The Doctoral Program in Economics at the University of Melbourne is the leading PhD program in the region and sits among the world’s top graduate research programs. This program is jointly offered by the Department of Economics and Australia’s pre-eminent economic and social policy research institution, the Melbourne Institute of Applied Economic and Social Research. The diversity and depth of available research advisors and research topics in theoretical and applied economics in Australia is unparalleled in the region.

The Doctoral Program in Economics is made up of a 2-year Master of Commerce coursework program followed by a 3-year PhD.

Generous scholarships (full fee waivers and a stipend of AUD$30,000 per year) are available for high-performing applicants through the University of Melbourne.

Top-up funding of AUD $10,000 available for research, experiments and conferences during the research phase of the program.

Our students have access to state-of-the-art experimental labs, funding support for national and international conference travel and access to all major research databases. Each year’s intake consists of up to 15 domestic and international students, providing a solid cohort learning experience.

Who is it for?

This program is designed for students with prior training in economics or a related discipline with a strong analytical/mathematical component, who wish to gain advanced skills necessary to practice as a professional economist in the public or private sectors.

In order to be considered for entry, you must have completed:

• a four-year bachelor degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study and have achieved a minimum weighted average of 75% in the final year subjects or (University of Melbourne) equivalent, or
• a masters degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study and achieved a minimum weighted average of 75% or (University of Melbourne) equivalent,
  • the masters must be a two-year degree in a relevant discipline which includes a substantial research component equivalent to at least 25% of one year of full-time study with a minimum weighted average of 75% or (University of Melbourne) equivalent and a minimum weighted average mark of H1 (80-100%) across all second year subjects. Or
• a qualification and professional experience considered to be equivalent.

and

A personal statement outlining why they wish to be considered for the course; and

Two Referee reports outlining suitability to undertake research studies (except for applicants who have graduated from the University of Melbourne within the last 5 years)