PhD In Applied Economics

A PhD in Applied Economics will give you the skills to conduct research for businesses, governments, think tanks, and other research organizations, as well as to train the next generation of applied economics professionals as an academic.

The PhD program combines advanced courses in applied economics with a major research dissertation. The core of the program focuses on microeconomic theory and quantitative methods with one advanced course in macroeconomics. The student and their advisory committee determine the remainder of the student’s field courses.

Main Program Components:

• core focus on microeconomic theory and quantitative methods
• advanced courses in applied economics / one advanced course in macroeconomics
• six field courses
• two comprehensive exams / major research dissertation
• 36 credit units (two years of classes)

Course Details:

• Year One:
• two courses in microeconomics
• two courses in econometrics
• one course in macroeconomics
• one elective course (must be approved by the committee)
• first comprehensive exam
• Year Two:
• choose an applied field and develop a program of study
• six field courses based on area of specialization
• second comprehensive exam
• Year Three To Five:
• complete dissertation proposal
• dissertation research and writing
• dissertation defence

Admission Requirements:

• Doctor of Philosophy
• A master’s degree, or equivalent, in a related field of study from a recognized college or university.
• A cumulative weighted average of at least 70% (U of S grade system equivalent) in the last two years of study (e.g. 60 credit units) 
• Proof of English language proficiency may be required for international applicants and for applicants whose first language is not English
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT): Submission of a GRE or GMAT score is recommended for all applicants. Applicants who have not earned a degree from a Canadian or US institution are required to submit a GRE or GMAT score.
• Students are not required to identify a faculty supervisor.
• Please visit the College of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies to learn more and submit your application. We start accepting application on September 15th for the following September term.  Applications must be completed by January 15th.

Research Areas:

• Students in the Applied Economics PhD program have a wide variety of focus research areas to choose from, each with a multidisciplinary component that spans across academic units.
  • Applied econometrics
  • Behavioural and experimental economics
  • Environmental and resource economics
  • Finance and financial economics
  • Health and labour economics
  • Industrial organization, strategy and firm behaviour
  • International economics
  • Policy and governance
  • Regional and development economics