Syracuse University

What you'll study

The programme combines core doctoral training in economic theory and econometrics with specialised coursework and research in environmental and natural‑resource economics and public policy. Students typically complete advanced microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, and graduate econometrics in the first years to build the tools needed for empirical and theoretical work.

Typical specialised modules and topics include:

• Environmental and resource economics: valuation of environmental goods, non-market valuation methods, renewable and non‑renewable resource modelling
• Applied environmental econometrics: causal inference, panel and spatial methods, policy evaluation techniques
• Climate economics and policy: modelling climate impacts, adaptation and mitigation policy instruments, carbon pricing
• Public economics and regulation: environmental regulation design, taxation, subsidies and market‑based instruments
• Natural‑resource management and ecological economics: fisheries, forestry, water economics, ecosystem services
• Computational and numerical methods used in dynamic resource models and integrated assessment modelling
• Interdisciplinary seminars linking economics to public policy, geography, engineering and environmental science

The PhD follows a typical structure of coursework and seminars, a qualifying or comprehensive examination, development of a dissertation proposal, and dissertation research and defence. Students are expected to engage in research projects with faculty, present at seminars and conferences, and often gain teaching experience as graduate instructors.

Entry requirements

Admission is competitive and seeks applicants with a strong quantitative background and clear research potential. Typical requirements include:

• A bachelor's degree with strong academic performance; a master's degree in economics or a related quantitative field is advantageous
• Substantial preparation in calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics, and intermediate microeconomics and econometrics
• Evidence of quantitative and empirical skills—this may include prior coursework, a thesis or research projects, or relevant work experience
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to research potential
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests in environmental economics and policy and fit with faculty expertise, and a curriculum vitae

Standardised test requirements and other application components vary; applicants should consult the programme's admissions guidance for current details and recommended preparation.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD in Economics specialising in Environmental Economics and Policy pursue a broad range of careers where rigorous economic analysis of environmental questions is valued. Common career destinations include:

• Academic positions in economics, environmental studies, public policy and related departments
• Research economist roles at government agencies (environmental protection, natural resources, energy departments) and regulatory bodies
• Analyst and researcher positions at international organisations and multilateral development banks working on climate, environment and resource policy
• Think tanks and policy institutes focused on environmental policy, climate change and sustainable development
• Consulting firms offering environmental, energy and policy advisory services to public and private clients
• Industry research roles in utilities, energy companies, NGOs and environmental NGOs where economic modelling and policy evaluation are required

Why study at Syracuse University

Syracuse University offers PhD candidates strong doctoral training in economics together with interdisciplinary links to public policy, environmental science and engineering. Students benefit from close mentorship by faculty engaged in applied and theoretical research on environmental, resource and climate economics, and from a research environment that emphasises policy relevance.

The university provides opportunities to collaborate across departments and with policy‑focused centres, attend regular research seminars, and gain teaching experience. Facilities and support for doctoral research include access to research computing, data resources, and funding opportunities for conference travel and research. The programme is designed to prepare graduates for influential roles in research, policy and practice related to environmental and resource challenges.