PhD in Economics and Finance
Overview
The PhD in Economics and Finance is a rigorous, research-intensive doctoral programme designed to develop high-level scholars capable of producing original and impactful research in economics, finance, and related interdisciplinary fields. The programme provides advanced theoretical foundations, robust quantitative and econometric training, and strong empirical research skills necessary for academic, policy-oriented, and professional research careers.
The programme has a normal duration of four years, with the possibility of an extension of up to six months, subject to institutional regulations and satisfactory academic progress. Throughout the programme, students are expected to engage in continuous research activity under close academic supervision.
Admission Requirements
- Candidates must have an average of not less than 60 and 70 in bachelor’s and master’s degrees respectively.
- English Language Proficiency: Minimum English Language requirement is 58 in PTE – 6.5 in IELTS -79 in TOEFL or 120 in Duolingo.
- All applicants are required to submit a valid English language proficiency test from the list above, including graduates of English-medium universities.
- An equalised transcript is required for students who have graduated from international institutions.
- Entrance Exam: Eligible applicants are required to sit for an Entrance Test and score at least 50% in the test before proceeding to the interview stage.
- Acceptance is subject to the availability of seats.
- Research Proposal 1200-1500 words (excluding references).
- Application Form: Online application form is required.
- Official Transcripts: Provide a copy of your undergraduate transcript with your application.
- Interview: Applicants will be invited to attend an interview at which they may be asked questions regarding their intended programme of study. The interview is a compulsory stage of the selection process.
- Letters of Recommendation: Two recommendation letters are required to be submitted with your application, preferably one of which will be from a university academic.
- Applicants with high quality publications are preferred.
- A copy of your CV.
- A copy of your passport or national ID.
Curriculum
- Advanced Macroeconomics Theory
This module covers economic dynamics, economic growth and business cycles. The open macroeconomic economy. Macro econometric models. Comparative macroeconomic policies. Topics may vary.
- Advanced Microeconomics Theory
This module is designed to help you develop an understanding of several major topics in microeconomics and a working knowledge of a number of advanced topics. Emphasis in this course is placed on the determination of market equilibrium for goods and factors in perfectly competitive and imperfect markets, applied welfare economics and decision making with uncertainty.
- Advanced Time Series Analysis
This module prepares you for empirical analysis towards satisfactory progress in students’ PhD thesis or graduate studies. The emphasis is on modeling skills and practical applications. Topics are chosen from time-series analysis.
- Advanced Corporate Finance and Theory
This module prepares you for empirical analysis towards satisfactory progress in your PhD thesis or graduate studies. The emphasis is on modeling skills and practical applications. Topics are chosen from time-series analysis.
- Advanced Investment and Theory
This module focuses on investment analysis, including the theory and implementation of portfolio theory; empirical evidence on the performance of financial assets; evaluation of portfolio investment strategies; and the extension of diversification to international markets.