Overview

The Ph.D. program in economics trains highly qualified professional economists for careers in teaching and research in colleges and universities and in research and administration in government and private organizations. The curriculum is built around a rigorous core of economic theory and econometrics, followed by specialized study in at least two of the following areas of concentration: advanced macroeconomics, advanced microeconomics, econometrics, industrial organization, international economics, labor and income distribution, and public economics. Following completion of the core and elective coursework, students engage in dissertation research under the close supervision of faculty. Ordinarily, the program requires at least four years of full-time study.

Located in the capital of New York State, the University offers several internship opportunities with government agencies and other institutions for the purpose of providing practical training and experience. In addition, there are various opportunities to work closely with faculty on funded research projects.

Nearly all graduates of the program have obtained positions as professional economists. Many Ph.D. recipients teach in colleges and universities in the U.S. and abroad. Other graduates work as research economists in government and international agencies, as well as in banking, finance, communications and health care.

Prerequisites

It is not necessary to have an undergraduate degree in economics to apply to the program. However, applicants are expected to have completed a one year sequence in intermediate economic theory, three semesters of calculus, and one semester of linear algebra. While not required, some training in mathematical statistics is highly recommended. For those whose undergraduate training in economics and mathematics is deficient, courses are available during the summer session prior to entering the program.

All applicants for the doctoral program must present official Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores for the verbal, quantitative, and analytical tests. Applicants who are not residents of the United States may be exempted from this requirement by the Graduate Studies Committee of the Department if they reside in countries where GRE examinations are not administered. Foreign students whose native language is not English are required to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) administered by the Educational Testing Service, Princeton, New Jersey, U.S.A. The University now accepts IELTS scores as a substitute for TOEFL scores. Students enrolled as full-time students for a minimum of two semesters in U.S. colleges do not have to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. Each application is evaluated on its individual merits by the Economics Department. The applicant's academic record, letters of recommendation, and GRE scores all weigh heavily in the decision.

Admissions requirements for both programs are described at the Department website and in the Graduate Bulletin. In particular, it is not necessary to have an undergraduate degree in economics. To be guaranteed consideration for financial aid, admission and financial aid application forms should be received by February 15. Thereafter, financial aid applications will be considered only as funds become available. Students are normally notified of admission and financial aid decisions by April 15.

New for Fall 2007: Students who are admitted to the PhD program and register (i.e. matriculate)for courses will be reimbursed their admissions fees.

Financial Aid

Most Ph.D. students receive financial support from the University in the form of a graduate assistantship or fellowship for up to four years. For the academic year 2007-08, assistantships and fellowships for first year students provide full tuition relief and a stipend of $12,000. In addition, teaching opportunities are available for senior graduate students.