University of Pennsylvania

Overview

The PhD in Applied Economics at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School equips students with the necessary skills to engage in advanced research using both theoretical and empirical methodologies. This program allows students to customize their learning experience across various essential fields, including labor economics, health economics, environmental economics, market design, public economics, and behavioral economics.

What You'll Study

Programme Structure

• Core training and research development:
  • Foundational theory: Microeconomic Theory; Macroeconomic Theory
  • Applied economics fields: Development Economics; Behavioral Economics; Public Economics and Political Economy; Urban Economics and Real Estate
  • Industry and policy applications: Industrial Economics and Business Regulation; Market Design
• Student progression:
  • Coursework: Designed to enhance economic intuition and analytical skills essential for dissertation research.
  • Research seminars: Engage with faculty to refine research questions and methodologies.
  • Dissertation: Complete a doctoral dissertation grounded in original research, after meeting program milestones.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options:
  • Select additional electives that align with research interests, including courses from other Wharton departments to enrich interdisciplinary knowledge.

Entry Requirements

• Academic background: A robust undergraduate degree or relevant graduate coursework in economics or a closely related quantitative discipline is generally expected.
• Standardized tests: GRE and/or GMAT scores may be required, depending on the admissions policy for doctoral applicants.
• English proficiency: TOEFL iBT or IELTS scores are necessary for applicants whose prior education was not conducted in English.
• Letters of recommendation: Multiple academic references that highlight your research potential and preparation.
• Transcripts & academic history: Submission of official transcripts and a record of previous coursework.
• Essays: Written statements that demonstrate research interests, preparation, and fit for the program.
• Application fee: Required at the time of application submission.

Note: Minimum GPA thresholds and specific test-score requirements may vary. It is advisable to check the latest admissions instructions for the Wharton PhD program.

Career Prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Applied Economics program are well-prepared for diverse career paths. They can pursue roles in academia, government agencies, and private sector organizations, contributing to policy development, research, and economic analysis. The rigorous training and research experience gained during the program equip them with the analytical skills needed to address complex economic issues and inform decision-making in various contexts.