Course Overview!

The PhD in Applied Economics at Auburn University is a rigorous program jointly offered by the Department of Economics, the Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology, and the College of Forestry, Wildlife, and Environment. The program focuses on developing advanced theoretical and empirical skills in economics. Students engage in core coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics, followed by specialized study in two chosen advanced fields. A substantial research component culminates in a dissertation, demonstrating original research contributions to the field. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and the application of economic principles to solve real-world problems. Successful completion prepares graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, government, and the private sector, conducting rigorous research and analysis in economics.

Course Structure

The PhD program requires a minimum of 60 semester hours of coursework at the 7000-level or above. Core curriculum includes Microeconomics I & II, Macroeconomics I & II, Mathematical Economics, and Econometrics I, II, Microeconometrics, and Macroeconometrics. Students must also complete 12 hours of 8000-level electives and 10 hours of dissertation research (ECON 8990). Additional coursework at the 7000 level or higher totaling 11 credit hours is required. Students must pass comprehensive exams in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and econometrics and complete coursework and a written exam in two advanced fields chosen with the director of graduate studies. Finally, a dissertation must be written and defended successfully. All coursework outside the Department of Economics must be approved by the director of graduate studies.