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Westerfield University of Virginia
Flexible, Career-Focused Degrees

PhD in Social Sciences — Economics Online Doctoral Economics Program at WUV

PhD in Economics at WUV

Credit Hours54

Total Courses9

Term Length3–5 Year Self-Paced

Program Overview Why earn your PhD in Economics at WUV?

The PhD in Social Sciences — Economics at Westerfield University of Virginia is WUV's research-intensive doctoral program in markets, policy, and economic systems. Students develop advanced quantitative and qualitative research skills, prepare and defend an original thesis, and produce a substantial dissertation contributing new knowledge to economic scholarship. The PhD is the terminal research degree and is designed for professionals pursuing academic, financial, or high-level research careers.

Skills you'll learn:

  • Advanced qualitative and quantitative research methodology
  • Thesis preparation, defense, and scholarly writing
  • Econometrics and applied statistical analysis
  • Original dissertation research design and execution
  • Scholarly contribution to economic theory and policy
  • Academic and professional leadership in economics
PhD Economics program at WUV

Courses & Curriculum Research and dissertation curriculum

This 54-credit PhD program includes 9 doctoral-level courses — research methods, five preparatory thesis courses, and a final dissertation. Entry requirement: Master's degree.

Thesis Courses

Research methodology, thesis writing, and analytical foundations for doctoral study.

PHD-910Qualitative and Quantitative Research
PHD-911Preparing a Thesis
PHD-912Econometrics

Research Courses

Sequential preparatory thesis research guiding students through independent economic inquiry.

ST-913Preparatory Thesis I
ST-914Preparatory Thesis II
ST-915Preparatory Thesis III
ST-916Preparatory Thesis IV
ST-917Preparatory Thesis V

Dissertation

Original scholarly research culminating in a full dissertation submitted to the WUV doctoral committee.

T-918Dissertation

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A Master's degree in Social Sciences, Economics, or a related discipline is required for admission to the PhD program. Provide official transcripts from your graduate program.
After acceptance, work with WUV's doctoral faculty to define your research focus and begin your thesis and dissertation work at your own pace.

Career Outlook What can you do with a PhD in Economics?

A PhD in Economics from WUV is the highest academic credential in the field and prepares you for leadership roles in academia, finance, and research:

  • Economics Professor / Faculty — Teach and conduct research at colleges and universities.
  • Research Scientist — Lead original economic research at academic institutions or research organizations.
  • Chief Economist — Advise governments and major institutions on economic strategy at the highest level.
  • Economic Policy Advisor — Assess and guide large-scale national or international economic policy initiatives.