Online PhD Program
PhD in Economics
Online Phd in Economics Research Areas
Pursuing a PhD in economics involves a rigorous journey of study, where students conduct research in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, followed by specialized research in a chosen field. The journey culminates in a doctoral dissertation, representing a significant original contribution to the field, equipping graduates for academic, policy-making, or industry roles where they can apply their extensive knowledge and research skills.
Behavioral Economics and Decision Making
If your research interests lie in behavioral economics and decision making, you’ll investigate how psychological factors and cognitive biases influence economic decision-making among individuals and organizations. This will involve the study of the impact of behavioral interventions (nudges) on improving financial decisions, savings behavior, and consumer welfare. To carry out your research, you’ll analyze case studies where behavioral economics principles have been applied to public policy and business strategies.
Economic Impacts of Climate Change and Environmental Policies
You may choose to focus your research on environmental economics. This will involve an examination of the economic consequences of climate change on different sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, and tourism. Research projects that focus on this area of interest will analyze the effectiveness and efficiency of various environmental policies, including carbon pricing, emissions trading, and renewable energy incentives. You’ll also have the opportunity to study the economic benefits of transitioning to a green economy and the role of innovation in promoting sustainable development.
Income Inequality and Economic Growth
With our Economics PhD, you’ll have the opportunity to investigate the relationship between income inequality and economic growth across different countries and regions. This will involve the study of the impact of fiscal policies, such as taxation and social welfare programs, on reducing income inequality and promoting inclusive growth. You may also choose to focus your research on education and health economics, and this will involve the analysis of the role of education and healthcare in addressing income disparities.
Global Trade and Economic Development
Some PhD students choose to focus their research on international economics. If you’re interested in this area, you may decide to explore the effects of international trade policies, trade agreements, and tariffs on economic development and growth. This involves the study of the impact of globalization on labor markets, wage distribution, and income inequality within and between countries. To carry out your research, you’ll analyze the role of trade in fostering economic resilience and diversification in developing economies.
Monetary Policy and Financial Stability
You may choose to direct your research towards monetary policy and financial stability, which involves investigating the role of central banks in maintaining and promoting economic advancement. You’ll study the effectiveness of different monetary policy tools in economic systems, such as interest rates, quantitative easing, and forward guidance, in achieving macroeconomic objectives. You will also analyze the impact of financial regulations and macroprudential policies on preventing financial crises and enhancing the stability of the financial system.
Career Opportunities Following a Phd in Economics
Graduate students who have completed a PhD in Economics will be suitable for a wide range of career opportunities. So, if you’re thinking of enrolling in our online PhD in Economics, here are just some of the career goals you could aim for.
Academia
Launch a career as a Professor or Researcher. Many graduates of a doctoral degree choose to continue this academic path with the goal of teaching. As a graduate, you could choose to embark on a career teaching undergraduate and graduate courses, conducting original research, publishing in academic journals, supervising student research, and contributing to academic committees. With a PhD in economics, you'll have the opportunity to become a faculty member at universities, colleges, research centers.
Government and Public Policy
Find a position as a Policy Analyst or Economist. These roles are ideal for those interested in economic politics and they involve the analysis of economic data to inform public policy. You’ll conduct research on economic issues, advise on economic policy, and prepare reports and policy briefs. Typical workplaces for these roles include government agencies, for example the Federal Reserve, Treasury Department, international organizations like the IMF or World Bank.
Private Sector
Embark on a career as an Economist, Data Scientist, or Consultant for a private company. In these roles, you may be expected to analyze market trends, forecast economic conditions, advise businesses on economic strategy, and conduct economic research for private firms. Job opportunities in the private sector can usually be found with corporations, consulting firms, financial institutions, and tech companies.
Think Tanks and Research Organizations
Work as a Research Fellow, Research Assistant, or Policy Analyst for a think tank or research organization. You’ll work to conduct in-depth research on economic issues, publish reports and papers, provide policy recommendations, and engage in public discourse on economic policy. Typical work places for these roles include independent think tanks and research institutes such as Brookings Institution, RAND Corporation.
International Organizations and NGOs
Join an International Organisation or NGO and an Economist, Policy Advisor, or Program Officer. The responsibilities of these roles may include conducting research on global economic issues, advising on economic development policies, implementing and evaluating economic programs, and collaborating with governments and other organizations. Notable employers for PhD graduates in these positions include the United Nations, World Bank, International Monetary Fund, and various non-governmental organizations focused on economic development.
PhD in Economics FAQs
How will my PhD in Economics be assessed?
Unlike degree programs such as a master’s degree, a PhD in Economics is assessed solely through the completion of dissertation research and presenting your work before a dissertation committee. Your research project needs to be unique and contribute to knowledge, so it’s a good idea to consult with your faculty advisor on your dissertation proposal before you get started.
What are the benefits of online PhD programs in Economics?
The benefits of studying an online PhD in Economics goes beyond the essential knowledge that you will gain around economic theory. The virtual nature of online learning means that you’ll improve both your communication and digital research skills. Plus, the flexibility that is offered by our online doctoral program means that you can fit your education around your other commitments, making it the ideal choice for working professionals.
How important is it to publish while completing a PhD in Economics?
The importance of graduate students publishing research during their PhD is entirely dependent on their future career goals. For example, if you’re aiming for academic positions at a university, then publishing at least one research paper during your PhD degree program is crucial. Taking this step during your time at graduate school will demonstrate the ability to conduct and communicate original, independent research, which is key for those seeking permanent faculty positions.
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This program is accredited by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority.
Accreditation License Number 2019-014