The Ph.D. program at Berkeley is designed for students interested in pursuing advanced study and conducting original research in Economics. The Ph.D. degree is awarded in recognition of the recipient's qualifications as a general economist and of the ability to make scholarly contributions in fields of specialization.
In advancing to the Ph.D. degree, students pass through two major stages:
- Preparation for candidacy typically takes two to three years. During the first two semesters, students take courses to achieve competence in econometric methods, methods of economic history and fundamentals of microeconomic and macroeconomic theory. During the next two years, students prepare for examination in two fields of specialization of their choosing, prepare a dissertation prospectus, and take an oral examination. When these steps are completed, students are advanced to candidacy.
- Completion of a dissertation after advancing to candidacy typically takes one to two years. The dissertation must be based on original research and represent a significant contribution to the body of Economic knowledge.
The entire process takes approximately five to six years, although some students are able to complete the program in less time. Below is an overview of the program requirements by year and other pertinent information.
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The UC Berkeley College of Letters & Science provides students helpful resources, links, and tools for successfully completing the Ph.D. in Economics.
ECONOMICS GRADUATE STUDENT SERVICES
The Economics Student Services Mission is to advise our students holistically by providing a high standard of service in a supportive and collaborative environment. Professional and peer advisors work as a team to provide accurate information in a timely manner. We partner with faculty to assist students in engaging with the campus and the global economic community. We value fairness, diversity, and the important roles our students, faculty, and staff in the Department of Economics play at the University of California, Berkeley.
If you or someone you know is experiencing financial, food, housing or other basic needs challenges - you can find support and services at: http://tinyurl.com/UCB-BNC-C19.
Meet the members of the Economics Graduate Student Services advising team!



Graduate Office Address:
Economics Graduate Office
Department of Economics
530 Evans Hall #3880
Berkeley, CA 94720-3880
Email: gradofc@econ.berkeley.edu