Graduate Degrees in Economics

Economics

The University of Colorado Boulder’s graduate economics program ranks in the top 50 programs in the U.S. Graduate students find they are participating in a program with an excellent job placement record that trains them well for careers in teaching, research, and government or private sector employment.

Our PhD program focuses on a solid core curriculum in economic theory and econometrics. Beyond this, we offer a number of specialized fields of study: econometrics; economic development; economic history; industrial organization; international trade and finance; labor and human resources; natural resources and environmental economics; and public economics. We do not offer a stand-alone MA degree program, although students enrolled in our PhD program will earn their MA degree as they progress toward their doctorate.

Degree Types

PhD

Ranks in the top 50 graduate economics programs in the U.S. (U.S. News & World Report, 2023)

After accepting admission, students will automatically be considered for funding in the form of a teaching assistantship.

Students may also be offered a fellowship to help with the cost of relocation expenses.

Degree Options & Application Requirements

Economics

Doctor of Philosophy

5-year program
An applicant for admission as a regular degree student must:
Hold a baccalaureate degree from a college or university of recognized standing, or have done work equivalent to that required for such a degree and equivalent to the degree given at this university. The undergraduate GPA must be at least 2.75 (2.00=C).
Have completed intermediate microeconomic and macroeconomic theory courses, 6 credit hours of calculus at the university level or equivalent, and statistics.
Submit Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores for aptitude (verbal and quantitative). International applicants whose native language is not English must also submit a TOEFL score with a speaking component, even if they have attended college in an English-speaking country.
Arrange for the submission of three letters of recommendation.

GRE/GMAT Requirements

GRE scores for aptitude (verbal and quantitative) are required.

Application Deadlines

International applicants: Dec. 1
U.S. applicants: Jan. 15

Application dates are for the following fall semester.

For program details, review the course catalog for the PhD in economics.

Research Areas

Econometrics
Economic Development
Economic History
Industrial Organization
International Trade and Finance
Labor and Human Resources
Natural Resources and Environmental Economics
Public Economics

Learn More About Research Areas at CU Boulder

Funding Opportunities

We understand funding opportunities play a major role in helping you to decide whether a program is right for you. At CU Boulder, PhD students are supported through research and teaching assistantships. Students are also encouraged to apply for their own sources of funding.

Explore General Funding Explore Department-Specific Funding

Graduate Student Resources

Student success is best met with holistic support and resources. CU Boulder offers robust resources, programming and opportunities to help students establish meaningful connections, adjust to graduate student life and find assistance when they need it. Whether it’s academic, social, or health and wellness support, the university provides an array of resources to meet the diverse needs of our students.

Graduate Student Organizations