MPhil/PhD
Economics
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Why study MPhil/PhD Economics at Goldsmiths
Training future economists who combine imaginative approaches with rigorous analysis.
- Goldsmiths offers a unique and exciting environment for in-depth research in economics. The Institute of Management Studies (IMS) has scholars working on frontier topics in economics, and a strong tradition of boundary-breaking, imaginative research in topics related to all aspects of the economy and society.
- MPhil/PhD Economics is a distinctive, pluralist programme with an interdisciplinary approach.
- We're committed to training skilled researchers who can conduct rigorous and imaginative research in economics.
- You'll be encouraged to conduct research that employs non-mainstream approaches to address economic problems.
- You'll engage in conceptual, empirical and methodological exploration throughout the programme.
Contact the department
If you have specific questions about the degree, contact Rachel Doern.
Length
2–4 years full-time, 4–8 years part-time
Entry requirements
Taught masters in a relevant subject area (Merit or above)
Department
You'll research
- You will attend and contribute to research seminars, and through departmental and Goldsmiths-wide modules you will also be encouraged to develop practical skills such as public speaking, poster preparation, scientific writing, and how to interact with the media.
- You will meet regularly with your supervisor, and develop a structured approach to designing, executing, analysing and writing up your research.
- You will have access to the IMS staff who have expertise in a wide range of areas at the interface with economics (management, innovation, entrepreneurship, marketing, occupational psychology).
- You will also have an annual allowance to contribute towards your research expenses and/or conference attendance.
Types of research you could do
Supervision can be offered in any of the areas of research actively pursued in the department. The Institute of Management Studies department has a particular concentration of economics expertise in four areas:
- Algorithms and society
- History and methodology of economic thought
- Structural economic analysis
- Sustainable futures
Students are often attracted by the research interests of our staff and may decide to undertake a project that relates to their ongoing research. To explore these or other research ideas, you can start by emailing the member of staff whose research interests you and arrange to discuss research ideas.
We are also open to students who have already formulated specific research ideas before they apply and we can support them in finding a supervisor in the department who is able to help them develop these into a doctoral research programme if suitable.
Entry requirements
Applicants should normally possess the following qualifications:
- A first degree in a relevant subject area (normally of upper second-class honours standard or above), or an equivalent qualification.
- A taught masters in a relevant subject area (normally at the Merit standard or above).
Applications may still be considered where an applicant possesses non-standard qualifications or equivalent experience.
In all cases, final decisions about admissions will be made on the basis of a written proposal and interview to determine the applicant's preparedness for their proposed research and the availability of appropriate supervision.
International qualifications
We accept a wide range of international qualifications. Find out more about the qualifications we accept from around the world.
If English isn’t your first language, you will need an IELTS score (or equivalent English language qualification) of 7.0 with a 7.0 in writing and no element lower than 6.0 to study this programme. If you need assistance with your English language, we offer a range of courses that can help prepare you for postgraduate-level study.
Fees and funding
Annual tuition fees
These are the PG fees for students starting their programme in the 2025/2026 academic year.
If your fees are not listed here, please check our postgraduate fees guidance or contact the Fees Office, who can also advise you about how to pay your fees.
It’s not currently possible for international students to study part-time under a student visa. If you think you might be eligible to study part-time while being on another visa type, please contact our Admissions Team for more information.
If you are looking to pay your fees please see our guide to making a payment.
Funding opportunities
Find out more about postgraduate fees and explore funding opportunities. If you're applying for funding, you may be subject to an application deadline.
Additional costs
In addition to your tuition fees, you'll be responsible for any additional costs associated with your course, such as buying stationery and paying for photocopying. You can find out more about what you need to budget for on our study costs page.
There may also be specific additional costs associated with your programme. This can include things like paying for field trips or specialist materials for your assignments. Please check the programme specification for more information.
