About PhD Program,
The doctoral program in Economics at Rice University provides rigorous training in economic theory and econometrics in order to prepare students for research careers in economics. In 2014, the department launched the Rice Initiative for the Study of Economics (RISE) in order to enhance its role as a leading center of economic research. Since then, the department has hired ten new faculty. In addition, it has established itself as a leading institution for structural empirical microeconomics, an approach to economic analysis that combines economic theory and econometrics to address substantive economic issues. The small size of the program, approximately 45 graduate students working with 24 full-time faculty, promotes close faculty student interactions and collaboration, as well as strong relationships among the students.
Effective 2021-2022 academic year, all students receiving MA or PhD degrees in Economics will also receive Major Concentration in Econometrics and Quantitative Economics, and will be able to apply for a 24-month STEM extension of F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT).
PhD Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
A typical candidate will have a comprehensive understanding of economic theory, mathematics, and statistics. All students in the program enter with at least multivariate calculus and one semester of linear algebra, and there is a preference for applicants with exposure to higher level mathematics, such as real analysis. In admissions decisions, we prefer applicants who have some research experience, such as working as a research assistant or having completed a well-written undergraduate thesis (preferably on a topic in economics).
PhD Funding Coverage,
All admitted students receive an offer of financial support covering five years in return for teaching or research assistantship. Continuation of the financial support beyond the first year is contingent upon satisfactory academic progress. Funding may be available beyond the fifth year for students who show exceptional promise.
Admitted students with outside funding will receive a supplementary offer from the department. Applicants with outside funding still apply through the usual admissions process.
Application Requirement,
To apply for admission, an applicant must submit three letters of recommendation and transcripts for all academic work post-secondary school. Recommendations should come from individuals who can comment on your scholarly skills. Unofficial transcripts may be submitted with the application but official transcripts are required before enrollment in the program. In normal times, all applicants must submit scores from the Graduate Record Examination. Foreign applicants must also demonstrate their fluency in English by taking the TOEFL or IELTS exams. For the TOEFL, the department typically requires a minimum score of 90 (internet based), 600 (paper based) or 250 (computer based). For the IELTS, the department typically requires a minimum band score of 7. However, depending on the rest of the application package, exceptions can be made to these score requirements with the approval of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies.
Application Deadline,
Jan 15, 2025
Application Fee,
There is an $85 application fee.
