At a glance
48 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
Pursue a PhD in Economics at the University of Otago, a qualification essential for academic careers and valuable for research-oriented economists. This program focuses on supervised individual research, culminating in a thesis. While primarily thesis-based, you may be required to complete relevant coursework to strengthen your academic background. The PhD is typically completed in three to four years of full-time study and can also be undertaken part-time. Research topics may involve supervision across multiple departments. A strong academic record, including a Master's degree with a research thesis or an Honours degree/Postgraduate Diploma with a research thesis (with at least a B+ average and the research component constituting approximately one-quarter of your final year's credits), is required. Applicants must possess the necessary theoretical and empirical skills for their proposed research, along with proficient written and spoken English.
Curriculum
The PhD in Economics is a research-intensive program focused on thesis completion. While coursework is not a standard component, students may be advised to take papers to enhance their research preparation.
- 1-4
- Supervised Research Thesis
Careers
A PhD in Economics from the University of Otago prepares graduates for impactful roles in academia and research-oriented positions worldwide.
- Lecturer
- Research Fellow
- Postdoctoral Researcher
- Assistant Professor
- Consultant
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic requirements for the PhD in Economics?
- You need a Master's degree or an Honours degree/Postgraduate Diploma with a research thesis and at least a B+ average. The research component should comprise about one-quarter of your final year's credits. You must also demonstrate the necessary theoretical and empirical skills for your proposed research.
- How do I apply for the PhD in Economics?
- First, contact the Department of Economics directly via email at economics@otago.ac.nz with your CV, transcripts, research proposal, and thesis/dissertation copy. Do not apply through the main university portal without their prior assessment.
- What is the duration of the PhD in Economics programme?
- The PhD in Economics is typically completed in three to four years of full-time study, though it can also be undertaken on a part-time basis.
- What are the tuition fees for international students?
- International tuition fees vary by paper and are detailed in the downloadable fees document for 2026. Additional fees such as Student Services Fees may also apply.
- What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
- You need an IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5, with no band below 6.0, or a TOEFL iBT overall score of 90 with a writing score of 21 (for tests taken before January 21, 2026). A C1 Advanced score of 176 with no band below 169 is also accepted.
- What career opportunities are available after completing a PhD in Economics?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as Lecturer, Research Fellow, Postdoctoral Researcher, Assistant Professor, or Consultant in academia and research-focused positions globally.
Entry requirements
Master's degreeWith a research thesis/dissertation and at least a B+ average. The research component should be approximately one-quarter of total credits for the final year.
Honours degree or Postgraduate DiplomaWith a research thesis/dissertation and at least a B+ average. The research component should be approximately one-quarter of total credits for the final year.
IELTS (Academic)Overall 6.5, with no individual band below 6.0
TOEFL iBTOverall 90, with a writing score of 21 (for tests taken before 21 Jan 2026)
C1 AdvancedOverall 176, with no individual band below 169
Applicants must have the necessary theoretical and empirical skills for their proposed research and good written and spoken English. Degrees from universities in English-speaking countries may exempt applicants from formal English language tests. Some specific academic backgrounds may require additional coursework to be taken.
Fees
Tuition (international)International tuition fees vary by paper and are outlined in the downloadable fees document for 2026.
Tuition (home)Domestic tuition fees vary by paper and are outlined in the downloadable fees document for 2026.
LivingNot specified.
Tuition fees increase annually. In addition to tuition, students may incur Student Services Fees, Pūtea Tautoko | Student Relief Fund fees, and other administration fees.
How to apply
1. Email Application DocumentsSend your CV, a copy of your final academic transcripts (in English), a 5-10 page research proposal, and a copy of your Master's or Honours thesis/dissertation to economics@otago.ac.nz. Include 'PhD application' in the subject line. If your thesis is not in English, provide an English translation of the abstract and introduction.
2. Departmental AssessmentThe Department will assess your qualifications and background. If they meet the requirements, you will be advised on how to proceed with the formal University application.
3. Formal University ApplicationFollow the University's instructions for the formal admission process after receiving guidance from the Department.
Scholarships
University of Otago ScholarshipsVariable
Research Grant Funding (Departmental)Variable
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic requirements for the PhD in Economics?
+
You need a Master's degree or an Honours degree/Postgraduate Diploma with a research thesis and at least a B+ average. The research component should comprise about one-quarter of your final year's credits. You must also demonstrate the necessary theoretical and empirical skills for your proposed research.
How do I apply for the PhD in Economics?
+
First, contact the Department of Economics directly via email at economics@otago.ac.nz with your CV, transcripts, research proposal, and thesis/dissertation copy. Do not apply through the main university portal without their prior assessment.
What is the duration of the PhD in Economics programme?
+
The PhD in Economics is typically completed in three to four years of full-time study, though it can also be undertaken on a part-time basis.
What are the tuition fees for international students?
+
International tuition fees vary by paper and are detailed in the downloadable fees document for 2026. Additional fees such as Student Services Fees may also apply.
What are the English language requirements for international applicants?
+
You need an IELTS Academic overall score of 6.5, with no band below 6.0, or a TOEFL iBT overall score of 90 with a writing score of 21 (for tests taken before January 21, 2026). A C1 Advanced score of 176 with no band below 169 is also accepted.
What career opportunities are available after completing a PhD in Economics?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as Lecturer, Research Fellow, Postdoctoral Researcher, Assistant Professor, or Consultant in academia and research-focused positions globally.