Thammasat University

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines advanced coursework, rigorous research training and an extended supervised thesis focused on an international or comparative economic project. Early stages typically cover core graduate modules such as advanced microeconomic theory, advanced macroeconomic theory and applied econometrics, together with research methods in economics. Candidates then choose specialised electives aligned to their research interests—examples include development economics, international trade and finance, labour economics, public economics, environmental and resource economics, and industrial organisation.

In addition to taught modules, students participate in regular research seminars, present working papers, and engage in methodological workshops (panel data, causal inference, time-series methods). The central component of the programme is an original doctoral dissertation that addresses a significant question in economics with international relevance; many projects use comparative datasets, cross-country empirical methods, or collaborations with external organisations. Supervision is typically provided by faculty with expertise in both theoretical and applied economics, and students may have opportunities for short research visits to partner institutions.

Entry requirements

• A relevant master's degree in economics, applied economics, econometrics or a closely related discipline with substantial quantitative content. Exceptional candidates holding a strong bachelor’s degree may be considered in some cases.
• Demonstrable command of graduate-level mathematics and statistics (for example: real analysis, linear algebra, probability and mathematical statistics, and econometrics coursework).
• A research proposal outlining the intended doctoral project, including research questions, proposed methods and literature context.
• Academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae, and at least two academic references addressing the applicant’s research potential.
• Proof of English proficiency if the applicant’s prior education was not in English; accepted evidence may include recognised test scores or equivalent institutional certification.
• Selection may involve an interview with potential supervisors; suitable funding or evidence of ability to support research study is also considered during admission.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD programme go on to careers in academia as university lecturers and researchers, and in research institutions or national statistical agencies. The international and applied emphasis also prepares alumni for roles in central banks, finance ministries, multilateral organisations (such as the World Bank, IMF, UN agencies), economic policy think-tanks, and international NGOs. Additionally, graduates work in the private sector in positions requiring advanced quantitative and analytical skills—economic consultancy, financial institutions, data science teams, and research divisions of multinational firms.

Why study at Thammasat University

Thammasat University is one of Thailand’s leading institutions in the social sciences and offers strong regional expertise in Southeast Asian economic issues. The economics faculty has active research programmes in development, trade, monetary and public economics and maintains links with national policy bodies and international partners, providing students with access to policy-relevant data and collaborative research opportunities. Located in Bangkok, the university gives students proximity to government agencies, financial institutions and international organisations, facilitating internships, fieldwork and professional networking. The international orientation of the programme, combined with small cohort supervision, supports interdisciplinary and comparative research that targets both academic and practical policy audiences.