Economics, PhD
The graduate economics program at Penn is a Ph.D. program administered by the Graduate Group in Economics, which consists of the faculty of the Department of Economics, and some of its secondary appointments in the Wharton School and the School of Arts and Sciences. A master's program in Economics is not offered at the University of Pennsylvania.
The program trains students to conduct outstanding research in economics. All major areas of economics are covered, with particular strengths in theoretical and empirical microeconomics, and in modern macroeconomics. Graduates of the program obtain positions at leading universities, research institutions, and government agencies around the world.
Students in this program first acquire a thorough knowledge of economic theory and econometric methods before they begin their own research. They meet a series of requirements during their first years in the program, and thereafter devote most of their time to the writing of a dissertation. The median length of time required for completion is 5.25 years (however both shorter and longer periods are possible). Almost all students are supported by combinations of fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships during at least their first five years of study.
For more information: http://economics.sas.upenn.edu/graduate
View the University’s Academic Rules for PhD Programs.
Required Courses
A minimum of 16 course units are required. A minimum of 12 course units must be taken at the University of Pennsylvania.
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Mathematics Pre-Requisite | ||
| Select Mathematics Pre-Requisite course | ||
| Core Courses | ||
| ECON 7100 | Microeconomic Theory I | 1 |
| ECON 7200 | Macroeconomic Theory I | 1 |
| ECON 7110 | Microeconomic Theory II | 1 |
| ECON 7210 | Macroeconomic Theory II | 1 |
| ECON 7300 | Econometrics I: Fundamentals | 1 |
| ECON 7310 | Econometrics II: Methods & Models | 1 |
| ECON 9999 | Independent Study | 1-3 |
| Upper Level Course Requirement | ||
| Select Upper Level Course | 4 | |
| Empirical Economics Requirement | ||
| Select Empirical Economics course | 1 | |
| Department Workshops | ||
| Select 2 workshops from the 5 listed | 2 | |
| Economic Theory | ||
| Monetary Economics | ||
| Econometrics | ||
| Empirical Microeconomics | ||
| Industrial Organization | ||
| Third Year mandatory class | ||
| ECON 7500A | Third Year PhD Seminar | 0.5 |
| ECON 7500B | Third Year PhD Research Seminar | 0.5 |
| The Empirical requirement is often fulfilled when students finish their 4 upper level courses. | ||
| Total Course Units | 16 | |
The degree and major requirements displayed are intended as a guide for students entering in the Fall of 2024 and later. Students should consult with their academic program regarding final certifications and requirements for graduation.
Sample Plan of Study
| Code | Title | Course Units |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | ||
| Fall | ||
| Microeconomic Theory I | ||
| Macroeconomic Theory I | ||
| Econometrics I: Fundamentals | ||
| Independent Study | ||
| Spring | ||
| Microeconomic Theory II | ||
| Macroeconomic Theory II | ||
| Econometrics II: Methods & Models | ||
| Independent Study | ||
| Year 2 1 | ||
| Fall | ||
Select (3) Upper Level ECON PhD Electives | ||
| Spring | ||
Select (3) Upper Level ECON PhD Electives | ||
| Year 3 | ||
| Fall | ||
Select (2) Upper Level ECON PhD Electives | ||
| Third Year PhD Seminar | ||
| Spring | ||
| Third Year PhD Research Seminar | ||
Dissertation status – select and attend workshop for grade | ||
Completion of 3rd year paper (graded) | ||
| Year 4 | ||
| Fall | ||
Thesis/Dissertation Research – attend 2nd workshop for grade | ||
| Spring | ||
Complete Proposal Defense by the end of the 4th year in residence. | ||
| Year 5 | ||
Dissertation Defense | ||
- 1
By the end of the 3rd year in residence, students must have passed four 7000-level ECON courses (excluding 7100, 7110, 7200, 7210, 7300, 7310, 8100, 9110, 9200, 9300, 9400 and 9450, the workshops) with a grade of A- or higher. Credits must total 16 before going on dissertation status.
- 2
The Empirical requirement is often fulfilled after students finish taking the four upper level courses requirement.