Program Description
In their first year, students take two-semester sequences in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics. They also take a course in mathematical methods in the fall semester and a course called Perspectives in the spring which both critically examines mainstream approaches to economic theory and provides students with in-depth practical exposure to the design and execution of empirical research in economics.
In their second year, students choose two fields of concentration and take a sequence of courses in each of these fields. Students also write a 2nd-year paper and start attending a colloquium where they present their own research.
After their second year, students spend most of their time conducting their own research with the advice of faculty in the Department. From the third year onward, students are required to present in a colloquium each semester. Students are strongly encouraged to attend a workshop in the area of their specialization.
Students in their third year write a 3rd-year paper.
Before the end of their 4th year, students defend a dissertation proposal before a committee of at least three faculty members.
Most students defend their theses after either 5 or 6 years in the program.
