Handbook of Graduate Studies

I.     ADMISSION TO THE GRADUATE PROGRAM

I.1     New Students.  Normally, students with only a Bachelor’s degree are considered for admission into the M.A. program.  Applicants with an M.A. degree in Economics or exceptional undergraduate preparation are considered for admission directly into the Ph.D. program. Students initially admitted to the M.A. program may later apply to the Ph.D. program (see further information below).

Applicants with undergraduate training in any field are considered for admission.  However, students are expected to have at least two semesters of calculus before they start graduate economics courses.  Coursework in intermediate economic theory, linear algebra, and statistics is also required.  There is no explicit minimum GPA, but the Graduate School considers a GPA less than 3.0 as too low for admission.  In addition to the GPA, GRE scores, a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and, for international students, the TOEFL score, are all considered in the admission decision, though there is no set formula.

I.2     Continuing Students. M.A. students seeking admission to the Ph.D. program should file a formal application at the end of their first semester of graduate coursework.  To receive full financial aid consideration for the following fall semester, applications must be received by the February 1 deadline.  Final acceptance into the Ph.D. program will normally be contingent upon completing all M.A. requirements.  The admission decision is based on all available information, including performance in courses and recommendations from our faculty.  Ordinarily, acceptance into the Ph.D. program is contingent upon earning a GPA of 3.65 in Econ 308 and Econ 309 combined, and an overall GPA of 3.4 or better.  Students whose overall GPA in the Masters program falls below 3.0 will not be accepted.