Ph.D. Program in Detail

Students who complete the Ph.D. program should have a thorough understanding of the principles of economic theory and its applications in various fields, along with an ability to think systematically about, and apply quantitative methods to, economic problems. The program gives equal emphasis to these two goals with formal courses and examinations, seminars, workshops, papers, and the dissertation. Students typically spend most of their first two years in course work, at the end of which they take the general examinations. The second two years are used to prepare their dissertations, although both shorter and longer periods are not uncommon.

Throughout the program, there are formal provisions for students to engage in original research work. The economic history requirement, typically met in the first year, involves a term paper. During the second year, each student must prepare a research paper to complete the requirement in econometrics. Moreover, in the first two years, term papers are required in some subjects. The Department also offers students the option to satisfy one of the minor field requirements through a program of supervised research. Students are also encouraged to take part in workshops in their fields of primary interest.

After passing the general examinations, the only continuing classroom obligation is to participate actively in the weekly meetings of the workshop and lunch in the student.s field of research. Otherwise, thesis-writing students devote their time to their doctoral dissertations under faculty supervision.

After passing the general examinations, the only continuing classroom obligation is to participate actively in the weekly meetings of the workshop and lunch in the student's field of research. Otherwise, thesis-writing students devote their time to their doctoral dissertations under faculty supervision.