Applicant profile

We are looking for individuals who have a Masters degree with a strong component in Macroeconomics/Finance, Microeconomics and Econometrics.

In order to do a PhD you must have a clearly identified research topic. Ideas for research topics can come from journals, books, etc. It should be in an area which interests you. It might be something of considerable current concern, a new aspect of something on which a lot of work has been done, or a completely new idea. In any case, your work should provide some new insights. It should eventually prove publishable, either as a book or a series of journal articles.

Your project outline should lay out in depth the topic you wish to study, refer to any existing literature on the subject and emphasise why you feel it an important and interesting area. If there are any data requirements, you should specify exactly how you intend acquiring the data, and subsequently what techniques you intend to apply to the data. Vague generalities (such as 'I intend to use modern econometric techniques to analyse the data') are not sufficient. Specify exactly what techniques you intend to use.

There is some flexibility to change the direction of your research once here, indeed this is quite common. Nonetheless, the clearer the ideas are at the outset, the more rapid your progress will be to successful completion.

See our guide about how to apply for doctoral study

Selection process

The selection process is done via vetting an applicant's academic background (where and on which subject the candidate obtained their undergraduate and Masters degree), plus a telephone interview with at least one member of the candidate's potential supervisory team.

Immigration requirements

If you are an international student, you can find out more about the visa requirements for studying in the UK.

For additional support please contact the Student Immigration Service for matters related to student visas and immigration.