G-ECON-PHD - Economics - PhD

In their first year of study, Economics PhD students complete a two-semester sequence of first-year core courses spanning microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. Students are required to meet qualifying criteria in each of these core sequences either by achieving sufficiently high marks, or by achieving a passing grade on the corresponding core subject qualifying exam administered in the summer. During the second and third years, students complete courses in major- and minor-area fields, leading to successful completion of a field paper, field exam, and, by the end of the third year, the preliminary exam. Following successful completion of the preliminary exam, students continue their research and coursework to prepare for their dissertation defense, typically conducted during the 5th or 6th year.

For more information about program requirements and fields of study, please see the Economics PhD Program Requirements page.