Program Overview
Economics, PhD
The Doctor of Philosophy program in economics offers rigorous training in microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, applied economics, and econometrics. Students may select a primary area of specialization for study, including:
- applied microeconomics
- econometrics
- economic theory
- environmental and resource economics
- financial economics
- macroeconomics
This full-time doctoral program prepares students for teaching and research positions at four-year institutions of higher education and for research positions in public agencies or private business organizations.
Program Description
The program is relatively small, with about 45 doctoral students in residence at any time. The low student-to-faculty ratio affords students greater faculty attention and mentoring than larger programs. Students become valued members of the department, involved in teaching, research, and seminar activities.
At a Glance
- College/school: W. P. Carey School of Business
- Location: Tempe
- STEM-OPT extension eligible: Yes
Degree Requirements
The program requires 84 credit hours, a written comprehensive exam, an oral comprehensive exam, a prospectus, and a dissertation. In addition to completing 60 credit hours beyond the bachelor's degree (30 credit hours beyond the master's degree) and 24 credit hours of research and dissertation, the doctoral student must accomplish five tasks:
- Meet the qualifying examination requirement.
- Present at least one area of emphasis.
- Pass the comprehensive examination (both written and oral components).
- Pass the dissertation proposal defense.
- Complete a dissertation with an oral defense.
Admission Requirements
- General university admission requirements: All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.
- Applicants must have earned a bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution.
- Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program or a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in an applicable master's degree program.
- All applicants must submit:
- graduate admission application and application fee
- official transcripts
- GRE scores
- three letters of recommendation
- proof of English proficiency
Tuition Information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Career Opportunities
Graduates with a W. P. Carey School of Business doctorate in economics embark on careers in research and academia, learning from thought leaders in their respective fields and gaining the resources of one of the largest universities in the U.S. Career opportunities include:
- assistant professor
- economist
- research associate
Research Areas
The program offers research opportunities in various areas, including:
- applied microeconomics
- econometrics
- economic theory
- environmental and resource economics
- financial economics
- macroeconomics
Additional Information
The program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension. The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing a degree through ASU Online.