University of Amsterdam

Overview

The Equilibrium, Expectations and Dynamics PhD programme at the University of Amsterdam offers a rigorous exploration of advanced mathematical and computational techniques in economic theory. The programme emphasizes the interplay of expectations, learning, and strategic interactions in shaping real-world economic outcomes.

Research within this programme spans theoretical frameworks, computational analysis, and empirical validation using both laboratory experiments and real-world datasets.

What you'll study

The curriculum is structured around five interconnected research themes, allowing PhD candidates to focus on a primary theme while integrating methodologies from others as necessary:

• Equilibrium theory: Investigating the existence, refinement, and stability of equilibrium in economic models.
• Game theory & Industrial organisation: Analyzing strategic interactions, competition, market structures, and incentives.
• Expectations and learning: Studying belief formation and learning dynamics, along with their effects on market behavior.
• Nonlinear economic dynamics: Exploring dynamic systems, nonlinear behaviors, and the mechanisms that produce complex economic outcomes.
• Dynamic optimisation: Focusing on optimal control, dynamic decision-making, and computational solutions to economic problems.

Doctoral research supervision: Candidates must engage with a professor affiliated with UvA to supervise their research, and securing a supervisor agreement is a prerequisite for application.

Research outputs: PhD candidates are expected to formulate a research plan, conduct original studies, and contribute to academic literature through publications and conference presentations, with specific expectations varying by track and supervisor.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

• Admission to the doctoral programme necessitates securing a supervisor from UvA who agrees to oversee your research.
• Candidates must possess a Dutch Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification. Those with foreign degrees may need to apply for an exemption from educational requirements before applying for admission.

English requirements

• TOEFL iBT: A minimum score of 100 or equivalent proof of English proficiency is required, as specified by the programme.

Application documents (typical)

• Proof of prior degrees and transcripts
• English language test results (if required)
• Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Motivation letter and/or research proposal

Career prospects

Graduates of the Equilibrium, Expectations and Dynamics programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, research institutions, and private or public sector organizations. The skills developed during the programme—such as advanced analytical thinking and quantitative research abilities—are highly valued across a variety of fields, including finance, consulting, and economic policy-making.