Emory University

What you'll study

The programme combines core PhD coursework with specialised study in environmental topics. Typical components include:

• Core theory: advanced microeconomic theory (consumer and producer theory, game theory, information economics) and macroeconomic theory as required by individual research interests.
• Econometrics and methods: graduate econometrics (linear models, time series, panel data, causal inference), computational methods, and training in programming and data management.
• Environmental specialisation: courses and seminars in environmental and resource economics, climate change economics, valuation of environmental goods, natural resource management, energy economics, and environmental policy design and evaluation.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: public economics, development economics, health and environmental intersections, law and economics, integrated assessment modelling, and field-specific empirical methods.
• Research sequence: reading seminars, supervised research projects, qualifying or comprehensive examinations, and a dissertation under faculty supervision.

Students typically progress from coursework and seminars to focused research in their chosen subfield, participating in department seminars, presenting work-in-progress and engaging with interdisciplinary collaborators across university centres concerned with environment, policy, business and public health.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants normally hold a strong undergraduate or master’s degree in economics, mathematics, statistics or a closely related field. Typical requirements include:

• Demonstrated quantitative preparation, including coursework in calculus, linear algebra, probability/statistics and undergraduate econometrics.
• Strong academic record in economics or related quantitative disciplines; a prior master’s degree can strengthen an application but is not always required.
• A personal statement outlining research interests (particularly in environmental economics and policy), prior research experience and fit with departmental strengths.
• Academic transcripts and three letters of recommendation from faculty or research supervisors who can attest to research potential.
• A curriculum vitae and, where available, a writing sample or examples of empirical or theoretical research.
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English, according to the university’s requirements.

Admissions committees look for clear evidence of mathematical and statistical aptitude, ability to conduct independent research, and an intellectual fit with faculty whose expertise aligns with the applicant’s interests.

Career prospects

Graduates with a PhD specialising in environmental economics and policy pursue a range of careers. Common paths include:

• Academic positions in economics and interdisciplinary departments, focusing on teaching and research.
• Research roles at policy institutes, think-tanks and non-governmental organisations working on climate, natural resources and environmental regulation.
• Analytic and advisory positions in government agencies and international organisations that design and evaluate environmental policy.
• Consulting and applied research roles in private-sector firms, energy and environmental consultancies, and financial institutions addressing environmental risks and regulation.
• Data science and quantitative research roles where skills in causal inference, econometrics and computational methods are in demand.

Why study at Emory University

Emory provides a research-intensive environment with small doctoral cohorts, personalised faculty mentoring and access to broader university resources. Students benefit from regular departmental seminars, opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration across public policy, law, public health and business schools, and access to computing and data resources needed for applied environmental research. The department supports doctoral students through supervised teaching and research assistantships, facilitating professional development in both teaching and empirical research.