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Department of Economics Economics

 

In this section, we are going to focus on being a competitive applicant for top Economics PhD programs.  We want our very best undergraduates to have a chance to get into these highly competitive programs right after completing an undergraduate degree.  Preparing for graduate school in Economics can often be a confusing process for students.  The goal of this webpage is to illuminate this process and clarify what is required to be a competitive applicant.  While we emphasize the importance of taking difficult mathematics courses, in general, as you choose less selective Economics PhD programs, you can take fewer upper division mathematics classes and still be a competitive applicant. 

Of course, a PhD in Economics is not for everyone and we want you to pursue a career path that is right for YOU.  For great resources about careers, please see UCSD Career Services Center.

There are also many PhD and MA programs outside of economics (in finance, business, public policy, data analytics, business analytics, data science, etc.) that you may be more interested in and be well qualified for.  Please speak with our Vice Chair for Undergraduate Education and other economics faculty about any higher education program you are interested in and get their advice about what it will take for you to be to be a competitive applicant.

We are all excited to see you succeed - whichever path you choose!

First Steps

A key requirement for earning a PhD is that your dissertation provides new knowledge that moves out the frontier of the profession

Why earn a PhD in Economics?

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The key thing you need to know is that PhD programs in economics are highly mathematical

How to Prepare for a PhD in Economics

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It is a great idea to talk to someone who was just in your shoes not too long ago!

Talking to a UCSD grad

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Preparing your Application

Conducting Research with a professor or graduate student will help prepare you for graduate school and can help you gain useful letters of recommendation

Research Experience

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Letters from faculty members who know you well are the most useful letters for gaining admission to top 30 PhD and MA programs

Getting Useful Letters of Recommendation

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While the prompts vary across schools, generally a personal statement will ask you to describe your research interests, qualifications, and career goals.

Writing Personal Statements

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More Resources

Even though most graduate programs come with funding, it is potentially a good idea to apply for outside funding as well

PhD Student Funding

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FAQs

Read the common questions about Economics Phd programs

FAQs

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Advice and more information from some external sources

Helpful Links

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