Introduction to the PhD Program in Quantitative Economics

The PhD program in Quantitative Economics at Peking University HSBC Business School (PHBS) was launched in fall 2018. The core philosophy of the program is to empower PhD candidates by teaching them modern research tools in economics in a patient and solid manner. Initiated by the Sargent Institute of Quantitative Economics and Finance (SIQEF), this program focuses on fundamental training as well as applications of modern research tools.

Program Overview

The international Economics PhD program at PHBS is a four-year full-time program for Master-Degree holders. It is designed to give students the skills necessary to succeed in a career as a researcher working for universities, research institutions, or financial/high-tech industries. The program provides students with a solid theoretical foundation and in-depth quantitative training in economics. Graduates are expected to be both innovative and insightful in analyzing economy-wide phenomena and are able to research and analyze independently.

Program Details

• Program Area: Quantitative Economics (full-time study)
• Program Length: The program lasts four years for Master-Degree holders.
• Program Teaching Language: English

Admissions

Admissions for the 2026 cohort are open and close on February 28, 2026.

Fee & Finances

The tuition fee for the doctoral program of 2026 intake will be released soon. Students can apply for the Chinese Government Scholarship through the China Embassy in their home countries and the PHBS-sponsored school scholarship.

Program Features

• Nobel Laureate: Thomas Sargent, the 2011 Nobel laureate in economics, is the director of the Sargent Institute of Quantitative Economics and Finance (SIQEF).
• High-Level Conferences and Seminars: SIQEF holds seminars and international conferences, inviting scholars across the globe to share their research findings and discuss various economics and finance topics.
• Abundant Opportunities: Students can opt to work on one of the ongoing research projects at SIQEF.
• Comprehensive Curriculum: Courses are designed by Sargent, selecting chapters from various textbooks and condensing them into a coherent and comprehensive curriculum.

Sargent Institute of Quantitative Economics and Finance (SIQEF)

The institute strives to put mathematics and statistics at the service of quantitative analysis of questions about economics, finance, and government policy. The purpose is to learn, teach, and apply an array of methods made possible by the availability of powerful and inexpensive computational methods and large data sets.

Peking University

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Overview:

Peking University (PKU) is a prestigious and comprehensive research university located in Beijing, China. It is one of the most renowned universities in the country and is known for its strong academic programs, world-class faculty, and vibrant campus life.

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Services Offered:

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

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Key Reasons to Study There:

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Academic Programs:

PKU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Education:

A variety of undergraduate programs across various disciplines.

Graduate Education:

Master's and Doctoral programs in various fields.

International Flagship Programs:

Specialized programs like the HSBC Business School (PHBS), Yenching Academy, Belt & Road Institute, School of Transnational Law, PKU International Summer Institute, and Institute of South-South Cooperation and Development.

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Other:

The context highlights PKU's commitment to research and innovation, with sections dedicated to "Scientific Research Dynamic," "Research Organizations," and "Journals." It also mentions the university's international development strategy reform and its focus on collaboration.