Economics Phd Stanford

The Stanford University Department of Economics is one of the most prestigious and highly respected economics departments in the world. Located in the heart of Silicon Valley, the department is known for its rigorous academic programs, innovative research, and distinguished faculty. For students pursuing a PhD in Economics from Stanford, the experience is unparalleled, offering a unique blend of theoretical foundations, empirical analysis, and policy applications. The program is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become leading economists in academia, government, and the private sector.
Program Overview

The PhD program in Economics at Stanford is a five-year program that combines coursework, original research, and teaching experience. The first two years of the program are dedicated to coursework, where students take a series of core and elective courses that provide a solid foundation in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and other fields. The core courses include microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, and econometrics, which are designed to equip students with a deep understanding of economic principles and analytical tools. In the third year, students begin to work on their dissertation research, which is the culmination of their graduate studies.
Research Opportunities
Stanford’s economics department is renowned for its cutting-edge research, and PhD students have ample opportunities to engage in research projects with distinguished faculty members. The department has a strong research focus in areas such as international trade, labor economics, and health economics. Students can work on research projects that explore the impact of trade policies on economic growth, the effects of labor market institutions on wage inequality, or the economic evaluation of healthcare programs. The department also has a number of research centers and initiatives, including the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research (SIEPR) and the Center for International Development, which provide students with opportunities to engage in policy-relevant research.
Research Area | Faculty Members |
---|---|
International Trade | Prof. Robert Hall, Prof. John Taylor |
Labor Economics | Prof. Edward Lazear, Prof. Luigi Pistaferri |
Health Economics | Prof. Victor Fuchs, Prof. Jay Bhattacharya |

Faculty and Resources

The Stanford economics department has a distinguished faculty of over 50 members, including Nobel laureates, former government officials, and leading researchers in their fields. The faculty is known for its dedication to teaching and mentoring, and PhD students have access to a range of resources, including research funding, teaching assistantships, and research centers. The department also has a strong network of alumni, many of whom are leading economists in academia, government, and the private sector.
Career Opportunities
Stanford PhD graduates in economics have excellent career prospects, with many going on to become leading economists in academia, government, and the private sector. The program has a strong placement record, with recent graduates taking positions at top universities, research institutions, and private companies. Some examples of career paths for Stanford PhD graduates in economics include:
- Assistant Professor, Harvard University
- Senior Economist, Federal Reserve Bank of New York
- Director of Economic Research, Google
What are the admission requirements for the PhD program in Economics at Stanford?
+The admission requirements for the PhD program in Economics at Stanford include a bachelor's degree in economics or a related field, a strong academic record, and letters of recommendation from academic or professional mentors. Applicants must also submit GRE scores and a personal statement outlining their research interests and goals.
How long does it take to complete the PhD program in Economics at Stanford?
+The PhD program in Economics at Stanford is a five-year program, which includes two years of coursework, two years of dissertation research, and one year of teaching and research experience.
In conclusion, the PhD program in Economics at Stanford University is a world-class program that offers students a unique blend of theoretical foundations, empirical analysis, and policy applications. With its distinguished faculty, cutting-edge research opportunities, and strong career prospects, the program is an excellent choice for students who want to become leading economists in academia, government, and the private sector.