Texas A&M University - College Station

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous core training in microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory and econometrics with advanced elective courses and original research leading to a doctoral dissertation. Early years emphasise coursework and methodological foundations: graduate-level micro, macro and econometrics, mathematical methods, and probability/statistics. Students usually take field courses in areas such as applied microeconomics, labour economics, public economics, development, industrial organisation, health economics, environmental and resource economics, energy economics and financial economics.

Alongside coursework, students participate in departmental seminars and research workshops, complete qualifying (or comprehensive) examinations to demonstrate mastery of core material, and develop a research agenda under the supervision of faculty advisers. The latter stages focus on dissertation research, which involves proposing, conducting and defending original empirical or theoretical work. Teaching assistantships and opportunities for research assistant work with faculty are integral parts of the training and help develop pedagogical and project-management skills.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree in economics, mathematics, statistics, or a closely related field; a master's degree is beneficial but not always required. Typical preparation includes intermediate and advanced coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, multivariable calculus and linear algebra. Evidence of quantitative ability and prior research experience (for example, honours projects, independent study, or research assistant roles) strengthens an application.

Applications normally require official academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a personal statement outlining research interests, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees familiar with the applicant's scholarly potential. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests unless they qualify for an institutional exemption. Submitting GRE scores can be helpful where requested by the department but applicants should consult the department for current testing expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue careers across academia, government, international organisations and the private sector. Many alumni obtain faculty positions at universities and liberal arts colleges, while others join central banks, federal and state government agencies, international institutions, and policy research organisations. In the private sector, graduates find roles in economic consulting, finance, data science, market research and strategy, often in positions that value strong empirical and modelling skills.

The programme’s emphasis on empirical methods and applied fields also prepares students for research roles in industry labs, energy and agricultural firms, NGOs and think tanks where expertise in causal inference, forecasting and policy evaluation is in demand.

Why study at Texas A&M University - College Station

Texas A&M offers doctoral students access to a diverse faculty with expertise across theoretical and applied economics, fostering collaboration across departments and research centres. The department supports a broad set of research fields and maintains regular seminars and working groups that expose students to current research and foster networking with visiting scholars.

As a large public research university, Texas A&M provides extensive research resources, computing facilities and access to datasets used in applied economic work. Doctoral students typically receive financial support through teaching and research assistantships, which provide professional development in teaching and research. The department also focuses on professional placement, helping students prepare for the academic job market and careers outside academia through mentorship and training in research presentation, publishing and pedagogical skills.

Students benefit from the wider university environment, including interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities with related departments and institutes, as well as the broader professional community in Texas and beyond.