Economics

The Economics program at Brown University offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in the core principles and analytical tools of economics, combined with opportunities for specialization and research across a broad spectrum of economic topics. Designed to develop critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and problem-solving skills, the program prepares students for diverse careers in academia, government, finance, consulting, and public policy. Students beginning the major are introduced to foundational courses in microeconomics and macroeconomics that establish a solid understanding of economic theory, models, and real-world applications. As students progress, they have the opportunity to select from a wide array of advanced courses, including topics such as behavioral economics, development economics, international economics, environmental economics, and economic theory. The curriculum emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging students to integrate insights from political science, history, and mathematics to deepen their understanding of complex economic issues.

Brown's open curriculum allows students significant flexibility to explore their interests beyond Economics, enabling tailored educational trajectories that suit individual career goals. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research projects, often under the mentorship of faculty members who are leading experts in their fields. The program also promotes experiential learning through internships, seminars, and participation in economic research centers, providing practical experience and professional networking opportunities. For those interested in pursuing graduate studies, the program offers a strong foundation in quantitative methods and theoretical analysis crucial for advanced academic work. Overall, the Brown Economics program equips students with analytical skills, a broad understanding of economic systems, and the ability to address contemporary economic challenges, preparing graduates for impactful careers and lifelong learning in a rapidly changing world.

The Ph.D. degree usually requires two years of course work, followed by supervised research and the completion of a doctoral dissertation. The first year involves core courses in microeconomics (Economics 2050, 2060), macroeconomics (Economics 2070, 2080), econometrics (Economics 2030, 2040), and two additional courses, one in mathematics (Economics 2010) and one in applied economics analysis (Economics 2020). Students take written core examinations in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics at the end of the first year. Starting in the second year, each student chooses two fields of specialization, and takes an oral field exam. Each field comprises two advanced courses within an area. Beyond the fields, the student takes three additional advanced courses, for a total of seven. The rest of pre-dissertation requirements include a research paper turned in at the end of the third year and two successful seminar presentations. 

The culmination of the Ph.D. program is the dissertation, which embodies the results of the student's original research. Work on the dissertation usually takes two-three years after completion of course work. Students working on dissertations participate actively in research workshops. After a faculty committee has approved the dissertation, the student takes a final oral examination on the subject of the dissertation.

The work in the Ph.D. program is demanding and the standards of performance are high. The Department's reputation for providing superb training has enabled its graduates to compile an excellent placement record. Some of the institutions at which recent graduates have obtained positions include major research universities (Chicago, Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Minnesota, New York University, Penn State, University College London, University of British Columbia, University of Pittsburgh, University of Toronto, University of Virginia), prestigious liberal arts colleges (Williams), government and international agencies (International Monetary Fund, Federal Trade Commission, World Bank, Congressional Budget Office, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, US Census Bureau), and private industrial, consulting, and research firms. Brown graduates have an outstanding record of research accomplishments and publications.

Requirements

Entry into the Ph.D. program in economics is possible only in the Fall semester. The application deadline is December 15 for admission starting the following September. About 13 students enter the program each year.

All applicants must take the verbal, quantitative, and analytical sections of the Graduate Record Examination. In order to ensure that their scores reach us by January, applicants should take the GRE in October, or, at the latest, in December. Applicants whose native language is not English must also take the TOEFL examination. Further information about the GRE and TOEFL examinations can be obtained from the Educational Testing Service, Princeton, New Jersey 08540.

In preparing for the Ph.D. program in economics a student can pursue an undergraduate major in any field. However, four semesters of economic analysis and two years of calculus are required for admission. Courses in economic theory, differential equations, and linear algebra are highly recommended. A strong undergraduate record, particularly in Economics, Mathematics and other analytical subjects, provides evidence of the applicant's ability and preparation for undertaking graduate work.

Scholarships

The University and the Department offer financial aid to highly qualified applicants in the form of first-year Fellowships, Teaching Assistantships, Research Assistantships, and Dissertation Fellowships. Financial aid is usually offered to the students in the PhD program through the first five years of graduate study. All financial aid after the first year is conditional on making good academic progress towards the PhD degree as defined in the department's PhD Handbook.

The Economics program at Brown University offers students a comprehensive education in the principles, theories, and applications of economic analysis. Designed to cultivate critical thinking and analytical skills, the program provides a solid foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and various specialized fields such as development economics, behavioral economics, and international economics. Students are encouraged to explore interdisciplinary approaches and engage in independent research, fostering a deeper understanding of complex economic issues on both local and global scales. The curriculum combines rigorous coursework with collaborative projects and access to cutting-edge research tools and databases. Brown’s open curriculum allows students to tailor their academic experience, selecting courses that align with their interests and career goals. The program emphasizes empirical methods and real-world problem solving, preparing graduates for careers in finance, public policy, academia, and beyond. Faculty members are renowned scholars dedicated to teaching and mentoring, often involving students in their research activities. The university’s vibrant academic community and extensive resources, including research centers and partnerships, enhance the learning environment. Graduates of Brown's Economics program have gone on to successful careers in consulting, government service, international organizations, and academia, exemplifying the program’s strong reputation and comprehensive training. Students also benefit from the university's commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring a rich educational experience that prepares them to address pressing economic challenges worldwide.