University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

What you'll study

The PhD curriculum centres on core training in microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory and advanced econometrics in the first years, followed by specialised coursework and independent research in environmental economics and policy. Students typically take advanced microeconomic theory (consumer and producer theory, general equilibrium, game theory), dynamic macroeconomics, and sequential courses in econometric theory and applied methods (panel data, time-series, causal inference).

Specialist modules and seminars relevant to environmental economics include topics such as environmental valuation and stated-preference methods, natural resource and common-pool resource economics, climate economics and integrated assessment modelling, environmental regulation and policy design, ecosystem services, and cost–benefit analysis under uncertainty. Students also engage with interdisciplinary coursework or seminars from the UNC Institute for the Environment and related centres to gain exposure to ecology, climate science, law and public policy.

Research training emphasises empirical and theoretical methods. Students will progress from coursework to qualifying examinations and then to dissertation research under supervision. Common research approaches include structural and reduced-form econometric analysis of environmental policy interventions, modelling of dynamic resource systems, and evaluation of market-based instruments such as emissions trading or taxes.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong quantitative background. Typical preparation includes undergraduate or master's level coursework in calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics, intermediate microeconomics and macroeconomics, and introductory econometrics. Many successful applicants hold a masters or honours degree in economics, mathematics, statistics, engineering or a related quantitative field.

Admissions decisions are based on the academic record, letters of recommendation (preferably including at least one from a research supervisor or academic who can comment on quantitative ability), a research statement outlining interests in environmental economics and policy, and a writing sample or evidence of research potential. Prior research experience in environmental topics or relevant policy work is advantageous. English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English.

Funding for PhD students commonly comes through departmental teaching or research assistantships and competitive fellowships; admitted students should consult the department for details on guaranteed support and application procedures for external funding.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue academic careers as faculty and research scholars at universities and research institutions. Many also move into high-level research and policy roles in government agencies (environmental protection agencies, ministries of environment/energy), international organisations (World Bank, UN agencies), environmental NGOs and think tanks.

Other career paths include specialist roles in economic consulting, energy and environmental policy teams in the private sector, data science and quantitative analysis positions that value advanced econometric skills, and leadership positions in public policy design and evaluation. The programme equips graduates with the theoretical grounding and empirical toolkit required for jobs that combine economic analysis with environmental and regulatory expertise.

Why study at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

UNC Chapel Hill offers a PhD environment that pairs strong core economist training with accessible interdisciplinary resources in environmental science and policy. The University hosts institutes and centres focused on environment, health and public policy that provide collaborative opportunities, data resources and seminars to enrich environmental economics research.

The Department of Economics emphasises close faculty supervision and a cohort-based model for doctoral training, enabling intensive mentoring for dissertation projects. Proximity to state and regional policy networks also creates opportunities for applied fieldwork, policy engagement and placements with public agencies and NGOs. Together, these elements make UNC a strong setting for students seeking to develop rigorous, policy-relevant research in environmental economics and policy.