University of Arizona

What you'll study

The PhD programme combines core doctoral training in economic theory and econometrics with specialised coursework and research in environmental and natural resource economics. Early years emphasise advanced microeconomic theory, dynamic macroeconomics where relevant, and high-level econometric methods for causal inference and programme evaluation.

• Core doctoral modules: Advanced microeconomic theory, advanced econometrics, game theory, and research methods.
• Environmental specialism modules: Environmental and natural resource economics, valuation of environmental goods, climate economics, resource management and renewable resource theory, applied environmental econometrics, and policy design and evaluation.
• Methods and tools: Panel data methods, quasi-experimental techniques (difference-in-differences, regression discontinuity, instrumental variables), spatial econometrics, cost–benefit analysis and computational methods for dynamic models.
• Interdisciplinary options: Students can take courses or seminars in related units including ecology, hydrology, public policy, geography, Indigenous studies and law to support empirical and policy-relevant research.

Programme structure typically includes two years of coursework and seminars, followed by qualifying exams or a doctoral portfolio requirement, and then concentrated dissertation research under supervision. Students present research in departmental seminars and are expected to participate in collaborative projects with faculty and affiliated research centres.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants normally hold a strong undergraduate degree in economics, mathematics, statistics or a related discipline; many have a master's degree with substantial quantitative training. Essential preparation includes coursework in intermediate microeconomics, multivariable calculus, linear algebra and introductory econometrics. Practical experience with data analysis and programming (for example Stata, R, Python) is highly desirable.

• Academic transcripts: Evidence of high academic performance in quantitative subjects.
• Research potential: A statement of purpose outlining research interests in environmental economics and a writing sample or evidence of prior research strengthens an application.
• References: Strong letters of recommendation from academic referees who can judge your research ability.
• Standardised tests and English: Where required, applicants provide standardised test scores and proof of English language proficiency; specific requirements should be checked on the department website.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for research and policy roles that require advanced economic analysis of environmental issues. Typical career destinations include:

• Academic positions in economics, environmental economics or interdisciplinary environmental programmes.
• Research roles in national and state government agencies dealing with environmental regulation, natural resource management, energy and climate policy.
• Analyst or specialist roles at international organisations and multilateral development banks focused on environment, climate finance and resource policy.
• Positions in think tanks, NGOs and advocacy groups conducting policy evaluation, cost–benefit analysis and impact assessment.
• Consulting and private-sector roles advising on environmental risk, regulatory compliance, carbon markets and natural capital valuation.

Why study at University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers a research-intensive environment with strong faculty expertise in environmental and resource economics, econometrics and policy analysis. The department fosters interdisciplinary collaboration with campus centres and institutes focused on the environment, water science, climate and border-region studies, providing rich empirical settings for applied research.

Located in a semi-arid region with pressing water, land-use and cross-border environmental challenges, the university provides unique opportunities for fieldwork and policy-relevant projects. Doctoral students benefit from regular departmental seminars, opportunities to teach and mentor undergraduates, and access to data, laboratory and computing resources to support rigorous empirical work and policy engagement.