Program Overview

The PhD program is focused to equip students with the necessary tools of economic theories and analyses to solve economic problems faced by a complex economy like Pakistan. The program is designed to deliver quality education in a challenging, stimulating, and research-based academic environment that supports learning and development of independent critical thinking among students. Our competent faculty ensures that teaching and research remain at the forefront of economics and related disciplines and puts strong efforts to make the department internationally competitive.

Entry Requirements

  • The minimum eligibility criteria for admission in PhD program is:

Minimum 3.0 CGPA out of 4.0 in the Semester System

OR

First Division in the Annual System in M.Phil./M.S./Equivalent with minimum 6 credit hours research work at MPhil/MS level is required.

  • A subject test conducted by the National Testing Service (NTS) with a minimum of 60% marks is required for admission in PhD Economics Program.

Scehme of Studies

Following core and elective courses would be part of the PhD Economics degree program:

List of Core Courses
  Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
1 ECO801 Advanced Topics in Macroeconomics Theory 3
2 ECO802 Advanced Topics in Microeconomics Theory 3
3 ECO803 Advanced Topics in Econometric Theory 3
List of Elective Courses
  Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
4 ECO804 Economic Integration and CPEC 3(3-0)
5 ECO805 Climate Change and Natural Resources 3(3-0)
6 ECO806 Capital Markets and International Financial Institutions 3(3-0)
7 ECO807 Agriculture Productivity and Efficiency Analysis 3(3-0)
8 ECO808 Topics in Public Finance 3(3-0)
9 ECO809 Topics in Monetary Theory 3(3-0)
10 ECO810 Topics in Industrial Economics 3(3-0)
11 ECO811 Seminar in Human Resource Economics 3(3-0)
12 ECO812 Topics in Development Theory 3(3-0)
13 ECO813 Public Policy 3(3-0)
Thesis
  Course Code Course Title Credit Hours
14 ECO900 Thesis 9(9-0)

Research Opportunities

Research opportunities within the PhD program in Economics are designed to foster problem solving skills in students by gaining a deeper understanding of economic concepts, by correctly identifying data sources, and by applying advanced econometric and machine learning tools. By engaging students in ongoing national and international research projects of the faculty, department aims to enable students to win research grants independently, become a data analyst, publish in highly reputed journals, and collaborate with government and industry.

Career Prospects

A Doctor of Philosophy in Economics provides graduates with advanced knowledge and skills in economic theory, research methodologies, econometrics, machine learning, scientific writings, presentations, and publications. This higher level of education opens a broader range of career paths and job prospects. Here are some potential career paths for individuals with a PhD program in Economics:

  • Economist: With a PhD degree in economics, they may find opportunities in government agencies, central banks, international organizations, research institutions, or think tanks. Economists analyze economic data, conduct research, develop economic models, and provide insights and recommendations on economic policies, trends, and market dynamics.
  • Data Analyst/Data Scientist: PhD Graduates with advanced quantitative and qualitative skills and econometric and machine learning knowledge can work with large datasets, apply statistical, econometric and machine learning techniques, build predictive models, and derive insights to guide decision-making processes in public policy and industries.
  • Research Analyst: They can pursue careers as research analysts in both public and private sectors. They can work in market research firms, policy research organizations, consulting companies, conducting economic research, analyzing data, and providing insights for strategic planning, policy development, or business decision-making.
  • Financial Analyst/Quantitative Analyst: With their advanced knowledge of economic principles and quantitative analysis, PhD graduates can work as financial analysts or quantitative analysts in the finance industry.
  • Policy Advisor/Consultant: PhD graduates of Economics program can work as policy advisors or consultants, providing expertise on economic policies and their implications. They can work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or consulting firms, and advising on various policy areas such as fiscal policy, trade policy, environmental policy, agricultural policy or development policy.
  • Market Research Manager: With their advanced research skills, economics graduates can progress into managerial roles in market research. They can oversee research projects, manage teams, analyze market trends, and provide strategic insights to guide marketing strategies and business development.
  • Economic Forecasting Analyst: Many organizations including banks, research institutions, and consulting firms employ economists with PhD degrees to analyze economic indicators, model economic scenarios, and provide forecasts and predictions to guide financial and business decisions.
  • Academic Career: PhD Graduates can pursue a post doctorate in Economics and become professors, researchers, or economists in academia.

Scholarships available