University of California Berkeley Fully Funded PhD in Agricultural and Resource Economics

PhD @University of California, Berkeley posted 2 days ago

Job Description

Program Overview

Institution: University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley)
Department: Department of Agricultural & Resource Economics (ARE)
Location: Berkeley, California

UC Berkeley’s Department of Agricultural & Resource Economics offers a PhD program renowned for its rigorous training in economic theory and quantitative methods, with applications in areas such as development economics, environmental and energy economics, international trade, and agricultural policy. The program is designed to prepare students for academic and research careers in these fields.

Funding Package

All admitted PhD students receive comprehensive financial support for at least five years, contingent upon satisfactory academic progress. The funding package includes:

Tuition and Fees: Full coverage, including nonresident tuition for international students.
Stipend: Competitive annual stipend to support living expenses.
Health Insurance: Included via the UC Student Health Insurance Plan (UC SHIP).

Funding is typically provided through a combination of fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assignments. U.S. citizens are expected to establish California residency after their first year to reduce tuition costs. International students receive continued support for nonresident tuition, provided they advance to Ph.D. candidacy before the beginning of their 7th semester, which is considered normal progress.

Curriculum Structure

The PhD program is structured to provide a strong foundation in economic theory and quantitative methods, with flexibility to pursue specialized research interests.

Core Components

Coursework: Students complete core courses in microeconomic theory, econometrics, and mathematical methods, along with elective courses in their chosen fields.
Second-Year Paper: An empirical research project initiated in the summer before the second year, culminating in a paper that demonstrates the student’s research capabilities.
Qualifying Examination: Assessment to advance to candidacy, typically by the end of the third year.
Dissertation Research: Original research leading to a doctoral dissertation that contributes to the field of agricultural and resource economics.

Admission Requirements

Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree with prior training in economics and quantitative methods. At a minimum, applicants should have completed intermediate-level microeconomics and macroeconomics courses and a year of calculus. Successful applicants often have additional coursework in linear algebra, statistics, econometrics, and real analysis.
Application Materials:
- Online application through UC Berkeley Graduate Admissions.
- Statement of Purpose.
- Three letters of recommendation.
- Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
- Resume/CV.
- GRE scores (required).
- TOEFL or IELTS scores for international applicants, unless exempt.
Application Fee:
- $135 for U.S. citizens and permanent residents.
- $155 for international applicants.