CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY · UNITED STATES
Social Sciences PhD Program
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
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Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- 1978First PhD awarded in Social Sciences
- Economics, Political Science, Public PolicyKey disciplines
- Experimental research labsState-of-the-art facilities
- Interdisciplinary focusBroad research approach
- Collaboration with facultyEarly research engagement
The Social Sciences PhD program at Caltech offers a unique interdisciplinary approach for motivated students interested in quantitative research. The program focuses on understanding social phenomena through the lens of individual decision-making, employing rigorous modeling and empirical analysis. Caltech is a pioneer in using laboratory experimentation in social sciences and remains at the forefront of this research methodology. Graduate students are encouraged to engage in independent research early in their studies, often collaborating directly with faculty and participating in weekly seminars and workshops featuring international scholars. The program aims to equip students with a strong foundation in economics, political science, and econometrics, along with advanced technical skills for frontier research, a demonstrated record of independent research, and the ability to collaborate and communicate across social science disciplines.
Curriculum
The curriculum is structured to build a strong theoretical and methodological foundation in the first year, progressing to specialized research areas and independent study in subsequent years.
- Year 1
- Modern statistical and econometric methods
- Game theory, social choice, and decision theory
- Microeconomics
- American political institutions
- Year 2
- Course sequences focused on faculty research interests
- Year 3
- Transition to independent research
Careers
Graduates of the Social Sciences PhD program are highly sought after by leading academic institutions and research-oriented organizations.
- University faculty (Economics, Political Science, Law)
- Government positions
- Industry roles
Frequently asked questions
- What are the tuition fees for the Social Sciences PhD program?
- All doctoral students, including international students, receive 100% coverage of tuition through merit-based financial support. This means tuition is fully covered.
- How long does the Social Sciences PhD program typically take?
- The curriculum is structured with a strong foundation in the first year, progressing to specialized research and independent study in subsequent years. Students transition to independent research by Year 3.
- What are the key disciplines covered in this program?
- The program focuses on economics, political science, and public policy, with an emphasis on quantitative research methodologies.
- What career paths can graduates pursue?
- Graduates are prepared for roles such as university faculty in economics, political science, or law, as well as positions in government and industry.
- Does the program offer financial support or scholarships?
- Yes, all doctoral students receive merit-based financial support that covers 100% of their tuition. This support is typically awarded automatically based on merit.
- How do I apply to the Social Sciences PhD program?
- Prospective students should follow the general graduate admissions process on the Caltech Graduate Admissions website. This involves submitting an online application with supporting documents like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
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Fees
Tuition (international)Caltech fully covers doctoral students' tuition with merit-based financial support.
Tuition (home)Caltech fully covers doctoral students' tuition with merit-based financial support.
Living—
All doctoral students receive 100% coverage of tuition through merit-based financial support.
How to apply
1. Visit Graduate AdmissionsNavigate to the Caltech Graduate Admissions website for comprehensive information and application portals.
2. Prepare Application MaterialsGather all required documents, including transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. Ensure your academic background aligns with the program's quantitative and interdisciplinary focus.
3. Submit ApplicationComplete and submit the online application form by the specified deadline.
4. Await DecisionAdmissions decisions are typically communicated after the review period.
Scholarships
Merit-based Financial Support100% tuition coverage
Frequently asked questions
What are the tuition fees for the Social Sciences PhD program?
+
All doctoral students, including international students, receive 100% coverage of tuition through merit-based financial support. This means tuition is fully covered.
How long does the Social Sciences PhD program typically take?
+
The curriculum is structured with a strong foundation in the first year, progressing to specialized research and independent study in subsequent years. Students transition to independent research by Year 3.
What are the key disciplines covered in this program?
+
The program focuses on economics, political science, and public policy, with an emphasis on quantitative research methodologies.
What career paths can graduates pursue?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles such as university faculty in economics, political science, or law, as well as positions in government and industry.
Does the program offer financial support or scholarships?
+
Yes, all doctoral students receive merit-based financial support that covers 100% of their tuition. This support is typically awarded automatically based on merit.
How do I apply to the Social Sciences PhD program?
+
Prospective students should follow the general graduate admissions process on the Caltech Graduate Admissions website. This involves submitting an online application with supporting documents like transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.