Economics

Georgetown’s Department of Economics offers three graduate programs: a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Applied Economics, a Master of Science (M.S.) in Economics and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Economics.

The M.A. in Applied Economics provides students with a solid understanding of the fundamental tools of economic analysis, which can be employed to undertake rigorous analyses of economic issues and economic policies. The focus of this program is in contrast to an alternative professional degree, such as an MBA, which provides the relevant training for a career in business or management. It also is distinct from an M.S. degree in economics, which is frequently considered a stepping stone to a Ph.D. in economics and concentrates on academic contributions.

The M.S. in Economics is an innovative two-year program, recognized as a STEM degree, emphasizing frontier training in econometrics and quantitative economics.

The Ph.D. in Economics is a full-time course of study designed for students who seek research careers on the forefront of economic science. The Ph.D. program provides an excellent training environment for future scholars. Located in the nation’s capital, it is ideally situated for both students specializing in pure science and those who wish to study policy informed by the science.

Ph.D. students may choose from among nine fields of specialization:

• Econometrics
• Economic Development
• Economic Theory
• Industrial Organization
• International Macro and Finance
• International Trade
• Labor Economics
• Macroeconomics
• Public Economics and Political Economy

• M.A. in Applied Economics
• M.S. in Economics
• Ph.D. in Economics

For general graduate admissions requirements, visit the Office of Graduate Admission’s Application Information page. Review the program’s website for additional information on program application requirements.

Application Materials required:

• Application Form
• Non-refundable Application Fee
• Statement of Purpose
• Transcripts: Applicants are required to upload to the application system copies of official transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions attended. Visit our Application Information page for additional details and FAQs.
• WES Evaluation: strongly encouraged (if applicable)
• Official Recommendations (3)
• GRE Score
• TOEFL/IELTS  (if applicable)
  • TOEFL = 100 minimum
  • IELTS = 7.0 minimum

Undergraduate training in economics is desirable, but exceptions are made in cases of students with appropriate alternative backgrounds. Undergraduate training in statistics and multivariable calculus is required, plus superior performance on the verbal, quantitative, and analytical aptitude sections of the GRE.

The core courses in typical Ph.D. programs in economics, including Georgetown’s, are highly mathematical. The typical matriculant to the Georgetown Ph.D. program has a strong mathematics background and achieves above the 80th percentile on the quantitative section of the GRE. Ideally, applicants should have completed three semesters of calculus and one semester each of linear algebra and differential equations. Courses in Real Analysis and/or Measure Theory are highly desirable.

Analytical skills and a strong preparation in mathematics are essential for a successful application.

Ph.D. in Economics

• Fall: January 15

M.A. in Applied Economics

• Fall:
  • January 15 (priority)
  • April 1 (final)

M.S. in Economics

• Fall:
  • January 15 (priority)
  • April 1 (final)

For the master’s program, students will be expected to complete the minimum of 30 course credits by taking a combination of core and elective courses. For further information please visit the department’s website.

To attain a Ph.D., a student must complete the Graduate School requirement of 54 credit hours of course work and maintain satisfactory progress in all phases of the course of study. For additional information, please visit the department’s department’s website.

Program Contacts:

• Ph.D. Program
  Julius J. Shapiro:  js3900@georgetown.edu
• Master’s Programs
  Thomas Lewis: lewistd@georgetown.edu

Begin your application today!