PhD Economics at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

The PhD in Economics is based in the Department of Economics at Queen's Business School, with research strengths in economic theory, applied economics and econometrics. The theory cluster covers game theory, networks and mechanism design; the applied cluster covers economic history, labour, regional economics and growth; the econometrics cluster covers panel data and financial econometrics. Members are involved with the Centre for Economics, Policy and History, an all-island research hub co-located at Queen's and Trinity College Dublin.

Department: Queen's Business School | Duration: 3 years full-time (PhD); part-time equivalent available; MPhil is 2 years full-time | Study mode: full-time | Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Students receive close supervision from a team appointed by the University and take courses and tailor-made reading groups to strengthen their background in economics. They attend the School's seminar series, present their work, and may gain experience as teaching assistants on undergraduate courses.

Career pathways

The seminar series and presentation opportunities help students prepare for the academic job market.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Normally a UK 2:1 honours degree (or equivalent) and a UK Master's degree in a relevant discipline with a final result of 60% (or equivalent). Applicants without a Master's may be considered if they hold a first class honours undergraduate degree from a high-ranking, research-focused university and have demonstrated an ability to conduct academic research. International applicants need IELTS 6.5 with no component below 6.0 and three components at 6.5, or an equivalent qualification (taken within the last 2 years).

International applicants: GBP 23,600 a year (2027/28). Also applies to EU Other; bench fees, if any, are additional Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 3 years full-time (PhD); part-time equivalent available; MPhil is 2 years full-time

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