Analytical Political Economy

The Ph.D. program in Analytical Political Economy at Duke University offers an intensive and rigorous training designed for students interested in understanding the complex relationships between economic policy, political institutions, and societal outcomes. This interdisciplinary program combines core principles of economics, political science, and history to develop comprehensive analytical skills necessary for advanced research and policy analysis. Students engage deeply with theoretical models and empirical methods, equipping them to analyze pressing economic issues within political contexts at local, national, and international levels. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, quantitative analysis, and policy evaluation, allowing graduates to contribute meaningfully to academia, government agencies, international organizations, and think tanks. Over the course of their studies, students work closely with distinguished faculty members who are leading experts in their fields, participating in seminars, workshops, and collaborative research projects. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, integrating insights from sociology, law, and development studies, to enrich students' understanding of political economy challenges. Graduates of the program are prepared to undertake scholarly research, influence public policy, or pursue further academic careers. The program's vibrant academic environment fosters intellectual diversity, rigorous inquiry, and innovation in analytical methods. With Duke University’s extensive resources, innovative research opportunities, and a global network of alumni, students are well-positioned to make significant contributions to the field of analytical political economy and related disciplines.

30 credits in graduate economics and political science courses

• At least 12 credits in Economics, with no more than 6 credits from any one of following the three sub-fields:
  • Microeconomics
    • ECON 601 Microeconomics 
    • ECON 605 Advanced Microeconomic Analysis
    • ECON 701 Microeconomic Analysis I
    • ECON 705 Microeconomic Analysis II
  • Macroeconomics
    • ECON 602 Macroeconomic Theory
    • ECON 606 Advanced Macroeconomics II
    • ECON 652 Economic Growth
    • ECON 656S International Monetary Economics
    • ECON 702 Macroeconomic Analysis I
    • ECON 706 Macroeconomic Analysis II
  • Econometrics
    • ECON 608 Introduction to Econometrics
    • ECON 612 Time Series Econometrics
    • ECON 613 Applied Econometrics in Microeconomics
    • ECON 703 Econometrics I
    • ECON 707 Econometrics II
  • Or approved substitutes.

• At least 12 credits in Political Science (500-level or higher)

  • POLSCI 522S Comparative Party Politics
  • POLSCI 632 Computational Political Economy
  • POLSCI 644S The Political Economy of Inequality
  • POLSCI 645S Political Economy of Growth, Stabilization, and Distribution
  • POLSCI 646S The Politics of European Integration
  • POLSCI 705S Political Economy of Macroeconomics
  • POLSCI 715 Core in Political Institutions
  • POLSCI 730 Formal Modeling in Political Science (C-E)
  • POLSCI 745 Core in Political Economy
  • POLSCI 762 The Political Economy of Institutions
• 6 or more credits in Independent Study/Research with at least one faculty member from each department (either two 3-credit studies with a faculty mentor from each department or a 6-credit study jointly mentored)

One or more of the following courses may be required, as needed:

• ESL courses
• COMPSCI 590 Numerical Methods for Economists
• ECON 590 Computer Modeling for Policy Analysis
• MATH 202 Multivariate Calculus for Economists
• MATH 216 Linear Algebra/Differential Equations
• MATH 431 Advanced Calculus
• STA 230 Probability
• STA 250 Statistics
• STA 611 Probability and Statistics
• STA 601 Bayesian Statistics

• Transcripts
• Letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Resume
• GRE scores
• English language proficiency test scores (if English is not your first language)
• GPA
• The application fee is $85

Sources of financing for the Analytical Political Economy program at Duke University include a combination of institutional funding, scholarships, fellowships, grants, and student employment opportunities. Duke University offers a variety of merit-based and need-based financial aid options for enrolled students, which can significantly reduce the cost of attendance. Prospective and current students are encouraged to apply for institutional scholarships and fellowships offered through the university’s Office of Financial Aid and the department. These awards are often based on academic achievement, research potential, and financial need.

In addition to university-sponsored aid, students may have access to external funding sources such as national research grants, private foundations, and governmental programs that support graduate studies in economics and political science. Some students may also qualify for teaching assistantships, research assistantships, or graduate assistantships, which provide stipends and a tuition waiver in exchange for teaching or research responsibilities. These positions serve not only as financial support but also as valuable professional development opportunities.

The program’s costs are structured to be competitive with similar graduate programs at other leading institutions, and students are advised to explore multiple avenues of funding to ensure comprehensive financial coverage. International students may have additional opportunities for funding through Duke’s international scholarships and fellowships aimed at promoting diverse academic environments. Overall, the financing of the Analytical Political Economy program relies on a multifaceted approach combining university resources, external support, and employment opportunities, making graduate education at Duke accessible to a broad range of qualified applicants.

The Master of Arts in Analytical Political Economy at Duke University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions between economic theory and political processes. This interdisciplinary program provides rigorous training in analytical methods, economic modeling, and political analysis, preparing graduates for careers in academia, policy analysis, government, and international organizations. Students engage with a variety of coursework covering microeconomics, macroeconomics, political theory, and quantitative methods, enabling them to critically evaluate economic policies and their political implications. The program emphasizes the development of analytical skills necessary to assess policy impacts and to perform empirical research.

Graduate students have opportunities to collaborate with renowned faculty members involved in cutting-edge research on economic development, political institutions, and public policy. Duke's location in Durham, North Carolina, offers proximity to vibrant policy think tanks, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, facilitating internships and practical experiences. The program also includes workshops, seminars, and conferences that foster intellectual exchange among students, faculty, and visiting scholars. Graduates of this program are well-equipped to pursue doctoral studies or to enter positions in research institutions, government agencies, international organizations, or private sector firms focused on economic and political analysis. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, quantitative skills, and a deep understanding of the socio-economic factors that influence policy decisions on national and international levels.