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Economics MRes and MPhil/PhD

Ucl (university college london), different course options.

  • Key information

Course Summary

Tuition fees, entry requirements, university information, similar courses at this uni, key information data source : idp connect, qualification type.

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Subject areas

Course type.

UCL Economics has an outstanding international reputation in the areas of game theory, fiscal policy, econometrics, applied microeconomics, development and labour economics. The department is a global leader in policy-oriented research, with members directing and holding senior positions in research centres involved in policy design and evaluation. UCL Economics was the top-ranked department in the UK for Economics and Econometrics in the Research Excellence Framework 2014, as well as the top-ranked department in any field in any UK university, according to the grade point average on the overall score. This reflects the high quality of policy-relevant academic research being undertaken by staff, and the excellent research and teaching environment for graduate students.

In recent years, our PhD students have obtained posts in leading universities and research centres such as University of Chicago, University of Arizona, Carlos III University, Edinburgh University, University of Manchester, NYU Stern School of Business, Pompeu Fabra University, Princeton University, Singapore Management University, Sogang University, Stanford University, Stockholm University, UBC, UCLA, University of British Columbia, University of Essex, University of Mannheim, University of Oxford, University of Rochester, University of Texas at Austin and University of Wisconsin. They have also done very well in policy institutions, such us the Bank of England, EBRD, IFS, McKinsey, RAND Corporation and the World Bank.

Employability

Undertaking the UCL Economics doctorate programme affords students excellent networking opportunities from the outset, and outstanding employment options upon completion. The department is committed to maximising PhD students’ ability to gain employment in leading academic departments, research centres and financial and public policy organisations worldwide. The rigorous doctoral programme ensures students graduate with a wide range of highly valued technical, analytical, teaching and research skills. Senior PhD students have the option to go on the Economics Job Market.

UK fees Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

International fees Course fees for EU and international students

Applicants must have a Master’s degree in Economics or closely related subject with distinction-level performance. Applicants must demonstrate that they are qualified to proceed to research work. The GRE General Test is a required part of the application, except for applicants with an Economics MSc from UCL or those currently enrolled on the UCL Economics MSc programme.

UCL (University College London) is consistently ranked among the top ten universities in the world, conducting leading research across a wide range of subject areas. Throughout its long and prestigious history, it has inspired and educated countless minds and produced 30 Nobel prize recipients. With one campus located in the heart of Bloomsbury and a second campus in vibrant east London, the university is home to around 42,000 students... more

Economics and Policy of Energy and the Environment MSc

Full time | 1 year | 23-SEP-24

Population Health MSc

Sustainable resources: economics, policy and transitions msc, economy, state and society: politics and the international economy ma (international).

Full time | 2 years | 23-SEP-24

Philosophy, Politics and Economics of Health MA

Centre for Finance

Phd in financial economics.

The MRes and PhD in Financial Economics is a joint programme between the UCL Department of Economics and the UCL School of Management. The MRes programme will provide you with training in research methods together with an advanced understanding of financial economics and shares modules with the MRes in Economics. The Mphil year covers topics such as Corporate Finance, Asset Pricing, Financial Intermediation, Financial Econometrics, and Market Microstructure. Funding : Admitted students are fully funded, including full fee waiver and a competitive stipend. To apply : https://www.ucl.ac.uk/prospective-students/graduate/apply , after clicking 'accept and apply', you need to use the search by Department function. Under 'UCL School of Management' you'll see MRes Financial Economics listed as one of the options. More details on the programme can be found here: https://www.mgmt.ucl.ac.uk/phd-financial-economics Deadline:  mid-February (but we’ll keep considering applications until all scholarships are awarded).

For more information, please contact Prof. Frederic Malherbe at [email protected]

UCL logo

UCL Energy Institute MPhil/PhD

London, Bloomsbury

UCL Energy Institute delivers world-leading learning, research and policy support on the challenges of climate change and energy security. Our multidisciplinary research programme and strong industry links provide an excellent foundation for your Energy PhD study. Our graduates are employed by the world's foremost academic, industry and governmental institutions.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

Research degree students start their programme in BSEER in September or January each academic year. Starting at other times is by exception where a strong justification is made.

  • Entry requirements

A minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree and a Master's degree, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard, in a relevant subject, is essential. Exceptionally: where applicants have other suitable research or professional experience, they may be admitted without a Master's degree; or where applicants have a lower second-class UK Honours Bachelor's degree (2:2) (or equivalent) they must possess a relevant Master's degree to be admitted. We expect any successful application to include a sufficiently strong and convincing proposal, and those holding a Master's degree are typically well prepared to provide one. Relevant work experience is highly desirable.

The English language level for this programme is: Level 2

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

If you are intending to apply for a time-limited visa to complete your UCL studies (e.g., Student visa, Skilled worker visa, PBS dependant visa etc.) you may be required to obtain ATAS clearance . This will be confirmed to you if you obtain an offer of a place. Please note that ATAS processing times can take up to six months, so we recommend you consider these timelines when submitting your application to UCL.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

Most energy problems are multidisciplinary in nature, spanning science, engineering and the social sciences. UCL Energy Institute brings together different perspectives in energy demand, energy supply, and energy systems research, transcending boundaries between academic disciplines to create world-leading research and policy support on the challenges of climate change, energy security, and social justice. 

As an MPhil or PhD student with us, you will conduct your own original energy related research. If you have a research idea that falls within our research themes, an MPhil/PhD at UCL Energy Institute could be the right path for you. To get started with your application, follow the four step process on our ‘ How to apply for an Energy MPhil/PhD ’ page.

Who this course is for

This MPhil/PhD is for applicants with a strong interest or background in energy issues who want to do multi-disciplinary research to solve societal problems and explore innovative solutions. For example, if your energy interests are at the intersection of policy and science; engineering and economics; or the social sciences and technology, this PhD could be for you. It is suitable for both recent Master’s graduates as well as early or mid-career professionals.

What this course will give you

Studying with us is about excelling at your own field of study, being exposed to new perspectives and methodologies, and developing communication and networking skills. PhD students are core to our activities and are a key priority in terms of current and future state-of-the-art energy demand, energy supply and energy systems research here in the UK and around the world.

We are part of The Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources , home to four specialist sustainability-focussed Institutes in UCL’s Bartlett Faculty of the Built Environment. Our degree programme offers students a unique opportunity to work alongside world-leading researchers across our School’s sustainability foci, giving you the opportunity to develop your research skills and opening new career opportunities in the broad field of environment, energy and resources.

We offer a world-leading research environment. In the latest national research assessment ( REF 2021 ), our Faculty were number one for Research Power in the built environment, with 91% of our Faculty’s research was deemed ‘World Leading’ and ‘Internationally Excellent’. Much of our research is undertaken in partnership with government and industry to ground it in real-world impact.

The foundation of your career

The UCL Energy Institute aims to train highly employable graduates who are equipped with the required analytical capability, research knowledge, management skills, and professional values to become leaders and entrepreneurs in their chosen field. Leadership, communication, teamwork, language and business skills are refined in the high-quality multidisciplinary research environment through our taught programmes, workshops, and internal and external seminars.

Alumni Views

“About a year before I finished, I saw that the British Energy regulator, Ofgem, was advertising for someone with the same experience and skill set I’d been developing over my Masters and then PhD… I feel very confident that my PhD played a major role in making sure I was qualified for the role and hope that it will help me progress with my career in future too.” Moira Nicolson, UCL Energy Institute PhD Graduate  

Employability

A PhD indicates a highly qualified researcher, capable of independent analytic thought. It is essential for those interested in pursuing careers in academia, and it is also a highly regarded qualification for those wishing to attain senior management positions in industry, non-profit and public sector organisations, and consultancies. Our alumni have gone on to careers in academic teaching and research as well as industry and policy organisations.

Supervision and mentorship is available from world-leading researchers with national and international contacts and collaborations across government, industry, non-profit and academic sectors. These links provide real opportunities to network and collaborate with a variety of external partners. Students have the opportunity to showcase their research at national and international conferences with support from the programme. Our students also gain access to networking events, career workshops, and national and international seminars held by the UCL Energy Institute and other institutes within the school. Students also sometimes self-organise their own networking initiatives, seminars, and workshops.

Teaching and learning

Initially, you will be registered for the MPhil degree. If you wish to proceed to a PhD, you will be required to pass an 'Upgrade' assessment. The purpose of the upgrade is to assess your progress and ability to complete your PhD programme to a good standard and in a reasonable time frame.

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) consists of a piece of supervised research, normally undertaken over a period of three years full-time or five years part time. Assessment is by means of a thesis, which should demonstrate your capacity to pursue original research based upon a good understanding of the research techniques and concepts appropriate to the discipline.

Full-time PhD research involves full-time study. You should expect to dedicate around 35 hours per week to your work. You should meet frequently with your supervisors and engage with the departmental and UCL communities more widely through events, training, and networking opportunities.

Research areas and structure

  • Energy and the Built Environment
  • Energy and Economics
  • Energy and Engineering
  • Energy and Health
  • Energy and Human Dimensions
  • Energy and Policy
  • Energy and Resources
  • Energy and Transport

Research environment

"I very much enjoyed doing the PhD, particularly as I had great support in a truly multi-disciplinary environment, and had the freedom to design and develop my own topic. The knowledge and skills that I gained during the PhD were an important part of helping me to put theory into practice through my current position" - Peter Warren, UCL Energy Institute PhD graduate

UCL Energy Institute is helping to build a globally sustainable energy system through training future energy leaders, innovative multidisciplinary research and impactful collaborations governments and industries. We have a large PhD cohort working on a wide range of projects across energy demand, energy supply, and energy systems. Our staff and students have a passion to make the world a better place, and a commitment to creating and communicating evidence to achieve this goal.

We offer a world-leading research environment. In the latest national research assessment ( REF 2021 ), our Faculty were number one for Research Power in the built environment, with 91% of our Faculty’s research was deemed ‘World Leading’ and ‘Internationally Excellent’.

All students are initially registered for an MPhil degree. Those studying full-time for a PhD undertake a formal “upgrade process” between 9-18 months, including a presentation and viva, and if successful are registered as PhD students. Students have up to two upgrade attempts.   The PhD programme normally lasts a minimum of three years. Once you have completed this period, you are able to apply for  “Continuing Research Status” (CRS), with no further fees, if your studies are sufficiently advanced and you meet the CRS entry criteria. Some funders instead offer four-year scholarships with no possibility of entering Continuing Research Status. You can submit a thesis for assessment in an oral viva at the conclusion of your studies either at the end of  the 3 years,  the end of your funded period or during CRS.

Part-time students follow the same programme as full-time students, except that the programme length is five years, with up to two additional years in Continuing Research Status, and the first upgrade attempt normally takes place after 15 months of initial registration.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

Route code RRDEERSENR01

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

As a research student, your additional costs may include expenses such as books, conference attendance and field research, in the UK or overseas.

Our Faculty provides financial support to students through The Bartlett Student Conference Fund, Bartlett Doctoral Initiative Fund and Bartlett External Training Fund. Our School also provides the BSEER Student Development Fund where enrolled students can apply for financial support. However, please note that these funds are limited and available through competition. You can find out more on our MPhil/PhD scholarships and funding page.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

The Bartlett Promise Scholarship is a long-term project from our Faculty to attract students from a broader range of backgrounds and tackle the lack of diversity in the built environment. Please see the UK PhD scholarship page for more information on eligibility eligibility criteria, selection process and FAQs. You can also find out more about on our website.

We occasionally have funded studentship opportunities. These are advertised on the UCL-wide Funded Research Opportunities page. If you would like funded studentship opportunities sent to you via email, please register your interest in studying with us.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Bartlett Promise PhD Scholarship

Deadline: 19 May 2024 Value: Full fees, plus £19,668 maintenance (Normal duration of programme) Criteria Based on financial need Eligibility: UK

UCL Research Opportunity Scholarship (ROS)

Deadline: 12 January 2024 Value: UK rate fees, a maintenance stipend, conference costs and professional development package (3 years) Criteria Based on both academic merit and financial need Eligibility: UK

Prospective MPhil/PhD applicants are encouraged to send an informal research enquiry before applying. This should be sent directly to the academic you would like to supervise you. Please refer to the staff list on the department website  and see UCL's  Institutional Research Information Service  (IRIS) for staff profiles. Please attach to your e-mail a referenced research proposal of around 1,000 to 2,000 words and your curriculum vitae (CV).

Further details on how to apply to an MPhil/PhD can be found on the  UCL Graduate Admissions  website.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Got questions get in touch.

Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources

Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources

[email protected]

UCL is regulated by the Office for Students .

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ucl phd economics application

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About the UCL Journal of Economics

The UCL Journal of Economics is the official peer-reviewed, student-run journal of the UCL Department of Economics. In line with UCL’s philosophy of a research focused approach to education, it aims to provide a platform for undergraduate economists at UCL and worldwide to showcase their rigorous economic research, regardless of background or previous experience. 

The journal adds value to students at UCL by offering a chance to extend the research they undertake within and outside university modules. It will always be free to read and submit papers to us and we aim to maintain high standards of content, editing, and peer-review to uphold the reputation of our authors. We believe this makes the journal an important institution for undergraduate students across the world. 

We publish one issue a year, to which any undergraduate student can submit a paper for consideration. 

The journal is now open to submissions for Volume III

Deadline: Monday 15th April 2024, 23:59 BST

Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023

Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023

Introductions & foreword.

Foreword

Ananya Ashta

2023-10-02 Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023 • 1–1

A Note from the New Director

A Note from the New Director

Phineas Godfrey

2023-10-02 Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023 • 2–2

Explore Econ Research Papers

Investigating the Distributional Effect of the UK Carbon Price Floor

Investigating the Distributional Effect of the UK Carbon Price Floor

William Nguyen

2023-10-02 Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023 • 4–11

Score! What is it Good for? Why Football Managers Need to Look Beyond Results

Score! What is it Good for? Why Football Managers Need to Look Beyond Results

Iain Simmons

2023-10-02 Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023 • 12–17

Labour Market Concentration and Worker Mobility: Evidence from Online Vacancies

Labour Market Concentration and Worker Mobility: Evidence from Online Vacancies

Matias Makiranta

2023-10-02 Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023 • 18–25

Research Fellow Research Papers

Returns to Longevity? The Effects of Life Expectancy on Labour Productivity in Singapore.

Returns to Longevity? The Effects of Life Expectancy on Labour Productivity in Singapore.

Wei Yang Shaun Ng

2023-10-02 Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023 • 27–35

The Influence of Market Dynamics on Retail Investor Attention

The Influence of Market Dynamics on Retail Investor Attention

James Symons-Hicks

2023-10-02 Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023 • 36–64

Non-UCL Research Papers

Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Maternal Treatment and Death: Evaluating the Role of Hospital and Physician Effects

Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Maternal Treatment and Death: Evaluating the Role of Hospital and Physician Effects

Maura Rose Hogaboom

2023-10-02 Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023 • 66–84

Negotiating Justice: Examining Restorative Justice Through the Coase Theorem

Negotiating Justice: Examining Restorative Justice Through the Coase Theorem

Andrei Comlosan-Pop

2023-10-02 Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023 • 111–119

UCL Research Papers

Demand for Informal goods in Africa: Demand System Estimation with Quality Effects and its Limitations

Demand for Informal goods in Africa: Demand System Estimation with Quality Effects and its Limitations

2023-10-02 Volume 2 • Issue 1 • October 2023 • 85–110

Latest News Posts

Launch of issue 1 of the uje, posted by uje student management team on 2022-08-25.

The UJE team is proud to announce the release of its very first issue after a year of work in its preparation. The first issue of the UCL Journal of Economics has no set theme, something that speaks of the versatility within the field and of the journal itself. Our inaugural issue includes fourteen thought provoking papers written by authors from across the world. These papers have been written [...]

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  • Economics School of Louvain

Ph.D. in Economics

Louvain-La-Neuve

ucl phd economics application

The Ph.D. in economics of UCLouvain prepares candidate for research and teaching positions in academia and private or public organizations across the world. The Ph.d.D program is built as a three-year training program (180 ECTS).

The school offers doctoral students a broad choice of advanced courses in various fields of economics.

The objective is twofold: confronting students with the latest developments in their own field of research and exposing them to recent developments in at least one other field of research. The choice of courses is enlarged thanks to a collaboration with the University of Brussels (ULB) , the University of Namur (UNamur)  and the  Katholieke Universiteit Leuven . Beyond courses, that collaboration also opens the possibility of joint supervisions of thesis and the organisation of a yearly meeting of doctoral students from the three institutions.

The Economics School of Louvain also co-organizes the European Doctoral Program . The EDP is a  network of top economics departments in Europe offering an outstanding breath of courses and research topics, within different research traditions, opening to a great variety of views unified by deep and rigorous thinking, with an emphasis on creativity and intellectual excellence, through high quality supervision and exchanges and mobility between member institutions leading to a large academic and professional alumni network.

The admission to the doctoral school constitutes the FIRST MANDATORY STEP in the doctoral process.

The admission application is to be sent to the Doctoral Bureau in Economics through its administrator  in electronic format (PDF, in a single file)

Admission application The following elements must be contained in the electronic admission file :

  • Identity, full name (scanned copies of identity card and/or passport) 
  • Contact information (address, telephone and email) 
  • CV and copies of obtained university degrees 
  • Proof of completion of Master’s degree in economics 120 ECTS with honors or equivalent, terminating undergraduate and graduate university studies of at least 300 ECTS.
  • A student with a Master’s degree 120 ECTS obtained with honors or equivalent in a different field may be granted access after validating up to 60 ECTS of graduate coursework in management or equivalent. 
  • Documentation showing proficiency in English
  • Letter of support from a faculty member to act as supervisor.
  • Research proposal 
  • Proposal for supervisory panel
  • Proposal for a research training programme

Confirmation

The confirmation procedure is a mandatory INTERMEDIATE STEP in the doctoral process with the purpose to assure adequate progress towards the thesis defense in order to meet the statutory objectives in terms of time and quality. The confirmation serves several objectives:

  • the confirmation is the critical stage where the candidate has to convince his/her supervisory panel about the prospects of terminating the thesis as initiated. In passing the confirmation, candidate gets an endorsement from the supervisory panel to continue the research along the undertaken direction until the private defense (at least one year later).  
  • the confirmation is the occasion for the supervisory panel to more precisely fix objectives and limitations for the candidate and the project, given the intermediate results from the 1-2 years of research. These guidelines are important to focus the final work at fruitful areas for scientific contributions, opportunities for publication and/or data availability.
  • the progress and status at the confirmation allows the supervisory panel to identify and isolate potential barriers for the candidate in the realization of the project. These barriers could be both linked to material resources (access to financial resources, tools and proprietary data) and human resources (personal capacity of the candidate to master parts of the methodology, supervisory capacity, international connections, etc). The guidelines from the confirmation should address any potential barriers identified as to ensure that the objectives can be achieved in due time with highest quality.  

Doctoral Defense

When the supervisory panel considers that the candidate’s work and doctoral research training have been satisfactorily completed, it proposes a composition of a doctoral jury. Usually, the private defense can be fixed earliest one year after the passed confirmation.

Research themes

Research in economics at UCLouvain covers the following fields:

  • general equilibrium and games,
  • industrial organisation, economic geography and international trade,
  • growth and fluctuations,
  • public policy: health, education, environment and natural resources,
  • financial institutions and markets,
  • labour markets, social policy and social economics,
  • economic history and history of economic thought,
  • ethics and social choice,
  • econometric methods.

Diploma and certification

The programme leads to a degree of "Docteur en sciences économiques et de gestion" id est  "Doctor in Economics and Management"

Participating Entities

CORE : Center for operations research and econometrics. IRES :   Institut de recherches économiques et sociales ETES : Chaire Hoover d'éthique économique et sociale.

Doctoral Commission

Président : Per Joakim AGRELL Secrétaire académique : François MANIQUET Autre(s) membre(s) académique(s) : Nathalie DELOBBE Florian MAYNERIS Marthe NYSSENS Claude PECHEUX Membre(s) scientifique(s) : Mehdi MADANI

Administration Mrs Isabelle Portzenheim [email protected] SSH/ESPO/ECON Collège Léon Dupriez Place Montesquieu 3, bte L2.06.01 B-1348 Louvain-la-Neuve (Belgium) Tel: +32-10-47.39.54 Fax: +32-10-47.32.90Q

UCL School of Management

University college london, phd programme in financial economics.

Start date:  September 2024 Duration: 5 years (1 year MRes + 4 years PhD) Fees:  We offer fully-funded scholarships to all admitted students who have applied by the 31 January 2024 (see details below)  Application deadline:  31 January 2024, 17:00 UK time (late applications submited by the 05 April 2024 may still be considered, see details below) Entry:  Applicants must hold a distinction in a master’s degree in Economics or a closely related subject. Applicants must demonstrate a high level of analytical and quantitative skills (such as in mathematics and statistics), evidenced by strong performance in relevant modules taken on previous degree programmes and/or through relevant standardised test performance (such as GRE Quantitative of at least 160). International students, please note that UCL’s English language requirement for this programme is a ‘ Level 2 ’ (IELTS and TOEFL are the preferred test, however others on the UCL recognised test list will be accepted if required) - further details regarding this can be found on the  UCL English Language Requirements  page.

The MRes and PhD in Financial Economics is a joint programme between the UCL Department of Economics and the UCL School of Management.

The MRes programme is the first year of the five-year integrated MRes/PhD programme in Financial Economics. The MRes programme will provide you with training in research methods together with an advanced understanding of financial economics, to enable you to conduct insightful and original PhD level research in financial economics. 

The MRes will firstly provide quantitative training in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and finance. These will be taught in the context of cutting-edge research and relevant applications. Secondly, it will provide you with analytic frameworks and transferable skills that will allow you to identify relevant and promising research topics, present ideas in order to obtain feedback, and provide feedback yourself. 

The subsequent years (for students who progress from the MRes to MPhil) will focus on the skills you will need to run research projects to completion and to present completed research projects to various kinds of specialised audiences. Likewise, teaching skills will also be developed.

ucl phd economics application

PhD Structure

  • The MRes programme consists of taught modules (Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, Econometrics. Real Analysis and Probability with Economic Application), a hybrid module (Financial Economics) with taught components and research based components, and a research project in the final part of the year. For the MRes project, you work under supervision to design and carry out a substantial piece of original research. This enables you to gain a deep understanding of the entire research process.
  • Superior performance is required for automatic progression from MRes to MPhil. In particular, students should achieve an average mark of not less than 60% in the independent, original research components of the programme, and not less than 50% in the taught element.
  • Our highly selective and small-sized PhD programme ensures that each student receives personal attention and guidance from our faculty members throughout their doctoral study. The close mentorship process forms the foundations of a successful academic career. At the same time, you will be part of both the School of Management PhD cohort and the Economics PhD cohort, with which you will share most of the taught modules.
  • We expect our PhD graduates to have as their goal an academic career as a faculty member in a top business school or Economics department or in the research group of an international institution or a central bank.

Students take a total of 180 credits in the MRes year. This is made up of the MRes Research Project (MSIN0135) and 75 credits of compulsory taught modules. 

All modules in the MRes year are core modules, there are no optional modules. 

  • ECON0107 - Macroeconomics, 15 credits  
  • ECON0106 - Microeconomics, 15 credits  
  • ECON0108 - Econometrics, 15 credits  
  • ECON0118 - Real Analysis and Probability with Economic Applications, 15 credits
  • MSIN0234 - Topics in Financial Economics, 30 credits  
  • MSIN0135 - MRes Financial Economics Research Project, 105 credits  

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, and class discussion. Student performance is assessed through presentations, coursework, projects, and examinations. 

Students will study 4 compulsory taught modules. A typical taught module is taught over two terms (2 x 10 weeks) with 4 hours of contact hours per week (3 hours of lecture + 1 hour of review session). In addition, students spend approximately 6-8 hours a week for each module on assessment and independent study to further develop the skills and knowledge covered in lectures and seminars.  

Students will also undertake a substantial research project, which would usually start in Term 2 and be completed over the Summer. The total number of weekly hours will vary according to the weekly activities being undertaken.

Why choose us

What makes us different:.

Unlike many PhD Programmes in finance, our programme has a full anchor in economics and econometrics. Hence, we offer a unique world-class environment that combines the best of a leading business school, located in Canary Wharf, the heart of London’s modern financial district, and the tradition of economic research and teaching of the Department of Economics, which is located in Bloomsbury, London’s historical intellectual centre.

If you want to become an academic economist conducting research in finance, this programme is for you.  

UCL School of Management and the Department of Economics  

Founded in 2007, UCL School of Management has forged a reputation for world-leading research in management studies with 95% of the School’s research deemed to be world-leading or internationally excellent, the second highest percentage of any business school in the UK, according to the 2021 REF . The PhD programme is an integral part of our School’s active and ambitious research environment where students receive rigorous academic training and personalised research mentorship. 

The UCL Department of Economics has an outstanding international reputation in key areas of current research. The Department ranked top in the UK for research environment and outputs in the field of Economics and Econometrics in the 2021 REF . 

Our research programme offers a unique education and research experience with the intent of preparing you for scholarly careers at the highest level. Our highly selective and small-sized programme ensures that you receive personal attention and an opportunity for guidance from our world-leading scholars. The close mentorship process forms the foundations of a successful academic career. 

As a research student you will join a highly active research environment which involves frequent research seminars and visits by leading scholars worldwide, reading groups, brown bag seminars and panels in which PhD students and faculty members present and discuss their ongoing work. Such forums provide an excellent opportunity to receive critical constructive feedback on your research and to develop academic, generic and transferable skills.

Applications

Applying for our mres/phd programme.

Entry requirements and admissions criteria:

Applicants to the MRes+PhD programme must hold a distinction in a master’s degree in Economics or a closely related subject. Applicants must demonstrate a high level of analytical and quantitative skills (such as in mathematics and statistics), evidenced by strong performance in relevant modules taken on previous degree programmes and/or through relevant standardised test performance (such as GRE Quantitative of at least 160). Submitting a GRE test result is encouraged but not compulsory and is only one of the components used to assess the strength of applications. 

We only have a single intake in September. We accept applications throughout the year. Successful candidates who have submitted their MRes application by 31 January 2024 will receive a scholarship (full fee waiver plus a stipend). Successful candidates who have submitted their application after this date may receive a scholarship subject to availability, or will come with their own funding.

In your personal statement you are expected to suggest one or more faculty members as potential supervisors. On the application form you may see that it states that it is preferred that you contact potential supervisors beforehand. However, we strongly discourage applicants from contacting individual faculty members or potential supervisors when applying to our programme. All applications are first evaluated by a joint admissions committee, so contacting potential supervisors separately will not increase your chances.

We also require you to submit IELTS or TOEFL scores if English is not your first language. Our School requires a “Level 2” English language qualification which corresponds to:

IELTS: Overall grade of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the sub-tests.

TOEFL: Score of 96 overall, plus 24/30 in the reading and writing subtests and 22/30 in the listening and speaking subtests. 

Application Deadline

The application window closes 31 January 2024 (17:00 UK time) and a late submission window closes on 05 April 2024 (17:00 UK time). We advise those interested in the programme to apply before 31 January 2024, as those applying in the late submission window will only be considered if there are still places remaining.

Application Procedure

Apply via UCL Postgraduate Admissions System here . When starting the application, you must select the MRes Financial Economics option. In addition to filling out the online application form, please upload a copy of the following documents:

  • Official Transcripts of Grades / Course marks
  • A 1 page personal statement that clearly indicates: (i) your research interests and preliminary research ideas, (ii) potential faculty member(s) you may want to work with (this is a suggested list, you don’t need to contact potential supervisors beforehand), and (iii) your motivation to do a PhD.
  • Your  GRE  score report, if you took the test.
  • Your IELTS/TOEFL score report, if English is not your first language.

Funding/Scholarships

We offer fully funded five year scholarships to all admitted students who apply before the 31 January 2024. The scholarship is open to all nationalities. It covers all tuition fees, and includes an annual stipend of £25,000 which is tax-free. 

Successful candidates who have submitted their application after 31 January 2024 may receive a scholarship subject to availability or will come with their own funding.

Additional Costs

This programme does not have any compulsory additional costs outside of purchasing books or stationery, printing, thesis binding or photocopying.  Students may have the opportunity to participate in conferences in the UK and internationally. The UCL School of Management provides MRes/PhD students with an annual budget for conferences, which students will use to cover the travel, accommodation, food and other costs whilst at conferences, in line with UCL’s expenses policy. 

Further Information and Contact Details

The full-time MRes/PhD programme runs from September each academic year. Entrance is therefore every September. While we may accept applications until 05 April 2024 we encourage candidates to apply as early as possible. Our programme is very selective and we only admit a limited number of students, so applying before 31 January 2024 increases your chances.

How to Apply

For queries about the MRes/PhD Programme that are not addressed on our web pages, please contact [email protected] .

Video Library

Frequently Asked Questions about the UCL School of Management MRes/PhD Programme

Programme Information

Application process, admissions requirements.

Students are required to possess a “Level 2” English language qualification if it is not their first language. This means: TOEFL: Score of 96, plus 24/30 in the reading and writing, and 22/30 in the listening and speaking subtests. IELTS: Overall grade of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the subtests.

Further Information

If you have any other questions regarding the programme that are not addressed on our web pages please email the programme team ( [email protected] )

ucl phd economics application

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MRes/PhD Economics

  • Graduate research
  • Department of Economics
  • Application code L1U4
  • 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 the field of economics. You will begin on the MRes degree, and will need to meet certain requirements to progress to the PhD.

The Department of Economics pioneered the development of systematic research training in economics in Britain and our MRes/PhD Economics aims for the highest international standard of achievement and professional competence. The programme offers structured research training and supervision by faculty prominent in their fields. It begins with two years of rigorous coursework, equipping you with the theoretical knowledge and analytical techniques necessary to proceed to the research component of the programme. 

Many research students are associated with the work of one of LSE's research centres. You could work with the Suntory and Toyota International Centres for Economics and Related Disciplines on areas ranging from development economics to public policy; or on research technology, growth and globalisation as part of the Centre for Economic Performance . You could contribute to major research programmes addressing the key issues of unemployment, inflation, fiscal and monetary policy, macroeconomic development and growth, financial markets, and changes in the world economy at the  Centre for Macroeconomics ; or specialise in risk management, asset pricing, financial institutions and corporate finance as part of the Financial Markets Group .

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 economics.

An upper second class honours (2:1) degree (or equivalent) in any field. Some preparation in economics, a strong mathematics background and evidence of research potential are essential. The goal of the MRes/PhD Economics is to train first class researchers. We will use all available information to assess research potential.

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

GRE is required for all applicants. This must be no more than five years old on 1 October 2024 and must show full and percentile scores for all three sections. Most successful MRes/PhD Economics applicants score 166 or above in the quantitative section.

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 - research statement - GRE/GMAT

See further information on supporting documents

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  for further information.

When to apply

The application deadline for this programme is 14 December 2023 . However, to be considered for any LSE funding opportunity, you must also have submitted your application and all supporting documents by this deadline. See the fees and funding section for more details.

Research statement

An application for entry to the MRes/PhD Economics should include a Research Statement, along with other required information  (Note: A separate sample of written work is not required as part of the MRes/PhD Economics application).

What should my Research Statement contain?

Your Research Statement should be submitted in place of the Outline Research Proposal, along with your application form and other required supporting documents, via the LSE online application system.

Please answer the following questions clearly and concisely. Max 200 words per question.

  • Why do you want to do research in economics?
  • Can you explain how your studies and experience make you suitable to do research in economics?
  • Which aspect of the PhD do you think you will like the most? Which will you dislike the most? Why?
  • Tell us about your favourite paper in economics. What do you like about it? How would you improve it?
  • Write a comment for a general audience on ONE of the following topics  (i) Is inequality good for growth?   (ii) Do immigrants take the jobs of native workers?   (iii) Is CEO compensation excessive?  (iv) Is universal minimum income a good idea?  (v) Overall, has central banks' move to inflation targeting has been a success?  (vi) Is culture an important determinant of differences in income per capita across countries?  (vii) Markets function well as information is aggregated efficiently through prices.  (viii) Elections are effective at disciplining politicians who do not have the public interest as their main goal.

How can I demonstrate research potential?

If you have served as research assistant for an economist please ask that person to write a letter focussing on your research skills and describe your experience – reference point 2 (above) of the research statement.

If not, please list any evidence you think would be valuable. Examples include but are not restricted to: experience working autonomously under stress without any guidance, demonstration of creativity in any form, experience of writing original research.

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 Economics

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. 

For the MRes/PhD Economics, the funding deadline is the same as the application deadline for the programme: 14 December 2023

The Economics Department also has a number of scholarship packages for direct entry MRes/PhD students. After the first year of the MRes/PhD Economics, there are teaching and research assistantships available in the Department. Read more about funding opportunities through the  Economics Department .

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 (mres).

In early September, before the academic year commences, you will begin your degree programme by taking the Introductory Mathematics and Statistics course.

First year (MRes)

In the first year of the programme you will take advanced core courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, to equip you with the theoretical knowledge and analytical techniques necessary for research. Permission must be obtained to sit Econometric Analysis as it is intended for students with a strong econometric background and an interest in pursuing a PhD with econometrics as the primary field.

Microeconomics for MRes students Introduces the basic analytical tools that are necessary to conduct research in any field in economics.

Macroeconomics for MRes students Covers topics in advanced macroeconomics with emphasis on fundamentals and applications to recent theoretical advances. Either Econometrics for MRes students Covers inference, classical and generalised linear regression, generalised regression methods, time-series, panel-data, and microeconometric methods, and specialised econometric methods. Or Econometric Analysis Gives an advanced treatment of the theory of estimation and inference for econometric models.

Second year (MRes)

In the second year, you will typically take two PhD field courses and write a research paper in your major field. Currently, there are economics PhD field courses covering: econometrics, international, labour, public, development, industrial, microeconomics, macroeconomics, political economy. In addition, there are PhD field courses offered in Corporate Finance and Asset Pricing. From the second year onwards, you will also participate in a departmental research seminar and a work in progress seminar allied to your major research field.

Research Paper in Economics A research paper, between 5,000 and 10,000 words, related to the student's designated major field, to be submitted mid-way through the Spring Term.

Two courses from a range of options

Upon successfully completing the MRes and progressing to the PhD, you will work on your research and write your PhD thesis. You will also take one further PhD field course. You will also attend Work in Progress seminars, where you present your research, as well as the weekly departmental seminar series closest to your major field.

One course from a range of options.

Second and subsequent years of the PhD programme

You will continue to work on your research and write a PhD thesis. You will also continue to attend Work in Progress seminars, where you present your research, as well as the weekly departmental seminar series closest to your major field.

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

In order to progress to each subsequent year of the programme, and to progress to PhD registration, you will need to meet specific progression requirements, such as achieving certain grades in your coursework.

Your final award 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 . 

Student stories

Hanwei Huang MRes/PhD Economics, 2018 China

Hanwei Huang

I am a PhD student studying economics in the LSE. I am also affiliated with the Centre of Economic Performance (CEP), one of the largest research centres in the LSE. My main research interest is international trade.

One thing that I have learned from the faculties is that economics is not just about mathematics, it should answer interesting economics questions. Over the past few years in the LSE, I have been conducting a few research related to China. This is not surprising given my Chinese origin. Given the anti-globalization current that we have been witnessing, it is also quite relevant to the academic and policy circle to understand how China has become a global manufacturing power house and the champion of global trade.

My work features a close link between theory and empirics, another lesson I have learned in the LSE. My first piece of work done in the LSE focuses on the evolving structure of Chinese production and export. My second paper, which is a joint work with my supervisor Professor Ottaviano, studies how Chinese exporter producing multiple products respond to competition due to comparative advantage. My current research project studies how the domestic infrastructure construction boom that has been taking place in China has enabled China to make better use of globalization.

The most exciting part of LSE is that we are seated near the centre of the UK policy-making. I am fortunate enough to be able to be on a team from the CEP which has been studying various issues related to Brexit. It is only by doing this bit of work that I have seen how LSE research has shaped the debate in the media and the UK parliament.

As a one of the largest economics departments in the world, with numerous seminars and visitors every week, you bump into various people all the time. You might run into a workshop introducing machine learning. You might also hear people talking about big data in the Bean Counter, where we have our coffee. And I am very glad to be one of them here.

Stephan Maurer MRes/PhD Economics, 2017 Germany

Stephan Maurer

I came to the LSE in 2011 after having completed my MSc in Economics at the Barcelona Graduate School of Economics. Already during my undergraduate studies in St. Gallen, I had gotten hooked to economics and to the idea of doing a PhD, and my time in Barcelona further confirmed this.

My research is in applied economics broadly, at the intersection of labour economics, political economy, and economic history. Economic history is for me both a tool and an end itself - I am interested in better understanding historical events, but I also frequently use exogenous variation provided by history to study questions in labour economics and political economy.

What I really like about research and the academic profession is that it offers a lot of freedom and allows me to work independently on a variety of issues. For example, I have studied determinants of city growth in Iron Age Europe, but also local economic effects of resource booms in the early 20 th century US South. I also enjoy teaching - during my time here, I have taught various courses and have found it very enriching. Being asked to explain concepts such that students can understand them often has deepened my own understanding. In this respect, I particularly enjoyed teaching in the MPA and MSc Programmes.

Research can also be frustrating. It involves a great deal of failed projects, ideas that do not materialize, and work that does not reap rewards. It is also very discontinuous - you can make great progress in few days, or feel like you’re banging your head against a wall for months. I was lucky to have two very dedicated supervisors to guide me through my PhD, helping me triage my ideas, strengthening my results by constantly questioning them, but also cheering me up when needed. My colleagues and friends at the LSE have also been a great help, not only but especially those from my cohort. Studying for the first year exams and going through the first research steps together has created a lot of cohesion and friendships that I am sure will continue to last for a long time.

After finishing my PhD, I will be joining the Department of Economics at the University of Konstanz as an Assistant Professor. I am very much looking forward to this new endeavour, but I will make sure to be back in London and at the LSE from time to time!

Preliminary reading

Readings are included in the respective course guides in the Calendar .

Quick Careers Facts for the Department of Economics

Top 5 sectors our students work in:

  • Financial and Professional Services              
  • Education, Teaching and Research            
  • Government, Public Sector and Policy   
  • Consultancy      
  • Advertising, Marketing, PR Media, Entertainment, Publishing and Journalism

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.

Students who successfully complete the programme often embark on an academic career. See information on the placements of previous students on this programme . 

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Starting from the second year of the MRes, students are encouraged to undertake some class teaching in the Department, as this represents useful professional training. Additional information about teaching in the Department .

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, msc econometrics and mathematical economics.

Code(s) L1UB

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Code(s) L1U1

MRes/PhD Finance

Code(s) N4ZC

MPhil/PhD Economic Geography

Code(s) L7ZQ

MPhil/PhD Environmental Economics

Code(s) L7ZR

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  1. Economics MRes + MPhil/PhD

    Economics. [email protected]. UCL is regulated by the Office for Students. UCL Economics is a world-class academic department with a commitment to research excellence. The Economics MRes and MPhil/PhD programmes attract, educate and develop students of the highest academic calibre. Our graduates are employed by the world's foremost academic ...

  2. Applying for Graduate Research Study at UCL

    As part of your application, you must provide the following supporting documents: Your official transcript. Please read our guide on getting your academic transcript. This explains exactly what UCL can and cannot accept. Sending documents that cannot be accepted will delay your application being processed. A research proposal.

  3. Economics MRes + MPhil/PhD Program By UCL |Top Universities

    On Campus. UCL Economics is a world-class academic department with a commitment to research excellence. The Economics MRes + MPhil/PhD aims to attract, educate and develop students of the highest academic calibre. Our graduates are employed by the world's foremost academic, international and governmental institutions.

  4. Economics MRes and MPhil/PhD at UCL (University College London)

    Overview. UCL Economics has an outstanding international reputation in the areas of game theory, fiscal policy, econometrics, applied microeconomics, development and labour economics. The department is a global leader in policy-oriented research, with members directing and holding senior positions in research centres involved in policy design ...

  5. Financial Economics MRes + MPhil/PhD Program By UCL |Top Universities

    The MRes and PhD in Financial Economics is a joint programme between the UCL Department of Economics and the UCL School of Management. The MRes will firstly provide quantitative training in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and finance. These will be taught in the context of cutting-edge research and relevant applications.

  6. About the Ph.D. Program

    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 ...

  7. Centre for Finance

    The MRes and PhD in Financial Economics is a joint programme between the UCL Department of Economics and the UCL School of Management. The MRes programme will provide you with training in research methods together with an advanced understanding of financial economics and shares modules with the MRes in Economics. The Mphil year covers topics ...

  8. UCL Energy Institute MPhil/PhD

    UCL Energy Institute delivers world-leading learning, research and policy support on the challenges of climate change and energy security. Our multidisciplinary research programme and strong industry links provide an excellent foundation for your Energy PhD study. Our graduates are employed by the world's foremost academic, industry and governmental institutions.

  9. Prospective Graduates

    Application Deadline for 2024-2025 Intake: December 1, 2023. Applications open in Fall 2023. The Department of Economics offers two degree tracks: a Master of Quantitative Economics (MQE) and a PhD in Economics. This page provides information on the admission process for the doctoral program. Students who are accepted into our doctoral program ...

  10. UCL Journal of Economics

    The UCL Journal of Economics is the official peer-reviewed, student-run journal of the UCL Department of Economics. In line with UCL's philosophy of a research focused approach to education, it aims to provide a platform for undergraduate economists at UCL and worldwide to showcase their rigorous economic research, regardless of background or ...

  11. Economics, M.Sc.

    The Economics MSc at University College London (UCL) will equip the professional economist with the powerful tools required to understand the rapidly changing, complex, and uncertain modern world economy. UCL. London , England , United Kingdom. Top 0.1% worldwide. Studyportals University Meta Ranking.

  12. PhD Economics admissions FAQs

    There is a strict application deadline for the PhD Economics 2024 entry. All applicants are advised to read the MRes/PhD Economics 2024 prospectus page. Admissions FAQs (2024 entry) Below you will find various FAQS categorised by application, post application, funding and programme queries. Application queries.

  13. Ph.D. in Economics

    The Ph.D. in economics of UCLouvain prepares candidate for research and teaching positions in academia and private or public organizations across the world. The Ph.d.D program is built as a three-year training program (180 ECTS). The school offers doctoral students a broad choice of advanced courses in various fields of economics. The objective is twofold: confronting students

  14. FAQs

    For the internet-based TOEFL (TOEFL iBT), the minimum total passing score is 87. The Graduate Division has a list of minimum score requirements for each section of the exam, but these minimum section score requirements are not enforced-only the total passing score of 87. An IELTS overall band score of at least 7.0 is the minimum required.

  15. PhD Programme in Financial Economics

    Overview. Start date: September 2023 Duration: 5 years (1 year MRes + 4 years PhD) Fees: We offer fully-funded scholarships to all admitted students who have applied by the 15 February 2023 (see details below) Application deadline: 15 February 2023 (late applications may still be considered, see details below) Entry: Applicants must hold a distinction in a master's degree in Economics or a ...

  16. MRes/PhD in Economics and Management

    Tuition fees 2024/25 for MRes/PhD in Economics and Management. 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.

  17. MRes/PhD Economics

    Minimum entry requirements for MRes/PhD Economics. An upper second class honours (2:1) degree (or equivalent) in any field. Some preparation in economics, a strong mathematics background and evidence of research potential are essential. The goal of the MRes/PhD Economics is to train first class researchers.