The primary objective of the graduate program is to educate students as
research economists. In the process, students also acquire the background and skills necessary for
careers as university teachers and as practitioners of economics.
The curriculum includes a comprehensive treatment of modern theory and empirical techniques. Students are exposed to a broad range of applied fields, and elect specialization in two fields of particular interest. The typical student can expect to spend two full years completing the required course work. The remaining time in the program is usually spent engaging in dissertation research and participating in seminars. Students are encouraged to take the required oral examinations and to complete all work on their dissertation by the end of the fourth year.
