Xiamen University

What you'll study

The doctoral programme emphasises rigorous training in economic theory, econometrics and computational methods, combined with independent empirical research. Students follow a structured early-stage curriculum before concentrating on dissertation work under the guidance of a supervisory team.

• Core theory: advanced microeconomic theory (decision theory, general equilibrium, game theory) and macroeconomic theory (dynamic stochastic general equilibrium, growth theory, and monetary models).
• Econometrics and statistics: advanced econometric theory, time series analysis, panel data methods, microeconometrics, nonparametric and semiparametric methods, and Bayesian econometrics.
• Computational methods: numerical optimisation, simulation techniques, high-dimensional statistics, machine learning methods for economic data, and programming for applied research (commonly using languages such as Python, R, MATLAB or Julia).
• Empirical fields: applied microeconomics, labour economics, public economics, industrial organisation, finance, international trade, development economics and macroeconomics, with emphasis on causal identification and policy-relevant inference.
• Research training: research seminars, journal clubs, methods workshops, teaching practicum, and advanced reading courses tailored to students' dissertation topics.
• Dissertation: independent original research producing a substantial thesis that contributes to quantitative economic knowledge; regular progress presentations and defence before a doctoral committee.

Entry requirements

Admission expects a strong quantitative master's degree in economics, applied mathematics, statistics, finance, or a closely related field. Applicants should demonstrate solid preparation in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, and evidence of ability to undertake advanced research.

• Official transcripts and academic references from former supervisors or employers who can comment on research potential.
• A research proposal outlining intended dissertation topics and methodological approach; clarity of research question and feasibility are important.
• Strong mathematical and programming background, shown through coursework, graduate grades or prior research experience; demonstrated competence in linear algebra, real analysis and probability/statistics is highly desirable.
• Prior publications, conference presentations or research assistant experience are advantageous but not always required.
• Proof of language proficiency for international applicants where instruction or supervision will be in Mandarin or English; standardised test scores may be requested according to the faculty’s guidance.
• Formal matching with a potential supervisor is often part of the process; applicants are encouraged to contact faculty members whose research aligns with their interests before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates from the PhD in Quantitative Economics pursue careers across academia, government, international organisations and the private sector. The programme trains students for roles that require deep analytical, empirical and computational skills.

• Academic research and teaching: tenure-track positions and research appointments in universities and higher-education institutions.
• Public policy and government: research economist or senior analyst roles in central banks, finance ministries, policy research institutes and statistical agencies.
• International organisations: economist or technical specialist positions at multilateral institutions and development organisations.
• Private sector: quantitative researcher, data scientist, economist or consultant roles in financial institutions, think tanks, management consultancies and technology firms.
• Research institutes and think tanks: positions focused on applied policy analysis, programme evaluation and large-scale empirical projects.

Why study at Xiamen University

Xiamen University has a long-established School of Economics with a strong tradition in theoretical and empirical economic research. The university offers access to experienced faculty whose research spans econometrics, macroeconomics, international trade, development and applied microeconomics.

• Research environment: active departmental seminars, specialised working groups and research centres that foster collaboration across quantitative methods and applied fields.
• Supervision and mentorship: close supervisory arrangements with opportunities to work with multiple advisors and visiting scholars from international institutions.
• Resources: access to institutional data, computing facilities and training workshops in programming and advanced empirical methods.
• International links: collaborations and exchange opportunities with overseas universities and research networks that support joint projects and conference participation.
• Location and community: a campus with strong academic culture in a coastal city that provides links to regional economic policy institutions and industry partners for applied research placement opportunities.