asian studies, as well as in economics and development more generally.

Many SOAS research students spend some time doing fieldwork in the regions of their research. The Faculty of Law and Social Sciences and the School as a whole, through their various connections with individuals and institutions in the universities and governments of Asia and Africa, can usually facilitate this with personal contact and introductions.

Scholarships, funding and ESRC recognition

There are a number of scholarships available to research (and MSc) students at SOAS. Please see Scholarships and Bursaries for further information. But it is a condition of acceptance that students embarking upon a research degree have the capacity to fund the full duration of their studies. There may be some paid opportunities for teaching, normally not in the first year, but these cannot be relied upon and will not begin to cover fees and maintenance fully.

The research degree embodies a core of training in research methods combined with a clear structure of progression thereafter. The training components are explained below. The duration and structure of the research degree will be as follows:

Full time research degree: 3 years plus 1 year writing up

Year 1 -  research training.

Research students will take the 'Research Methods for Development Economics' course in the Economics Department.

Year 1 -  Upgrade

Students will normally be expected to pass an upgrade from MPhil to PhD status within 9 months of commencing the degree.

Year  2-3 -  Research

Core research undertaken; primary and secondary data collection as appropriate, thesis chapters finalised.

Year 4 -  Write up

If necessary a fourth year can be taken to write the final thesis. Examination of the thesis will take place after submission within the 4th year.

Part-time research degree: 6 years, plus 1 year writing up

The research degree can be undertaken over 6 years:

• Research Methods course must be taken over the first two years.
• Upgrade  will take place withing the 21 months after initial registration.
• Examination  will take place after submission within the writing-up year (year 7) at the latest.

Important notice

The information on the website reflects the intended programme structure against the given academic session. The modules are indicative options of the content students can expect and are/have been previously taught as part of these programmes. However, this information is published a long time in advance of enrolment and module content and availability is subject to change.

Teaching and learning

Research training in development economics.

All research students are expected to attend a dedicated research student seminar. In addition, a separate programme of research training is offered for first-year students. The sessions will deal with theoretical and methodological issues in Economics and Development Economics, as well as subject-specific guidance on other generic research skills (such as literature reviews, fieldwork planning).

In addition, students will attend a termly Development Economics research day, where there will be a mediated discussion of theoretical and methodological issues faced and an opportunity for students to present their own research. Students will also attend the general Research Students Seminar that provides a range of input for all stages in the completion of a PhD and Early Career Development for Development Economists.

• to encourage and enable students to complete an original thesis in the expected time.
• to provide training and experience in fieldwork and across a variety of schools of economics and in a variety of statistical techniques.
• to allow flexibility in training to suit students with different backgrounds and subsequent research needs.
• to make available and to monitor first class research supervision with the involvement of at least two members of staff through individual Research Student Supervisory Committees.
• to encourage knowledge of other relevant disciplines and the adoption of an interdisciplinary approach where appropriate.
• to equip students with the ability to assess one another's work critically, whether in response to written or spoken presentation.
• to obtain language skills as appropriate.
• to ensure students experience a congenial and productive environment for the conduct of research through availability of a wide range of facilities and full participation in the intellectual life of the Department and School.  Library facilities are outstanding and computing facilities are attuned to student needs.
• to emphasise the relevance of research to theoretical, empirical and policy issues.
• to draw upon the Department's particular strengths, especially its expertise in different approaches to economic problems and its experience in problems of development, specific regions, and comparative analysis.
• to involve students in the specialised Centres of the School where appropriate.
• to advise on publication and career progression.

A broader student-tailored programme of training needs can also be established in the first weeks of study, with a range of courses available from the Department’s MSc programmes. To this end, all students should undertake a Training Needs Analysis with their supervisor in the first weeks of Term 1 .

Supervision

1. The role of the second and third members of the Supervisory Committee (SC) Will be focused on the following two core tasks:

• Participate in the upgrade process of the student, including the final decision relating to his/her transfer from MPhil to PhD.
• Participate in other dicisions relating to his/her eligibility for enrolment on Extension of Writing-up (Continuation) Status or, where necessary, termination of registration.

2. In addition to these core roles, the second and third members of the SC may be expected to:

• Enhance or augment the supervision of the student by contributing addition guidance and expertise, if required/sought by the student and/or the supervisor throughout the time of active research.
• To act on behalf of the supervisor during unforeseen periods of absence. This role will have be agreed by consent of all parties (student, supervisor and the two members of the SC) and one of the two members will be designated as cover in absence for the period in question.

3. Only rarely is joint supervision allowed, for which a strong case would need to be made. Whilst the primary responsibility for guiding student's research and to review written work and progress rests with the supervisor, once upgrade is successfully completed, other members of the supervisory committee must receive the student’s thesis drafts at appropriate times, with support also available to students from the Departmental Empirical Support Committee (DESC).

Computing facilities

Full computing facilities are available to postgraduate students. Computers dedicated for the use of research students in the Economics Department are also available. Software available includes word-processing and specialised statistical, econometrics and spreadsheet packages. The School’s computing staff are on hand to assist with general computing problems.

SOAS Library

SOAS Library is one of the world's most important academic libraries for the study of Africa, Asia and the Middle East, attracting scholars from all over the world. The Library houses over 1.2 million volumes, together with significant archival holdings, special collections and a growing network of electronic resources.

Scholarships

Fees and funding, fees for 2023/24 entrants per academic year.

Please note that fees go up each year.

See  research fees  for further details.

Economics graduates leave SOAS with a solid grounding in statistical skills and an ability to think laterally, take a global perspective, and employ critical reasoning.

Recent graduates have been hired by:

• Bain & Co
• Bank of America
• Cabinet Office
• Ernst & Young
• NHS England
• Foreign and Commonwealth Office
• Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy
• National Institute of Public Finance and Policy, New Delhi
• UK Civil Service
• United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR)
• University of Bayreuth
• HM Treasury
• Department for International Development
• King’s Investment Fund
• The World Bank
• British Chamber of Commerce
• European Commission
• Institute for Social and Economic Studies
• International Climate Change Economics
• Overseas Development Institute

Find out about our  Careers Service

SOAS Voices

Finding solutions to capitalism's crises: Research insights from SOAS economists

Explore recent research by the SOAS Department of Economics that delves into pressing issues exposed by the various fragilities of global capitalism across the world.

Navigating the complexities of the green transition: Insights from recent research

New research delves into the complexities of the green transition, shedding light on its relationship with finance and extraction industries and the implications of this shift.

SOAS Economist assists in unveiling plaque to Joan Robinson

On Tuesday 9 April, English Heritage unveiled another of its characteristic blue plaques on the house at 44 Kensington Park Gardens, in the Notting Hill district of London, where the famous economist Joan Robinson (1903-1983) lived, while attending St. Paul's School (she was then Joan Maurice).

Feminist political economy is essential for understanding inequality

Dr Sara Stevano advocates for the integration of feminist approaches into mainstream economic discourse and shows how SOAS is one of the few institutions offering dedicated modules in feminist economics.

What is the current state of capitalism? Insights from SOAS academics

In the aftermath Global Financial Crisis, the world entered a period of transition, prompting crucial questions about the trajectory of global capitalism. Matteo Giordano highlights some of the key economic analyses from SOAS scholars.

Involving Multilateral Development Banks in debt relief: not only feasible, but desirable 

Dr Marina Zucker-Marques explores the compelling reasons why Multilateral Development Banks should get involved in debt relief.

Climate Risk and Sustainable Finance Development in Thailand

Business models.

This research focuses on understanding the emerging business models and how innovation, including in the area of venture capital investments, can promote sustainable structural transformation in Africa.

Industrial policy

This research focuses on how governments can reshape industries creating new markets and building productive coalitions, to direct the economy towards sustainable prosperity.

Infrastructure development

This research focuses on how government and private sector can cooperate in building the infrastructure for sustainable energy system and mobility system.

Restructuring of supply chains

This research focuses on how supply networks should be re-organised and developed for development of mobility- and energy-related industries in Africa.

Critical minerals

This research focuses on how African economies should manage the relationships with international mining companies promoting socio-economic development.

Energy transition

This research approaches the issue of energy transition in Africa, investigating the existence of feasible opportunities to realise green industrialisation in Africa.

Unlocking finance and managing climate risks for India’s transition to a resilient, Paris-aligned economy

This project, led by the Climate Bonds Initiative (CBI), aims at engaging with and supporting the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on climate-related issues.

Political Economy Analysis of Food Industry (PEAFI)

Debt relief for a green and inclusive recovery.

The Debt Relief for a Green and Inclusive Recovery Project is a collaboration between the SOAS Centre for Sustainable Finance, the Boston University Global Development Policy Center and the Heinrich-Böll-Stiftung. Utilizing rigorous research, the DRGR Project seeks to develop systemic approaches to both resolve the debt crisis and advance a just transition to a sustainable, low-carbon economy in partnership with policymakers, thought leaders and civil society around the world.

Scaling Up Green Investment in the Global South: Strengthening Domestic Financial Resource Mobilisation and Attracting Patient International Capital

The research project will provide evidence-based analysis that will help to design policies that will support the scaling up of sustainable investment in the Global South.

INSPIRE Sustainable Central Banking Toolbox Policy Briefing Paper Series

Policy briefing paper series designed to support central bankers and financial supervisors in calibrating monetary, prudential and other instruments in accordance with sustainability goals.

Related content

Department of Economics

The Department of Economics at SOAS University London.

MSc Economics

MSc Economics at SOAS University of London

SOAS-Wits Joint MPhil/PhD in Applied Development Economics

Ph.D. Program

Make an impact: The intellectual rigor from researchers associated with Yale Economics drives innovations in domestic and international policy.

• Requirements

Yale's Department of Economics offers a challenging and rigorous academic program, a distinguished and accessible faculty, and a friendly, supportive environment for study.

Our core teaching faculty of 66 is supported by a diverse group of visiting professors and graduate student teaching assistants, making it one of the largest economics departments in the United States with one of the highest teacher/student ratios for the 130 Ph.D. students in residence.

The Department of Economics also has close ties with professional schools in related fields, such as the Yale School of Management, the Yale School of the Environment, and the Yale School of Public Health, where many of its secondary faculty members teach. It also works with affiliated centers, including the Cowles Foundation for Research in Economics, the Economic Growth Center, and the newly created Tobin Center for Economic Policy . 

• The Program
• Prospective Students
• Milestones and Timeline
• Student Resources
• Student Directory

Our Program

Yale's economics faculty embraces a broad range of research and teaching interests. Courses and seminars span a wide spectrum of economics, from dynamic structural models to field experiments. Our students apply econometric and data analytic methods to a variety of subjects in macroeconomics, labor economics and finance. Our courses examine critical economic policy issues, including antitrust and environmental regulation. Our focus is global, spanning the United States and developed economies to the developing nations of Latin America, Asia and Africa. Whatever your interest, our faculty is ready to guide you through a wide offering of more than a hundred regular courses, seminars or workshops, combined with individually tailored reading and research courses to best prepare you for your Ph.D. research and dissertation.

Our faculty is eclectic in methodologies and views of economics. There is no Yale dogma or school. You will acquire a critical perspective on the full range of approaches to macroeconomics. You will be well trained in neoclassical theory and in the theory of public choice, externalities and market failures. You will master the skills of sophisticated modern econometrics and understand pitfalls in its applications. You will gain respect for the power of contemporary mathematical models and also for history and for the insights of the great economists of the past.  

Fields of Study

Important dates.

Dec. 21, Wed. Fall Term ends, Winter Recess begins.

Dec. 22 Thurs. Date of December degree award

Jan. 12, Thurs. Add/drop period opens, 8:30 am

Full calendar

Best Development Economics Programs

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

Development economists are

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

• Clear Filters

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. 

Browser does not support script.

• Undergraduate
• Executive education
• Study Abroad
• Summer schools
• Online certificate courses
• International students
• Meet, visit and discover LSE

MRes/PhD International Development

• Graduate research
• Department of International Development
• Application code Y2ZI
• Starting 2024
• Home full-time: Closed
• Overseas full-time: Closed
• Location: Houghton Street, London

This programme offers you the chance to undertake a substantial piece of work that is worthy of publication and which makes an original contribution to international development. You will begin on the MRes, and will need to meet certain requirements to progress to the PhD.

The Department of International Development promotes interdisciplinary graduate teaching and research on processes of social, political and economic development and change. The Department is dedicated to understanding problems of poverty and late development within local communities, as well as national and international political and economic systems.

The Department conducts research and teaching across seven broad themes: complex emergencies, security, and humanitarianism in war-torn societies; comparative politics of development; governance, civil society, and informal politics; development management; development economics; the demography of developing countries and the politics of global health. Faculty have considerable experience of living and working in the developing world, and most have engaged in policy-relevant research and consultancy work with international development agencies or non-governmental organisations.

This is a vibrant MRes/PhD programme with students employing a variety of disciplinary and interdisciplinary methods from across the social sciences to research questions of development around the globe.

Programme details

For more information about tuition fees and entry requirements, see the fees and funding and assessing your application sections.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements for mres/phd international development.

Taught master’s degree with 65 or above overall and in the dissertation element, or the equivalent.

Competition for places at the School is high. This means that even if you meet our minimum entry requirement, this does not guarantee you an offer of admission.

If you have studied or are studying outside of the UK then have a look at our  Information for International Students  to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

GRE/GMAT requirement

Highly recommended but not compulsory.

Find out more about GRE/GMAT

Assessing your application

We welcome applications for research programmes that complement the academic interests of members of staff at the School, and we recommend that you investigate  staff research interests  before applying.

We carefully consider each application on an individual basis, taking into account all the information presented on your application form, including your:

- academic achievement (including existing and pending qualifications) - statement of academic purpose - references - CV - GMAT/GRE - outline research proposal - sample of written work.

See further information on supporting documents

Your research proposal for the MRes/PhD International Development should be approximately 1500 - 2000 words. It should have a descriptive title to enable us to identify the broad theme of the project. You will also be prompted to complete the box for programme specific information, when filling out the online application form. You must  include the following under programme specific information:

-the title of your research proposal -a short summary of your research proposal -the name of your proposed supervisor(s) in the department. (Please note: this does not mean you need to have made contact with supervisors or obtained their approval in advance, it simply helps us when assessing your application).

If any of this information is missing or incomplete, it may delay consideration of your application.

You may also have to provide evidence of your English proficiency. You do not need to provide this at the time of your application to LSE, but we recommend that you do.  See our English language requirements .

When to apply

The application deadline for this programme is 15 January 2024 . However, to be considered for any LSE funding opportunity, you must have submitted your application and all supporting documents by the funding deadline. See the fees and funding section for more details.

Fees and funding

Every research student is charged a fee in line with the fee structure for their programme.  The fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It does not cover  living costs  or travel or fieldwork.

Tuition fees 2024/25 for MRes/PhD International Development

Home students: £4,829 for the first year (provisional) Overseas students: £22,632 for the first year

The fee is likely to rise over subsequent years of the programme. The School charges home research students in line with the level of fee that the Research Councils recommend. The fees for overseas students are likely to rise in line with the assumed percentage increase in pay costs (ie, 4 per cent per annum).

The Table of Fees shows the latest tuition amounts for all programmes offered by the School.

The amount of tuition fees you will need to pay, and any financial support you are eligible for, will depend on whether you are classified as a home or overseas student, otherwise known as your fee status. LSE assesses your fee status based on guidelines provided by the Department of Education.

Further information about fee status classification.

Scholarships, studentships and other funding

The School recognises that the  cost of living in London  may be higher than in your home town or country, and we provide generous scholarships each year to home and overseas students.

This programme is eligible for  LSE PhD Studentships , and  Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) funding . Selection for the PhD Studentships and ESRC funding is based on receipt of an application for a place – including all ancillary documents, before the funding deadline.  

Funding deadline for LSE PhD Studentships and ESRC funding: 15 January 2024

In addition to our needs-based awards, LSE also makes available scholarships for students from specific regions of the world and awards for students studying specific subject areas.   Find out more about financial support.

External funding 

There may be other funding opportunities available through other organisations or governments and we recommend you investigate these options as well.

Further information

Fees and funding opportunities

Information for international students

LSE is an international community, with over 140 nationalities represented amongst its student body. We celebrate this diversity through everything we do.  

If you are applying to LSE from outside of the UK then take a look at our Information for International students . 

1) Take a note of the UK qualifications we require for your programme of interest (found in the ‘Entry requirements’ section of this page). 

2) Go to the International Students section of our website. 

3) Select your country. 

4) Select ‘Graduate entry requirements’ and scroll until you arrive at the information about your local/national qualification. Compare the stated UK entry requirements listed on this page with the local/national entry requirement listed on your country specific page.

Programme structure and courses

Introductory course.

Accepted students who are planning to use advanced quantitative analysis in their PhD research are required to take the summer Introductory Course in Mathematics and Statistics, particularly if you want to take advanced statistical courses.

Introductory Course in Mathematics and Statistics Provides the essential mathematical, statistical, economic and econometric background for the core Economics courses of these programmes.

First year (MRes)

The MRes programme is the entry point to doctoral research and is designed both to train you in development approaches and perspectives, and to provide significant flexibility to develop advanced methodological and theoretical skills within disciplinary specialisms appropriate to your research interests.

In addition, you will develop any necessary language skills and background knowledge of specific topics related to your research.

(* denotes a half unit)

Development History, Theory and Policy for Research Students* An interdisciplinary course that examines major trends, concepts and perspectives in the history and theory of development.

Research Design and Proposal in International Development You will work with your academic supervisors to structure a doctoral research proposal that has the potential to make a significant contribution to knowledge and that reflects a sophisticated mastery of advanced theoretical and methodological tools from one or more academic disciplines related to international development.

Research Design in International Development This course is designed for engagement with methodological and research design issues in international development research. Sessions are organised around methodological choices and research design (eg. inference, case studies, fieldwork challenges, and ethics), and involve presentation of research projects in the second term.

Methodology courses to the value of one unit

Methodology or theory courses to the value of 0.5 units

Subject to satisfactory performance, you will be upgraded to the PhD programme and will implement your research plan.

For the most up-to-date list of optional courses please visit the relevant School Calendar page.  

You must note, however, that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up to date and correct, a change of circumstances since publication may cause the School to change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will always notify the affected parties as early as practicably possible and propose any viable and relevant alternative options. Note that the School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to events outside of its control, which includes but is not limited to a lack of demand for a course or programme of study, industrial action, fire, flood or other environmental or physical damage to premises.  

You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee you a place. Please note that changes to programmes and courses can sometimes occur after you have accepted your offer of a place. These changes are normally made in light of developments in the discipline or path-breaking research, or on the basis of student feedback. Changes can take the form of altered course content, teaching formats or assessment modes. Any such changes are intended to enhance the student learning experience. You should visit the School’s  Calendar , or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the  updated graduate course and programme information page.

Supervision, progression and assessment

Supervision.

You will be assigned a lead supervisor (and a second supervisor/adviser) who is a specialist in your chosen research field, though not necessarily in your topic. Lead supervisors guide you through your studies.

Progression and assessment

At the end of the first year you will complete the assessments for your courses and finalise your Research Prospectus, the provisional research plan for your PhD. If you achieve the required marks in your Research Prospectus and other assessments, as outlined in the progression requirements, you will be upgraded to the PhD part of the programme.

Your final award of the PhD will be determined by the completion of an original research thesis and a viva oral examination.

More about progression requirements.

Student support and resources

We’re here to help and support you throughout your time at LSE, whether you need help with your academic studies, support with your welfare and wellbeing or simply to develop on a personal and professional level.

Whatever your query, big or small, there are a range of people you can speak to who will be happy to help.  

Department librarians   – they will be able to help you navigate the library and maximise its resources during your studies. 

Accommodation service  – they can offer advice on living in halls and offer guidance on private accommodation related queries.

Class teachers and seminar leaders  – they will be able to assist with queries relating to specific courses. 

Disability and Wellbeing Service  – they are experts in long-term health conditions, sensory impairments, mental health and specific learning difficulties. They offer confidential and free services such as  student counselling,  a  peer support scheme  and arranging  exam adjustments.  They run groups and workshops.  

IT help  – support is available 24 hours a day to assist with all your technology queries.   

LSE Faith Centre  – this is home to LSE's diverse religious activities and transformational interfaith leadership programmes, as well as a space for worship, prayer and quiet reflection. It includes Islamic prayer rooms and a main space for worship. It is also a space for wellbeing classes on campus and is open to all students and staff from all faiths and none.   

Language Centre  – the Centre specialises in offering language courses targeted to the needs of students and practitioners in the social sciences. We offer pre-course English for Academic Purposes programmes; English language support during your studies; modern language courses in nine languages; proofreading, translation and document authentication; and language learning community activities.

LSE Careers  ­ – with the help of LSE Careers, you can make the most of the opportunities that London has to offer. Whatever your career plans, LSE Careers will work with you, connecting you to opportunities and experiences from internships and volunteering to networking events and employer and alumni insights. 

LSE Library   –   founded in 1896, the British Library of Political and Economic Science is the major international library of the social sciences. It stays open late, has lots of excellent resources and is a great place to study. As an LSE student, you’ll have access to a number of other academic libraries in Greater London and nationwide. 

LSE LIFE  – this is where you should go to develop skills you’ll use as a student and beyond. The centre runs talks and workshops on skills you’ll find useful in the classroom; offers one-to-one sessions with study advisers who can help you with reading, making notes, writing, research and exam revision; and provides drop-in sessions for academic and personal support. (See ‘Teaching and assessment’). 

LSE Students’ Union (LSESU)  – they offer academic, personal and financial advice and funding.  

PhD Academy   – this is available for PhD students, wherever they are, to take part in interdisciplinary events and other professional development activities and access all the services related to their registration. 

Sardinia House Dental Practice   – this   offers discounted private dental services to LSE students.  

St Philips Medical Centre  – based in Pethwick-Lawrence House, the Centre provides NHS Primary Care services to registered patients.

Student Services Centre  – our staff here can answer general queries and can point you in the direction of other LSE services.  

Student advisers   – we have a  Deputy Head of Student Services (Advice and Policy)  and an  Adviser to Women Students  who can help with academic and pastoral matters.

Student life

As a student at LSE you’ll be based at our central London campus. Find out what our campus and London have to offer you on academic, social and career perspective. 

Student societies and activities

Your time at LSE is not just about studying, there are plenty of ways to get involved in  extracurricular activities . From joining one of over 200 societies, or starting your own society, to volunteering for a local charity, or attending a public lecture by a world-leading figure, there is a lot to choose from. 

The campus 

LSE is based on one  campus  in the centre of London. Despite the busy feel of the surrounding area, many of the streets around campus are pedestrianised, meaning the campus feels like a real community. 

Life in London 

London is an exciting, vibrant and colourful city. It's also an academic city, with more than 400,000 university students. Whatever your interests or appetite you will find something to suit your palate and pocket in this truly international capital. Make the most of career opportunities and social activities, theatre, museums, music and more. 

Want to find out more? Read why we think  London is a fantastic student city , find out about  key sights, places and experiences for new Londoners . Don't fear, London doesn't have to be super expensive: hear about  London on a budget . 

Quick Careers Facts for the Department of International Development

Median salary of our PG students 15 months after graduating: £32,000          

Top 5 sectors our students work in:

• Government, Public Sector and Policy   
• Education, Teaching and Research            
• Health and Social Care  
• Consultancy      
• International Organisations

The data was collected as part of the Graduate Outcomes survey, which is administered by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Graduates from 2020-21 were the fourth group to be asked to respond to Graduate Outcomes. Median salaries are calculated for respondents who are paid in UK pounds sterling and who were working in full-time employment.

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Support for your career

Many leading organisations give careers presentations at the School during the year, and LSE Careers has a wide range of resources available to assist students in their job search. Find out more about the  support available to students through LSE Careers .

Find out more about LSE

Discover more about being an LSE student - meet us in a city near you, visit our campus or experience LSE from home. 

Experience LSE from home

Webinars, videos, student blogs and student video diaries will help you gain an insight into what it's like to study at LSE for those that aren't able to make it to our campus.  Experience LSE from home . 

Come on a guided campus tour, attend an undergraduate open day, drop into our office or go on a self-guided tour.  Find out about opportunities to visit LSE . 

LSE visits you

Student Marketing, Recruitment and Study Abroad travels throughout the UK and around the world to meet with prospective students. We visit schools, attend education fairs and also hold Destination LSE events: pre-departure events for offer holders.  Find details on LSE's upcoming visits . 

How to apply

Virtual Graduate Open Day

Register your interest

Related programmes, mres/phd political science.

Code(s) M1ZN

MPhil/PhD Social Policy

Code(s) L4ZA

MPhil/PhD Economic History

Code(s) V3ZE

Request a prospectus

• Name First name Last name
• Address Address Line 1 Address Line 2 City County Postcode Country

Speak to Admissions

Content to be supplied

Our cookies

We use cookies for three reasons: to give you the best experience on PGS, to make sure the PGS ads you see on other sites are relevant , and to measure website usage. Some of these cookies are necessary to help the site work properly and can’t be switched off. Cookies also support us to provide our services for free, and by click on “Accept” below, you are agreeing to our use of cookies .You can manage your preferences now or at any time.

Privacy overview

We use cookies, which are small text files placed on your computer, to allow the site to work for you, improve your user experience, to provide us with information about how our site is used, and to deliver personalised ads which help fund our work and deliver our service to you for free.

The information does not usually directly identify you, but it can give you a more personalised web experience.

You can accept all, or else manage cookies individually. However, blocking some types of cookies may affect your experience of the site and the services we are able to offer.

You can change your cookies preference at any time by visiting our Cookies Notice page. Please remember to clear your browsing data and cookies when you change your cookies preferences. This will remove all cookies previously placed on your browser.

For more detailed information about the cookies we use, or how to clear your browser cookies data see our Cookies Notice

Manage consent preferences

Strictly necessary cookies

These cookies are necessary for the website to function and cannot be switched off in our systems.

They are essential for you to browse the website and use its features.

You can set your browser to block or alert you about these cookies, but some parts of the site will not then work. We can’t identify you from these cookies.

Functional cookies

These help us personalise our sites for you by remembering your preferences and settings. They may be set by us or by third party providers, whose services we have added to our pages. If you do not allow these cookies, then these services may not function properly.

Performance cookies

These cookies allow us to count visits and see where our traffic comes from, so we can measure and improve the performance of our site. They help us to know which pages are popular and see how visitors move around the site. The cookies cannot directly identify any individual users.

If you do not allow these cookies we will not know when you have visited our site and will not be able to improve its performance for you.

Marketing cookies

These cookies may be set through our site by social media services or our advertising partners. Social media cookies enable you to share our content with your friends and networks. They can track your browser across other sites and build up a profile of your interests. If you do not allow these cookies you may not be able to see or use the content sharing tools.

Advertising cookies may be used to build a profile of your interests and show you relevant adverts on other sites. They do not store directly personal information, but work by uniquely identifying your browser and internet device. If you do not allow these cookies, you will still see ads, but they won’t be tailored to your interests.

Course type

Qualification, university name, phd degrees in development economics.

11 degrees at 8 universities in the UK.

Customise your search

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

About Postgraduate Development Economics

Development economics is a branch of economics that focusses ondeveloping countries and regions. The main aim is to figure out what helps these regions to grow economically, reduce poverty and make people's lives better overall. Experts in this field study how money is allocated in education, healthcare, roads and buildings and the systems that help these countries to function.

In the UK, there are more than 10 PhD options in development economics. Entry requirements for this doctoral programme requires a master's degree in economics or a related field, demonstrating strong quantitive skills and an understanding of development economics, as well as a solid research proposal.

Studying a PhD in development economics means studying advanced ideas and practices related to how economies grow, especially in the context of global challenges. Those who complete this programme can go on to have senior jobs as economists or policymakers, working at international research centres.

What to Expect

The PhD programmes involves an in-depth exploration into your chosen area of interest. Your research will likely cover topics like economic theory, international econometrics, poverty reduction strategies, sustainable development and international trade dynamics.

You’ll dedicate a significant amount of time to your thesis, which contributes scholarly research to the field of development economics. The programme includes opportunities for fieldwork, data collection and collaboration with international development agencies and NGOs.

PhD graduates emerge as experts in development economics, with skills in advanced economic analysis, policy formulation and economic research methods. They are sought after by international development agencies, government economic departments, think tanks and higher education institutions.

Related subjects:

• PhD Development Economics
• PhD Applied economics
• PhD Econometrics
• PhD Economics
• PhD Environmental Economics
• PhD Health Economics
• PhD International Economics
• PhD Macroeconomics
• PhD Microeconomics
• PhD Social Economics

• Course title (A-Z)
• Course title (Z-A)
• Price: high - low
• Price: low - high

PhD in Development Studies

Soas university of london.

The Department currently has 52 research students, working on a range of research topics in many parts of Asia, Africa, Latin America and Read more...

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

Development Studies - Research, MPhil/PhD

Faculty of engineering & science, university of greenwich.

Our Natural Resource Institute (NRI) in Medway provides an ideal environment for innovative and original research in development Read more...

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

PhD International Development by Distance Learning

University of birmingham.

The International Development Department (IDD) is committed to encouraging new thinking in the fields of development and public Read more...

• 3 years Distance without attendance degree: £4,778 per year (UK)
• 6 years Distance without attendance degree

Development Studies, PhD

Swansea university.

A PhD or MPhil in Development Studies at Swansea enables you to pursue a substantial project led by your own passions and interests. It Read more...

• 6 years Part time degree: £2,356 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...

Development Studies with Reference to Emerging Economies MPhil/PhD

King's college london, university of london.

The Department of International Development (DID) at King's has a different agenda to traditional development studies in the UK and wider Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £6,936 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £3,468 per year (UK)

Development Studies (IDS) PhD

University of sussex.

The Institute of Development Studies (IDS) transforms the knowledge, action and leadership needed for more equitable and sustainable Read more...

• 1 year Full time degree
• 2 years Part time degree

MRes/PhD International Development

London school of economics and political science, university of london.

This programme offers you the chance to undertake a substantial piece of work that is worthy of publication and which makes an original Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree: £4,829 per year (UK)

PhD in Development Studies by Published Works

Institute of development studies.

Study with the world leaders in development studies and realise your potential to transform the world with our PhD by Published Works in Read more...

• 1 year Full time degree: £4,596 per year (UK)
• 2 years Part time degree: £4,596 per year (UK)

Study with the world leaders in Development Studies and realise your potential to transform the world The Institute of Development Studies Read more...

• 4 years Full time degree
• 6 years Part time degree

PhD in Development Studies by Research

Study with the world leaders in developments studies and realise your potential to transform the world with our PhD by Research. The PhD Read more...

• 3 years Full time degree: £4,596 per year (UK)
• 6 years Part time degree: £4,596 per year (UK)

Course type:

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

Qualification:

Related subjects:.

• Utility Menu

44d3fa3df9f06a3117ed3d2ad6c71ecc

• Administration

econ-hero-6.jpg

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

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

Program Requirements

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

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

Financial Support

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

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

Learn more about financial support

Upcoming Events

View all Workshops

View all Seminars

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).

UCLA Department of Economics

8283 Bunche Hall Mail Stop: 147703 Los Angeles, CA 90095

Campus Resources

• Academic Calendar
• Maps, Directions, Parking
• University of California
• Terms of Use
• Injury & Illness Prevention Program

Internal Resources Manager’s Manual Admin Login Webmail (O365 Server) Contact Webmaster

Jump to navigation

Community Development and Applied Economics

• Undergraduate Programs
• Community and International Development
• Community Centered Design Major
• Community Entrepreneurship
• Public Communication
• CDAE Minors
• Internships
• Dual Degree Program - Vermont Law & Graduate School
• Graduate Programs
• Master of Science in CDAE
• Master of Public Administration
• Master of Science in CDAE - Accelerated
• Master of Public Administration - Accelerated
• Peace Corps Coverdell Program
• Certificate of Graduate Studies in Community Resilience and Planning

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

• Courses in CDAE
• Faculty and Staff
• Advising and Student Support
• Internship Program
• Peace Corps at UVM

College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

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

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

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

Travis Reynolds, Associate Professor

Dan Tobin, Associate Professor

Trisha Shrum, Assistant Professor

David Conner, Professor

Josh Farley, Professor

Sarah Heiss, Associate Professor

Qingbin Wang, Professor

Anaka Aiyar, Assistant Professor

Joe Ament, Assistant Professor

Kate Mays, Assistant Professor

Benjamin Dangl, Lecturer

Edward McMahon, Adjunct Associate Professor

Pablo Bose, Professor

Stephanie Seguino, Professor Emerita

Gregory Rowangould, Associate Professor

Donna Ramirez-Harrington, Associate Professor

Brian Beckage, Professor

Elizabeth Doran, Research Assistant Professor

Jane Kolodinsky, Professor Emerita

Christopher Koliba, Professor Emeritus

Kelsey Gleason, Assistant Professor

Dana Rowangould, Assistant Professor

Degree Requirements

Milestones, guidelines and timeline to degree completion.

Minimum Degree Requirements

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

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

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

The program’s course of study includes: 

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

15 credit core includes:

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

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

Tuition Information

International Student Admissions

Funding Opportunities

Meet the Students

Request Information

Application Procedures & Admissions Requirements

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

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE:

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

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

Ph.D. Admissions

Current Students

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

Graduate Program

Ph.d. studies at princeton economics.

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

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

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

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

Job Market Placements

Jump to navigation

Search form

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

Ph.D. in Economics

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

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

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

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

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

ECONOMICS GRADUATE STUDENT SERVICES

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

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

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

Graduate Office Address:

GENEVA GRADUATE INSTITUTE

Chemin Eugène-Rigot 2A Case postale 1672 CH - 1211 Geneva 1, Switzerland +41 22 908 57 00  

[email protected] + 41 22 908 58 98  

MEDIA ENQUIRIES

[email protected] +41 22 908 57 54  

[email protected] + 41 22 908 57 55

• Our PhD programmes

PhD in International Economics

The PhD programme in international economics offers a rigorous and stimulating course of study where you will develop research skills allowing you to contribute to expanding knowledge with a policy orientation. Our faculty has expert knowledge over a wide range of issues in international economics, including international trade, the impact of globalization, international financial markets, sustainable finance and macroeconomic policy design. Professors have active connections with economic policy institutions and bring you exposure to the latest debates in policy circles.

Our Phd is structured around the training program of the Gerzensee Study Center (becoming compulsory as core courses from 2024 onwards) as well as two specialized courses to choose from.  Those courses focus on Macroeconomics, Trade, Development Economics, Econometrics and Environment. Our high faculty to student ratio, collegial atmosphere among students, and a range of research and policy seminars ensure that you will develop a solid set of skills and insights. The blend of technical skills and policy analysis that you will gain will prepare you for careers in international economics , both in policy institutions and academia, where recent graduates have secured highly competitive positions.

Frequently asked questions about the programme

Economics PhD Placement

Preliminary Dissertation Guidelines for PhD Students

• Anthropology and Sociology
• International Economics
• Our master programme
• One-Year MAS in Sustainable Finance and Development
• Department Faculty
• Job Market Candidates
• Department Seminars
• Research Projects
• Publications
• Our Courses
• Our PhD Researchers
• International History and Politics
• International Law
• International Relations & Political Science

PhD in Development Economics

Our four-year PhD programme offers a stimulating environment in which highly-qualified graduates can develop research skills that will enable them to contribute to knowledge in the field of Development Economics with a policy orientation. Our faculty focuses on a wide-range of topics, from global macroeconomic issues, such as the determinants of economic growth, to microeconomic work on financial inclusion, gender, education, health, SME development, sustainable finance and migration.

Our Phd is structured around the training program of the Gerzensee Study Center (becoming compulsory as core courses from 2024 onwards) as well as two specialized courses to choose from.  Those courses focus on Macroeconomics, Trade, Development Economics, Econometrics and Environment. PhD students also have the opportunity to contribute to teaching, policy seminars and research activities at the Institute and will be well prepared to participate and present in international conferences. Through this process, we aim at preparing young economists who are sought-after by academic institutions, international organisations and the private sector. Recent graduates have been successful in securing highly competitive jobs in each of these areas.

PhD courses open to students from other Swiss universities

The International Economics Department welcomes participants from Swiss universities in its PhD courses.  

With this initiative, the Department wishes to provide PhD students working in international economics in Switzerland an opportunity to interact and develop a community with their peers.  

We offer courses in Development Economics, International Trade and International Macro/Finance. These courses are organised in the form of modules concentrated over consecutive days to allow students to participate on-site. Remote access will also be provided. 

Students are welcome to take the course for ECTS credits or to participate as auditors.

If you are interested in one or more courses, please send a message to [email protected] .

PhD courses open to students from other Swiss universities

Digital skills for phd students.

The P8 programme, initiated by Swissuniversities in 2019, aims to enhance digital skills in education. Specifically focused on supporting universities, the programme offers workshops for PhD students from the Geneva Graduate Institute.  These workshops combine traditional presentations with practical exercises to impart knowledge and skills, creating new learning opportunities. While these workshops do not provide academic credits, students who attend and complete a workshop will receive a certificate.  Further information regarding upcoming workshops and our previous workshops can be found on the Libguide . 

• Programs Overview
• Joint Finance PhD Program

The Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics is one of the world's foremost economics departments, and its faculty are renowned for their seminal contributions to the field, achievements recognized with numerous Nobel Prizes, Clark Medals, and other distinctions. Students admitted to doctoral studies research, interact daily with the faculty, as well as fellow graduate students, and pursue their own interests, thus furthering their own scholarship and research, ultimately continuing to shape the discipline itself.

The Department of Economics receives 600-700 applications for an entering class of 20-25 students per year. The number of well-qualified applicants exceeds the number of offers we can make. Nevertheless, we still strongly encourage those interested in graduate economic study to apply.

Welcome incoming Ph.D. students! (alphabetical listing): Pedro Adami Oliboni; Bruno Aravena Maguida; Iris Arbogast; Dylan Baker; Rachel Coroseo Rojas; Amedeus Dsouza; Jacob Hartwig; Xun Huang; Ragini Jain; Tanvi Jindal; Sreyas Mahadevan; Saptarshi Majumdar; Ken Miyahara Coello; Meera Mody; Luke Motley; Shivani Pandey; Tyler Patterson; Santiago Perez Cardona; Henrique Rodrigues da Mota; Berkay Sagin; Stan Xie; Gianluca Yong Gonzalez; Samuel Zhao

  _______________________________________________________________________

Congratulations 2022-2023 Ph.D. Graduates! 2022-2023 PhD graduates (alphabetical listing): Oguz Bayraktar • Sergei Bazylik • Andrew Choi • Neil Cholli • Levi Crews • Yusheng Fei • Agustin Gutierrez • Takuma Habu • Eyo Herstad • Sota Ichiba • Esperanza Johnson Urrutia • Joshua Ka • Daniel Kashner • Jonas Lieber • Jack Light • Jiarui Liu • Andrea Mattia • Hyejin Park • Harshil Sahai • Chun Shea • Younghun Shim • Myungkou Shin • Mateusz Stalinski • Mehrdad Tahvilian

_____________________________________________________________________________

Postdoctoral Program The Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics is proud to announce its first year (2023-24) of having a postdoctoral program! 

Selected postdoctoral scholars in the program for 2023-24 are Harshil Sahai (PhD '23) and Esperanza Johnson Urrutia (PhD '23).  Postdoctoral scholars in the program for 2024-25 are Elena Istomina and Shanon Hsuan-Ming Hsu.

STEM Eligibility The PhD program is STEM eligible for international students.

Divisional Graduate Resources

Find divisional Graduate Resources here.

The Economics PhD Program is administered by: Kathryn Falzareno Graduate Student Affairs Administrator SHFE 510 Phone: 773-702-3026 Email: [email protected]

PhD Admissions Application

This website uses cookies..

This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using our website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Cookie Policy.

Economics (PhD)

Program description, dual degrees.

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

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

All applicants to the Graduate School of Arts and Science (GSAS) are required to submit the  general application requirements , which include:

• Academic Transcripts
• Test Scores  (if required)
• Applicant Statements
• Résumé or Curriculum Vitae
• Letters of Recommendation , and
• A non-refundable  application fee .

See Economics for admission requirements and instructions specific to this program.

The Economics Department offers two dual degrees with the NYU School of Law:

• Economics (MA)/Law (JD)
• Economics (PhD)/Law (JD)

See Economics for additional information and admission requirements specific to these programs.

Program Requirements

To qualify for a doctorate, a student must satisfactorily complete graduate studies totaling at least 72 credits (at least 64 in residence at New York University), pass two PhD qualifying examinations in microeconomics and macroeconomics, and fulfill the requirements for two fields of specialization, such as economic theory (including game theory), monetary theory and macroeconomics, political economy, econometrics, industrial organization, international economics, labor economics, development economics, and experimental economics. Students must also write and present a third-year paper and, finally, defend an acceptable dissertation.

Additional Program Requirements

After completing the required coursework, field requirements, and submitting a satisfactory third-year paper, students will submit a formal dissertation proposal which serves as the basis for a preliminary oral examination. When the dissertation is completed and approved by three faculty members, a public oral examination is held, at which research results are presented and defended by the candidate before a faculty committee.  All Graduate School of Arts & Science doctoral candidates must also be approved for graduation by their department for the degree to be awarded.

Sample Plan of Study

Following completion of the required coursework for the PhD, students are expected to maintain active status at New York University by enrolling in a research/writing course or a Maintain Matriculation ( MAINT-GA 4747 ) course.  All non-course requirements must be fulfilled prior to degree conferral, although the specific timing of completion may vary from student-to-student.

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates will have achieved the following skills and abilities:

• The first year of the program is devoted to training in core analytical skills in micro- and macroeconomic theory, mathematics, and econometrics. Progress is measured by course grades and end-of-year qualifying exams in micro- and macroeconomic theory. Students must pass both qualifying exams and maintain a grade-point average of at least 3.0 in order to be in good standing. Those who pass the qualifying exams but whose GPA falls short of 3.0 are typically placed on probation for one or two semesters and given an opportunity to raise their GPA above 3.0. Those who fail either of the qualifying exams are asked to leave the program.
• The second year is devoted to developing specialized knowledge in two fields in economics, such as economic theory, macroeconomics, development economics, econometric theory, labor economics, industrial organization, finance, experimental economics, international economics, or political economy. Progress is measured by course grades and in some cases by administering field exams or requiring students to write substantial papers. To remain in good standing, students must complete the requirements for two fields while maintaining a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
• The main objective of the third year is to begin original research. Students are required to find a faculty advisor, write an original research paper, and participate in a year-long research workshop. In addition, they are encouraged to take additional elective courses to fill out their substantive knowledge. To remain in good standing, students must complete a third-year paper and maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0.
• The remaining years of the program are devoted to writing an original PhD dissertation. This typically consists of 2 or 3 research papers that can eventually be published in a professional economics journal. During these years, students work closely with one or more faculty advisors who guide their research and serve as mentors. Twice a year, advisors fill out an assessment form stating whether students are making satisfactory progress toward completing their dissertations. Those who fall behind are given feedback on how to get back on track.
• Along the way, a student must submit a formal dissertation proposal that serves as the basis for a preliminary oral examination. When the dissertation is completed and approved by three faculty members, a public oral examination is held at which the candidate presents and defends research results before a faculty committee. The dissertation defense is the final and perhaps most important assessment measure.

NYU Policies

Graduate school of arts and science policies.

University-wide policies can be found on the New York University Policy pages .

Academic Policies for the Graduate School of Arts and Science can be found on the Academic Policies page . 

Print Options

Send Page to Printer

Print this page.

Download Page (PDF)

The PDF will include all information unique to this page.

PhD in Economics

The doctoral program in Economics at Rice University provides rigorous training in economic theory and econometrics in order to prepare students for research careers in economics. In 2014, the department launched the Rice Initiative for the Study of Economics (RISE) in order to enhance its role as a leading center of economic research. Since then, the department has hired ten new faculty. In addition, it has established itself as a leading institution for structural empirical microeconomics, an approach to economic analysis that combines economic theory and econometrics to address substantive economic issues. The small size of the program, approximately 45 graduate students working with 24 full-time faculty, promotes close faculty student interactions and collaboration, as well as strong relationships among the students.

Effective 2021-2022 academic year, all students receiving MA or PhD degrees in Economics will also receive Major Concentration in Econometrics and Quantitative Economics, and will be able to apply for a 24-month STEM extension of F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT).

At a Glance

Full-time faculty working with students : 24

Students : 55 doctoral students

Number Admitted : 7-10 students each year

Fields of Study : Theoretical and Applied Econometrics, Applied Microeconomics, Economic Theory, Financial Economics, Game Theory, Political Economics, Energy Economics, Development Economics, Empirical Industrial Organization, Labor Economics, Macroeconomics, Public Finance, Health Economics.

Degrees awarded : PhD in Economics with a Major Concentration in Econometrics and Quantitative Economics (STEM designated) , Ph.D. in Economics with an M.A. in Statistics , and an additional Major Concentration in Finance . An M.A. degree is awarded to students pursuing Ph.D. in Statistics when they complete the requirements for M.A. in Economics with a Ph.D. in Statistics . It is also awarded to students who complete all the requirements for the Ph.D. in Economics working toward their dissertation.

Learn More about the Economics Doctorate Program

Monday, May. 9, 2022

Monday, Jan. 11, 2021

Friday, Jun. 5, 2020

Monday, Feb. 10, 2020

Doctor of Economic Development (DED)

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

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

Degree Requirements

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

• DED Degree Requirements - NMSU Catalog

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

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

The College of Agricultural, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences (ACES) is an engine for economic and community development in New Mexico, improving the lives of New Mexicans through research , academic programs , and extension . Learn more about our mission and programs.

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

Locate Your County Extension Office▸ Statewide Ag Science Centers▸ ACES Faculty & Staff Directory▸ Extension Publications▸ Questions? Contact Us▸ -->

For Employees▸

Find Other ACES Social Media▸

• Scroll to Top

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

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

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

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

Markets & Policy Implementation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Kasey Chatterji-Len and Anna Kovner

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

The Breadth of Economics Research  

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

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

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

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

What Is a PhD Program Like?    

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

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

What Can You Do with an Economics PhD?  

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

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

Preparing for an Economics PhD Program  

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

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

Research Experience   

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who Should Get a PhD in Economics?  

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

• Coursework Appendix

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

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

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

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

PREDOC: Guidance for Undergraduates

RA Positions-Not at the NBER

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

Share this:

Post a comment

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

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

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

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

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

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

Economic Inequality

Most Read this Year

• Credit Card Delinquencies Continue to Rise—Who Is Missing Payments?
• The Great Pandemic Mortgage Refinance Boom
• The Post-Pandemic r*
• Spending Down Pandemic Savings Is an “Only-in-the-U.S.” Phenomenon
• Deposit Betas: Up, Up, and Away?
• Economic Indicators Calendar
• FRED (Federal Reserve Economic Data)
• Economic Roundtable
• OECD Insights
• World Bank/All about Finance

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

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

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

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

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

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

Send Us Feedback

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

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

• Staff email
• Student email

• News & Events
• Alumni Congress
• Conferences

You are here

The phd in development economics.

The PhD in Development Economics is a collaborative programme between the University of Ghana (UG), and the United Nations University-World Institute for Development Economics Research (UNU-WIDER). The programme begins in January each year. The closing date for applications is 31 October of the year prior to which studies are to commence.

DURATION OF THE PROGRAMME The duration of the programme is four years and it is offered on full-time basis. The first two years are devoted to coursework and internship while the last two years are for writing a thesis.

PROGRAMME STRUCTURE Students are expected to take six core courses, consisting of Advanced Microeconomic Theory, Advanced Macroeconomic Theory, Applied Econometrics, Theories and Methods of Development, Applied Theory and Methods of Economic Development and Philosophy of Social Sciences. In addition, they are expected to choose one elective course each semester of the first year. The total credit hours is 24, which should meet the requirements of the Faculty of Social Sciences. Selected topics of some of the core and electives courses will be taught by visiting scholars. The PhD Degree is awarded by the University of Ghana.

ADMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS Interested applicants to the PhD in Development Economics program must hold a Master’s Degree in Economics or a related field. The applicant must have taken a year’s coursework at the M. Phil level or its equivalent with at least a B+ average in Micro, Macro and Quantitative Methods.  

FUNDING & INTENSHIP The Programme is supported by UNU-WIDER. A limited number of students (especially females) admitted into the programme may be granted scholarships renewable yearly up to a maximum of three years depending on the candidate’s academic performance. In addition, successful applicants will undertake up to three months internship at UNU-WIDER in Helsinki during the second year of their training analyzing project related datasets. The cost of the internship will be covered by UNU-WIDER. Female Applicants and those from the West African sub-region are highly encouraged to apply.

HOW TO APPLY Applicants residing in Ghana and Ghanaians are required to purchase e-vouchers from any branch of Fidelity Bank, HFC Bank, Ecobank, and ADB and apply online (see School of Research and Graduate Studies website – www.srgs.ug.edu.gh )

Applicants outside Ghana and Non-Ghanaians should visit the School of Graduate Studies or the University’s website and download the application form. After completion, the form should be sent to the address below with a non-refundable application fee of US$110 or its equivalent in international money order.

Applicants must, in addition, submit the following documents: 1. 2 copies of Certificate(s) authenticated by institution(s) awarding degree(s).

2. 2 copies of University Transcript(s) authenticated by institution(s) awarding academic results

3. 3 Referee reports (two must be from person(s) who are familiar with the applicant’s academic work, one of whom should be the applicant’s graduate supervisor or the head of the department of the institution where the student obtained his/her graduate degree)

4. A research proposal (max. 10 pages).

5. CV showing academic and work experiences.

Completed form and supporting documents including “proof of submission” of application must be addressed to, or submitted in person to:

ORID partners BSU to build research management capacity

The Office of Research Innovation and Development (ORID) in partnership with the Building Stronger Universities (BSU)...

2019 World Intellectual Property Day celebrated

This year’s World Intellectual Property Day celebration has been observed by the Office of Research, Innovation and...

Pro Vice-Chancellor Presents Maiden Edition of ‘Inspiring..

The Office of Research, Innovation and Development (ORID), has presented the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Ebenezer Oduro...

Enter a Search Term

International & Development Economics, MS

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

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

Apply Now for 2024

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

An International Development Economics Program That Prepares You for the Future

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

A Career in International & Development Economics

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

Read the Article

Learning Development Economics Through International Fieldwork

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

STUDENT RESEARCH

A Development Economics STEM Program

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

STEM Program

Summer Bridge Program

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

Summer Bridge Option

Faheema Eissar MS '23

Turning development economics theory into action.

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

Chat With a Current Student

Get your questions answered by our student ambassadors. Read their stories and connect with them to get the student experience first-hand.

Upcoming Events

There are no upcoming events at this time.

USF Offers a Related Economics Program

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

Take the Next Step

Admission & aid.

• Main Campus

Connect With Us

• X (link is external)
• Instagram (link is external)
• LinkedIn (link is external)
• Facebook (link is external)

The journey to a PhD: Four graduates of the Consumer Behavior & Family Economics program reflect on their experiences

Spring 2024 commencement celebrated the largest graduating cohort to date of the PhD Human Ecology: Consumer Behavior & Family Economics (CBFE) program. Upon graduating, Somalis Chy , Vivekananda Das , Xiangchen Liu and Yiling Zhang joined a select 1 percent of the U.S. population who have earned a PhD degree.

The PhD program is housed within the UW–Madison School of Human Ecology and broadly aims to understand how humans interact with their lived environments. CBFE graduate students use social science theories to examine how market structures and policy, along with consumer decision-making, impacts the social and economic well-being of individuals and families. This PhD degree aims to prepare students not only for tenure-track academic faculty positions, but also for roles in industry, nonprofits and government.

Zhang will join the University of Alabama as a faculty member, and Das will join the University of Utah’s Department of Family and Consumer Studies as a tenure-track assistant professor. Chy recently accepted a postdoctoral research associate position at the Brown School for social work, public health and social policy, part of Washington University in St. Louis. Liu is actively applying for academic, postdoctoral roles.

In the following Q&A, the graduating cohort reflected on how they’ve grown as academic researchers and discussed their experience as Human Ecology graduate students:

How has the CBFE program and the School of Human Ecology prepared you for post-graduation plans?

Das: The core courses provided me with a solid foundation of social science theories and methods for investigating issues impacting individual and household well-being. The opportunity to work closely with my advisor J. Michael Collins (Fetzer Family Chair in Consumer and Personal Finance and professor of Consumer Science) and other faculty members in various roles also helped me become an independent thinker.

Liu: Throughout my PhD journey, my advisor Megan Doherty Bea (assistant professor of Consumer Science) has provided tremendous support in my research, inspiring me to continue my work and pursue academic positions. Collaborating with other faculty members, such as Yiwei Zhang (assistant professor of Consumer Science), has enabled me to gain additional research experience and skills. The core courses, such as Family Economic Policy, have equipped me with essential knowledge for conducting my research.

Chy: I learned that I love doing research that expands my knowledge and engages me in meaningful conversations about personal lives, work and well-being. I also learned how much faculty members and Human Ecology staff care and invest in each student’s journey. Does all of this prepare me for what’s next? I think so! Discovering what you love to do is not easy. This newfound love and the relationships I have built are the things that I will take with me wherever I go.

Zhang: My experience has been pivotal in shaping me into an independent researcher. I have developed essential skills in research methodology, paper drafting for publication and networking within the academic community. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all the faculty members who have supported me throughout my academic journey, especially my advisor Yiwei Zhang, whose guidance and mentorship have been invaluable in shaping my research and professional development.

What support did you receive as a Human Ecology graduate student?

Liu: I received funding from the school to attend conferences with the Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management (APPAM), the Population Association of America and the Midwest Economics Association . All of them were enjoyable, and I particularly loved APPAM, which is an excellent venue for my research and for meeting people who share similar interests.

Zhang: I received significant support from the Human Ecology staff, particularly in caring about my mental well-being. For instance, Michelle Holland (assistant dean for graduate programs) has consistently been my main source of support during stressful times. The dedication and encouragement of the staff have been instrumental in guiding me through the challenges of my PhD journey, fostering an environment conducive to both academic and personal development.

Chy: The School of Human Ecology has provided me with plenty of opportunities and training in preparation for attending conferences, from giving presentations and elevator pitches to networking. I met and built networks that include students and faculty members from different departments across UW–Madison, other universities, government agencies, social policy think tanks and research institutes.

Das: The opportunity to receive funding to attend conferences helped me share my research findings with the wider academic community. I received constructive criticism from my peers, which helped me become more critical of my work. Also, I won the Certified Financial Planner Board’s American Council of Consumer Interests (ACCI) Financial Planning Paper Award in 2023 and the Consumer Movement Archives Applied Consumer Economics Award in 2024!

What have you taken away from learning opportunities, like the Human Ecology Professional Development Seminar?

Zhang: The Human Ecology Professional Development Seminar offered practical training, such as effective job negotiation strategies provided by Dean Soyeon Shim (Elizabeth Holloway Schar Dean of the School of Human Ecology and Ted Kellner Bascom Professor of Consumer Science). I successfully applied these strategies to secure additional startup funds.

Das: The professional development seminar was where I learned about things I wouldn’t have learned in a traditional classroom environment. In particular, Dean Shim’s Job Negotiation Workshop was extremely helpful in learning how to negotiate job offers. Knowing more about the dean’s roles and expectations in the academic hiring process helped me communicate more confidently and effectively with the deans of the colleges who invited me for on-campus visits.

Chy: Cadin Tonković-Ćapin (graduate program specialist) was an amazing leader for putting together the professional development seminar series, filled with useful information. Michelle Holland was also impactful in providing guidance on strategically asking and answering questions during the job search, application and interview processes. I appreciate all of their efforts!

What advice would you give yourself when you were starting the program?

Chy: I would say to have more trust in myself, my abilities and this journey, because I was on the right track.

Das: Throughout the journey, perhaps I focused too much on perfecting each step, often forgetting where the destination was. If I could do it all over again, I would probably learn to begin with the end in mind. But, of course, it is easier said than done!

Zhang: I would emphasize the importance of proactive communication with faculty and the exploration of theory-based seminar courses. These actions would have allowed me to discover my research interests more efficiently and inspire innovative dissertation ideas from the outset.

Liu: Earning a PhD is a long journey. You will encounter many difficulties in both research and life. However, you will also meet smart and fantastic people, and you can learn so much from them. Not everyone has the opportunity to experience this, so enjoy it!

• Work & Careers
• Life & Arts

Become an FT subscriber

Try unlimited access only $1 for 4 weeks.

Then $75 per month. Complete digital access to quality FT journalism on any device. Cancel anytime during your trial.

• Global news & analysis
• Expert opinion
• Special features
• FirstFT newsletter
• Videos & Podcasts
• Android & iOS app
• FT Edit app
• 10 gift articles per month

Explore more offers.

Standard digital.

• FT Digital Edition

Premium Digital

Print + premium digital, ft professional, weekend print + standard digital, weekend print + premium digital.

Essential digital access to quality FT journalism on any device. Pay a year upfront and save 20%.

• Global news & analysis
• Exclusive FT analysis
• FT App on Android & iOS
• FirstFT: the day's biggest stories
• 20+ curated newsletters
• Follow topics & set alerts with myFT
• FT Videos & Podcasts
• 20 monthly gift articles to share
• Lex: FT's flagship investment column
• 15+ Premium newsletters by leading experts
• FT Digital Edition: our digitised print edition
• Weekday Print Edition
• Videos & Podcasts
• Premium newsletters
• 10 additional gift articles per month
• FT Weekend Print delivery
• Everything in Standard Digital
• Everything in Premium Digital

Complete digital access to quality FT journalism with expert analysis from industry leaders. Pay a year upfront and save 20%.

• 10 monthly gift articles to share
• Everything in Print
• Make and share highlights
• FT Workspace
• Markets data widget
• Subscription Manager
• Workflow integrations
• Occasional readers go free
• Volume discount

Terms & Conditions apply

Explore our full range of subscriptions.

Why the ft.

See why over a million readers pay to read the Financial Times.

International Edition

Language selection

• Français fr

Government of Canada supports growth and innovation in British Columbia’s quantum technology industry

From: Pacific Economic Development Canada

News release

Quantum science examines the behaviour of matter and energy at the smallest scale. It has led to groundbreaking technological advances, such as new medicines, more efficient and secure digital communications, and new approaches to tracking and forecasting climate change.

PacifiCan funding of over $11 million will help three local organizations advance quantum technology

May 30, 2024 – Vancouver, British Columbia – PacifiCan

Quantum science examines the behaviour of matter and energy at the smallest scale. It has led to groundbreaking technological advances, such as new medicines, more efficient and secure digital communications, and new approaches to tracking and forecasting climate change. British Columbia is an early pioneer in the global quantum ecosystem and is poised for further growth.

Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $11 million in PacifiCan funding to three B.C.-based organizations leading innovation in quantum computing. This includes:

• Over $3.4 million to 1QB Information Technologies, Inc. (1QBit) to develop and commercialize their Topological Quantum Architecture Design (TopQAD ™️ );
• $4.3 million to Simon Fraser University to establish the Quantum Fabrication Centre at the university’s 4D LABS facility; and,
• Over $3.2 million to the University of British Columbia to increase their capacity to commercialize quantum technologies at the Stewart Blusson Quantum Matter Institute.

Today’s investments are the first three B.C.-based projects funded under the Regional Quantum Initiative. They will help solidify Canada’s reputation as a leader in quantum science. It is anticipated that today’s announcements will benefit 41 businesses.

As part of the Government of Canada’s National Quantum Strategy, PacifiCan is delivering the Regional Quantum Initiative in British Columbia. The Regional Quantum Initiative will boost Canada’s global position by helping companies and organizations create good jobs and commercialize quantum technology in Canada and around the world.

See backgrounder here for more information on the projects that were announced.

“Quantum technology has the capacity to deliver the innovations of the future with enormous potential for commercialization. British Columbia is well-positioned to increase its lead in this exciting field. The PacifiCan-funded projects announced today will help B.C.-based organizations access the support they need to propel themselves forward, creating jobs and prosperity here in British Columbia.” - The Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan)

“Using TopQAD, our collaborators are getting critical insights into the performance of their next-generation architectures. With the help and support of PacifiCan, we are excited to bring the design tools the industry needs to guide the future of fault-tolerant quantum computing.” - Andrew Fursman, CEO, 1QB Information Technologies, Inc.

“This investment in the Quantum Fabrication Centre at SFU leverages B.C. and Canadian leadership in quantum technologies—a field with major transformative and economic potential. SFU is privileged to work with some of Canada’s top researchers and entrepreneurs in this field and collaborate with leading quantum companies. We are thrilled with the support to mobilize knowledge and innovation in B.C. and beyond.” - Dugan O’Neil, Vice-President, Research and Innovation, Simon Fraser University

“UBC Blusson QMI’s Advanced Nanofabrication Facility provides researchers and emerging quantum industry leaders with the research and technology development infrastructure to create groundbreaking solutions in areas like public health and clean energy. This investment by the Government of Canada plays a pivotal role in enabling the facility to emerge as a leading device manufacturing hub, supporting a range of projects and enabling the commercialization of innovative quantum technologies.” - Dr. Gail Murphy, Vice-President, Research and Innovation, University of British Columbia

Quick facts

According to a study commissioned by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), the quantum sector will become a $139 billion industry in Canada, with more than 200,000 jobs and $42 billion in returns by 2045.

PacifiCan is the dedicated federal economic development agency for British Columbians. PacifiCan’s programs and services help businesses, not-for-profits and communities grow stronger.

Earlier investments by private and public sectors, including more than $1 billion invested by the Government of Canada between 2009 and 2020, has helped to produce a highly skilled research and development (R&D) community in quantum technologies.

Related products

• Backgrounder: Government of Canada supports growth and innovation in British Columbia’s quantum technology industry

Associated links

• Pacific Economic Development Canada
• Regional Quantum Initiative
• Simon Fraser University
• University of British Columbia
• 1QB Information Technologies, Inc.

Haley Hodgson Senior Communications Advisor Office of the Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan) [email protected]

Lynsey Brothers A/Communications Manager PacifiCan [email protected]

Stay connected  

Follow PacifiCan  on  Twitter  and  LinkedIn Toll-Free Number:  1-888-338-9378 TTY (telecommunications device for the hearing impaired):  1-877-303-3388

Page details

Reynoldsburg City Council approves 2025 budget, Harrison Township economic development pact

Reynoldsburg City Council approved its final 2025 budget Tuesday evening, as well as a joint economic development district agreement with Harrison Township and a contract with an engineering firm connected to the construction of its new public service building.

The roughly $31-million budget was preliminarily approved in December 2023. But because the city's budget year begins on Jan. 1, 2025, Reynoldsburg Mayor Joe Begeny said that the number is a "conservative guess" by the city auditor for 2025. The lion's share of the expenditures, approximately 55%, will go for public safety, Begeny said, with the next biggest expenditure going for street maintenance.

The mayor said the budget calls for no additional tax increases for Reynoldsburg residents.

Begeny also said the city auditor will monitor the city's expenditures throughout the new budget year and will make recommendations as necessary.

City hires engineering firm for public service building

City Council also approved a two-year contract with EMH&T, a New Albany-based engineering firm, to oversee construction of a road to the new $30-million public service building now under construction. Begeny said that the building is almost complete, and work is underway to wrap up the exterior of the building.

The one-story building will meet upgraded federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requirements, Begeny said, and will include a fuel depot for city vehicles. It is being built adjacent to the current public service building, behind the bus garage on East Main Street.

Begeny said that the city does not have an in-house engineer, which is why it hired EMH&T. The mayor said the partnership will be evaluated every two years. The funds for the contract were initially supposed to come from the capital improvement projects fund, but the money will instead come from the city's general fund.

City approves economic development agreement with Harrison Township

In a unanimous vote, City Council members approved a Joint Economic Development District contract with Harrison Township. The contract with Reynoldsburg will allow Harrison Township to collect income taxes, but there will still be additional approval needed by the Franklin County Commissioners, said City Attorney Chris Shook. The first economic development board meeting will take place sometime in July.

For its role in the agreement, the city will receive a total of 20% of the income tax revenue — 5% for administration costs and the remaining 15% for being a partner.

What else did City Council approve on Tuesday?

In other action, Reynoldsburg City Council:

● Approved a debt collection agreement with the Ohio Attorney General's office. Shook said that the partnership grants the city access to "better tools" to collect on a wide range of debt from taxpayers, from tax bills to damage to city property caused from vehicle accidents.

● Approved the final plat for phases 6A & 6B of the M/I Homes' Spring Hill subdivision off Waggoner Road. A total of 354 homes are planned for the development, with 138 already either sold or constructed.

[email protected]

@ShahidMeighan