University of Virginia

What you'll study

This PhD programme combines core doctoral training in economic theory and econometrics with specialised study in environmental and resource economics, public policy, and applied microeconomics. In the early years you take courses in advanced microeconomic theory, dynamic optimisation, probability and statistics, and modern econometric methods. Core environmental topics typically include the economics of pollution control, resource and renewable resource economics, environmental valuation methods, climate economics, and regulatory economics.

• Doctoral microeconomic theory and applied microeconomics
• Advanced econometrics and causal inference methods
• Environmental and resource economics: externalities, public goods, and natural capital
• Valuation techniques: revealed and stated preference methods
• Climate policy, carbon pricing and emissions trading
• Cost–benefit analysis and project appraisal for environmental policy
• Interdisciplinary methods: geographic information systems (GIS), integrated assessment models, and environmental science for economists
• Research seminars, working papers presentations and teaching apprenticeship

Students progress from coursework to qualifying examinations and then to dissertation research. The dissertation is an original piece of research supervised by faculty in the Department of Economics, often drawing on collaborations with policy and environmental research centres across the university. Opportunities exist to pursue fieldwork, use administrative or spatial datasets, and collaborate with scholars in public policy, law, engineering and environmental science.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants typically hold a strong undergraduate degree in economics, mathematics, statistics or a related quantitative discipline; many have a master’s degree. Admissions committees look for demonstrated quantitative skills (calculus, linear algebra, real analysis or equivalent), coursework in econometrics, and familiarity with microeconomic theory.

• Academic record: A high-quality undergraduate degree (and often a master’s) with substantial quantitative coursework.
• Preparation: Coursework in calculus, linear algebra, probability/statistics and introductory econometrics; prior research experience is advantageous.
• Application materials: Academic transcripts, statement of purpose outlining research interests in environmental economics and policy, curriculum vitae, and academic letters of reference.
• English language: Proof of English proficiency if applicable, in line with university regulations.

Standardised test requirements may vary; consult the department’s graduate admissions pages for current guidance. Admissions committees evaluate fit with faculty research interests and potential for doctoral-level research, so a clear statement of research goals and evidence of quantitative competence are important.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD programme pursue careers across academia, government, international organisations and the private sector. Typical roles include:

• University faculty and postdoctoral researchers focusing on environmental and resource economics
• Analysts and economists in national governments, environmental protection agencies and regulatory bodies
• Policy analysts and researchers at international organisations and think tanks working on climate policy, sustainability and development
• Economists in consulting firms, energy and utility companies, and private-sector research units addressing environmental risk, valuation and regulatory compliance
• Positions in non-governmental organisations and foundations that require rigorous policy analysis and quantitative evaluation

The programme’s emphasis on applied econometrics and policy-relevant research prepares graduates to design and evaluate interventions, produce robust impact estimates and contribute to evidence-based environmental policymaking.

Why study at University of Virginia

The University of Virginia offers a doctoral environment with strong core economics training and an interdisciplinary ecosystem for environmental research. Students benefit from links between the Department of Economics and schools and institutes working on environmental policy, law and public affairs, facilitating co-supervision and collaborative projects. The department hosts regular seminars and workshops, giving students exposure to current research and external visitors in environmental economics and policy.

UVA’s resources include access to research centres, data services and computing facilities, as well as opportunities to engage with policy stakeholders in the region and beyond. The university’s location and collaborative culture support fieldwork, applied projects and internships that enhance doctoral research and future career prospects.