Overview
The Macroeconomics of Inequality program at the University of Bonn offers a comprehensive doctoral research training group (RTG) dedicated to understanding the intricate relationship between economic inequality and macroeconomic outcomes. This program provides an engaging environment for candidates to collaborate with faculty and peers through seminars, workshops, and research-focused reading groups, fostering a deep exploration of how policy can effectively respond to economic disparities.
What you'll study
The RTG emphasizes structured research training alongside regular academic interaction. Participants engage in a variety of activities, including:
- Weekly seminars: Gain insights from academic guests and partake in discussions surrounding current research trends.
- Workshops: Present ongoing research projects, with each candidate expected to share their findings at least once annually.
- Reading groups: Collaborate with faculty and fellow students to discuss recent literature and emerging research ideas.
- Qualifying coursework and exams: Complete coursework and exams comparable to the initial phases of a US-style PhD program, with limited exemptions possible based on prior academic work.
Core research areas include:
- Dimensions of inequality: Investigate which empirical facts about inequality are most relevant to macroeconomic performance using micro data.
- Inequality and the business cycle: Analyze how inequality impacts business-cycle dynamics through heterogeneous-agent modeling and related macroeconomic tools.
- Inequality and financial fragility: Explore the connections between inequality, household balance sheets, and moments of financial stress or crisis.
- Inequality and macroeconomic policies: Formulate policy implications, focusing on monetary, labor-market, and fiscal policies.
Entry requirements
Academic background
- Applicants should possess an educational background equivalent to a Master’s degree in economics with a specialization in economic research.
- This foundation is comparable to completing the first 1.5 years of coursework in a US-style PhD program.
- Exemptions: Minor exemptions may be available based on previous coursework, contingent upon fulfilling any remaining requirements.
English language requirements
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 5.5.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
Additional tests and documents
- GRE: Submission of GRE scores is required and must be no older than 3 years.
- TOEFL: If applicable, TOEFL scores must meet the same age requirement as GRE scores.
Career prospects
Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for a variety of career paths, including academic positions, research roles in governmental and non-governmental organizations, and positions within international financial institutions. The comprehensive training in macroeconomic analysis and policy development equips candidates with the necessary skills to address complex economic issues related to inequality, making them valuable assets in both public and private sectors.