Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced microeconomic theory and empirical methods with specialised topics in environmental and resource economics. Early years are typically devoted to core coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, followed by elective and seminar modules that focus on environmental applications.

• Core courses: advanced microeconomic theory, advanced macroeconomic theory, and econometric methods for causal inference and time-series analysis.
• Environmental specialisation: courses and seminars in natural resource economics, climate economics and policy, environmental valuation, cost–benefit analysis for environmental projects, and regulation and market-based instruments (e.g. taxes, cap-and-trade).
• Applied methods: panel data, program evaluation, spatial econometrics, computational methods, and, when relevant, the use of geographic information systems (GIS) and large environmental datasets.
• Research seminars and workshops: regular departmental seminars, reading groups, and opportunities to present working papers to peers and faculty.
• Research project and dissertation: after completing required coursework and passing qualifying or comprehensive examinations, students undertake original doctoral research under faculty supervision, culminating in a dissertation that contributes to environmental economics and policy debates.
• Professional development: teaching assistantships, opportunities to work on grant-funded projects, and training in grant writing and academic communication.

Entry requirements

Admission is selective and intended for applicants with strong quantitative preparation and demonstrated research potential. Typical expectations include:

• A completed master’s degree in economics, environmental economics, or a closely related discipline; exceptionally well-prepared applicants with a strong bachelor’s degree and extensive quantitative coursework may also be considered.
• Substantial prior coursework in calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics, intermediate microeconomics and macroeconomics, and introductory econometrics.
• A clear research statement describing your interests in environmental economics and policy, and how they align with faculty expertise.
• Academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, and at least two or three academic letters of recommendation that speak to quantitative skills and research potential.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, according to FIU’s standard requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Environmental Economics and Policy pursue a variety of career paths where advanced analytical and policy skills are valued. Common destinations include:

• Academic positions in economics, environmental studies, public policy, and related disciplines, conducting research and teaching.
• Research roles in government agencies and regulatory bodies concerned with environmental policy, natural resources, climate policy, and energy markets.
• Analyst and researcher positions at international organisations and multilateral development banks focusing on environmental and climate finance, adaptation and mitigation strategies.
• Consulting and research positions in private sector firms and think tanks advising on environmental regulation, carbon markets, resource management and sustainability strategies.
• Non‑profit and NGO work on conservation economics, environmental programme evaluation and policy advocacy.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University offers doctoral training with an applied, policy-relevant orientation and access to a diverse set of regional ecosystems and policy institutions. The faculty include scholars working on environmental and resource economics, climate policy, and applied econometrics, enabling cross-disciplinary supervision and collaboration. Students benefit from a metropolitan research environment with opportunities to engage in empirical fieldwork, interdisciplinary projects, and public-sector partnerships that are especially relevant to subtropical and coastal environmental issues.

FIU’s doctoral programme emphasises hands-on research training, mentorship through seminars and workshop presentations, and professional development that prepares graduates for both academic and policy-oriented careers.