Economics
The research-intensive Ph.D. Program in Economics prepares students to apply economic theory and technique to the problems of business and government.
Request InformationDegree Offered
Ph.D. in Economics
Full-time
Admissions Deadlines
February 1
Students in our program gain solid grounding in econometrics and theory and are supported as they empirically investigate a range of policy issues through their own research and analysis. Our small, highly selective program located in the heart of New York City allows students to work closely with faculty mentors and advisers.
Please see the Economic Program's recent most recent newsletter here!
Message from the Executive Officer
Prof. Lilia Maliar discusses the professional development opportunities for our talented students and the many other merits and recent events of the Ph.D. Program in Economics. Read her message.
Program Highlights
100%
of our students attend tuition free
Students are eligible for several types of fellowships and financial aid.
Seminar in Applied Economics
Our seminar features accomplished economists weekly each semester.
5-7 Years
average time to degree
100%
Job Placement
All of our job market candidates were placed for 2020.
Our Faculty
Faculty members of the Economics program are experts in a wide range of research areas and specialties. Students in our relatively small program benefit from easy access to faculty and a large measure of personal attention and mentorship. There are ample opportunities for supervised independent research, interdisciplinary study, and work in research centers.
Faculty
Job Placement
Program graduates are well prepared for careers in universities, government, consulting firms, and business enterprises. Program members take pride in actively participating in placing graduates in jobs within and beyond higher education nationally and internationally. We actively prepare students for the job market through development of key skills, mock interviews, and other job preparation events.
Student Resources
Prospective Students
Admission to the Economics program is highly competitive. We value prospective students with a high quantitative aptitude and a strong work ethic who are interested in original research and contributing to society. We are committed to furthering CUNY’s ability to create opportunities for students from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds, and we welcome students who bring different perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences to the study of economics. Our students have opportunities for fellowships and financial aid.
Admissions and Aid
Hear About our Student's Research
Watch Ph.D. candidate Austin MacDonald (Economics) describe how institutional investors’ moves in the stock market influence each other’s behavior and move the market at our 2025 Dissertation Showcase.
View the videoRecent News
Dec 9, 2025
From a Tough Job Market to the Tenure Track at Quinnipiac University
Economics alumnus Aman Desai recovered from a setback to land a role that allows him to teach and pursue his research on how childhood inequality affects both individuals and society.
- GC Stories
- Alumni News
Sep 18, 2025
When Bans Backfire: Flavor Restrictions May Push Young People Toward Cigarettes
Adjunct professor and alumnus Henry Saffer and colleagues found that statewide bans on flavored e-cigarettes reduced vaping among young adults but also led some to smoke more traditional cigarettes.
- GC Stories
- Research News
- Faculty News
- Alumni News
Mar 28, 2025
Announcing the 2025 Alumni Awards Winners
The Graduate Center will honor eight high-achieving graduates at its Alumni Awards ceremony on April 24.
- GC Stories
- Alumni News
Dec 5, 2024
Economists as Election ‘Losers’? Not Exactly
Graduate Center economists reflect on the role and influence of their profession in public policy debates.
- GC Stories
- Faculty News
Upcoming Events
Job Market Candidates
We are pleased to present our students currently on the job market. Our students have advanced analytical skills, expert-level knowledge, teaching experience, and expertise in current technology. Please view our candidates, and contact them or their references directly for more information.
— Lilia Maliar
Executive Officer
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