Sample Programs and Examinations
Sample Program
| First Year Core courses in business and economic theory | Second Year Econometrics sequence; begin field course work; qualifying exam in economic theory |
| Third Year Complete field course work; preliminary exam in field of specialization; formulate dissertation proposal; begin dissertation |
Fourth Year: Dissertation research and defense |
Economics Qualifying Examination
The economics qualifying examinations will cover microeconomic theory and macroeconomic theory. The written exams must be taken no later than four semesters after admission to the program or completion of 48 semester hours of work, whichever comes first. A student who fails either or both of the qualifying exams twice will not be permitted to continue in the program. A successful passage of the qualifying exams is required before the preliminary exam may be taken.
Economics Preliminary Examination
The economics preliminary exam is normally taken upon completion of the required course work and consists of a written exam covering the student's two elective fields in economics and research methodology. The committee may also require an oral exam if they deem appropriate. The exam is to be completed before starting dissertation research.
Economics Dissertation
A dissertation, which makes an original contribution to knowledge in economics, is required and must be defended. Dissertations may address theoretical or applied problems. In most cases, a minimum of 24 semester hours will be required to prepare a dissertation acceptable to the committee. Up to 32 semester hours of credit can be awarded for a successful completion of a dissertation. It is expected that no later than the end of the semester following passage of the preliminary exam a written statement of the dissertation plans will be submitted to the dissertation committee. This prospectus should contain an analysis of the relevant literature, the theoretical issues to be pursued, the data to be used and the methods of analysis, and a statement of the anticipated significance of the research project. The prospectus must be defended before the committee. Until this prospectus has been approved, the student will not be authorized to proceed with dissertation research. The final version of the dissertation will incorporate any changes recommended by the committee.
For more information on the PhD area of inquiry in economics please contact the LGSB Programs Office at (312) 996-4573 or email PhDbus@uic.edu.
