The PhD in Economics with a focus on Environmental Economics and Policy at Johns Hopkins University is a research-led doctoral programme for students aiming to analyse environmental problems with rigorous economic methods and to design evidence-based policy responses. It suits applicants with strong quantitative preparation who want to pursue academic research or senior analytic roles in government, international organisations, NGOs and the private sector.
The programme combines a strong core in microeconomic theory, macroeconomics and econometrics with specialised training in environmental and resource economics, climate policy, and applied quantitative methods. Early years emphasise rigorous coursework and seminars: graduate microeconomics, macroeconomics, advanced econometrics, and mathematical methods for economists. Field courses commonly include environmental and resource economics, energy economics, empirical methods for environmental data, natural resource management, and cost–benefit and valuation techniques for environmental goods.
Students engage in regular research seminars, present working papers, and take part in interdisciplinary modules drawing on public policy, public health and environmental science. Training typically covers causal inference, panel and time-series techniques, spatial econometrics, integrated assessment models, and the economics of regulation and market design. After completing qualifying examinations and required coursework, students undertake an independent research dissertation under faculty supervision, producing original research on topics such as carbon pricing, adaptation and mitigation policy, valuation of ecosystem services, or distributional impacts of environmental regulation.
Applicants are expected to hold a strong undergraduate degree in economics, mathematics, statistics, engineering or a closely related discipline; a master’s degree in economics or a related quantitative field is advantageous but not always required. Demonstrable proficiency in calculus, linear algebra, probability and statistics is essential. Typical application materials include academic transcripts, a CV, a statement of research interests, and at least two academic references from individuals able to assess research potential.
Prior research experience—such as a master’s thesis, research assistantship, or publications—strengthens an application. Admissions committees look for evidence of quantitative skills, mathematical maturity and clear research objectives. Information about standardised testing and English language requirements is available from the university; applicants should consult the programme’s admissions pages for current guidance.
Graduates pursue careers in a range of academic and non-academic roles. Many continue in tenure-track or research positions at universities and research institutes, contributing to environmental and resource economics scholarship. Others work in public sector roles designing and evaluating environmental policy at national agencies, regional authorities, or international organisations.
Non-academic career paths include senior analyst and economist positions in think tanks, non-governmental organisations, consultancy firms, and private-sector companies with environmental, energy or sustainability mandates. Increasingly, graduates also take roles in data science and quantitative research in industries where environmental risk and policy are material to decision-making.
Johns Hopkins offers a rigorous, research-focused doctoral environment with notable strengths in applied econometrics and interdisciplinary environmental research. The department’s location within a research university renowned for public health, international studies and engineering enables cross-disciplinary collaboration—students can work with faculty and centres focused on climate, public health and energy policy.
Doctoral students benefit from regular seminar series, access to diverse applied datasets, and opportunities to collaborate with faculty across schools and with external policy partners. The department provides structured supervision for dissertation research and a supportive community of doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers, preparing graduates for impactful careers in research and policy.
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