Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

The programme combines core PhD training in microeconomic theory and econometrics with specialised coursework and research in environmental and resource economics, and policy analysis. In the first years students typically complete intensive courses in microeconomic theory (advanced consumer and producer theory, game theory), macroeconomics as relevant, and graduate econometrics (time series, panel data, causal inference).

• Field courses in environmental and resource economics covering topics such as externalities and public goods, natural resource management, renewable and non‑renewable resource models, climate economics, valuation methods, and energy economics.
• Applied and theoretical seminars in environmental policy design, regulation, market instruments, and property rights; coursework often addresses welfare analysis and the design of incentives for pollution control and conservation.
• Advanced empirical methods emphasising causal inference, programme evaluation, spatial econometrics, and integrated assessment modelling where relevant to climate and energy applications.
• Interdisciplinary electives drawing on ecology, law and public policy, or energy systems modelling; opportunities to engage with applied projects and field data collection.
• Research practicum: preparation of working papers, presentation in research seminars, and progression to a doctoral dissertation on an original empirical or theoretical research question in environmental economics or policy.

Programme structure normally features two to three years of coursework and qualifying/field examinations followed by dissertation research under the supervision of faculty advisors. Students participate in departmental and field seminars, present working papers, and often collaborate with interdisciplinary centres on campus.

Entry requirements

• A strong academic record with prior training in economics or a quantitatively rigorous discipline. Applicants usually hold a bachelor’s degree in economics, mathematics, statistics, engineering, or a related social science; a master’s degree is an advantage but not always required.
• Prior coursework in calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics, intermediate microeconomics and econometrics is expected. Demonstrated quantitative ability is essential.
• Application materials typically include academic transcripts, a CV, a statement of research interests that explains fit with environmental economics, and three letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees familiar with the applicant’s research potential.
• Standardised test requirements vary by intake and department policy; applicants should check the department’s admissions pages for current details on the GRE and English language testing. Relevant research or work experience in environmental policy, fieldwork, or empirical analysis strengthens an application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Economics with a focus on environmental economics and policy pursue a wide range of careers. Common paths include:

• Academic positions at research universities and liberal arts colleges, conducting teaching and research in environmental and resource economics.
• Research economist and policy analyst roles in government agencies at national or subnational level (for example environmental protection and energy departments), and in international organisations concerned with climate and development.
• Roles in think tanks, non‑governmental organisations and advocacy groups advising on environmental regulation, climate policy, conservation and sustainable development.
• Analyst and consultant positions in private sector firms, particularly in energy, natural resources, environmental markets, and regulatory economics; roles in environmental finance and impact assessment are also common.

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington offers a strong, research‑intensive economics PhD environment with recognised strengths in microeconomics and econometrics that underpin rigorous work in environmental economics. Students benefit from a collaborative department culture, regular research seminars and close mentorship from faculty engaged in policy‑relevant and theoretical research.

The university’s interdisciplinary centres and initiatives provide additional resources and collaboration opportunities. Notably, the campus hosts research groups and centres focused on common‑pool resources, environmental resilience and public policy that facilitate cross‑disciplinary projects and access to applied datasets. PhD students also gain teaching experience and are typically supported through graduate assistantships, allowing concentrated focus on research.

Bloomington’s research environment, combined with opportunities to engage with regional and national policy communities, makes the programme well suited for students who want to generate policy‑relevant research on climate, energy, natural resources and environmental regulation.