Georgetown University

What you'll study

The PhD programme combines core doctoral economics training with specialised coursework and research in environmental economics and policy. Early years emphasise advanced microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, and econometrics, together with mathematical methods for economists. Specialised topics typically include environmental and resource economics, the economics of climate change, benefit–cost analysis, natural resource management, energy economics, environmental regulation and policy design, and non-market valuation methods.

Students take seminars in applied econometrics and programme evaluation techniques (panel data, instrumental variables, difference-in-differences, causal inference, structural modelling) that are essential for empirical work on environmental policy. Research methods courses cover field and experimental methods when relevant. The programme culminates in a substantial original dissertation that contributes to scholarly understanding of environmental problems and policy responses.

• Core doctoral courses: microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, econometrics, and mathematical economics
• Field courses: environmental and resource economics, climate economics, energy economics, public economics, natural resource modelling
• Empirical methods: causal inference, programme evaluation, time series and panel methods, computational techniques
• Research activities: dissertation seminar, working paper presentations, and participation in research centres or policy labs

Structure

The standard structure includes a two- to three-year coursework phase with comprehensive or qualifying examinations, followed by a period focused on dissertation research and defence. Students regularly present work at departmental seminars and are encouraged to collaborate with faculty on policy-relevant projects. Interdisciplinary opportunities allow students to take courses or affiliate with centres across the university that focus on environmental science, law, public policy and energy.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have an excellent academic record and strong preparation in quantitative subjects. Typical prerequisites include multivariable calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics, and intermediate microeconomics and econometrics. Many successful applicants hold a master's degree in economics or a related quantitative discipline, though outstanding candidates with a strong bachelor’s background and research experience are also considered.

Application materials generally include a statement of purpose outlining research interests (with emphasis on environmental economics or policy questions), a curriculum vitae, official transcripts, academic letters of recommendation, and a sample of academic writing or research. Applicants whose first language is not English must meet the university’s English proficiency requirements. Departments may request GRE scores or other evidence of quantitative aptitude; prospective applicants should consult the programme for current testing policies.

Career prospects

Graduates move into research-focused careers across academia, government, international organisations, think tanks, non-governmental organisations and the private sector. Typical roles include university faculty and postdoctoral researchers, economic analysts for environmental and energy agencies, policy advisers in national and international institutions, researchers at environmental think tanks, and consultants in environmental economics and resource management.

Alumni work on designing and evaluating climate policies, estimating the costs and benefits of environmental regulation, advising on energy transitions, modelling resource management strategies, and translating economic analysis into actionable policy recommendations for stakeholders.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown’s location in Washington, D.C. provides direct access to national and international policy institutions, regulatory agencies, and a dense network of think tanks and NGOs, creating exceptional opportunities for policy-relevant research and internships. The university encourages interdisciplinary collaboration across its schools and centres, enabling students to combine economic analysis with law, public policy, environmental science and international affairs.

Faculty at Georgetown work on a broad range of environmental and public-economics topics and supervise doctoral research that engages both cutting-edge empirical methods and pressing policy questions. Students benefit from an active seminar series, access to policy datasets, and opportunities to participate in collaborative projects with research centres focused on energy, climate and sustainability.