economic development phd programs

PhD Program

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

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

How to apply

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

Meet our students

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

Economic Development Graduate Programs in America

1-25 of 26 results

College of Arts and Science

Nashville, TN •

Vanderbilt University •

Graduate School

Vanderbilt University ,

Graduate School ,

NASHVILLE, TN ,

Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

Los Angeles, CA •

University of Southern California •

University of Southern California ,

LOS ANGELES, CA ,

Cornell University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Ithaca, NY •

Cornell University •

Cornell University ,

ITHACA, NY ,

School of International Service

American University •

Graduate School •

WASHINGTON, DC

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   4

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

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota •

MINNEAPOLIS, MN

• • Rating 4 out of 5   6

College of Arts and Sciences - American University

Graduate school of arts & sciences - georgetown university.

Nw Washington, DC •

Georgetown University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

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

Georgetown University ,

NW WASHINGTON, DC ,

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

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

Read 2 reviews.

Laney Graduate School

Atlanta, GA •

Emory University •

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

Emory University ,

ATLANTA, GA ,

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

Williams College

Williamstown, MA •

WILLIAMSTOWN, MA ,

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Wheelock College of Education and Human Development

Boston, MA •

Boston University •

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   5 reviews

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

Boston University ,

BOSTON, MA ,

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

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

Read 5 reviews.

College of Letters & Science, University of Wisconsin-Madison

Madison, WI •

University of Wisconsin •

• • Rating 4.22 out of 5   9 reviews

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

University of Wisconsin ,

MADISON, WI ,

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

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

Read 9 reviews.

School of Liberal Arts - Tulane University

New Orleans, LA •

Tulane University •

Blue checkmark.

Tulane University ,

NEW ORLEANS, LA ,

Brandeis International Business School

Waltham, MA •

Brandeis University •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   1 review

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

Brandeis University ,

WALTHAM, MA ,

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

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

Read 1 reviews.

Columbian College of Arts & Sciences

Washington, DC •

George Washington University •

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

George Washington University ,

WASHINGTON, DC ,

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

UC San Diego Division of Social Sciences

La Jolla, CA •

University of California - San Diego •

University of California - San Diego ,

LA JOLLA, CA ,

• Sponsored Find Student Loan Options
• Economic Development Graduate Programs
• Public Administration Graduate Programs

American University ,

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   4 reviews

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

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

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

Read 4 reviews.

University of Arizona College of Management

Tucson, AZ •

University of Arizona •

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

University of Arizona ,

TUCSON, AZ ,

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

Josef Korbel School of International Studies

Denver, CO •

University of Denver •

• • Rating 4.79 out of 5   14 reviews

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

University of Denver ,

DENVER, CO ,

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

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

Read 14 reviews.

University of Vermont College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

Burlington, VT •

University of Vermont •

University of Vermont ,

BURLINGTON, VT ,

School of Arts and Sciences - The Catholic University of America

The Catholic University of America •

The Catholic University of America ,

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

Fargo, ND •

North Dakota State University •

North Dakota State University ,

FARGO, ND ,

College of Arts and Sciences - Andrews University

Berrien Springs, MI •

Andrews University •

Andrews University ,

BERRIEN SPRINGS, MI ,

College of Business and Economic Development - University of Southern Mississippi

Hattiesburg, MS •

University of Southern Mississippi •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

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

University of Southern Mississippi ,

HATTIESBURG, MS ,

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

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

College of Arts and Sciences - New Mexico State University

Las Cruces, NM •

New Mexico State University •

New Mexico State University ,

LAS CRUCES, NM ,

Gallaudet University

• • Rating 4.57 out of 5   47 reviews

Doctoral Student: The best part of the Doctor of Audiology program at Gallaudet University is the opportunity to be enveloped in the Deaf community, which is unique for audiology programs in the United States. They provide a different perspective of hearing loss while educating the students in an exceptional manner with clinical and classroom studies. Some things that the program could improve on is communication between the department and students. At times, there are delays in sharing information about deadlines and opportunities. Students can feel rushed and "not in-the-loop" on what is happening in the program which can cause anxiety and uncertainty. ... Read 47 reviews

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

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

Read 47 reviews.

Minneapolis, MN •

• • Rating 4 out of 5   6 reviews

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

Saint Mary's University of Minnesota ,

MINNEAPOLIS, MN ,

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

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

Read 6 reviews.

College of Business and Management - Hope International University

Fullerton, CA •

Hope International University •

Hope International University ,

FULLERTON, CA ,

Showing results 1 through 25 of 26

Best Development Economics Programs

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

Development economists are

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

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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

Econ 3005 graduate student workshop in economic development, location: .

Cassandra Cole (Harvard) TBD Ronak Jain (Harvard) 3G Internet and Human Capital Development (with Samuel Stemper)... Read more about ECON 3005 Graduate Student Workshop in Economic Development

ECON 3012 Graduate Student Workshop in Labor Economics and Public Economics

Stephanie Kestelman  (Harvard University)  "Time to Approve in Real Estate Development"

Louise Paul-Delvaux (Harvard University)... Read more about ECON 3012 Graduate Student Workshop in Labor Economics and Public Economics

Seminar in Finance

Bryan Kelly (Yale University)... Read more about Seminar in Finance

View all Workshops

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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.   

Ph.D. in Economics

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

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

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

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

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Economic Analysis & Policy

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

Low Student-to-Faculty Ratio

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

Flexible and Innovative Program

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

A Top-Ranked School

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

Preparation and Qualifications

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

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

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

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

Economic Analysis & Policy Faculty

Mohammad akbarpour, claudia allende santa cruz, susan athey, lanier benkard, jeremy i. bulow, modibo khane camara, sebastian di tella, rebecca diamond, yossi feinberg, guido w. imbens, charles i. jones, michael ostrovsky, garth saloner, yuliy sannikov, kathryn shaw, andrzej skrzypacz, paulo somaini, juan carlos suárez serrato, takuo sugaya, christopher tonetti, shoshana vasserman, ali yurukoglu, weijie zhong, emeriti faculty, alain c. enthoven, robert j. flanagan, david m. kreps, peter c. reiss, john roberts, a. michael spence, robert wilson, recent publications in economic analysis & policy, an economic framework for vaccine prioritization, pricing power in advertising markets: theory and evidence, career: a foundation model for labor sequence data, recent insights by stanford business, nine stories to get you through tax season, a.i. can help “personalize” policies to reach the right people, stanford gsb faculty share their holiday reading lists, placement director.

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Graduate Program

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

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

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

PhD Program 

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

  MA Program 

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

  Admissions

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

We want to be clear that we understand 

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

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

Application Prerequisites:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Graduate Information

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A completed application consists of: 

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

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

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

  Decisions/Questions

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

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

Economics Request for Information

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Ph.D. Admissions

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Graduate Program

Ph.d. studies at princeton economics.

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

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

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

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

Job Market Placements

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Community Development and Applied Economics

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

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College of Agriculture and Life Sciences

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

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

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

Travis Reynolds, Associate Professor

Dan Tobin, Associate Professor

Trisha Shrum, Assistant Professor

David Conner, Professor

Josh Farley, Professor

Sarah Heiss, Associate Professor

Qingbin Wang, Professor

Anaka Aiyar, Assistant Professor

Joe Ament, Assistant Professor

Kate Mays, Assistant Professor

Benjamin Dangl, Lecturer

Edward McMahon, Adjunct Associate Professor

Pablo Bose, Professor

Stephanie Seguino, Professor Emerita

Gregory Rowangould, Associate Professor

Donna Ramirez-Harrington, Associate Professor

Brian Beckage, Professor

Elizabeth Doran, Research Assistant Professor

Jane Kolodinsky, Professor Emerita

Christopher Koliba, Professor Emeritus

Kelsey Gleason, Assistant Professor

Dana Rowangould, Assistant Professor

Degree Requirements

Milestones, guidelines and timeline to degree completion.

Minimum Degree Requirements

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

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

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

The program’s course of study includes: 

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

15 credit core includes:

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

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

Tuition Information

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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.

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

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Graduate School

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

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

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

Program Snapshot

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

Application Deadlines

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

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

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

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

Dr. Omari Swinton

Gail pritchett, program details.

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

Admission Requirements

Application for admission.

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

GRE Required?

Gre preferred minimums    .

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

GPA Required Minimums    

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

Prerequisite Courses 

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

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

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

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

Reference Requirements     

Evaluator type accepted:

• Professor (Required)
• Supervisor/Manager

Evaluator type not accepted:

• Family Member

PhD in Applied Economics and Management Program

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

Prepare for research-rich careers in academia and industry.

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

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

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

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

Fully Funded

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

STEM-Designated

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

Flexible and Focused

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

Experience-Rich

Partnerships across Cornell give you unprecedented teaching and research opportunities.

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

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

Degree Awarded

PhD in Applied Economics and Management

Program Format

Full-time residential and STEM-designated

Program Duration

Our Curriculum: PhD Course Requirements

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

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

PhD in AEM Concentrations: Developing Your Expertise

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

Environmental, Energy, and Resource Economics (EERE)

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

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

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

Food and Agricultural Economics (FAE)

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

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

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

International & Development Economics (IDE)

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

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

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

Management (MGMT)

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

Real Estate Economics (REE)

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

• Commercial real estate finance
• Investment performance
• Tall buildings

Strategy and Business Economics (SBE)

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

• Digitization
• Human capital management
• Organizational economics

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

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

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

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

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

After the PhD: Careers in Academia and Industry

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

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

VIEW PhD in AEM CAREER OUTCOMES

Your Dissertation: Putting Ideas into Action

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

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

Our Faculty: Research with Industry-Leading Scholars

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

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

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

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

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

Our Community

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

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

Our Expertise

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

LEARN MORE ABOUT DYSON

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

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

Applied Economics FAQ: Your PhD Questions Answered

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

Next Steps: Apply to the Dyson School PhD in AEM

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

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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

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USF Offers a Related Economics Program

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

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Admission & aid.

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• 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 . 

College of Professional Studies

Commerce and economic development.

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

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

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

More Details

Unique features.

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

Program Objectives

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

Career Outlook

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

Unique Transfer Opportunity

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Looking for something different?

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

Program Costs

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

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

Requirements

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

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

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

Admissions Dates

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

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines *

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

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

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

View curriculum

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

Learn About Getting Real World Experience

Our Faculty

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

Youngbok Ryu

Richard Swanson, PhD

Noradeen Farlekas

Mikhail Oet

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

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

Where They Work

• State Street
• Fidelity Investments

What They Do

• Business Development
• Entrepreneurship

What They're Skilled At

• Customer Service
• Project Management
• Strategic Planning

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

Related Articles

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

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• Faculty and Staff

Dominik Balthasar, PhD

• Peace, conflict, and fragility (FCV); development policy; strategic foresight

Associate Professor Academic Program Director, Master in Development Management

Academic background.

• PhD in International Development, London School of Economics and Political Science
• MSc Development Studies (Best Dissertation Award), London School of Economics and Political Science

Professional and Academic Experience

• Independent Consultant, Freelance
• Portfolio Manager, KfW Development Bank
• Sector Economist Peace & Fragility, KfW Development Bank
• Senior Researcher, swisspeace/ Swiss Peace Foundation
• Consultant, Institute of Peace and Security Studies
• Fellow, European Union Institute for Security Studies
• Fellow, United States Institute of Peace
• Fellow, Royal Institute of International Affairs (Chatham House)
• Lecturer, University of Basel
• Consultant, i.a. World Bank, United Nations Development Program, United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, UK Department of International Development, Oxford Analytica, Saferworld
• Researcher, Small Arms Survey
• Teaching Fellow, London School of Economics
• Teaching Fellow, School of Oriental and African Studies

Affiliations, Awards, and Honors

• Research Associate, Overseas Development Institute
• Digital Executive Fellow, Geneva Centre for Security Policy
• Member, Next Generation Foresight Practitioner Network
• Member, Association of Professional Futurists
• Fellow, Global Diplomacy Lab
• Associated Researcher, swisspeace/ Swiss Peace Foundation
• Research Grant, Swiss National Science Foundation
• Transatlantic Post-Doc Fellowship for International Relations and Security
• Post-Doctoral Scholarship, German Academic Exchange Service
• Global Governance 2022 Fellow, Global Public Policy Institute
• Post-Graduate Program for International Affairs Best Dissertation Prize, London School of Economics and Political Science
• German National Academic Foundation
• Cusanuswerk
• Global Public Policy Network Award

Professional Certifications

• Certificate: Foundations in Design Thinking, IDEO U
• Certificate: Oxford Scenarios Programme, Saïd Business School, University of Oxford
• Certificate: General Management for Juniors, Business School of St. Gallen

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Master in Public Administration in International Development

Join the next generation of global development leaders in this two-year, economics-centered program

Key Program Information

Program Length: Two years (varies for students pursuing joint or concurrent degrees)

Degree Awarded: Master in Public Administration in International Development

Admission Application Deadline: December 2024

Financial Aid Application Deadline: January 2025

Contact the MPA/ID Program

79 John F. Kennedy Street Rubenstein Building, Rooms 122, 124, and 126 Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138

Be a leader in global development

The Master in Public Administration in International Development Program combines rigorous training in economics and quantitative methods with an emphasis on policy and practice.

The Master in Public Administration in International Development (MPA/ID) Program offers unparalleled training for a professional career in development. The mix of theoretical rigor with practical approaches has proven to be a powerful combination. Our graduates hold influential policy, advocacy, and management positions at international organizations, national governments, non-governmental organizations, and private sector companies.

The right fit

The MPA/ID Program may be the right fit for you if you:

• Demonstrate commitment to solving the economic, social, or political problems facing low-income communities, regions, or nations 
• Work in the development field, whether in government, nonprofits, central or regional banks, international development institutions, research organizations, or the private sector
• Want to deepen and broaden your understanding of development problems and acquire the analytical tools and global perspectives to design and implement effective solutions

“The MPA/ID Program expanded my perspectives and equipped me with a set of analytical tools to make the impact I seek to have in the world.” — Jiawen Tang MPA/ID 2021

About the MPA/ID Program

Training for development practitioners.

The MPA/ID Program is a rigorous, economics-centered program designed to train the next generation of practitioners and leaders in the field of global development.

Within a multidisciplinary core curriculum,  you will take advanced economics and quantitative methods sequences  with an emphasis on key policy applications to development. You will also complete core courses in economic development, politics, political philosophy, and management—integrated with the theory and practice of development.

In your second year, you’ll choose from elective options at HKS, at the other graduate schools at Harvard—such as  Business ,  Design ,  Education ,  Law , and  Public Health  as well as the  Faculty of Arts and Sciences —and at Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Core Curriculum

• Advanced Microeconomics ( API-109 ,  API-110 )
• Advanced Macroeconomics  ( API-119 ,  API-120 )
• Advanced Statistics and Econometrics ( API-209 ,  API-210 )
• Economic Development: Theory and Evidence ( DEV-101 ,  DEV-102 )
• Applications and Cases in International Development ( DEV-401 )
• The Politics of Development ( DPI-410 )
• Political Philosophy for Development ( DPI-411 )
• Getting Things Done: Management in a Development Context ( MLD-102 )
• Second Year Policy Analysis Seminar ( DEV-250 )

You will gain professional expertise through the case workshop and speaker series, a required summer internship , and an integrative capstone paper .

Second Year Policy Analysis : Using Your Toolkit 

The Second Year Policy Analysis (SYPA) serves as the capstone experience for the MPA/ID Program. You will choose a current development issue of interest to you; select your faculty advisor; and draw on the tools of economics, management, and political analysis to define the problem, analyze the evidence, develop alternatives, and provide specific policy recommendations for a concrete development problem.

Summer Internships : Out of the classroom, into the field

During the summer between your first and second year, you will engage in a development project, typically in a low- to middle-income country other than your own. This field experience allows you to apply the skills you’ve acquired during your first year and explore a new organization, substantive area of interest, or part of the world.

STEM Eligibility

The MPA/ID Program is a designated STEM-eligible program (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Students with F-1 visas may apply to work in the United States for two additional years  beyond the standard 12-month Optional Practical Training (OPT)  following graduation.

Degree Requirements

The MPA/ID Program consists of four semesters of full-time coursework in residence at HKS. The coursework includes the core curriculum, a minimum of six electives (24 credits), a development-related internship, and the Second-Year Policy Analysis.

To graduate, you must:

• Matriculate as a full-time, in-residence student and take 12-24 credits per semester
• Earn at least 76 credits, which must include the required courses, SYPA, and electives
• Finish with a GPA of B or better
• Earn a B- or higher in all required MPA/ID courses

Combined Degrees

You might consider  pursuing a second degree jointly or concurrently  if you’re interested in how the world’s challenges can be addressed at the intersection of international development and business, law, medicine, design, or other fields.

Pursuing a joint or concurrent degree reduces coursework and residency requirements and makes it possible to earn two degrees in a shorter amount of time.

Joint Degrees

As an MPA/ID student, you can pursue a  joint degree —either an MBA at  Harvard Business School  or a JD at  Harvard Law School —that involves carefully crafted and integrated coursework.

Concurrent Degrees

You can pursue a concurrent degree in business, law, medicine, design, or another field—as long as it is:

• A professional degree (for example, an MBA, MD, or JD; not a PhD or an academic master’s degree)
• At least a two-year program
• Completed at a partner school

The concurrent degree program allows you to pursue degrees at HKS and at a partner school; however, the coursework is not as closely integrated as the joint degree program. As a concurrent degree student, you are responsible for weaving together the two halves of your learning experience.

Faculty & Research

Where ideas meet practice.

Our faculty members are changing the ways in which poverty and underdevelopment are analyzed and approached.

MPA/ID faculty members are scholars  and  practitioners working with governments, international organizations, and NGOs. They are  diagnosing economic woes and helping develop cures , bringing  real-world development and political experience  to bear on complex challenges, and helping people  escape poverty  by understanding what hinders development progress.

MPA/ID Faculty Research

Why taxes are vital to development

Economist Anders Jensen has long been intrigued by differences in state capacity and the role of public finance in building and boosting capacity. 

Looking at the world through a wider lens

The thread running through Professor of Public Policy Eliana La Ferrara’s work is an unwillingness to limit herself to traditional microeconomic models.

Diagnosing economic woes and helping develop cures

Professor Ricardo Hausmann’s Growth Lab is training students and practitioners to develop prescriptions for economic growth.

Bringing real-world experience to bear

Juan Jimenez MPA/ID 2010 has returned to HKS to share valuable wisdom gained from high-level development policy positions in the government of the Dominican Republic.

MPA/ID Core Faculty Members

Dani Rodrik

MPA/ID Faculty Chair; Ford Foundation Professor of International Political Economy

Matthew Andrews

Edward S. Mason Senior Lecturer in International Development

Arthur Applbaum

Adams Professor of Political Leadership and Democratic Values

Luis Armona

Assistant Professor of Public Policy

Jeffrey Frankel

James W. Harpel Professor of Capital Formation and Growth

Jeffrey Cheah Professor of South-East Asia Studies

Ricardo Hausmann

Rafik Hariri Professor of the Practice of International Political Economy

Anders Jensen

Associate Professor of Public Policy

Juan Jimenez

Lecturer in Public Policy

Asim Khwaja

Director, Center for International Development;  Sumitomo-FASID Professor of International Finance and Development

Eliana La Ferrara

Professor of Public Policy

Senior Lecturer in Public Policy

Celestin Monga

Adjunct Professor of Public Policy

Gautam Nair

Carmen Reinhart

Minos A. Zombanakis Professor of the International Financial System

Federico Sturzenegger

Our alumni do development differently

Around the world, MPA/ID graduates are in pivotal roles, leading development.

Inside governments and traditional development organizations, and outside the box in startups and social enterprises, MPA/IDs are changing the way development is done.

Our graduates hold influential policy and management positions in a wide range of international organizations, national governments, central and regional banks, nonprofit and research organizations, and private sector companies. 

Where do MPA/ID graduates work?

Learn more about how MPA/ID alumni are shaping development.

Dalia Al Kadi MPA/ID 2011

Dalia Al Kadi MPA/ID 2011 is a Senior Economist in the Macroeconomics, Trade and Investment Global Practice at the World Bank in Washington, D.C. Prior to joining the World Bank, Dalia worked as a Project Manager at the Abu Dhabi General Secretariat of the Executive Council.

Abdulhamid Haidar MPA/ID 2021

Abdulhamid Haidar MPA/ID 2021 is the founder of  Darsel , a non-profit aimed at bridging the digital divide. In Haidar’s words, “The [MPA/ID] curriculum, faculty, and incredible student community all played an integral role in Darsel’s development and its positive impact on education in developing countries.”

Katherine Koh MPA/ID-MBA 2008

Katherine Koh MPA/ID-MBA 2008 is the Principal Investment Officer and Global Climate Lead for Infrastructure at the International Finance Corporation (IFC).  In  Putting Climate at the Heart of IFC Infrastructure Business , she describes “the transition to a low-carbon and resilient global economy—and the need for climate-smart infrastructure solutions—(as) among the most urgent and important issues of our time.”

Johannes Lohmann MPA/ID 2017

Johannes Lohmann MPA/ID 2017 is an Executive Director at Pollination.  Johannes advises a range of public and private sector clients on their transition to net zero, and on decarbonization and nature positive strategies. Previously, Johannes worked as Head of Work and Financial Behaviour at the Behavioural Insights Team, advising public and private sector partners on topics such as green jobs and sustainable pensions.

He “Charlie” Tian MPA/ID 2015

He “Charlie” Tian MPA/ID 2015 is a Senior Professional/Project Team Leader at New Development Bank in the Project Sector Department. He joined the New Development Bank a few weeks after its establishment in 2015. Since then, he has worked on projects in renewable energy, green transportation, and social infrastructure, totaling $5 billion of the Bank’s investments.

Information sessions

Mpa/id at a glance.

*Statistics are based on a five-year average.

Featured MPA/ID stories

A mission to develop equality.

Economist Ganchimeg Ganpurev MPA/ID 2021 was moved to shift her focus by the startling inequality she saw in her homeland.

Complementing economics with soft skills

Isidro Guardarucci MPA/ID 2018 adds soft skills to his economics toolkit.

Delving deeper into development

A desire for more grounding in economic theory led Zainab Raji MPA/ID 2022 to  the HKS/HBS joint degree program.

“Every day is an opportunity to weave together economic theory and development practice using the insights from my professors and classmates’ own professional and personal experiences.”

Miguel ventura mpa/id 2024 (philippines), applying to the mpa/id program, what we look for, career focus.

Most students admitted to the MPA/ID Program have at least two years of development-related work experience in government, nonprofits, central or regional banks, international development institutions, research organizations, or private businesses. Usually at least some of the work has been in developing countries.

Quantitative Analysis

We also look for applicants who are interested in applying quantitative analysis and economics to development policy design.

Prerequisites

To apply to the MPA/ID Program, y ou must have:

• A bachelor’s degree with a solid academic record, including strong grades in economics and mathematics courses
• Completion of at least one university-level course each in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and calculus through multivariable calculus (usually part of a three-course college sequence). Applicants may satisfy some of these prerequisites after submitting an application as long as they are completed before the program starts. Statistics and linear algebra courses are desirable, but not required. 

How to Apply

A complete application to the MPA/ID Program includes: 

• Online application
• Three letters of recommendation
• GRE or GMAT required; in general, you are most competitive for admission if your quantitative section score is 160 or above on the GRE, or 48 or above on the GMAT.
• Non-native English speakers who did not earn an undergraduate degree conducted in English must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English exam results. We recommend an overall TOEFL score of at least 100 on the iBT or an overall band score of 7 on the IELTS.
• Academic transcripts
• $100 application fee or waiver

Read more about how to apply .

The application for the 2025-2026 academic year will be available in September 2024. There is one admission application deadline and one start date for each degree program per year. You may apply to only one master’s degree program per admissions cycle. 

Tuition & Fees

The cost of attendance for the 2024-2025 academic year is outlined in  Funding Your Master’s Education  to help you plan financially for our master’s degree programs. Living expense costs are based on residence in Cambridge. The 2025-2026 academic year rates will be published in March 2025. HKS tuition and fees are subject to change without notice. 

Financing your education is a partnership—we are here to help guide you. You are strongly encouraged to explore all funding opportunities .

Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program

The MPA/ID Program is a  participating program  of the  Joint Japan/World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program  (JJ/WBGSP). The scholarship provides tuition, a monthly living stipend, round-trip airfare, health insurance, and travel allowance. The JJ/WBGSP is open to citizens of certain  developing countries  with relevant professional experience and a history of supporting their countries’ development efforts.

Learn more about the HKS community

Center for international development (cid).

CID is the intellectual home of MPA/ID students and faculty members. It seeks to advance the understanding of development challenges and offer viable solutions to problems of global poverty.  Learn more from its director, Professor Asim Khwaja , and read about the work and perspectives of those in the CID community.

Student Life

Student stories, admissions & financial aid blog.

Local Economic Development, Graduate Certificate Locations    

The Graduate Certificate in Local Economic Development is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the field that will help enrich and guide local practitioners and leaders in their efforts to promote the well-being of their communities. Topics include the history of urban development in the United States, comparisons between types of economic development approaches, public-private partnerships and intergovernmental relations, citizen involvement in economic development policy, quality of life considerations, local land use and planning.

Requirements For: Certificate - 12 Hours, 3.0 GPA

• PA550 - Local Economic Development in Theory and Practice Credits: 3
• PA560 - Approaches to Local Economic Development Credits: 3
• PA580 - Sustainability, Smart Growth and Community Development Credits: 3
• PA590 - Population, Land Use and Municipal Finance Credits: 3

Graduation Requirements

Park University confers Graduate Certificates at selected locations when a candidate has satisfied the following conditions:

• Completion of residency requirement, at least 75% of the coursework completed at Park
• Earn a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0* (for courses in the certificate)
• Completion of coursework with no more than 2 grades of C earned at Park University
• Meet all requirements of the specific program as outlined in this catalog
• Submission of an Application for Graduation

*Individual departments may establish additional (or higher) requirements (refer to the program-specific requirements).