Columbia University

What you'll study

The PhD programme combines a solid core in economic theory and econometrics with specialised coursework and research in environmental economics and policy. In the early years you will take intensive graduate-level microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, mathematical methods for economists and advanced econometrics. Field courses cover topics such as environmental and resource economics, climate economics, public economics, industrial organisation and energy economics.

Later-stage study emphasises independent research: you will complete field seminar work, present working papers in department and interdisciplinary seminars, and progress to a dissertation under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Coursework and research topics commonly include valuation of environmental goods, cost–benefit analysis of climate policy, carbon pricing and permit markets, integrated assessment modelling, empirical methods for causal inference in environmental settings, natural resource management and policy evaluation.

Students have opportunities to collaborate with Columbia’s interdisciplinary centres and units that intersect with environmental work, including research groups focused on climate, energy and development, and to draw on data and computing resources for large-scale empirical or model-based projects.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants normally hold an excellent undergraduate degree in economics, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or a related quantitative discipline; many applicants also hold a masterdegree. Strong preparation in multivariable calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics, and undergraduate-level microeconomics and econometrics is expected. Evidence of prior research potential — such as research assistantships, independent projects, or coursework with substantial quantitative components — strengthens an application.

Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests, several letters of academic reference, and examples of any prior research (for instance, term papers or working papers). Applicants should consult the department's admissions pages for current requirements on standardised tests and language proficiency, where applicable.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Economics with a specialisation in environmental economics and policy pursue a range of careers. Many enter academic careers as faculty or postdoctoral researchers in economics, environmental studies, public policy or related departments. Others join policy and research institutions, such as central government agencies, environmental and energy ministries, intergovernmental organisations and public research labs, contributing to policy design, evaluation and modelling.

There are strong opportunities in non‑academic research and consultancy: environmental and economic consultancies, think tanks, energy companies, and market design firms hire PhD economists to work on emissions trading, regulatory impact assessment, environmental valuation and climate risk. Some graduates move into data science, quantitative finance and industry analytics roles where advanced econometric and modelling skills are in demand.

Why study at Columbia University

Columbia offers an environment that connects a leading economics department with a wide network of interdisciplinary centres and policy-focused institutes. Students benefit from proximity to major policy organisations, non-governmental organisations and a diverse private sector in New York City, which can facilitate internships, collaborations and access to applied data sources.

The department provides rigorous training, regular research seminars, and close faculty mentorship, while cross‑registration and collaboration with adjacent schools and centres allow students to combine economic theory and methods with applied knowledge in climate science, energy systems and public policy. This combination is particularly valuable for students aiming to produce policy‑relevant research and to move between academic and applied careers.