Xiamen University

What you'll study

The programme combines rigorous coursework in core economic theory and econometrics with an extended period of supervised research leading to an independent doctoral thesis. Early stages typically emphasise advanced microeconomic and macroeconomic theory, modern econometric techniques, and research methods; later stages are devoted to original research under the guidance of faculty supervisors.

• Core research fields: advanced microeconomic theory, advanced macroeconomic theory, game theory, industrial organisation, public economics, international trade and finance.
• Quantitative training: time-series econometrics, panel data methods, causal inference, structural modelling and computational techniques.
• Research methods and professional skills: research design, academic publishing, teaching practice, seminar presentation and grant-writing.
• Elective and specialised seminars: behavioural economics, development economics, labour economics, health economics, environmental economics and comparative economic systems, with opportunities to pursue interdisciplinary topics.
• Thesis: students complete an original doctoral dissertation on a topic approved by their supervisory committee and defended in a formal viva examination.

Structure

The typical structure comprises an initial coursework and seminar phase to build theoretical and empirical foundations, followed by comprehensive examinations or assessment of research readiness, and then concentrated thesis research. Students engage in departmental seminars, present work-in-progress, and are encouraged to publish in peer-reviewed journals. Supervision is provided by members of Xiamen University's School of Economics and affiliated research institutes, with opportunities for co-supervision and international collaboration.

Entry requirements

• Master's degree in economics, finance, or a closely related field from a recognised institution; candidates with exceptional research master's or equivalent preparation may also be considered.
• Strong academic record with substantial training in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics; evidence of quantitative competence is essential.
• Research proposal outlining intended doctoral research, demonstrating familiarity with relevant literature and feasible methodology.
• Academic references (typically two or three) that can attest to research potential and readiness for doctoral study.
• Curriculum vitae showing research experience, publications or working papers where applicable, and relevant professional experience.
• Applicants whose first language is not English will usually need to demonstrate English proficiency; knowledge of Chinese is advantageous but not always required depending on the language of supervision and research context.
• Shortlisted candidates are normally interviewed by faculty and may be asked to complete a written assessment or present their research proposal.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Western Economics go on to careers in academia, research, public policy and the private sector. Typical pathways include:

• Academic positions at universities and colleges as lecturers, assistant professors or postdoctoral researchers.
• Research roles in government ministries and central banks, contributing to policy analysis and macroeconomic forecasting.
• Positions in international organisations and multilateral institutions that require rigorous economic analysis and policy advice.
• Research and economist roles in think tanks and policy institutes.
• Analyst and quantitative research roles in financial institutions, consulting firms and industry research departments.

Why study at Xiamen University

Xiamen University offers a research-intensive environment with a long-established School of Economics and close links to national and regional research centres. The university provides strong supervisory expertise across a broad range of economic subfields, active seminar series, and opportunities for collaboration with domestic and international scholars.

• Access to a lively academic community with frequent workshops, conferences and visiting scholars in economics.
• Resources to support empirical work, including library collections, databases and computing facilities suited to advanced econometric analysis.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary research and engagement with regional economic issues in China and East Asia, allowing comparative and policy-relevant projects.
• Support for professional development, including teaching experience, publishing guidance and career services for academic and non-academic pathways.