phd in economics in usa without gre

50 Best PhD Programs That Don’t Require GRE Scores [2024 Schools Guide]

Check out PhD Programs that don’t require GRE scores for admission. Compare PhD programs without the GRE (Campus & Online).

We’ve identified a number of accredited universities that don’t require the GRE as part of their PhD application process.

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List of Online PsyD Programs No GRE

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format. In addition, the universities included in this list offer online psychology doctoral programs and either do not require the GRE or offer GRE waivers for qualified students.

Adler University

Founded in 1952, Adler strives to develop professionals and practitioners who will better their local communities and the world. Driven by the work of physician and psychotherapist Alfred Adler, the school values fairness, equality and civil rights and helps students learn to put these concepts into practice.

• Online Doctor of Psychology in Industrial & Organizational Psychology

Adler University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Alliant International University

Recognized as a top school for minorities by Diverse: Issues In Higher Education and for military veterans by College Factual, Alliant values diversity in the classroom and the workforce. Students are encouraged to have a global perspective, a desire for community service and a commitment to equality.

Believing that hands-on experiences are essential for a well-rounded education, the school connects students to the community throughout its degree programs.

• Online Doctor of Psychology

Alliant is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Antioch University

Equal rights, equal pay and equal educational opportunities for minorities and women have long been important at Antioch. In the 1800s, Antioch was one of the first institutions of higher education that admitted both whites and African-Americans, and the school’s list of famous alumni includes Coretta Scott King.

• Online Doctor of Clinical Psychology

Antioch University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

California Southern University

Since its beginnings in 1978, the mission of California Southern University has been centered around the idea of providing flexible educational experiences for adult learners.

Throughout the school’s 30 programs, there is a continual focus on establishing strong, supportive relationships between staff and students.

California Southern University is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Capella University

Enrolling over 37,000 students each year, Capella University offers educational opportunities for working professionals. Through distance-learning programs, the university reaches students from every state and over 50 different countries. Of the school’s more than 1,500 faculty members and administrators, 88 percent hold doctoral degrees.

Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Felician University

Since 1942, Felician University has been providing educational experiences based on the Catholic Franciscan values of service, compassion and respect. Over 2,000 students take classes from this school each year. The university has a student-faculty ratio of 13:1, and 73 percent of classes have fewer than 20 students.

• Online Doctoral Programs in Counseling Psychology

Felician University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Grand Canyon University

Founded in 1949, Grand Canyon University seeks to educate students from a Christian perspective so that they will become service-minded professionals whose faith permeates their lives and directs their work. The university enrolls over 19,000 on-campus students and more than 60,000 online students each year.

• Online Doctor of Performance Psychology

Grand Canyon University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Meridian University

At Meridian University, the goal is for students to gain a transformative education. Through their schooling, students should grow personally and learn to affect change in their fields and in their communities. Approximately 91 percent of Meridian students complete their degree programs within the allotted time.

Meridian University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Northwest University

Affiliated with the Assemblies of God denomination, Northwest University is a Christian school with a desire to engage students who are committed to both scholarship and service. Graduates go on to work in a variety of fields, including ministry, business, medical and educational settings.

Northwestern University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Pepperdine University

U.S. News has ranked Pepperdine University at No. 46 on its list of Best Value Schools, and Forbes has placed the school at No. 8 on its list of the Most Entrepreneurial Universities. The university opened in 1937, and the school’s alumni group today boasts over 100,000 members. 84 percent of Pepperdine students serve in internships or other hands-on experiences.

Pepperdine is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Saybrook University

Saybrook University was established in 1971 and offers a PhD in Clinical Psychology. The degree is designed for those students who are looking for a program that will equip them with the practical skills necessary to start their professional practice.

The program covers multi-cultural psychology, psychotherapy, child and adolescent psychology, and more.

• PhD in Clinical Psychology

Saybrook University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.

Touro University Worldwide

Touro University Worldwide is the online branch of the Touro College and University System. Altogether, Touro schools include around 19,000 students and more than 95,000 alumni. Founded on Jewish principles and traditions, the group’s roots date back to 1970.

• Online Doctor of Psychology in Human & Organizational Psychology

Touro University Worldwide is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

University of Hartford

With over 6,500 enrolled students, the University of Hartford issues more than 1,500 diplomas each year. The student body is made up of people from nearly every state and over 40 different countries. Creativity, diversity, responsibility and integrity are some of the highest values of this school, which was founded in 1957.

University of Hartford is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

University of the Cumberlands

The Baptist roots of the University of the Cumberlands date back to 1888. The university reaches over 10,000 learners each year and has a 17:1 ratio of students to faculty. Hands-on learning is highly valued at this school, and all students engage in service opportunities while attaining their degrees.

University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Walden University

Over 57,000 students are studying with Walden University at any given time. The faculty members are leaders in their areas of expertise, and almost 90 percent of them hold doctoral degrees. The university’s status as a certified B Corporation shows its commitment to operating ethically and motivating students to be positive change-makers in their communities.

Walden University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Western Kentucky University

U.S. News has ranked Western Kentucky University No. 24 in Best Colleges for Veterans and No. 34 in Best Regional Universities South. Both Sierra Club and Princeton Review have applauded this university for its environmental efforts. The school has over 20,000 students, and the average class has around 24 students in it.

Western Kentucky University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges.

List of Online Doctor of Education (EdD) Programs No GRE

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format. In addition, the universities included in this list either do not require the GRE or offer waivers for qualified students.

Baylor University

Baylor University holds fast to its Baptist roots while welcoming a diverse student body from many religious and geographic backgrounds. Founded in 1845, the school is committed to serious scholarship, community service, and the integration of faith and life. Baylor has over 17,000 students and a 14:1 student-faculty ratio.

• Online Doctorate of Education

Baylor University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

City University of Seattle

• Online Doctor of Education in Leadership

CityU is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Colorado State University

Founded in 1870, Colorado State University has awarded over 230,000 degrees. The school was involved in the establishment of the Peace Corps, and still today, many students choose to spend time serving through this organization. In addition to global service and responsibility, CSU values innovation, respect, diversity and academic excellence.

Colorado State is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Concordia University

Since 1805, Concordia University has been educating students in the Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, tradition.

Although based on Christian faith and principles, and university welcomes a diverse student body made up of people from many religious backgrounds. The school enrolls over 5,000 students each year and boasts a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

This is an online doctorate in education no GRE required.

• Online Doctor of Education

Concordia University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Creighton University

Considered U.S. News ’ No. 1 school in the Regional Universities Midwest category and the Best Colleges for Veterans category, Creighton University educates nearly 9,000 students yearly.

The school was founded in 1878 by Jesuit Catholics and many members of the Jesuit tradition still work at Creighton. Within six months of degree completion, 99 percent of graduates are successful at landing a job or a satisfactory next step.

Creighton University is accredited by Higher Learning Commission.

East Tennessee State University

Founded in 1911, East Tennessee State University today educates more than 14,500 students each year. The university values respect, diversity and academic excellence, and well-rounded student experiences are essential to an ETSU education. There are over 100 degree programs at this school, and the student-faculty ratio is approximately 16:1.

East Tennessee State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Florida State University

Florida State University offers over 300 degree programs, and the Carnegie Commission has bestowed on this school the distinction of Doctoral Universities: Highest Research Activity. With over 41,000 members, the student body includes people from more than 130 countries around the world. Six Nobel Laureates have taught at this university.

Florida State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Johns Hopkins University

Since its beginnings 1876, Johns Hopkins has highly prized both teaching and research, and the school considers itself the first research university in the United States. Although particularly well-known for its School of Medicine, this university also awards degrees in public health, education, physics, business and other disciplines.

The programs listed above are online Doctor of Education no GRE required.

The Johns Hopkins University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Lamar University

A member of the Texas State University System, Lamar University has about 15,000 enrolled students and over 75,000 alumni. Approximately 30 percent of the university’s classes are taught online. The school was founded in 1923 and today employs over 1,200 people and offers more than 100 degree programs.

• Online Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership

Lamar University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Liberty University

Since 1971, over 250,000 people have received an education from Liberty University. Currently, about 30 percent of the school’s students are active-duty members of the military or veterans. Liberty University has Baptist affiliations and seeks to develop students’ Christian worldview. Volunteerism is valued, and the student body puts about 500,000 hours into service each year.

Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Maryville University

Over 9,000 students take classes from Maryville University each year. The school has a 14:1 student-faculty ratio, and about 90 percent of the faculty members have received doctoral degrees. According to the Chronicle of Higher Education, Maryville was one of the top three fastest-growing universities in the United States.

Maryville University of Saint Louis is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

National University

Founded in 1971, National University is a network of nonprofit educational institutions dedicated to providing flexible, quality education to help students meet their educational and career goals. NU’s programs are taught by 100% doctoral professors.

National University has over 30,000 students enrolled and more that 220,000 alumni from around the world.

National University is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Northwest Nazarene University

Although Northwest Nazarene University began as an elementary school in 1913, the school quickly expanded its educational offerings and awarded its first college degrees in 1917. Today, more than 8,000 students take NNU classes each year. Although the Church of the Nazarene sponsors the school, students come from a diverse mix of religious backgrounds.

Northwest Nazarene University is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Oakland City University

U.S. News ranked Oakland City University at No. 7 on its list of Best Colleges for Veterans. The publication also grants it the No. 39 spot on its Regional Colleges Midwest list. Affiliated with the General Association of General Baptists, the college pursues both academic and spiritual development for students.

Oakland City University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Saint Leo University

Famous alumni of Saint Leo University include Desi Arnaz and Stephen Stills. U.S. News gives this university the No. 14 spot on its list of Best Value Schools. Founded in 1889, Saint Leo University is rooted in the Benedictine Catholic tradition and values excellence in academics, relationships, personal growth and integrity.

Saint Leo University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Samford University

According to U.S. News , Samford wins the No. 4 spot on the list of Regional Universities South. This school has graduated 8 state governors, 60 members of Congress and a number of other high-profile citizens. The university has been educating students since 1841 and currently enrolls over 5,500 learners each year and has a student-faculty ratio of 13:1.

Samford is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Texas A&M University

In 1876, Texas A&M University became the first public college in Texas. Over 70,000 students currently study with Texas A&M, which offers over 400 degree programs. The school values leadership in both its staff and its students and seeks to develop strong leaders who will make a difference in their communities.

Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission.

Texas Tech University

According to the Center for Measuring University Performance, Texas Tech University ranked in the top 50 public research schools in the United States. There are more than 38,000 students currently taking Texas Tech classes and over 1,700 faculty members. More than 8,000 students graduated from this university in 2018.

Texas Tech University is accredited with the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Trident University

Ranked No. 19 on the list of Best Colleges by The Military Times, Trident University has been the school of choice for over 27,000 students. The university’s goals for students include strong critical thinking skills, an understanding of how to gather and use information, the ability to communicate clearly, and a commitment to integrity.

Trident University accredited by WASC Senior College and University Commission.

Union University

At Union University, there’s a 10:1 student-faculty ratio for the more than 3,000 learners who study there. 85 percent of the faculty members hold terminal degrees. In the past year, Christian Universities Online gave this university the top spot on its Best Christian Colleges and Universities in the South list.

• Online Doctor of Education – Leadership in School Reform

Union University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Arkansas

The Carnegie Foundation recognizes the University of Arkansas as one of the country’s top research universities, and the Chronicle of Higher Education has commended the school for having one of the country’s fastest-growing doctoral programs. With over 27,000 students and over 1,401 faculty members, there’s a student-faculty ratio of 19:1.

The U of A has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission without interruption since 1924.

University of Findlay

Since 1882, the University of Findlay has been equipping students with academic knowledge and spiritual development. Hands-on experiences help students put their classroom learning into practice throughout their schooling. The university has ties to the Church of God, and College Factual has named it the denomination’s best school.

University of Kentucky

Founded in 1865, the University of Kentucky maintains a commitment to producing graduates who influence communities throughout the world. The school has more than 2,000 faculty members and over 29,000 students. Forbes has placed this university at No. 63 on its list of the best colleges in the southern United States.

The University of Kentucky is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

University of Massachusetts

As New England’s top public university, the University of Massachusetts values academics, research, and professional excellence. Reuters includes UMass on its list of the World’s Most Innovative Universities. Currently, the school has over 70,000 enrolled students, and more than 500,000 people have graduated from this university since its beginnings in 1863.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

University of New England

The University of New England, founded in 1939, has campuses in Biddeford and Portland, Maine and Tangier, Morocco. It’s a relatively small university, with a total of approximately 7,000 students, less than a third of which are doctoral students.

The EdD at UNE is a 51-credit course of study that can be completed entirely online and requires no GRE scores for acceptance. You can start in the Fall, Spring, or Summer and finish within 3 years.

The University of New England is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

University of Southern California

U.S. News gives the University of Southern California the No. 22 ranking on its list of National Universities. Over 47,000 students are enrolled at this college, and there are more than 4,000 faculty members. The school grants about 10,000 advanced degrees each year.

The University of Southern California isy accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

William Carey University

True to its Baptist heritage, William Carey University’s goal is to prepare students for professional work that is guided by faith-based principles. In the early 1900s, it was a college for women only, but coed instruction began in 1954. U.S. News has given William Carey the No. 3 spot on its list of Best Value Schools.

William Carey University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

List of Online DBA Programs No GRE

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format. In addition, the universities included in this list either do not require the GRE or offer a GRE waiver for qualified students.

Baker College

Desiring to turn out leaders who excel in their fields, Baker College encourages critical thinking, effective communication, personal growth and hands-on experiences throughout all of its academic programs. The school traces its history back to 1888, and its Center for Graduate Studies awarded its first doctoral degree in 2011.

Baker College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

• Online DBA in Accounting
• Online DBA in Global System and Supply Chain Management
• Online DBA in Human Resource Management
• Online DBA in Information Technology Management
• Online DBA in Intelligence
• Online DBA in Leadership
• Online DBA in Project Management
• Online DBA in Strategy and Innovation

Concordia University – Chicago

Since 1805, Concordia University has been educating students in the Lutheran Church, Missouri Synod, tradition. Although based on Christian faith and principles, and university welcomes a diverse student body made up of people from many religious backgrounds. The school enrolls over 5,000 students each year and boasts a 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio.

Concordia University Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Drexel University

• Online Executive DBA

Drexel is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Florida International University

FIU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Online DBA – Management

Johnson & Wales University

JWU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Since 1971, over 250,000 people have received an education from Liberty University. Currently, about 30 percent of the school’s students are active-duty members of the military or veterans.

Liberty University has Baptist affiliations and seeks to develop students’ Christian worldview. Volunteerism is valued, and the student body puts about 500,000 hours into service each year.

University of Dallas

UD is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

University of Maryland

UM is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

University of Missouri – St. Louis

UMSL is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Phoenix

UOPX is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Wilmington University

Wilmington is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

List of Online Doctor of Social Work Programs No GRE

• Online Doctor of Social Work

Kutztown University

Kutztown is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Millersville University

Millersville is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Southern Connecticut State University

SouthernCT is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Tulane University

Tulane is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

University of Alabama

UA is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

University of Pennsylvania

• Online Doctorate in Clinical Social Work

Penn is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

The University of Southern California is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

University of St. Thomas

St. Thomas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

List of Online Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) Programs No GRE

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format. In addition, the universities included in this list either do not require the GRE or offer GRE waivers for qualified students.

Arkansas State University

• Online of Nursing Practice

Arkansas State University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Barry University

• Online Doctor of Nursing Practice – Anesthesiology

Barry is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

DePaul University

• Online Doctor of Nursing Practice

DePaul is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Duke University

Duke is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Duquesne University

Duquesne is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Georgia College

GCSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Indiana State University

Indiana State is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

New Mexico State University

NMSU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Oklahoma City University

OKCU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Pace University

Pace is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Palm Beach Atlantic University

PBA is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Penn State University

Penn State is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Saint Francis Medical Center

Saint Francis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Texas Wesleyan University

• Online Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice

Texas Wesleyan is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

University of Arizona

UA is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

University of California – Irvine

• Online Doctor of Nursing Practice – Family Nurse Practitioner

UCI is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

University of Central Arkansas

UCA is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Iowa

UI is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

UK is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

University of Massachusetts – Boston

As New England’s top public university, the University of Massachusetts values academics, research and professional excellence. Reuters includes UMass on its list of the World’s Most Innovative Universities. Currently, the school has over 70,000 enrolled students, and more than 500,000 people have graduated from this university since its beginnings in 1863.

The University of Massachusetts Boston is accredited by the Commission on Institutions of Higher Education of the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

University of Minnesota

UMN is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of Nevada – Las Vegas

UNLV is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

University of North Dakota

UND is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

University of South Alabama

South is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

University of Texas

UT is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

List of Online PhD Without GRE Requirements

Enrolling over 37,000 students each year, Capella University offers educational opportunities for working professionals.

Through distance-learning programs, the university reaches students from every state and over 50 different countries. Of the school’s more than 1,500 faculty members and administrators, 88 percent hold doctoral degrees.

Capella offers an Online PhD no GRE.

• Online PhD in Business Management
• Online PhD in Systems Engineering

Johnson University

• Online PhD in Leadership Studies

JU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Nova Southeastern University

PhD programs no GRE required.

• Online PhD in Computer Science
• Online PhD in Conflict Analysis & Resolution
• Online PhD in Criminal Justice
• Online PhD in Health Science
• Online PhD in Nursing – Nursing Education
• Online PhD in Occupational Therapy

NSU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Texas Woman’s University

Online PhD programs no GRE requirement.

• Online PhD in Nursing Science

TWU is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

• Online PhD in Business
• Online PhD in Information Technology

University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee

This is a PhD no GRE required program.

• Online PhD in Nursing

UWM is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Over 57,000 students are studying with Walden University at any given time. The faculty members are leaders in their areas of expertise, and almost 90 percent of them hold doctoral degrees.

The university’s status as a certified B Corporation shows its commitment to operating ethically and motivating students to be positive change-makers in their communities.

• Online PhD in Management
• Online PhD in Public Health
• Online PhD in Social Work

PhD Programs that Don’t Require the GRE

The following doctoral programs do not require the GRE for admission:

• Business & Management
• Computer Science
• Criminal Justice
• Healthcare Administration
• Human Services
• Information Technology
• Occupational Therapy
• Public Administration
• Public Health
• Public Policy
• Theology & Ministry

A growing number of universities offering PhD programs or professional doctorates no longer require the GRE.

Doctor of Business Administration – DBA or PhD

A Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) is an applied doctorate or a professional doctorate.

Many students enroll in a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) program because they are entrepreneurs, potential business owners, or current managers who want to move into executive leadership.

You will learn about business practices, economics, finance, accounting, entrepreneurship, management, and many other important topics within specialized business tracks. For example, you may choose a track in finance or marketing to complete your DBA studies.

With a PhD in Business Administration, students learn about a specific focus within business, choosing a specialized track within business to focus on while they study. They may develop new theories in public administration, economics, entrepreneurship, management, marketing, or other aspect. Most students go on to become professors, researchers, or business analysts.

With the PhD in Business, a dissertation may be required, but there are a growing number of doctorate degrees with no dissertation requirements.

Doctor of Computer Science – DCS

A Doctor of Computer Science program teaches students about data analytics, computer networking, programming, enterprise information systems, and information technology topics. Most programs can be customized so that you pick the track that most relates to your field of interest.

If you have strong science skills, you may want to pursue this applied doctorate in computer science that provides a scientific foundation for understanding technology. There are also computer science PhD programs online available for those who need flexibility in their studies.

Since many different industries rely on technology and computer science, graduates may find work in a wide variety of fields.

Criminal Justice Doctorate – PhD

Earning a PhD in Criminal Justice teaches students about law enforcement, laws, ethics, community leadership, and cyber security at the local, state, and federal level.

You will learn about improving safety through justice, as well as criminal investigation tactics through PhD criminal justice degree programs.

Doctor of Education – EdD or PhD

Want to become a thought leader in the field of education?

The Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) is an applied doctorate for those who work in the education field. Many graduates work in schools, but others serve in government agencies, nonprofit organizations and more.

A Doctor of Education is an interdisciplinary program that helps graduates learn about applied theories when it comes to teaching different subjects and helping students learn. You may want to specialize in different education topics to take your career to the next level, such as educational leadership, early childhood development, or special education.

If you are currently teaching in a K-12 school, an EdD may broaden your career options. Potential uses of this degree would be teaching at the university level or entering school administration.

Doctor of Healthcare Administration – PhD or DBA

For those who want to work in a leadership position in a healthcare organization , a doctoral program in healthcare administration or management can be a good choice.

This degree program is suited toward those who want to make business decisions for a hospital rather than practicing medicine. Graduates of these programs often work as hospital CEOs or Chief Financial Officers.

PhD in Human Services

Working in social services can be a rewarding career, especially if you want to be a community leader.

Earning a PhD in Human Services offers students the opportunity to work in criminal justice, education, social work, community leadership, and housing, among others with the goal of helping families and individuals in local and global communities.

Doctor of Information Technology – DIT, DBA, or PhD

The workforce is becoming increasingly dependent on technology, and obtaining a doctorate in information technology will help you stay up on the latest developments in this area. You will explore ways that information technology can benefit society.

This degree can also be quite useful in business settings. Graduates may lead IT departments or serve as tech consultants.

Doctor of Nursing Practice – DNP or PhD

Many people holding this degree serve as nurses in medical settings. It’s worth noting that the education provided in this type of program is quite different from the doctorate-level training that physicians receive.

Obtaining a Doctor of Nursing Practice or a PhD in Nursing will not qualify you to work as a physician. Graduating with a doctorate in Nursing is one way to achieve the highest level of nursing education and certification.

Doctor of Occupational Therapy – DOT or PhD

To take the test for licensure as an occupational therapist, you must earn either a master’s degree or a doctoral degree in this field.

A doctoral-level education may provide a greater variety of career or leadership options than a master’s-level education in occupational therapy.

An entry-level DOT program is designed to help you enter the occupational therapy field for the first time.

PhD in Psychology

Graduates with a PhD in psychology typically go on to own their own clinical counseling practices, helping others to work through mental illness, difficult traumatic experiences, and early childhood development problems.

Graduates may wish to attain a license to practice psychology, or they may pursue careers in sociology, education, and social work.

This degree program is often recommended for people who want to work directly with clients. It can be useful in a clinic, hospital or school setting, and it may be an essential step toward getting licensed in your state .

If you haven’t already completed a psychology graduate program, you can also earn your master’s in psychology online (no GRE required).

Doctor of Public Administration – DPA

This professional doctorate equips you to serve in careers related to public affairs .

When you graduate with a doctorate in public administration, you may work in government settings or organizational leadership positions with non-profit entities.

The degree may be helpful for working in public administration , policy analysis, federal jobs, or as a local government leader.

Doctor of Public Health – DPH or PhD

Like a PhD in Healthcare Administration, a Doctor of Public Health degree is an applied doctorate for students with a desire to work in the healthcare sector. You may want to choose this particular option if your career plans involve crafting healthcare policies or working as an administrator.

The goal of this doctorate is often to help improve health at a large-scale level: for whole populations rather than individual people.

You may also be interested in a no-GRE online MPH.

PhD in Public Policy

Earning a PhD in Public Policy helps students move into careers at a high level within government agencies, business, political roles, and community leadership.

Whether you want to become a social work leader or you have international leadership in mind, you can customize a public policy program to suit your career interests.

Doctoral Programs in Ministry or Theology

A Doctor of Ministry or Theology program helps students learn advanced principles of ministry, theology, and leadership within the Church.

Most students are able to study on an independent project that is approved by their school.

Graduates go on to become professors, ministry leaders, and higher officials within the Church.

What are GRE Waivers?

Minimum undergraduate gpa.

Some universities allow GRE exemptions for students who demonstrated academic competency during their undergrad years. These schools may set a minimum GPA that students must have achieved during their earlier education to be considered for this type of academic waiver.

GPA requirements may vary among a school’s many programs. Waivers may be subject to approval on an individual basis.

Previously Earned Graduate Degree

The GRE is intended to demonstrate preparation for higher education. However, if you’ve already earned an advanced degree, the school’s admission department may consider that sufficient proof that you can handle the rigors of their PhD program.

For this waiver, some schools may require not only that you have an advanced degree but also that you achieved a particular GPA.

Professional Experience

Because extended employment in a field may demonstrate competency, some schools consider work experience in their area of focus just as valuable as high scores on the GRE.

If you have several years of relevant work experience, that may earn you a GRE waiver. Some schools specifically include relevant military service in their rules about qualifying for waivers.

Some Programs Have No GRE Requirement

If the program for which you are applying has no GRE requirement, then you won’t need a waiver. The school isn’t looking for test scores, so you won’t need to furnish them.

Just be sure to read all admission requirements closely. Some schools require GRE scores for only a few of their doctoral programs.

GMAT or GRE?

The GMAT, also known as the Graduate Management Admissions Test, is similar to the GRE but it has a more specific focus. The GMAT is an exam designed expressly for those entering business school.

Some business schools do accept GRE scores. However, if you are applying only to business programs, you should opt for the GMAT.

If GRE Scores are Optional, Should I Send Them?

To some faculty, GRE scores carry a lot of weight. Therefore, high marks on this test may elevate you in their eyes. In other words, even if the GRE is optional, furnishing a good score may be beneficial.

On the other hand, low scores may have the opposite effect. When the GRE is optional, rather than required, it may be best to keep your low marks under wraps so that your other merits take center stage.

If you’ve never taken the GRE, is it worth it to try, just so you can submit your results to a GRE-optional program? There’s no cut-and-dry answer to that question, but current program participants may be able to lend insight.

Should I Apply to PhD Without GRE Programs?

Your decision to apply to a PhD program should have nothing to do with whether or not they require the GRE. The main consideration should be the university’s accreditation.

Here are a few points to consider…

GRE is a Poor Predictor of Performance in Graduate School

If a doctoral program doesn’t require GRE scores, it’s an indication that the school understands the limitations of this exam.

The GRE won’t provide clear evidence about whether you will succeed in the classroom, get good grades, make it to graduation or be a leader in your professional field someday.

Accredited Universities Offer No GRE PhD Programs

Not having GRE requirements is not a sign that a program will be weak or substandard. Many respected, accredited programs don’t require that you take this test before you can be admitted.

Instead of using GRE requirements to evaluate a school’s strength, consider whether the program has received accreditation. Also, gather reviews from current or recent students, and get advice from the school’s graduate coordinator.

You Still Have to Meet Other Admissions Standards

All PhD programs are selective about their candidates. So, whether or not they require that you submit GRE scores, they all have admissions requirements that you must meet in order to get into the school.

Other factors considered for acceptance may include:

• Your resume
• Letters of recommendation from people familiar with your work
• Your transcripts from other higher education endeavors.
• A statement from you about your goals
• Your proficiency in the English language

Your Master’s Degree Might Be Enough

If you’ve already completed a master’s program , that shows that you’re able to perform at the graduate level.

Therefore, your school of choice may not require GRE scores as additional proof, especially if your degree is paired with a master’s thesis, a high GPA or years of professional experience.

GRE Scores: What They Tell Us, What They Don’t

GRE scores are not as helpful as you may have been led to believe. Let’s take a look at some recent studies on the reliability of GRE results.

GRE Scores Do Not Predict Classroom Performance

Creativity, interpersonal skills and internal motivation are just a few of the components that contribute to how well you do in the classroom.

However, the GRE measures none of those. It focuses only on your test-taking skills.

So, doing well on the test doesn’t guarantee classroom success.

GRE Scores Lose Impact over Time

Researchers have discovered that your scores on this test may give a school an idea of what kinds of grades you’ll achieve during the first year in their program.

However, your scores do nothing to predict your academic success after that first year.

The GRE Lacks Reliability in Predicting Final Outcomes

The GRE can’t determine whether a first-year doctoral student will end up completing the program.

Some high-scoring students may not possess enough tenacity to stick with school until graduation. On the other hand, some low-scoring students may have been the ones most likely to persevere.

Applying to Graduate School with No GRE Test Scores

There are some things that you should consider before specifically seeking out a no GRE required doctoral program:

• While some high-profile schools may admit you without this test, not taking the GRE will automatically close many prestigious schools to you.
• Some fields are more likely to require the test than others.
• Sometimes, it’s easier to find a no-GRE-required online program than an in-person one.

Consider your motivation for not submitting scores:

• Because you’ve already settled on a program that doesn’t require this test? Great!
• Because you’re too busy to study? Think hard about whether you have time for a doctoral program.
• Because you received a low score? According to an ETS survey, nearly 25 percent of test-takers improve their results second time around.

If one of your primary concerns is the amount of time required , you may be interested in our article discussing accelerated PhD programs online.

What is the GRE, and Who Needs to Take It?

The GRE is a test designed to show that you learned enough during your undergrad years to be ready for the rigors of grad school. The exam includes sections on verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. You may need to take it if you’re applying to graduate programs.

Is the GRE Test Required for Graduate School?

No, not always. There are some graduate schools that don’t require GRE or GMAT scores. Some offer alternative options, and others simply have no GRE (or other entrance exam) requirements. Some schools require that you submit exam scores for only some of their graduate programs.

Is the GRE Required for PhD Programs?

Many doctoral programs require applicants to take the GRE, but not all do. Others allow waivers or base their admissions decisions solely on other criteria. In particular, some of the best-ranked online PhD programs may allow you to enroll even if you’ve never taken the GRE.

What’s the Difference Between GRE vs. GMAT?

While the GRE is used for a variety of different graduate programs, the GMAT is designed specifically for admission to business schools. However, some business schools accept GRE scores as well. Even still, those who have their hearts set on business school would do best to take the GMAT.

Is There Any Reason to Take the GRE for a PhD Program?

If your top school choice requires GRE scores, then you should take the test. Also, if you are planning to apply to quite a few programs, then there’s a good chance that you’ll need to submit test scores with some of those applications.

What is a GRE Waiver?

Some schools require GRE scores for admission to their doctoral programs, but they will make an exception if you meet other qualifications.

These qualifications may include:

• High GPA scores during undergraduate studies
• Relevant work or military experience
• Related master’s degree

Which PhD Programs May Waive the GRE?

Online doctoral programs across a variety of fields may admit students without requiring GRE scores. Commonly, this may include programs related to education, healthcare, human services and technology, and you may have options for PhD or applied doctoral degrees.

Despite the name, a Doctor of Philosophy degree is not limited to the study of philosophy. You can earn a doctor of philosophy degree in many areas, including science, the humanities or education. Your coursework will involve completing a dissertation.

A PhD program is often recommended for students interested in pursuing research or teaching.

Can You Get Into a PhD Program Without GRE Scores?

There are quite a few universities that no longer require the GRE as part of the admissions process. Some don’t require it at all, while others offer GRE waivers if you have a decent GPA, previous graduate-level courses, and similar criteria.

Some PhD Programs Have No GRE Requirement

The Graduate Record Examinations have come to be recognized as synonymous with grad school acceptance. Despite that, there are many schools that will admit you to their doctoral programs even if you’ve never taken this test. In fact, the number of PhD programs that don’t require GRE scores is growing.

In particular, online PhD programs often base their admissions decisions on factors other than exam scores.

Therefore, you may want to start your school-selection process by identifying programs that do not include GRE scores as one of their admissions factors.

Some PhD Programs Offer GRE Waivers

High marks from your last educational endeavor — your master’s degree, for example — may be enough to get you into a PhD program without needing to provide GRE scores.

If you already have work history in your intended field of study, this may also serve as sufficient proof of your competency for the school’s PhD program.

Waiver requirements can vary between schools and may be determined on a case-by-case basis.

List of Doctoral Programs without the GRE

The following doctorate programs do not require the GRE at some universities.

• Doctor of Psychology
• Doctor of Education
• Doctor of Business Administration
• Doctor of Social Work
• Doctor of Nursing Practice
• Doctor of Philosophy

To provide a more comprehensive list, we’ve also included universities that offer GRE waivers.

Key Takeaways

You may be able to get a PhD or a professional doctorate without ever taking the GRE.

Options include:

• Choosing a program with no GRE requirements
• Qualifying for a waiver

Skipping GRE test prep may allow you to speed up the process of beginning a fulfilling and challenging doctoral education.

Department of Economics

College of social and behavioral science, main navigation, program admissions.

CLICK HERE TO BEGIN YOUR PhD APPLICATION

The requirements for admission to the PhD program are:

• The completion of a bachelor's degree from a regionally-accredited College or University
• GPA of 3.0 or better or its equivalent
• The successful completion of intermediate microeconomic and macroeconomic theory*
• Sufficient preparation in mathematics through calculus, statistics, and linear algebra
• Three academic reference letters
• A brief statement of personal academic goals

  A master's degree in economics is not a requirement for admission.  The GRE is no longer a requirement for admission. 

*If you do not meet these prerequisites, your application will be considered incomplete. Grades for the prerequisites should be posted on your transcripts at the time of application. These requirements may be completed at any accredited university, including as a non-degree seeking student at the University of Utah. These courses do not count towards your graduate degree program once admitted. 

Preparation in mathematics through calculus, statistics, and linear algebra is strongly recommended. The level of required mathematics is described in the document  Mathematics Prerequisite . Students who lack the proper background in micro and macroeconomic theory, statistics, and mathematics must take courses to remedy these deficiencies prior to being admitted into the program. It may be necessary for students not fully prepared for a graduate program to take remedial courses. 

Detailed information on the University of Utah Graduate School admissions policies can be found here.

International students must demonstrate their proficiency in English by specific citizenship or examination. The University requires a minimum of 80 on the TOEFL   i BT exam, 110 on Duolingo , or 6.5 on the IELTS . The TOEFL is preferred by our department. A strong speaking score (25 or higher) is particularly important for funding through a teaching assistantship. For details about the English Proficiency requirement, including approved non-examination demonstrations of proficiency, please visit this page . 

We recommend completing all TOEFL exams by December 15. To ensure that scores reach Admissions in a timely manner, please provide ETS with the following codes: University of Utah: 4853 Department of Economics: 1801

More information about University of Utah International Graduate Admissions can be found here .  

Application Deadline

Fall admission: january 15.

Applications for the PhD program are only accepted for Fall semester. The PhD program is scheduled so that the first-year core courses are offered in a sequence; therefore, it is only possible to begin the PhD program in the fall.

Applicants will hear back between early March and mid-May.

Applications for Fall 2025 will open on August 1, 2024. 

Application Procedure

Applications to our PhD program are made online through the Slate application system .

• Please upload all materials directly to Slate.
• Letters of recommendation are completed online and submitted directly through Slate. Please confirm with your recommendation providers before submitting your application that they have e-mail and Internet access and will be able to complete the process online. Letters of recommendation must be submitted by the recommendation provider by the February 1st deadline to be considered. 
• Please send official documents directly to the Office of Admissions , not the Economics Department.
• The Economics Department cannot waive the application fee . 
• Access the application at https://futureu.admissions.utah.edu/apply/ . After an application is submitted, applicants can login to their application status portal to track letters of recommendations, submit additional transcripts and other materials, withdraw their application, and view their decision. 

CLICK HERE TO BEGIN YOUR APPLICATION

Admissions Tips and Frequently Asked Questions

• Application Fee: We are unable to waive the application fee under any circumstances. New PhD students are offered $1,000 to help cover the admissions fee and moving expenses. This is disbursed as a reimbursement following the start of the program. 
• Late Submissions: Our Admissions Committee meets very soon after the January 15th deadline. Please complete your application by that date and ensure that all materials are uploaded and your letters of recommendation are submitted by that date. Late applications will not be accepted. 
• Letters of Recommendation: are completed online and submitted directly into the Slate system. Before beginning your application, please confirm with your recommendation providers that they have access to e-mail and the Internet and will be able to complete the process online. If a recommendation provider is having trouble completing their recommendation, they should reach out to Slate technical support. 
• Sending Materials: Please upload all materials directly into the Slate application system.  We cannot add emailed or mailed materials to your application. Official transcripts should be sent to the Office of Admissions as explained here .
• Transcripts: You may upload unofficial transcripts to the application system. Transcripts should include: Your name, Institution name,  Course names and grades, Credit hours, GPA, and Information about degree conferral or a degree certificate. If you are accepted you will be then be asked to have all official transcripts sent to the Office of Admissions as explained here .  
• Application Updates and Status: After an application is submitted, you can login to the application status portal at https://futureu.admissions.utah.edu/status to track letters of recommendations, submit additional transcripts and other materials, withdraw your application, and view your admissions decision.
• University of Utah Office of Admissions: The Office of Admissions and the Economics Department are separate offices. If you need to check on receipt of materials you have sent to the Office of Admissions, please contact them directly. The best email for Graduate Admissions in the Office of Admissions is [email protected] . The best email for International Admissions in the Office of Admissions is [email protected] . 
• Acceptance Rates: We receive around 160 applications each year and admit a cohort of 4-8 students. Four to six are fully funded with a teaching assistantship . The Admissions Committee conducts a holistic review that incorporates academic history (including completion of prerequisite courses and math preparation), recommendation letters, the personal statement, research interests and fit with the department's areas of research, and cohort make-up. 
• Financial Assistance:  All applicants are considered for a teaching assistantship alongside their application review. No additional information is required to apply for a teaching assistantship. The Department of Economics offers a teaching assistantship to 4-6 incoming students per year. This teaching assistantship is compensated with a stipend of $26,000 (for the 2024-2025 academic year) and participation in the University's Tuition Benefit Program , which offers full tuition and health insurance (per the policies found here and here ). More details about Financial Assistance and Tuition Costs can be found here . 
• Re-Applying: If you unsuccessfully applied to the program in a previous term and wish to apply again, you may do so.  You will need to submit all new materials. 
• Decision Notifications: Initial offers are made in early March, and additional offers (when available) are made on a rolling basis through early May. You will receive your notification by e-mail. We strive to have admissions decisions available to all applicants by May 15th. 
• Faculty Mentor/Advisor: Applicants do not need to identify a faculty mentor or advisor to support their application. Applications are reviewed by a central admissions committee within the Department of Economics. Faculty mentor/advisor relationships are developed during the program. 
• Part-Time or Full-Time: The PhD program is designed to be a full-time program of study with classes and research workshops scheduled for daytime hours. In limited circumstances, a student may be able to pursue a part-time program from their second-year onward. Prospective students wishing to pursue this option are encouraged to consult with the Graduate Student Coordinator before applying. Financial Assistance is only available to full-time students.
• GPA: This varies from year to year, but over the past 10 admission cycles, the average GPA of accepted students is 3.7 on a 4.0 scale.
• Statement of Purpose: The Statement of Purpose is an important part of your application.  Take the time to write a great one.  A page or two is a good length. Include information about your background, career goals, and research interests. Explain why you feel that our PhD program would be a good fit for you and what you would like to contribute.
• GRE: Our department no longer requires the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) for admission. You do not need to submit a GRE score.
• Will I be admitted? : Because of the diverse and competitive nature of our applicant pool each year, it is difficult to say whether or not an applicant will make it into the program based on transcripts or CVs.  The Admissions Committee conducts a holistic review that incorporates academic history (including completion of prerequisite courses and math preparation), recommendation letters, the personal statement, research interests and fit with the department's areas of research, and cohort make-up. Applicants should do their best to submit a complete, thorough application for consideration. 

International Students

• Proof of English Language Proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL/Duolingo): The University accepts several English Proficiency tests for international students and several non-examination ways to prove proficiency. Please read this page thoroughly here to determine if you need to take an English Proficiency exam . Take the TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo test early enough so that your scores arrive before the January 15th deadline. Only official test scores are accepted. Test scores should be sent from the examination service directly to the Office of Admissions (not to the Economics Department) for the quickest processing. The ETS code (for TOEFL scores) is 4853. If you wish to receive financial aid from our department, a strong TOEFL speaking sub-score (around 25) or a strong IELTS speaking band score (around 7.0)  is important and we would encourage you to take the TOEFL or IELTS even if it is waived.
• International Admissions: Please see this page for more information on International Application Documents .  
• I-20:  I-20s for international students are processed and mailed by the Office of Admissions after a student has been admitted into the PhD program. Processing times will vary. Students must have their I-20 documents sent to the Office of Admissions as early as possible, but no later than June 1st. To learn more about the I-20 Certificate of Eligibility required to apply for or maintain an F-1 Student Visa, please see this Office of Admissions page . 

Admissions Questions

Prospective students who have   thoroughly   explored our website (including the   FAQs) and have additional questions about the program or admission process are invited to contact the Economics Graduate Student Coordinator at   [email protected] .

Ph.D. in Economics

The Ph.D. program in the Department of Economics at Columbia University trains students to do cutting edge research in economics.  Students in our program do research in all major areas of economics including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, international economics, labor economics, public finance, industrial organization, development economics, and urban economics.  Our department provides strong training both in theoretical economics and in applied and empirical economics.  The Ph.D. program is primarily designed for students that are interested in pursuing a career in teaching and research within academia but is also useful for student interested in certain positions within governments, research organizations, or private businesses.

The first two years of our Ph.D. program is largely devoted to rigorous coursework. After the second year, however, students devote most of their time to their own research under the supervision of faculty advisors. Students in our program generally complete their Ph.D. in 5 or 6 years.

Admission to the Ph.D. program is highly selective.  We receive approximately 1,000 applications each year for an incoming class of roughly 25 students.  We place a high value on attracting the very best minds, and recruiting members of groups who will both enhance the diversity of research in the field and contribute to the diversity of the university’s academic and professional community.

The Ph.D. program has a long and illustrious history.  Alumni of the program include some of the most distinguished economists of the last century – including Nobel Prize winners Kenneth J. Arrow, Milton Friedman, Simon Smith Kuznets, and William S. Vickrey.

• Program Description
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PhD in USA without GRE: Requirements, universities, and tips

A PhD is the highest academic degree a student can achieve in the higher education sector. Students often pursue these courses abroad to enhance their knowledge and skills and excel in their fields of interest. Studying doctoral courses in countries like the USA and the UK gives students an excellent academic and practical experience.

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is an admission entry requirement for native and international students in the USA who want to pursue a PhD in the country.

Educational institutions in the USA require GRE exam scores to assess your profile and determine your eligibility for doctorate courses. However, some universities have started to waive the GRE requirement for PhD applicants, easing the application process for international students. Here, we cover everything you should know about pursuing PhD in the USA without GRE.

Table of Contents

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Before we learn about the university requirements for a PhD without GRE, here’s a rundown of the exam and its significance.

• GRE is a standard entrance exam that tests a candidate’s academic and practical skills to determine their eligibility to pursue postgraduate and doctorate education in institutions abroad.
• The GRE pattern analyses the students’ critical and abstract thinking abilities and tests their problem-solving skills.
• There are two types of GRE: GRE General and Subject test .
• Educational institutions across the globe accept the GRE for admission to various courses. The USA, UK, Canada, and Australia are some of the top study destinations that require these scores.

Some universities have made the GRE scores optional, so ensure you check your desired university’s requirements before applying for the exam.

Yes. Though the GRE is mandatory for universities in USA, some of them are making GRE scores optional for students. Now it is possible to pursue a PhD in the USA without a GRE score.  Check the requirements, eligibility criteria, cost to study, universities, how to apply, etc below…

Planning to pursue higher education in the USA? Bring your dream of studying abroad to life in just a click!

Here are the standard requirements for international students to pursue PhD in the USA.

• Academic transcripts
• Letter of recommendation
• Application form
• Proof of English proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE)
• GRE or GMAT scores
• Statement of purpose

Also read: Cost of living in the US for international students

PhD programs in the USA that do not require the GRE have similar requirements to those that need the exam. However, the main difference is that these programs may ask for other aspects of an applicant's profile, such as undergraduate and graduate coursework, research experience, and letters of recommendation.

Some standard requirements for PhD in the USA without GRE include the following:

• Academic transcripts - Applicants must submit their official transcripts from all institutions attended. These documents should indicate the courses taken, grades earned, and overall GPA.
• Letters of Recommendation - Most PhD programs require applicants to submit two to three letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors familiar with their academic and research abilities.
• Statement of Purpose - Applicants should provide a purpose statement outlining their interests in research, career goals, and motivation for pursuing a PhD.
• Resume/CV - Students must submit their resume or CV highlighting their academic and research achievements and professional experience.
• Writing Samples - Some PhD programs may require applicants to submit writing samples, such as research papers or essays, demonstrating their writing and analytical skills.
• English Language Proficiency - International students must take English proficiency tests like TOEFL or IELTS to exhibit their fluency in English skills.

Note: Some requirements for students pursuing PhDs in the USA without GRE scores may vary depending on the university and program. Therefore, it is essential to carefully review the application instructions for each program to ensure that you meet the criteria.

Data updated as of November 2023

Also read: Why study in the USA for a Master’s?

Fees for PhD and doctorate courses depend on various factors.

• The institution
• Location of the university
• Length of the course (4-8 years)

The average overall cost for an international student to study PhD in the USA is around $150,000 .

Source: educationdata.org

Universities offering PhDs in the USA without GRE

Here are some GRE-waived universities in the USA for PhDs for international students.

Also read: Study in USA for International Students

Applying for a PhD program without the GRE requires research, preparation, and attention to detail. Here are some tips for applying for a PhD in the USA without GRE.

• Research PhD programs - Allot time to research programs that suit your needs and interests and find out as many details as possible about their requirements, faculty, and research opportunities. This will help you determine which PhD program best fits your interests and goals.
• Focus on your strengths - While the universities do not require the GRE, other aspects of the application, such as your academic record and research experience , will still be necessary. Highlight your strengths in these areas to make your application stand out.
• Connect with faculty - Contact faculty members in your field of interest to learn more about their research and express your interest in their program. This can help you build relationships with potential mentors for the course.
• Craft your application - Customise your application materials for each program to which you apply. This enables you to demonstrate your fit with the program and show that you have done your research.
• Be prepared for interviews - Some programs have interviews as part of the application process. Make sure you prepare for these interviews by researching the program, practising your responses to common interview questions, and being ready to ask your own questions about the program.
• Apply early - Many PhD programs have rolling admissions, meaning they may fill up quickly. Applying early gives you a better chance of being admitted and may help you secure funding or scholarships.

Also read: Best Courses In USA For International Students

Explore exciting academic opportunities in the USA and apply for the upcoming intake today!

Frequently asked questions

Yes. The USA is one of the leading study destinations for students pursuing doctorate courses abroad. The GRE plays a vital role in admission for these courses, as the scores help universities better assess a student's profile. However, some institutions have dropped this requirement, making GRE scores optional for students .

While the GRE may be a factor in the admissions process, programs that do not require the GRE can still have a rigorous application process that considers other aspects of the applicant's academic and professional record.

No, not all universities in the USA provide PhD programs without GRE requirements. It's important to research the eligibility criteria for individual programs to determine their specific qualifications.

It depends on the program and their weight on the GRE in their admissions process. However, if the program does not require the GRE, not submitting scores should not be a disadvantage.

You can make your application stand out by focusing on other aspects of your academic and professional record, such as your research experience, publications, academic achievements, and letters of recommendation.

In some cases, you can pursue your master's in the USA without GRE. Some universities have made the GRE scores optional, so you can check your desired institution's requirements before applying for the course.

Here are the basic qualifications for international students to apply for a PhD in the USA.

Ensure you have the documents below while applying for your PhD in the USA.

Yes, you can apply to Harvard without GRE. The Russell Group University has made it optional for international students to take the GRE assessment to apply for PhD courses of their interest.

Here are the basic requirements for Indian students to apply for a PhD course in the USA.

PhD courses in the USA are competitive for Indian students. But with a well-crafted application and strong profile, one can pursue a doctorate course in their field of interest.

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PhD in Economics

Producing about 10 graduates each year, the PhD in Economics program is a close community of scholars from around the world. Coursework ranges from microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics to the economics of industry and labor.

PhD students engage in research with faculty as research assistants and publish their own work in respected journals including Economics Letters , Journal of Macroeconomics and European Economic Review . 

The PhD in Economics is a U.S. Department of Homeland Security STEM-designated degree program.  

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PhDs on the Job Market

PhD Graduate Placements

"I greatly benefitted from the doctoral program at GW, both as an economist and as a researcher. The program played an instrumental role in advancing my understanding of economic theory and empirical methodologies, cultivating my research interests and honing my ability to apply these skills in real-world settings. I now work as a development economist at a multilateral organization, where I conduct research on topics like inequality, unemployment, property rights and social protection and contribute to evidence-based policy making."

Abhilasha Sahay PhD '20

Program Timeline

The program is divided into two stages:

• Pre-candidacy stage: The student completes coursework and general examinations in microeconomic and macroeconomic theory as well as a research paper proposal. 
• Candidacy stage: The student participates in a dissertation seminar, completes the written dissertation and conducts an oral defense.

The PhD program is offered primarily on a full-time basis, and students are expected to complete the degree in five to six years. Occasionally, the department will admit highly qualified part-time doctoral students.

View detailed year-by-year timeline of program rules and requirements .

Degree Along the Way Options

Students in the PhD program can earn either a Master of Science (MS) in Economics or a Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Economics degree while pursuing the PhD degree.

Students in good standing may apply for the MS once they have completed the 30 required credits: ECON 8301, 8305 and 8375; two courses chosen from 8302, 8306 and 8376; and five 8000-level economics courses. Students may apply for the MPhil degree after they have successfully entered Candidacy.

Degree Along the Way Application

Course Requirements 

Pre-candidacy requirements

Pre-candidacy requirements include satisfactory completion of 48 credits, including 18 credits in required courses and 30 credits in elective courses. Students must also earn a grade of Pass or Pass with Distinction on each part of the general examination, as outlined below.

General Examination

The general examination has three parts: two preliminary examinations taken in the first year—one in microeconomic theory and one in macroeconomic theory—and a research paper due in the sixth semester. To pass the general examination, students must earn a grade of  Pass  or  Pass with Distinction  on both preliminary examinations and on the research paper.

Students who earn a GPA of 3.0 or above in the microeconomic theory course sequence ( ECON 8301 and ECON 8302 ) are considered to have earned a grade of Pass on the preliminary examination in microeconomic theory; students who earn a GPA of 3.0 or above in the macroeconomic theory course sequence ( ECON 8305 and ECON 8306 ) are considered to have earned a grade of Pass on the preliminary examination in macroeconomic theory. Other students must sit the preliminary examinations at the end of the first year.

Students who do not earn a grade of Pass or Pass with Distinction on both preliminary examinations may, with departmental approval, retake one or both examinations before the start of the following semester. Both preliminary examinations must be passed by the second attempt.

Students are also required to earn a grade of Pass or Pass with Distinction on the research paper, which constitutes the second half of the general examination. Students must submit the research paper and deliver a presentation of the content to at least two faculty members for evaluation by the end of their sixth semester in the program. (Part-time students may submit the research paper later, subject to departmental approval.) Students who do not pass the research paper by the end of the sixth semester will receive an academic warning and must pass it by the end of the following semester.

Post-candidacy requirements

Post-candidacy requirements include successful completion of 24 credits at the 8000 level, the formulation of a dissertation proposal, a formal presentation of the proposal by the student to a prospective dissertation committee for approval (where approval of the proposal formalizes the creation of the dissertation committee), and completion of a dissertation that demonstrates the candidate's ability to do original research as determined by the dissertation committee.

Students should successfully defend the dissertation proposal by the end of the eighth semester in the program. Students who do not successfully defend the dissertation proposal by the deadline will receive an academic warning and must successfully defend the proposal by the end of the following semester. Part-time students may defend later, subject to departmental approval.

The 24 credits must include a minimum of 6 credits in  ECON 8999 Dissertation Research .

Once a student successfully completes the 72 credits required for the program, they must register for 1 credit in  CCAS 0940 Continuing Research - Doctoral each subsequent fall and spring semester until they have successfully defended their dissertation to the dissertation oral examination committee, thereby completing the degree program.

Students may apply for the master of philosophy (MPhil) degree after successfully defending a dissertation proposal.

Time limits

The pre-candidacy stage must be concluded within six semesters of matriculation in the program; part-time students may conclude the pre-candidacy stage within ten semesters of matriculation, subject to departmental approval. Upon successful completion of pre-candidacy, students are considered for admission to candidacy, i.e., the dissertation stage. The dissertation stage must be completed within five years of entry into candidacy, or within eight years of matriculation in the program, whichever comes first.

PhD Program

Year after year, our top-ranked PhD program sets the standard for graduate economics training across the country. Graduate students work closely with our world-class faculty to develop their own research and prepare to make impactful contributions to the field.

Our doctoral program enrolls 20-24 full-time students each year and students complete their degree in five to six years. Students undertake core coursework in microeconomic theory, macroeconomics, and econometrics, and are expected to complete two major and two minor fields in economics. Beyond the classroom, doctoral students work in close collaboration with faculty to develop their research capabilities, gaining hands-on experience in both theoretical and empirical projects.

How to apply

Students are admitted to the program once per year for entry in the fall. The online application opens on September 15 and closes on December 15.

Meet our students

Our PhD graduates go on to teach in leading economics departments, business schools, and schools of public policy, or pursue influential careers with organizations and businesses around the world. 

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The department of Economics at Harvard University is committed to seeking out and mentoring scholars who wish to pursue a rigorous and rewarding career in economic research. Our graduates are trailblazers in their fields and contribute to a diverse alumni community in both the academic and non-academic sectors. We invite you to learn more about the PhD program in Economics . Have questions about applying? Please thoroughly check the GSAS admission website before emailing us at: [email protected] . 

Harvard does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, age, national origin, political beliefs, veteran status, or disability unrelated to job or course of study requirements, and we actively  seek applicants  from historically underrepresented communities. We hope you’ll consider applying. Immigration status does not factor into decisions about admissions and financial aid. For more information, see  Undocumented at Harvard . 

Apply to Economics @Harvard

Application Requirements

• Completed online application form (Must be completed by December 1st)
• Statement of Purpose
• Transcripts for all college/university degrees and courses Self-reported transcripts are accepted for both all programs at the application stage. Applicants must upload copies of his/her transcripts to the online application system. Hard copy transcripts will only be required if admitted to a program, prior to enrollment.
• Current GRE scores
• TOEFL or IELTS scores (non-native English speakers see details below)
• Three letters of recommendation (at least one from an academic source). Recommendation letters must be submitted online through the online application system. 
• Application fee 
• Writing sample (at least 15 pages in length)

All applicants are required to take the  General Test of the Graduate Record Examination  (GRE). Test scores are valid for five years (scores must be from no earlier than January 5, 2019 for Fall 2024 admission). Applicants are, however, advised to take the exam no later than mid-November. There is no minimum test score requirement. A department code is not required for score submission. Institution Codes for PhD Programs GRE: 3451

Financial Aid

All admitted students are awarded a financial package which includes tuition, single-person health insurance, living stipend for the first two years, teaching and research assistant stipends and a completion fellowship in the final year of the program.

International Applications

Adequate command of spoken and written English is required for admission. Applicants whose native language is other than English and who do not hold a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an institution at which English is the language of instruction must submit  TOEFL  or IELTS scores.

TOEFL/IELTS scores are valid for two years. (scores must be from no earlier than January 5, 2022 for Fall 2024 admission). The committee prefers scores of at least 100 on the internet-based test.  Institution Codes for Toefl score reports PhD programs: 3451

Reapplicants

Applicants who applied last year are considered reapplicants. Those reapplying must submit a completely new application. The new application must include all required documents to be provided by the applicant - we will not re-use material previously submitted. These materials include an updated statement of purpose, transcripts, test score reports, updated letters of recommendation, the application fee, and any other supporting materials

Please note, Harvard University will accept no more than three applications from any one individual over the course of his/her lifetime.

Applying to more than one Program

Harvard has several PhD programs that may also be of interest to students considering applying to the PhD program in economics. These include Business Economics, Political Economy and Government, Public Policy, and Health Policy.  Many students in these programs have considerable overlap in their coursework with courses offered to PhD students in economics.   Many also have dissertation committees that include faculty members of the economics department. Please refer to the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences for applicable program deadlines.  (Deadlines have already passed for some programs this year but not for others.) We encourage those with interest in any of those programs to also apply to those programs. The economics department will make admissions decisions independently, so application to or admission to other programs will not adversely affect admissions decisions within the Economics department. If you opt to apply, please note, the Graduate School will not accept more than three applications from any individual during the course of his or her academic career. 

Economics Mentoring Program

Many students interested in an economics PhD experience disparate degrees of support in the application process. The Economics Mentoring Program (EMP, formerly known as AAMP) aims to mitigate these gaps by helping students from underrepresented groups connect with graduate student mentors in the economics PhD programs at Duke, Harvard, MIT, and Stanford. These mentors can provide:

• Advice on graduate school and fellowship applications, including questions about the application process and feedback on application materials.
• Information about economics research, life as a PhD student or in an academic career, for students who are deciding whether a PhD in economics is the right choice for them.

The EMP aims to increase the pipeline of diverse talent in economics PhD programs and welcomes participation from all groups underrepresented in economics, including but not limited to: Black, Hispanic-Latin, Native American, low-income, and LGBTQ+ students, women, students with disabilities, and students who are the first in their families to go to college. The EMP welcomes participation among students at various stages of their economics studies, including undergraduates and college graduates. The EMP is open to students who are curious about the academic economics experience and interested in figuring out if it’s right for them.

Interested participants should fill out the application linked below. We will accept applications until July 22, 2024. Mentorship will begin over the summer and continue through Fall 2024. Mentees who prefer to meet for a single “coffee chat” may indicate their preference on the form. We will do our best to match all interested applicants with a mentor; however, demand may exceed the availability of mentors.

Please note that the EMP is a volunteer-based, student-run program. This program is not considered part of the admissions process for the economics PhD at Duke, Harvard, MIT, or Stanford nor will any student's participation in the EMP be considered by the graduate admissions committee at any school.

Please direct any questions to [email protected] . To join the program, please click the link below to fill out the form. For more information, please visit our website here

Website link: www.economicsmentoringprogram.com

EMP Application Form Link: https://forms.gle/tWvNRXRJQWEHhFn16

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PhD in Economics

PhD students take 16 courses, roughly half of which are spent acquiring the core analytic tools of the profession (microeconomics, macroeconomics, and quantitative methods), with the balance spent applying those tools in particular fields of specialization. All PhD students must complete a doctoral dissertation (thesis).

The PhD in Economics is a STEM designated degree program.

View the complete PhD Rules here

Program Requirements

Doctoral students must complete a minimum of 16 semester courses (64 credits). They are required to successfully complete the core courses by the end of the first year.

Theory and Quantitative Core Requirements

These core courses must be passed by the end of the first year with a grade of at least B- in each course.

• EC 701 Advanced Microeconomics I (4 credits)
• EC 702 Advanced Macroeconomics I (4 credits)
• EC 703 Advanced Microeconomics II (4 credits)
• EC 704 Advanced Macroeconomics II (4 credits)
• EC 707 Advanced Statistics for Economists (4 credits)
• EC 708 Advanced Econometrics I (4 credits)

Students must also take EC 705 Mathematical Economics in the first semester, unless a waiver is granted, and EC 709 Advanced Econometrics II (4 credits) in the third semester.

In addition, students must pass a qualifying examination in both microeconomics and macroeconomics. Students have at most three opportunities to take the qualifying examinations; failing may result in termination from the PhD program.

Field Requirements

All students must pass 2 2-course fields, each with a minimum grade average of B.

In addition, students must take at least 2 other courses. The following fields are generally offered each year:

• Development
• Econometrics
• Economic Theory
• Empirical Finance
• Financial Econometrics
• Industrial Organization
• International Economics
• Labor Economics
• Money/Macroeconomics
• Public Economics

GPA Requirements

All courses must be passed with a grade of B– or higher. An overall grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 must be attained in all courses taken after enrollment in the Graduate School of Arts & Sciences.

Time Requirement

The PhD program is designed so that a typical student can complete all requirements within 5 to 6 years. International students may be subject to additional restrictions imposed by the terms of their visas, as governed by the International Students & Scholars Office (ISSO).

Students are expected to meet the following milestones each year:

By the end of the 1st year:

• Finish and pass all core first-year courses, as well as EC 705 (unless exempted through placement exam).
• Sit for the first attempt at the micro and macro qualifying exams in June. The second attempt, if necessary, is in August.

By the end of the 2nd year:

• Pass EC 709, a required course in Advanced Econometrics.
• Continue and, if possible, complete remaining coursework, including a two-course sequence in each of two fields. A B average (3.0) is required in each of the field course sequence.
• Achieve an overall GPA of at least 3.0.
• If both qualifiers are not passed, the third and final attempt is in June of the second year.
• Each student must prepare a research paper during the second year and the following summer. By April 1 of the second year, the student must ask a faculty member to serve as an advisor on this paper; have this faculty member agree to serve in this manner; and inform the DGS of the topic of the paper and the advisor’s name. The paper is due in the third year as described below.

By the end of the 3rd year:

• Submit the second-year paper by October 1. By October 15, the faculty advisor must provide (i) a grade for the paper; and (ii) a brief written evaluation the paper. These documents will be sent to the DGS and the student. A student must receive a passing grade on the research paper.
• Complete all coursework with GPA of at least 3.0.
• Continue work on research for the dissertation.
• Attend and present at least annually in one of the research workshops until completion of all degree requirements.

Years 4, 5, and (if necessary) 6:

• Student carries out thesis research, defending the thesis no later than the end of the sixth year.

Dissertation

Under the supervision of two faculty advisers, a student prepares a dissertation proposal for presentation at a proposal seminar. If the proposal is approved, the student proceeds to research and write the dissertation. When the dissertation is completed, the student must defend it at a final oral examination. The Graduate School of Arts & Sciences requires that the dissertation be completed within seven years of initial enrollment in the program.

For more details, view the complete PhD Rules here and check out our past PhD Placements here .

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OSU ECONOMICS PH.D. PROGRAM APPLICATION: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1.     Can I earn an MA in Economics at The Ohio State University?   Yes, but the Department of Economics at OSU does not offer a stand-alone or terminal M.A. program, and admits only the Ph.D. program applicants. Once admitted to our Ph.D. program, you can obtain our M.A. in Economics en route to your Ph.D., usually at the end of the first year curriculum. Also, Ph.D. students in non-economics programs at OSU can obtain our M.A. in Economics by meeting both the course and exam requirements.   2.     Can I apply to your Ph.D. program with just a Bachelor’s degree?   Yes, students must have successfully completed or be expected to complete the minimum of a four-year U.S.  Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent at the time of their matriculations.   No Master’s degree (M.A. /M.S.) is required for your Ph.D. application.    3.     Do I need to have a Bachelor’s degree in economics to apply to the PhD program?   No, we do not require a Bachelor’s degree in economics to apply to our Ph.D. program.   However, our curriculum presumes that a prospective graduate student has a strong undergraduate program in mathematics and statistics.   We also recommend that your undergraduate curriculum includes courses in intermediate microeconomics, macroeconomics, and basic econometrics.   4.     Do you accept applicants with a three-year Bachelor’s degree?   Applicants are required to have completed an equivalent of a four-year U.S. Bachelor’s degree prior to matriculation.  A three-year foreign degree will not usually do.   Applicants should contact Graduate Admissions to determine if they meet this requirement for admission at http://gradadmissions.osu.edu/gpcontacts.html .   5.     Do I need to submit my degree certificate with my application material?   No, we require your official transcripts, not your degree certificates, to complete your application. Remember to upload one set of scanned official transcripts per institution online to OSU Graduate Admissions.   6.     Where do I send official transcripts?   Upload one set of scanned official transcripts per institution online for Grad Admissions. See the Application Checklist webpage for more information.   7.     How long are my GRE and TOEFL scores valid?   GRE scores are valid for up to five years following the test date. TOEFL scores are valid for up to two years following the test date.   8.     What are your GRE and GPA requirements for admission?   Applicants must have the minimum 3.00 undergraduate GPA for graduate admission with our without financial support.  The GPA benchmark for financial support considerations including fellowships is a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.60. However, you may still be eligible for funding even if you do not meet this requirement; we will evaluate your entire application to see if there may be other strengths that compensate.     9.     Do I need to take the TOEFL if I am pursuing a Master’s degree in the US?    You are exempt from taking the TOEFL if you receive a four-year Bachelor’s degree or higher in the US. See additional information regarding language requirements here .   10.  Do I need to submit a writing sample?      It is not required, but is encouraged.     11.  Is Statement of Purpose required to complete my application?  What is a Statement of Purpose?   Yes, you are required to submit Statement of Purpose (SOP).   Your SOP should articulate in approximately 1-1.5 pages (1) your reason and motivation for pursuing a Ph.D. in economics to attain your career goal, and (2) at least two prospective fields of concentration and your reason for these fields.  Your GPA and course performance can be read from your transcripts.  Your major achievements such as honors and awards should be in your C.V.  Your academic record, strengths and potential should be stated in the letters of recommendation we receive.    Use SOP to state aspects that are not obvious from your transcripts, C.V. and letters.     12.  Will you accept recommendation letters from former employers?   It is strongly recommended that an applicant obtain at least three academic recommendation letters from individuals who can provide a credible assessment of the applicants’ academic preparedness for graduate study.  Seek someone who can state and qualify your academic strengths and research potential beyond what we can see in your transcripts.    13.  Can the department waive my application fee?   No, applicants are solely responsible for all fees associated with their application process to our Ph.D. program.   14.  Do I still have to submit hard copy versions of my application material if I submitted the same material online?   No, any application material submitted online need not be posted via mail or delivery services.   15.  Will you accept application material submitted after the application deadline?   We expect that applicants make a concerted effort to submit completed application materials by our published deadlines.  Any applicant requesting financial support should officially apply online, send all required application material, and pay the application fee by  the published deadlines.  Applications received after the published deadlines will be reviewed to the best of our capacity, but can miss the first round of admissions and a chance for financial support considerations.   16.  Do you offer any Teaching or Research Assistantships for first-year Ph.D. students?   No, except for very special cases, we do not offer teaching or research assistantships for our first year students.  Students are eligible for Teaching or Research Assistantships beginning in the second year, contingent upon their normal academic progress.     17. What is the timeline of the funding award process?   After the November 30 deadline, our committee evaluates all applications and makes nominations for the University Fellowship competition in mid-January. The results of the competition are announced in mid-February. However, if you have been admitted, even if you do not receive a University Fellowship, it does not necessarily mean you have been eliminated from consideration. The department awards funding on a rolling basis between mid-February and April 15. Note that due to the nature of the process, it is not always possible to estimate when awards can be made in advance.   We abide by the Council of Graduate Schools April 15 resolution , which states in part that “Students are under no obligation to respond to offers of financial support prior to April 15; earlier deadlines for acceptance of such offers violate the intent of this Resolution.” All offers of financial support are made on this understanding.    Don’t see your question above? Contact Rick Tobin, [email protected] with more questions.

PhD in Economics

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PhD in Economics At a Glance

• 45 credit hours of course work, completed in as little as 2.5 years.
• Study diverse theoretical perspectives, including post-Keynesian, intuitionalist, evolutionary, and feminist economics.
• Tailor your field coursework to best match your research interests.
• Designated as a STEM degree program 
• Program Director: Professor Nathan Larson .

Tailor Your Degree to Your Research Interests

Offering a combination of rigorous technical training and a focus on policy-relevant research, our PhD in Economics will prepare you for careers in academics, research, and government. Our students master economic theory, statistical methods, and applied field knowledge. Then, through the dissertation-writing process, they develop the ability to formulate and empirically answer economic questions.  

• Diverse Perspectives : In addition to a strong foundation in macro and micro theory and econometrics, students learn a more diverse perspective on economics through required courses in economic thought and economic history, as well as optional courses in heterodox theoretical models of economics, including post-Keynesian, intuitionalist, evolutionary, and feminist economics.
• Flexibility : Students choose four applied field courses that best fit their research interests. The department offers a wide selection of concentrations, including courses in development, gender, international, labor, macro/monetary, and other applied micro topics.
• Preparation : Students must successfully pass one comprehensive exam at the end of their first year and produce a journal-quality research paper by the end of their third year. The third-year paper typically serves as a key component of the dissertation, giving students an advanced start on the dissertation writing process.

See complete Admissions and Program Requirements .

Faculty Dedicated to Your Success

At AU, you will take classes from and work with a diverse group of esteemed economists and highly cited scholars who are engaged with practitioners and policymakers around the world. Their wide-ranging research and publications , along with the variety of methodological approaches they use, create a rich environment for innovations in theory and empirical studies. 

Our research centers, including the Program on Gender Analysis in Economics and Infometrics Institute , host guest scholars and research projects, further enhancing the opportunities for graduate students. By working as research assistants and teaching assistants, PhD students gain valuable experience and mentorship in an academic setting.  

Throughout their third year and into the fourth, students work closely with a faculty member of their choosing on their third-year paper and dissertation proposal, eventually adding other experts to their dissertation committee to gain additional insights and expertise. Through this process, students develop lasting collegial, and productive relationships with faculty, classmates and economists at DC-area institutions, often co-authoring and publishing.  

Launch Your Career Amongst Top Economists 

The Washington metropolitan area employs over one-third of all economists in the country. The array of intellectual and professional opportunities offered by the nation's capital make American University the ideal place to study economics. The department's strategic partnerships and our faculty's relationships with nearby institutions will help you make the best use of those opportunities.

Internship and employment opportunities:

• The World Bank 
• International Monetary Fund
• Research institutes
• Think Tanks and NGOs
• US Treasury, Labor, and Commerce Departments 

Economics PhD graduates are well qualified for careers in academia, government agencies, and international organizations. Our students receive career mentorship and placement services that lead to careers in public policy, academia, and government, both domestically and abroad.

Many of our graduates go on to academic posts at universities such as the Saint Louis University, the University of Vermont, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, and Franklin College. Domestically, graduates have served in congress and government agencies, including the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the Department of Commerce, and the Department of Labor. Our alumni working outside of the US have founded research institutions and consulted for major organizations such as CGIAR-CIP and the United Nations. 

Read more career information about AU economics alumni.

See the 2017-8 list of job market candidates .

News & Notes

See abstracts from the 2024  Third Year Paper Conference .

Research Seminar Series Wednesdays at noon.

• PhD candidate Amy Burnett Cross received an EHA Dissertation Fellowship from the EHA Committee on Research in Economic History
• PhD student Danielle Wilson was awarded an Economic History Association grant for archival research on Mexican Railroads.
• PhD student Aina Puig's short essay, " The Unequal Effect of Interest Rates by Race, Gender, " was published in the San Francisco Fed's Economic Letter.
• Professor Bernhard Gunter and PhD students Bong Sun Seo & Farah Tasneem were awarded the  International Award for Excellence for their article on the change in labor force participation rates during periods of globalization and marginalization. 

Student Spotlights

More about Aina

San Francisco Federal Reserve Board’s essay contest  called for papers studying economic impacts of gender and racial inequalities. As a winner, Aina’s paper will be published in the Federal Reserve Board’s Economic Letter and will have the opportunity to participate in a 6-week summer research program.

Aina’s paper focused on the impact of monetary policy, through interest rates, on spending patterns among types of U.S. households—those with mortgages, those with women versus men as head of household, and those headed by White versus Black people. By building on her interest in macroeconomic inequality topics with direct policy implications, she intended (and continues to intend) to fill a gap in the literature, adding to the income inequality narrative by bringing gender and racial inequalities to the forefront of discussion.

Through this project, she was able to not only establish the impact of monetary policy shocks on consumption patterns, but also inform the Federal Reserve Board of these distributional impacts. When discussing her research, Aina states that “promoting equal opportunity and understanding the different impacts of policies can help policymakers create policies that promote economic growth while benefitting all groups’ well-being in society.”

Her interest in analyzing inequality topics through lens of distributional effects of macroeconomic policies came to life during her research for this paper and “ties directly into [her] plans for [her] dissertation…, a good starting point for [her] future research.”

Vasudeva Ramaswamy

More about Vasudeva

Economics PhD candidate Vasudeva Ramaswamy credits American University with helping him zero in on his area of research interest and for equipping him with the tools to explore and contribute to his field. 

During his time at AU, Vasu spent two summers working with the World Bank, studying the impact of agricultural aggregators in East Africa — specifically, how they provided income and security to farmer communities. 

Vasu’s dissertation considers the effects of the Federal Reserve Bank’s actions on household inequality. Who gains and who loses when the Fed increases (or decreases) interest rates? And how do these effects propagate through the economy? Because business income and profits play a key role in household inequality, Vasu looks at how businesses respond to the actions of the Fed. 

After he earns his PhD, Vasu says he would love to be able to continue researching the importance of economic heterogeneity in monetary policy transmission. “I am particularly grateful for AU’s faculty, who are leading experts in their field and approachable and encouraging as mentors,” he adds. “I am equally grateful for the rest of my PhD cohort, who are a brilliant and motivated group. I am learning from them continually.”

Elissa Cohen

More about Elissa

Economics PhD candidate Elissa Cohen received an NSF grant to pursue her research about assumptions people make about risk and, building off an idea from a previous project, Elissa continues her interest in the Value of Statistical Life in this one to question the validity of how VSL is used and estimated. In doing so, she contributes to development of a more complete theory of how perceptions of risk guide decision making.

Elissa asks three questions: (1) Is the construct validity of the VSL consistent across measurement approaches? (2) Do people value the mitigation of varying types of fatality risk differently across domains? (3) Do people accurately comprehend the probability of death in a given setting?

To answer these questions, Elissa uses discrete choice experimental (DCE) designs, self-report surveys, and machine learning techniques to evaluate the validity of the VSL as an assessment how people’s risk assessment shapes behavior.

This research improves the understanding of how people perceive fatality risk across domains and how perceptions impact choices about risk exposure. With this research comes the potential to reshape how regulatory agencies construct their aggregated VSL estimates for future cost-benefit analyses, influencing policy decisions and allocation of scarce federal resources.

As she thinks about impact and the research space she can contribute to and develop, Elissa comments, “AU has definitely helped me refine the types of questions I am interested in answering…. I see myself continuing to explore and test feedback loops between emergent human behaviors and macro-level policy decision-making.”

Amy Burnett Cross

More about Amy

Amy Burnett Cross has been selected as one of the three NBER Pre-Doctoral Fellows in the Gender in the Economy program to support her dissertation research on the influence of military policy on the sorting of women into occupations. Through this research, she is able to include her knowledge from AU’s Program on Gender Analysis in Economics as well as her understanding that by bringing more insight from conservative institutions into her research realm, she could enhance the policy space of gender equity.

As she continues her career, Amy desires to conduct research that is directly applicable to policymakers, and through her research on this project, Amy has the chance to do this in addition to engaging with economic history and begin to invest more time in the historical arc of military policy and gender dynamics.

She has three focuses for her dissertation project: (1) evaluate the impact of lifting the ban on women in combat (in 2013) on civilian occupational desegregation; (2) measure the extent to which gender desegregation of the Army (in 1977) signaled a shift in the appropriate role of civilian women at work; and (3) assess whether the structure of the U.S. draft in WWI (in 1917) contributed to the development of the male breadwinner norm.

Amy’s work aims to provide evidence that policy changes can influence social norms constraining women’s work and occupational segregation, particularly in discovering how policies regarding women’s participation in the military go on to influence gender gaps in civilian labor market outcomes. In doing so, Amy also seeks to contribute to the research of information asymmetry as a cause for occupational segregation—does military gender desegregation function as a reduction of information asymmetry?

With the support and accommodation of her peers, professors, and advisor, Mary E. Hansen, Amy has been able to focus on her academic excellence and develop close friendships and bonds during her journey at AU. In discussing her work in gender economics and the community at American University, Amy offered, “AU attracts women economists and I have found some truly excellent ones here.”

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Prospective Graduates

Any inquiries regarding the admissions process can be submitted via email to [email protected]. do not contact faculty or other departmental staff members regarding your applications. ,  application deadline for 2025-2026 intake: december 1, 2024, applications open in fall 2024. .

The Department of Economics offers two degree tracks: a Master of Quantitative Economics (MQE) and a PhD in Economics. This page provides information on the admission process for the doctoral program. Students who are accepted into our doctoral program can earn their Master’s of Arts (MA) in Economics en route to earning their PhD. Note: Based on University policy, students who have already been awarded an academic Master’s in Economics (MA or MS), are unable to be awarded a duplicate degree.

The PhD program does not admit students whose final goal is to earn a Master of Arts in Economics. If you are interested in a Master’s only, please apply to the MQE Program.  They offer a terminal Master’s degree curriculum designed to prepare students to enter the field of Economics. If you are interested in applying to the MQE program, contact our MQE Graduate Office at [email protected]

The program only admits students once a year in the fall; we do not have spring or winter admissions.  Applications for the 2025-2026 academic year must be submitted by 11:59pm PST on December 1, 2024 (2:59am EST on December 2) . Recommendation letters are given a 2 week grace period. Unofficial transcripts should be uploaded by December 1, and GRE/TOEFL exams must have been taken by December 1 (scores should arrive within 2-3 weeks).

Our application is entirely online.   S tudents only need to submit unofficial transcripts during the review process.  If admitted, all students will be required to submit official transcripts in order to register.

All applicants must apply online via the  UCLA Application for Graduate Admission .

Please do not submit application materials by email or by fax.

For questions about our departmental admissions policies and procedures, you may contact  [email protected] . If you have specific questions about the online UCLA Graduate Division Application system, please email the Graduate Division Admissions office at  [email protected] . If you experience technical issues with the online application, please use the Technical Support button found at the top of each page of the application.

Application Materials Checklist

Academic records.

• International applicants: Unofficial Transcripts in original language and  English
• Domestic applicants: Unofficial Transcripts
• GRE Scores (reported directly by ETS)
• TOEFL or IELTS score, if applicable (reported directly by ETS)
• Statement of Purpose (online only)
• Personal Statement (online only; will be used to consider candidates for the Cote-Robles Fellowship)
• Resume/CV (required; online only)
• Three Letters of Recommendation (online only)
• Application Fee (online only)

All applicants must upload a copy of all your relevant academic records to the online application. The Department requires that all Economics, Math, and Statistics courses be clearly marked on the uploaded academic transcripts by circling the courses.

Requirements for U.S. Applicants:

Applications will be reviewed based on unofficial copies of your transcripts uploaded as a part of your application.  You are not required to submit an official transcript during the application process.

Applicants who are officially notified of admission: One  official copy of your electronic transcript(s) should be sent directly from the Registrar(s) of the academic institution(s) you have attended (beyond secondary school), or you may request official copies and mail them yourself in the sealed envelope. Please note that submitted records become the property of the University and cannot be returned. Please submit all electronic transcripts to [email protected].

If you are a university/college senior, do not risk missing the deadline by waiting for senior-year grades to be posted before submitting your application and transcript.

UCLA undergraduates are exempt from mailing official copies of UCLA transcripts.

Requirements for International Applicants:

Please upload unofficial academic records to the online application.

International applicants should submit the transcripts (listing courses and grades) in  both the original language and the authorized, complete, and exact English translation certified by the issuing institution. Unofficial transcripts are accepted for admissions consideration. However, students will need to provide official transcripts upon acceptance to the program. Electronic transcripts should be emailed to [email protected] from the institutions directly to our office. 

Degree and diploma certificates (or other evidence of conferral of all degrees, diplomas, or professional titles) must accompany the transcripts, and must also be submitted in the  the original language and in English . This evidence may be in the form of officially certified copies of the actual diploma, or entries on official records or official statements from granting institutions. In all cases, the statement must include (1) the exact, original title of the degree and (2) the date of its formal conferral (month and year).

Any questions about the requirements for official academic records can be directed to  [email protected] .

Official GRE and TOEFL scores must be sent directly by the Educational Testing Service (ETS).  Photocopies of these reports are not considered official documents and cannot be used for admission evaluation . Please provide the ETS with the following codes when requesting your scores:

GRE – UCLA: 4837 / Econ: 1801

Please be advised that all applicants, regardless of their degree or major backgrounds, must submit GRE scores. There are no substitutes for the GRE, including the GMAT.

A GRE score is valid if the examination was given no more than five years prior to the date your application is submitted. If your score has expired, you must re-take the exam no later than December 1, 2023.

Our admitted students have, on average, GRE scores that average in the 80th percentile in the verbal, 94th percentile in the quantitative, and 5.0 or above in the analytical sections. However, there is no minimum score requirement for the GRE.

TOEFL/IELTS Scores

Official TOEFL scores must be sent directly by the Educational Testing Service (ETS). Photocopies of these reports are not considered official documents and cannot be used for admission evaluation.  Please provide the ETS with the following codes when requesting your scores:

TOEFL – UCLA: 4837 / Econ: 84

If you have previously taken the TOEFL exam, your score is valid for two years; scores should be valid at the time your application is submitted. If your score has expired, you must re-take the exam no later than December 1, 2023.

A TOEFL score of at least 560 on the paper and pencil test or 220 on the computer based test is the minimum required. For the internet-based TOEFL (TOEFL iBT), applicants must have a minimum total passing score of 87. You do not need to meet the minimum passing scores for each section as long as this minimum overall score of 87 is met.

An IELTS overall band score of at least 7.0 is the minimum required.

Applicants who hold a Bachelor’s or higher degree from a university located in the United States or in another country, in which English is both the spoken language and the medium of instruction, or who have completed at least two years of full-time study at such an institution, are exempt from both the TOEFL/IELTS requirement and the ESLPE. Please be sure to include such information in your application.

Preparation

A Bachelor’s degree in Economics is recommended but not required. However, a strong background in Economics is essential. An applicant should have formal coursework in intermediate Micro- and Macro-Economic Theory and Econometrics.

Mathematical preparation is also essential. This should include a minimum of one year of Probability and Statistics and two years of Calculus. Additional coursework in mathematics and Statistics, especially Linear Algebra, Matrix Algebra, Advanced Probability Theory, Mathematical Statistics and Real Analysis, is highly recommended.

Prior to uploading the academic transcripts to the online application,  please circle all Economics, Math, and Statistics courses.

GPA Requirement

The minimum requirement for admission for a  U.S. applicant is a Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, comparable in standard and content to a Bachelor’s degree from the University of California. A scholastic average of B (3.0 on a 4.0 scale) or better is required or its equivalent if the letter grade system is not used.

An  international applicant  whose post-secondary education is completed outside of the U.S. is expected to hold  a degree representing completion of at least four years of study  with above average scholarship from a university or university-level institution.

All prospective applicants are eligible to apply if the above conditions are met.

Entering Class

Our entering class is normally from 20 to 25 students. Our admitted students have strong academic records and outstanding letters of recommendation. They also have, on average, GRE scores that average in the 80th percentile in verbal, 94th percentile in quantitative, and 5.0 or above in analytical. However, there is no minimum score requirement for the GRE in order to apply.

All admitted applicants are considered for Departmental fellowships/funding, and the awards can vary in length and level of support. Some of our students are admitted with funding and others are not. Funding is based on the strength of the entire application for admission and does not require a separate application.

Teaching Assistantships and Readerships are normally offered to all of our students in years two through four, subject to their satisfactory progress in the program.

For comprehensive information about admission to graduate programs at UCLA, please visit the UCLA Graduate Division’s  website  and our  FAQ page .

For further information regarding admissions, you may contact the Economics Graduate Office staff at  [email protected] .

UCLA Department of Economics

8283 Bunche Hall Mail Stop: 147703 Los Angeles, CA 90095

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10 Best Ph.D. Programs in the USA with No GRE Requirement

When applying to graduate schools in the United States, students who wish to enroll in their Ph.D. programs may need to take the GRE general test as an admission requirement in their program.

Fortunately, while most universities in the USA require the GRE test, some of them don’t need to submit this upon admission to their Ph.D. programs at several institutions. In the sections below, we will look at 10 US graduate schools that don’t require a GRE.

Top Universities That Do Not Require GRE (Ph.D. Level)

1. walden university.

• Admissions | Tuition Fees | Scholarships

Walden University is where your Ph.D. becomes a feasible goal! It offers a wide variety of 25 different doctoral programs and over 150 different specializations to suit every applicant’s specific career goals. Best of all, many of these programs are also available online.

Some of the areas where the university offers its most popular doctoral programs are business & management , criminal justice , and information technology . Although Walden University does not require the GRE score for its Ph.D. programs, all candidates are required to present a detailed academic resume.

2. A.T. Still University

A.T. Still University  is one of the best universities to earn a Ph.D. degree in human medicine or health science. Two of the university’s most popular doctoral programs are Doctor of Health Sciences and Doctor of Education in Health Professions .

The former is an online program that prepares students for administrative jobs in the healthcare sector, while the latter trains doctoral students to become health educators. These services are especially sought in Africa, where there is an acute need for health education and disease prevention training.

3. Purdue Global

Purdue University has established an online university, Purdue Global , which is the first to be fully accredited. Here, each program is tailored according to the applicant’s specific needs and has its own schedule. Therefore, the pace of academic progress is different for each candidate.

This university is most famous for its Juris Doctor program. Although taking the GRE exam is not mandatory for enrollment in these Ph.D. and Juris Doctor Programs, a series of interviews is conducted to assess the applicant’s readiness for the program’s challenges.

4. Sacred Heart University

Founded in 1963, Sacred Heart University is one of the most popular higher schools in the state of Connecticut. With over 3,000 graduate students, it is dubbed one of the fastest-growing private doctoral institutions.

The university’s most popular doctoral programs are the Doctor of Educational Leadership , Doctor of Business Administration in Finance , and Doctor of Physical Therapy . Neither of these programs requires the candidate to have successfully passed the GRE.

5. St. John’s University

The next university on our list that does not require the GRE for its Ph.D. programs is St. John’s University . This private higher education provider in New York City is strongly affiliated with the Roman Catholic church.

The beginnings of this institution can be traced back to 1870. Now, the university has over 4,500 postgraduate students from all over the world.  St. John’s University offers the most popular doctoral programs: the Doctor of Audiology and Doctor of Clinical Psychology .

6. Colorado Technical University

Colorado Technical University is one of the best universities for pursuing a doctoral degree in the technical field. Established in 1965, it now has 2,700 postgraduate students. One of the university’s most significant advantages is that it offers full-time and online doctoral programs that do not require the comprehensive GRE general test.

Some of the most popular online doctoral programs are in computer science , big data analytics , management , and nursing practice . This university also offers applied doctorate programs and research-based ones.

7. Duquesne University

Duquesne University was established in 1878 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. The university is now a private university strongly affiliated with the Roman Catholic church. Although its Ph.D. programs do not require GRE scores, it still has 4,500 postgraduate students.

The leading postgraduate school is its School of Education. Some of the most interesting programs that it offers include Ph.D. Counselor Education & Supervision , the Ph.D. in School Psychology , and the Ed.D. in Educational Leadership program.

Even without the GRE general test, the admission process to these programs is quite strict, and the applicants go through several rounds of selection.

8. California Southern University

• Admissions | Tuition Fees  | Scholarships

California Southern University is 100% online-based and offers doctoral degrees in business administration, law, and psychology. Ever since its inception in 1978, the university’s popularity among the young working people in the state has been growing steadily. Earning your Ph.D. degree online makes a lot of sense in today’s fast-paced world, where time is one’s most precious commodity.

The flexible doctoral programs offered by CalSouthern, as this school is known for short, combine excellent academic training with the challenges of thorough research into the chosen field under the careful guidance of an experienced advisor.  The holders of Juris Doctor degrees are eligible to sit the California Bar Exam for attorneys.

9. Lynn University

Since its establishment in 1962, Lynn University has established itself as one of the leading institutions providing Ph.D. degrees in Boca Raton, Florida. Its most popular doctoral program is the one in educational leadership, which is available on-campus only.

The applicants are first required to complete a standard form and then be asked to write their professional personal statement . In it, they should clearly highlight their academic goals and explain how the doctoral program will help them achieve these goals.

Last but not least, they should provide at least two references from previous employers or tutors. The application fee of $45 is non-refundable.

10. National University

We end our list of universities with no GRE requirements for their Ph.D. programs with National University . It is an online university headquartered in San Diego, California.

This institution’s academic work is organized in five different schools, the most popular of which are the School of Business, the School of Health Sciences, and the School of Social and Behavioral Sciences.

The most popular doctoral programs that the online university offers are Doctor of Nurse Anesthesia Practice , Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Leadership , and Doctor of Health Administration .

To enter either of the National University’s numerous doctoral programs, the applicant should have a master’s degree in the selected field of study. No GRE score is required for admission.

Universities usually require GRE test scores to assess students’ preparation for graduate-level education and gauge their academic potential for advanced studies. However, other requirements can prove your readiness for Ph.D. programs, such as a transcript of records or a résumé to see proof of coursework eligibility. That’s why it will be helpful to learn the many institutions that don’t require a GRE score if you haven’t taken the test yet!

We hope that this article on universities with Ph.D. programs that don’t have GRE requirements was helpful. If you are interested in studying in the United States, check out the Available Programs in the USA for International Students and Study in the USA Page !

About the Author: Hyun Lee

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Economics, PhD

Zanvyl krieger school of arts and sciences, admission requirements.

The admission of each applicant is decided by the Department as a whole and rests upon their academic record (especially economics and mathematics courses), GRE test scores, recommendations of scholars and instructors, and other pertinent information including a match between the research interests of the applicant and the faculty. To apply for admission, applicants are required to upload unofficial transcripts of all previous college and university study to their online application. Failure to upload unofficial transcripts will result in an inability to complete and submit the online application. In addition, we require at least two letters of recommendation. These recommendation letters should come from individuals who can comment on your scholarly skills. All applicants must submit scores from the Graduate Record Examination. Admitted students nearly always have very high quantitative GRE scores. Applicants must take the TOEFL with a minimum score of 100 (internet based), 600 (paper based) or 250 (computer based), or IELTS with a bandscore of 7.  Applicants with degrees from universities in the United States or the countries listed on the KSAS Graduate Admissions website are exempt from this language proficiency requirement. It is the country in which the university is located that determines whether the requirement applies, not the language of instruction at the university. For the exemption to apply, applicants must have completed at least two years of full-time study at a university in the United States and/or a TOEFL exempt foreign country.

Students should have a knowledge of economic theory and statistics and a strong background in mathematics including differential and integral calculus and linear algebra. Almost all of our students enter with at least two semesters of calculus and linear algebra. In admissions decisions, we like applicants to have taken other mathematics courses as well, including more advanced calculus, differential equations, probability, and real analysis. We especially welcome applications from under-represented populations, as diversity is important in our graduate program.

Program Requirements

Preparation for the Dissertation . The program’s first year is comprised of two semesters each of courses in microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, and statistics/econometrics, along with a one-semester course in mathematical methods. Second-year students take courses in specific fields within economics.  If necessary, students may take relevant courses in other departments such as Mathematics, Applied Mathematics and Statistics, Political Science, Public Health, Sociology, and Anthropology.  Second-year students also begin their exposure to original research through research mentorships with faculty.  A research paper is submitted near the end of the second year.  Third-year students complete any remaining course work and prepare a dissertation proposal

Comprehensive Exam.  This exam is administered by the department and consists of three written examinations designed to test the candidate’s knowledge of microeconomics, macroeconomics, and statistics/econometrics. The written examinations are taken prior to the start of the second year.

Dissertation.  The dissertation is an original investigation worthy of publication, prepared under the supervision of three members of the faculty. A dissertation proposal is due near the end of the third year.  Some students finish the program in five years.  More commonly, students finish in six years.  The final requirement is a Graduate Board Oral Examination on the dissertation.  The committee that administers the examination includes faculty from outside the department. 

Requirements for the M.A. Degree

The department does not admit students from outside Johns Hopkins University who intend to work only for an M.A. However, it does offer this degree as an intermediate step toward the Ph.D. or as a final degree to some of those who do not complete their doctoral work.

Beyond the general university requirements, the department requires for the master’s degree two years of satisfactory graduate course work.

• College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

Graduate Program

Department of Economics

Front Desk: Teaching Unit 2, Room 104 4104 Martin Luther King Blvd. Houston, Texas 77204-5019 Phone: (713) 743-3800 Fax: (713) 743-3798 Mailing Address: Department of Economics Teaching Unit 2, Room 104 4104 Martin Luther King Blvd. Houston, Texas 77204-5019

Please note the new application deadline for the Ph.D. program is January 15 .

Updated information about the GRE on the Admissions and FAQ pages.

Questions and Answers

What are the characteristics of students who have been admitted and funded, how many students are admitted each year, how many students receive funding each year, do you provide partial funding, if i do not receive funding initially, can i be funded later, how much is the stipend, the doctoral program in economics.

The Department of Economics offers a program leading to the Ph.D. degree in Economics designed to provide students rigorous training in economic theory and quantitative skills as well as an intensive exposure to several specialized areas of Economics. The Ph.D. training provides skills needed in academic, government, or business careers.

Graduate students in the University of Houston Department of Economics are subject to all regulations of the Graduate School and the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences. The rules are found in the University of Houston Graduate Catalog, which can be found online at http://www.uh.edu/grad_catalog/. The requirements discussed below are additional requirements that apply to graduate students in economics.

The new doctoral student begins a year of intensive course work in microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, statistics, and econometrics. During the summer after the first year, the student is required to take the economic theory comprehensive exam. Upon receiving a grade of "superior" in both the micro and macro parts of the exam, the student becomes a candidate for the Ph.D. degree.

More about the program

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Must applicants submit a GRE score report?

Starting with the 2022-2023 Admission season, the GRE will no longer be accepted and therefore does not need to be submitted.

What happens if my official test scores or letters of recommendation arrive after the December 1 deadline?

All items for your application must be received by 11:59pm EST on December 1 through the CollegeNet/ApplyWeb system including all letters of recommendation. Test scores (TOEFL, IELTS) must be at the Rackham Graduate School on file for you by December 1. Application review begins soon after. 

Must international applicants submit a TOEFL score report?

The TOEFL is valid for two years; Rackham Graduate School waives the TOEFL requirement for any applicant who is a non‐native English speaker who has earned a degree or will have earned a degree from an English‐speaking institution before entering our doctoral program. The official requirements are listed on the Rackham Graduate School's website for test scores . Minimum acceptable scores are listed, however competitive applicants have a TOEFL iBT score of 100 or higher overall. Do not send a paper copy of your score report; any received will be discarded.

Do applicants need to submit a self‐calculated GPA?

It is not necessary for students who have attended a post‐secondary institution that does not include a school‐calculated GPA to include such a calculation. However, it is helpful to submit a class rank if that documentation is provided by the institution.

Do applicants need to send a transcript from every school attended?

The Admissions Committee will review uploaded transcripts with university logs through ApplyWeb/CollegeNET for each bachelor’s, master’s, professional, or doctoral degree earned or in progress.  If you receive a recommendation for admissions, and official transcript must be sent directory from the Registrar’s Office to the Rackham Graduate School 

More information about transcripts here.

Should I submit a transcript if I'm enrolled for the fall term?

If you are currently enrolled, you do NOT need to submit the fall term transcript with your grade(s) posted on it. If a transcript is requested, you will be contacted personally by email by the department. Please do not send updated transcripts with fall term grades without our specific request.

Can I submit more than 3 letters of recommendation?

Our requirement is three letters of recommendation for each application. We ask that all applicants keep their applications to only three letters of recommendation to allow for a smooth, fair review of all applications. Please have these letters submitted via your Rackham Graduate School application only. Each letter must be officially received through ApplyWeb/CollegeNet by 11:59pm EST on December 1. Please communicate this requirement to your letter writers. The department will not be reminding recommenders of this deadline.

Can I submit letters of recommendation letters from employers instead of faculty?

The strongest letters of recommendation are written by people who have earned a PhD in economics and are thus familiar with the rigors of the doctoral program. The letter writer should provide their judgment of your ability to be successful in a doctoral program.  Employers who satisfy these criteria can often provide unique and valuable references.

How can I verify whether supporting documents have arrived?

You can check Wolverine Access for information on whether supporting documents have been received. Please check your Wolverine Access Friend Account under "New and Prospective Student Business" to view which items have been received for your application. Please do not email the department regarding which items sent to the Rackham Graduate School have been received. Check your Wolverine Access Friend Account or email [email protected]. If you need help setting up your Friend Account, Rackham has a helpful resource here .

What is the likelihood of receiving first‐year financial support?

There is no separate application process for financial aid. All applicants are reviewed simultaneously for both admission and aid. We currently have the resources to fund all students we admit through a combination of fellowships (first year) and graduate student instructor positions (subsequent years) for up to 5 years.

How much is the application fee?

Information about the application fee is available at the Rackham Graduate School Website.  The Department of Economics has a procedure for applicants who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents who may need an application Fee Waiver. If you are in this category and would like to request a fee waiver, please email [email protected] .

Who do I contact if I'm locked out of my U-M Friend Account?

Contact the Rackham Graduate School Office of Admissions at 734-764-8129 (option 4), or email [email protected].

Do international applicants need to complete financial certification?

International students who are nominated for admission will be contacted by Rackham Graduate School to submit financial certification in order for the University of Michigan to prepare your I‐20 or DS-2019. If you have been awarded financial aid by the University, the department will verify that information with Rackham Graduate School.

If I send you a snapshot of my academic credentials can you predict whether I am admissible?

There is no one aspect of your application that either guarantees or denies admission. The committee evaluates the entire academic record. It is not possible to judge the likelihood of any one applicant being offered admission without reviewing all applications in the pool for any given year. The review process is very competitive. We receive about 700 applications a year with an entering class of roughly 20 students. Applicants do not need to have majored in economics or completed a Master's degree prior to application. Indeed, in the recent past we have admitted students with undergraduate degrees in mathematics, physics, history and other disciplines.  However, applicants must have completed at least two terms of calculus and a term of linear algebra.  We also strongly recommend coursework in statistics. Most applicants have stronger mathematical preparation than the minimum standard. Applicants should also have completed at least an intermediate‐level micro‐ and macroeconomics course.

Can I meet with faculty during the application process?

We do not offer the opportunity for applicants to meet with individual faculty prior to being offered admission. We do not recruit students to work in particular fields so strongly discourage applicants from emailing faculty requesting to work with them on current research projects.

Do you accept transfer students?

Applicants who are currently enrolled in another PhD program go through the same review process as all other new, first-year applicants. It is not possible to transfer any courses. If you are offered admission, it is possible to take equivalency exams in our first‐year mathematics and econometrics sequence.

Can you apply to more than one program simultaneously?

Students can apply to multiple programs at the University of Michigan but must submit a separate application, application fee, and complete set of supporting documents for each application.

Can you apply to both the PhD program in Economics and the Master's of Applied Economics simultaneously?

The Economics department offers two separate and distinct graduate programs. One is the doctoral program which is theoretical in nature and prepares students to become economics faculty at research‐oriented universities. The other is the Master's in Applied Economics program. This is a policy‐oriented program of study that is completed after 33 credit hours of study. Review your career goals and make a decision as to whether the Ph.D. program or the MAE program offer you the best options for meeting those goals. The MAE program does not accept applications from students who applied to the PhD program but were not offered admission. The MAE program is NOT an intermediate step towards the PhD.

Do you have a preview day?

Yes, we hold our preview day in mid March by invitation only.

Can admitted students be deferred?

Admitted students who may need to defer their admission for one year must demonstrate significant need to do so. To request a deferral, please email the [email protected] . The Director of Admissions will closely review deferral requests on a case by case basis.

What's the process for re‐applying?

If you are denied admission, you are welcome to re‐apply. However, you must complete a new online application and submit the application fee again. 

Can I enroll in the PhD program on a less than full‐time status?

The PhD program in economics is not available as a distance‐learning, part‐time, or evening program.

For questions regarding admissions please send an email to  [email protected] .

Office Hours: M-F 8 am - 4:30pm

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PhD How to Apply

We’re delighted that you’re interested in applying to the stevens doctoral program chicago booth..

Admission is highly competitive. About 20-25 outstanding students enter the Stevens Program each year. In evaluating applications, we consider a wide range of factors, including your academic background and performance, essays, research interest and potential, prior exposure to academic research, strength of recommendations, and standardized test scores. You may only apply to one dissertation area  per year. The application for Fall 2025 will open in September. 

Applicants to the Stevens Doctoral Program must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited university (or expect to receive one by the time they enter the program).

Applicants to Stevens Doctoral Program, regardless of citizenship, must either meet one of our waiver criteria (more information below) or submit proof of English language proficiency. Non-US residents should also consult the International Applicants page  to learn more about eligibility requirements. Chicago Booth prides itself on a fair and impartial selection process. To find out more, read the Nondiscrimination Statement .

Admissions FAQ

Admissions Timeline

🠊 The Stevens Program matriculates new students once a year, in the Autumn Quarter. 🠊 Our application for 2025 admission will open in September 2024 and be available through December 15, 2024. 🠊 Reviews in each area will begin at different times, which will impact the timing of the release of decisions. 🠊 In advanced stages of the review process, some areas will require an interview. Applicants will be notified directly by email if they are invited to interview. More information about the interview process will be released shortly. 🠊 Generally speaking, all applicants should have their decisions by early March. Applicants will be notified of their admissions decision by email. 🠊 All admitted students will need to be in residence for the program by September.

Application Checklist

To apply, please submit the following.

• Application for admission. The application for Fall 2025 will open in September 2024.
• Nonrefundable application fee ($80). If you're interested in applying for a fee waiver, please see below for eligibility requirements and instructions.
• Transcripts from all institutions attended after high school
• We require all applicants to submit a minimum of two letters of recommendation (preferably from academic sources) as part of their application, although we will accept up to four.
• Letters can be submitted after the deadline, but we cannot guarantee your application will still be in review by the time they arrive.
• For reference, you can find the application instructions: Please write a short essay (typically 2-4 pages) that describes your basic research interests. Describe your exposure, if any, to research in your field of interest. Include non-academic personal or work experiences only if they are directly relevant to the formation of your research interests. You may also use this space to briefly detail your long-term professional objectives.
• Optional writing sample

Please see below for area-specific score requirements: Economics: GRE is required. Finance: GRE is strongly preferred, but GMAT is acceptable. Joint Program in Financial Economics: GRE is required.

• Scores should be sent directly to the Chicago Booth Stevens Doctoral Program by listing the institutional codes below when taking the exam: GMAT: H9X-9F-05 GRE: 1501 TOEFL (if applicable): 1819 IELTS (if applicable): send TRF number to [email protected]
• Primary Language Waiver: If English has been a primary language of communication and schooling for you since childhood, you may attest to this on the application. We cannot assist you in determining if this is the case for you. Falsifying this information, as with any other information on the application, may lead to revocation of an offer of admission.
• Antigua and Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Canada, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Hong Kong, Ireland, Jamaica, New Zealand, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Singapore, South Africa, Trinidad and Tobago, the United Kingdom, the United States.
• Education in English-medium institutions in any countries or territories not listed here does not qualify for the exemption.
• Only full-time coursework in a degree program at a college or university in one of these countries or territories qualifies. Remote study, lab or research work, non-degree programs, intensive English language courses, or high school/secondary school do not qualify. The qualifying academic year must be completed – i.e., if you are now in a program and are planning to have completed a year by the time you enroll, it will not meet the requirement.
• The minimum test score requirement for the TOEFL is 100 overall score, no subsection requirements.
• The minimum test score requirements for the IELTS is an overall score of at least 7, with sub scores of at least 7 each.
• We do not accept any other proficiency tests, exams, equivalent coursework, certificate/certifications, endorsement from faculty, and/or other measurement other than the TOEFL iBT or IELTS Academic. This includes the IELTS “Indicator” test and the TOEFL ITP Plus as well as Duolingo.
• TOEFL or IELTS score reports are valid for two years; scores will be considered expired if the test was taken more than two years prior to the application deadline. If you send us a score and it expires prior to the deadline you are applying under, you will need to send a more recent score.
• Photocopies or PDFs of TOEFL or IELTS Score Reports will not be considered valid or accepted in lieu of an official score report from the agency. An offer admission cannot be made without an official score report on file.

Hardship Requests for Delayed Test Scores:

Applicants for whom a recent natural disaster or other major, widespread disruption has affected their ability to submit required components may submit a Hardship Request as described below. Please note all applicants have to submit their application by the deadline regardless of if they've been granted more time to fulfill an individual component. If the impact of the incident or disruption makes it difficult for you to submit one or more required components – such as GRE scores,TOEFL scores, transcripts, etc.– by the deadline, please complete your application to the best of your ability and then submit a formal hardship request. We will launch the hardship request form here when the application goes live. If deemed eligible, we may approve a temporary delay of test scores and allow you to submit your application without one or more required application materials (e.g. GRE or TOEFL scores), although it does not waive the requirement(s). You will still be required to submit the missing item(s) as soon as circumstances allow. Please note we cannot extend an offer of admission before all materials (including official test scores) have been submitted.

Application Fee: Waiver Eligibility Requirements and Instructions

Upon submission of an application, applicants will be prompted to pay the $80 processing fee. You may be eligible to receive an application fee waiver if you meet at least one of the below requirements. Note that you'll only be able to submit a waiver request and supplementary documentation within the application. You can find more information about the approval and notification process on our FAQ page.  

Fee Waiver Categories:

• Category A: Current University of Chicago student or University of Chicago alumni from degree programs (includes current non-degree visiting students and past non-degree visiting students). You'll be instructed to upload your transcripts as verification.
• Category B: Current University of Chicago Staff (including full-time research professionals).
• AEA Summer Programs attendees
• Americorps/Vista
• Big Ten Alliance FreeApp Recipients
• Bill and Melinda Gates Millennium Scholars
• California Forum on Diversity
• Expanding Diversity in Economics (EDE) Summer Institute attendees
• Fulbright/IIE Fellowship recipient
• GRE fee reduction voucher recipients
• IDDEAS participants (IDDEAS@Booth/Kellogg or IDDEAS programs hosted by other schools)
• Institute for the Recruitment of Teachers (IRT)
• Leadership Alliance
• Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship
• National Name Exchange
• Next-Gen Psych Scholars Program (NPSP)
• Peace Corps
• PhD Project Annual Conference attendees
• Posse Foundation Scholars
• Project SHORT
• Public Policy and International Affairs Program (PPIA)
• Ronald McNair Scholars and/or Post Baccalaureate Achievement Program
• Sadie Collective
• Summer Institute for Social Science Research Methods
• Teach for America
• U.S. Armed Forces or uniformed services: Currently serving (active duty or reserves) or honorably discharged
• Category D: Current undergraduates receiving need-based financial aid from a U.S. institution: If you are currently (as of the date of the application deadline for this program, i.e. December 15, 2024) enrolled as an undergraduate student at an institution within the United States and are receiving need-based financial aid from your current institution, you may be eligible for an application fee waiver. A copy of the institution’s financial aid letter or a letter from the institution’s financial aid office is required.
• Category E: Individuals experiencing financial hardship: Applicants who are experiencing financial hardship and are not eligible for a fee waiver under any of the other categories may be considered for a fee waiver. Applicants requesting an application fee waiver on the basis of financial hardship must upload a brief written statement which explains their financial hardship and how they intend to cover their pre-matriculation expenses (e.g. moving expenses) if admitted.

Application fees are non-refundable. If you are requesting an application fee waiver, do not pay the application fee while your request is under review. You should only pay the fee if you receive an email from us indicating that your request has been denied.  If your request is approved, we will manually waive the fee once we have determined your eligibility. Application fee payment will not be refunded if:

• You pay the application fee before receiving our fee waiver request decision, and later have your waiver request approved.
• You do not complete the fee waiver request form inside the application and pay the fee, then later realize you were eligible for a fee waiver.

Fee Waiver Decision Notification We will not be reaching out to applicants whose request for a fee waiver has been approved. You will only be notified via email if your request has been denied. We do not make any determinations before your application to the Stevens Doctoral Program has been submitted, so please make sure to do so by the application deadline. You can find more information about the eligibility and notification process on our FAQ page.

Admission to Joint PhD Programs

Joint Program in Financial Economics

Admission to the Joint Program in Financial Economics requires admission to both the doctoral program in the Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics and to the doctoral program at Chicago Booth, but interested parties need only apply to one or the other program. Students may enter the joint program at the beginning of their doctoral studies. Those seeking admission to the joint program should apply online to either the PhD program in the Department of Economics or Chicago Booth. The GRE is required for all applicants to this program.

Students enrolled in doctoral studies in either the Department of Economics or Chicago Booth may apply to the joint program at any time within their first two years in residence. Such students will still have to meet all of the requirements of both programs.

Enrollment and financial aid throughout a student's matriculation in the joint program will be administered by either the Division of the Social Sciences or Chicago Booth, as arranged by the two units. This designation will be for administrative purposes only and will not have programmatic implications. If a student's interests change, the director of the Stevens Program at Chicago Booth and the dean of students for the social sciences will facilitate transfers out of the joint program and into the doctoral program in economics or business.

Joint Program in Psychology and Business

Students interested in applying to the Joint Program in Psychology and Business through Chicago Booth should apply online for admission to the Behavioral Science dissertation area. Once admitted, students seek a faculty research sponsor in the Department of Psychology. After a faculty sponsor in psychology has been identified, admission to the Joint Program is generally automatic. Entry into the Joint Program in Psychology and Business normally occurs during the first year of study. Applicants should state their interest in the joint program as part of the application process so they can be given advice in making the connection to faculty in the Department of Psychology.

Joint PhD/JD Program

To earn the joint PhD/JD degree, you must be admitted to both the Law School and Booth’s Stevens Program. You may apply to both programs at the same time, or you may begin one program and then apply to the other at a later date. Please visit the Law School's website for more information.

US Military Personnel

Admitted students who are called to active duty prior to matriculation will be granted a deferral of admission and Chicago Booth financial aid to the following year. Deferrals will be reviewed/extended on an annual basis.

The Stevens Program at Chicago Booth accepts up to three courses in transfer credit from other approved institutions. These credits can only be used toward the coordinated sequence requirement. The Stevens Program does not grant credit for experiential learning or online courses.

For details on readmission, taking a leave of absence, resuming studies, academic grievance policies, and add/drop requirements, please see this Guidebook .

If you still have questions after reviewing our doctorate in business FAQ , please contact us. We look forward to hearing from you!

Phone: 773.702.7298 Email Us

Undergraduate Certificates

Certificate

Students who major in Economics and who are particularly interested in business economics, environmental economics, data sciences, or finance have the option to obtain a certificate from the Economics Department to demonstrate knowledge and skill in those fields. The student will be awarded a physical certificate upon completion of the appropriate coursework. 

Requirements

A student who takes at least four courses (with 18 or more credits) from the Certificate Course List for (for example) Business Economics will be awarded a Certificate in Business Economics. The course list for each area is provided below and the student must earn a grade of C or higher for a course to count toward the certificate. A student can petition to add a course to a Certificate Course List and the Director of Undergraduate Studies will make a yes / no decision.

A student can earn more than one certificate, but the same course cannot be counted toward more than one certificate for the student. Courses taken for certificate requirements may also be counted toward Economics degree requirements.

Application

Once a student completes the necessary coursework for a certificate, the student can fill out and submit the Economics Department’s certificate form to the Undergraduate Student Services Officer. The Undergraduate Student Services Officer will then review the courses submit and approve or deny the student's petition. Student's will be notified by email once their petition decision has been made and, if approved, they may come to the Economics Academic Office to retrieve a copy of their certificate. 

NOTE: Certificates MUST be picked up in person. Copies will not be mailed. Successful completion of an Economics certificate will not appear on the student's diploma or transcript. 

New economics master’s degree delivers analytical, career-focused skill set

Students can now earn a STEM-designated Master of Science

McCord Hall is home to several master's programs within the W. P. Carey School of Business. ASU photo

The W. P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University has launched a new Master of Science in Economics (MS-Econ) program. The new degree is now accepting applications for the fall 2025 semester.

The MS-Econ degree program is designed to provide graduate students with a quantitative economics toolkit and the perspectives for economic decision-making. Through the program, students will:

• Gain an in-depth understanding of economic theory and how it can be applied to real-world problems.
• Develop advanced data and econometric analysis, critical thinking and tool-based skills that are highly transferable and valued by employers.
• Get ready for careers in data analysis, policy, consulting, government agencies, research organizations and more.

Alejandro Manelli , chair and JPMorgan Chase Professor in Economics, sees the new program as an opportunity for students to enhance their business acumen. 

"An understanding of economic data and decision-making, which students will gain through the program, sets students up for success across industries," Manellis said.

The master’s degree in economics from ASU is recognized by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency as a STEM-certified degree program. The STEM designation allows eligible graduates with student visas access to an Optional Practical Training, or OPT, extension, up to 36 months, compared with 12 months for non-STEM degrees.

“This program is customizable and career-oriented, providing ample opportunities for students to grow in the areas where they are most interested while gaining valuable job skills,” said  Kate Eaton , associate dean of graduate programs and clinical professor of marketing.

The W. P. Carey Department of Economics is ranked No. 25 in the world by ShanghaiRanking’s 2022 Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, and ASU is ranked No. 35 globally for Best Universities for Economics and Business by U.S. News and World Report.

“Our competitive MS-Econ program will provide foundational career skills in innovative classroom settings with distinguished faculty,” said  Ohad Kadan , Charles J. Robel Dean and W. P. Carey Distinguished Chair. “The addition of the MS-Econ degree to our expansive list of graduate programs responds to the growing student and employer needs for advanced analytical skills to solve a broad array of challenges in economics, business and other disciplines."

Offered on the ASU Tempe campus, the economics master’s degree consists of core courses — including two quarters with six courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics, and data science and econometrics — followed by two quarters of electives and a final project, during which students can partner with a corporation with a local presence or the  L. William Seidman Research Institute . There is also an optional math boot camp before the program starts.

Learn more about the new degree at  wpcarey.asu.edu/masters-programs/economics .

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