University of Copenhagen

What you'll study

The PhD in Economics is a full-time, research-focused programme centred on an original doctoral dissertation. Early in the programme you will take advanced courses to consolidate methodological and theoretical foundations and to prepare a research proposal. Core coursework typically covers advanced microeconomic theory, advanced macroeconomic theory, and advanced econometrics, alongside elective seminars that reflect your chosen specialisation.

• Core modules and seminars: advanced microeconomics, advanced macroeconomics, econometric theory and applied econometrics.
• Research seminars: department seminar series where students present working papers and receive feedback from faculty and peers.
• Electives and specialised courses: topics such as public economics, labour economics, industrial organisation, health economics, behavioural economics, development economics or international finance, depending on supervisor expertise.
• Methodology and skills training: courses and workshops in research methods, programming (e.g. statistical software and computational tools), reproducible research practices, and academic writing.
• Dissertation work: independent research under the guidance of one or more supervisors, culminating in a written thesis and an oral defence.

Supervision is central to the programme: you will normally have a main supervisor and additional advisors, and you are expected to participate in collaborative research environments including reading groups and co-authored projects where appropriate.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master's degree (or equivalent) in economics or a closely related field with substantial training in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics. Strong quantitative skills and prior exposure to mathematical methods and empirical techniques are essential.

• Academic background: a completed master’s degree in economics, financial economics, or equivalent; applicants with exceptional bachelor-level preparation plus relevant graduate coursework may also be considered.
• Research potential: evidence of research ability such as grades in advanced coursework, a master’s thesis, research papers, or strong references from academic supervisors.
• Language requirements: proficiency in English is required; documentation of language competence may be requested in line with university policy.
• Supporting materials: a research proposal outlining intended PhD topics, curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, and academic references. Work samples such as a master’s thesis or research papers strengthen an application.

Admission decisions are based on academic merit, fit with department research areas and availability of supervisors. Many candidates secure funding through departmental fellowships, external grants, or project positions.

Career prospects

Graduates from the PhD programme in Economics pursue careers across academia, public policy, and the private sector. The degree prepares you for roles that require advanced analytical and empirical skills.

• Academia: postdoctoral positions and faculty roles at universities and research institutions.
• Public sector and international organisations: research and advisory roles at central banks, ministries, international organisations, and policy institutes.
• Private sector: quantitative and research positions in consulting, finance, data science, and economic advisory units of large firms.
• Think tanks and NGOs: research and programme evaluation roles that apply economic methods to social and development issues.

Alumni typically continue to publish in peer-reviewed journals, contribute to policy debates, and lead evidence-based projects in their chosen fields.

Why study at University of Copenhagen

The Department of Economics at the University of Copenhagen is embedded in a strong interdisciplinary research environment and benefits from close links to Danish and international policy communities. The department emphasises rigorous training in both theoretical and empirical methods and offers collaboration opportunities across fields such as political science, public health, and business.

• Research environment: active seminar series, visiting scholars, and collaborative research centres that provide exposure to contemporary economic research.
• Supervision and mentoring: supervision from internationally active faculty with expertise across a wide range of economic fields.
• Location and networks: proximity to national policy institutions and a strong network of research partners in the Nordic countries and beyond, facilitating applied and policy-relevant projects.
• Training and resources: access to computing facilities, data archives, and methodological workshops that support high-quality empirical and theoretical research.

Overall, the programme is suited to candidates aiming for research-intensive careers who value rigorous training and the opportunity to engage with influential academic and policy networks.