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Hello, I’ve just finished my first year of a BSc Economics degree at Warwick University. I’ve been dead set on a PhD in Economics in the US for a while, and I’m aiming for the top 5. However, I don’t feel like my undergraduate degree is helping me. Although I can take a limited number of modules from the maths department, I don’t feel like I’m getting enough maths to be competitive at the top programs. I have the option to switch to BSc MMORSE (essentially maths, stats and economics), which allows for far more mathematical/statistical/econometric modules to be taken while not sacrificing much economic theory, although it would take me two years longer. I’m struggling to come to a decision on whether to switch. I’ve performed well in my first year (estimated top 0.5-1%), but worry that even if hypothetically every other part of my application was exceptional, it would be undermined by my lack of maths. I realise how hard it is to get into a top 5 program especially with a non-top 10 undergrad, but I’m serious in my ambitions. Do you think the value placed by the top PhD programs on mathematical preparation justifies the obvious financial/social costs of switching? Thank you!

I am an undergraduate aiming at top econ master programmes in 2019 and applying for PhD in econ or finance in 2020. I am now struggling between whether to write a thesis or take more math courses next year. My background: - Math/Econ courses completed/Under consideration Cal 1-3, Linear Algebra, ODE, Probability, Econometrics, Grad Econometrics, Stochastic Process, Numerical Analysis, Grad Computational Econ (something like numerical methods with econ application), Intro math analysis, Math Econ (proof-based course with econ application), PDE (All A/A- from a University in East Asia) - In fact, other than the thesis, I have to write a 13-20 pages paper (excluding graphs) next year. I do not count this as a formal thesis as it is only 2 credits, and a professor is guiding ~10 students as the same time. But I should be able to get a letter from this semi-thesis stuff. - Research Experience: Not at all now. Probably will RA for a professor this summer. If I have to write the thesis, then I have to give up one course above, probably PDE. Does anyone here have some advice for me??

Like the title says, I decided a bit late to try to pursue an Econ PhD--it's been a major of mine for a while, and I've been taking some math courses, but I do graduate in a year, so there's not just a whole lot of adapting I can do at this point. I understand the programs are competitive, and if I can't get in to anything, that's fine. I'd just like some thoughts on what I can do with what little wiggle room I've got. I'll work on my applications plenty, but that's easier to change. Graduating: May 2021 Type of Undergrad: Unranked U.S. University. BS in Econ, BA in Political Science & Spanish, Data Science minor Undergrad GPA: 3.9+, should remain above or maybe dip into high 3.8s Undergrad Econ Courses: AP Macro, Intro Micro, Intermediate Macro/Micro, Applied Econometrics, Theories of Economic Growth, Labor (As). Game Theory and History of Econ (the latter required) planned. Math Courses: Linear Algebra (A). Calc III, Discrete Math, ODE planned. LORs: Professor I had for Intro Micro and will have for Game Theory, other I had for three courses and will assist with (informal) research over the summer. Maybe an old CS professor who I will have for Discrete--not sure. Programming: R, limited Python Research Experience: None in Econ at the moment, will have limited experience after summer. Was chosen for a Canadian Fulbright for the summer, but, y'know, pandemic. Work experience: Nothing relevant to Econ. GRE (estimate) I haven't taken the real test yet, but from the practice tests, it seems like about 165Q/163V/4. Will study over the summer, obviously. This post was for peace of mind, even though that's probably not what will come out of it. I don't have a great math background, or good research experience. I'll be doing a senior project during the spring semester, since that's how my university does things. Main questions: -What PhD rank, if any, should I be aiming at? -If looking at Master's programs, should I focus on math, or econ? -Past what rank should I write off PhD programs? Coming from an unranked UG, I'd like something with a positive reputation for graduate school. Just not sure right now if that's possible.

If I wanted to get a solid math background (I also enjoy it along with Econ) would it be just as beneficial to take a math major as well as grad Econ courses? Taking the honors theory sequence now and planning for first year PhD sequence in the fall of 2021. As long as I have sufficient math background and good grades in the grad courses that is the most I can do from an academic point of view correct?

I'm a year out of undergrad and am just starting to think about the process of applying for an econ PhD. I'm feeling a little overwhelmed and unsure on my chances so I'm hoping to post here to get some advice. A brief profile and questions are below... I graduated with a BA in econ from a small, no-name liberal arts school. 3.7 GPA overall. I haven't taken the GRE yet so no scores there. All A's in my econ classes (including econometrics) besides intermediate micro (B+) and one econ elective (B+ as well). Math courses include calc I & II and stats. A's in all three. I had very close relationships with my econ professors to have solid recommendation letters, however none of them are by any means famous in their field. I have two main questions/concerns. The first...will coming from a school with no reputation hurt? I suppose there's nothing I can do about this now, but just so I'm prepared. Second, I realize I'm lacking quite a bit in math courses. What should I do to supplement this? Should I be looking to get a masters first? If so, in what (I likely won't get into a stats program because of my lack of undergrad math). Should I just take grad level math courses that PhD programs recommend? I definitely want to note that I'm not aiming to get into the Harvards of PhD programs. I love research and data and I think a PhD in this field would set me up for a career I love. Any advice? Thank you so much!

I'm one year out of undergrad and just starting to think about preparing to apply for PhD programs. I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed already and was hoping to describe some of my goals here to get some feedback on where I currently stand vs. where I should be. Although I'm sure it will be clear as you read, I don't know a lot about these programs/how everything works. Apologies in advance. I got my BA in econ from a private liberal arts school. Not a big name school by any means. 3.7 GPA. No math focus beyond what was required for an econ degree (business stats, calc i & ii). I haven't yet taken the GRE so no scores to report there. I had very close relationships with my econ professors but again, they're not huge names in the field. I have two main concerns. The first is easiest to address since I can't really do anything about it...a lot of people's backgrounds on here seem to be from high-profile undergrad schools. Will my no-name degree hurt? The second has to do with my minimal math courses. Should I take math courses at a local university to round myself out? Try to get a masters first (a problem arising from this approach would be what to go for, I likely wouldn't get into a math program with such a limited background). I do just want to note that I am obviously not trying to apply to places like Harvard. My career path doesn't include winning a nobel prize. I love research and data and this seems like the appropriate path to pursue. Any other suggestions are welcome. Thank you all so much!

I'm planning to apply next year, currently mulling over my best approach to the next 12 months. I just took Real Analysis/Linear Algebra combo course at the school I am a full time RA at (post-grad) and am awaiting my grade, expecting a B+ or A- Question is whether to take more advanced Real Analysis coursework this semester, or use it to focus on GRE prep, or something else. Further plans include retaking Multivariable Calculus, and/or Linear Algebra (a standalone course as opposed to the combo analysis course I just took) next summer term, and something else next fall term at the last chance before the apps. Also wondering if and how much energy should be put into editing my thesis to get published. I have one year to get whipped into shape, help! Complete other consideration is to attempt to be an RA for 3 years rather than 2, and potentially move to a different department, more rec letter options, etc.. Here is my "top school, weak grades" rundown: Type of Undergrad: B.A. Economics with Honors (Top 5 Econ research University) Undergrad GPA: 3.29 overall, 3.55 Econ Type of Grad:N/A Grad GPA: N/A GRE: N/A Math Courses: Multivariable Calculus (P - took on pass/fail for fear of bad grade), Linear Algebra and Differential Equations ©, Stats ©, Stats retake under different course name (A-) Econ Courses (undergrad-level): Macro (C+), Micro(B+), Metrics (A-), Independent Research Seminar (A), Honors Thesis (A), Case Studies in Economic Development (A-), Poverty and Impact Evaluation (A-), Intro Econ (A) Other Courses: Computing with Data (Basically an R class) Letters of Recommendation: Thesis advisor (very prominent development economist), current PI (AP at a top policy department, econ PhD from a top 20), 3rd letter TBD Research Experience: Currently a full time RA at a top policy department (working on economics research for an economist professor); Two independent development papers written, one published in an undergraduate journal and other working on getting published in a real journal; undergrad RA position with a prominent economist 1 semester; undergrad RA position with a PhD candidate in econ department 1 semester; undergrad RA position with a top Poli Sci professor 1 semester. Teaching Experience: N/A Research Interests: Development, Poverty, Inequality Concerns: Obviously my math grades. Other: Interned at a prestigious development organization on less analytical things, completed many more niche Global Poverty and Inequality courses and did very well. Coding skills: Stata, R, LaTex, ArcGIS, QGIS Applying to: Likely all top 10, bleeding selectively into top 20

Hi all, I really don't know what range of schools to be looking at, or if I even have a chance of getting into an econ PhD program at all right now. I definitely want to at least keep that option open, perhaps by pursuing a masters or RA job first. Any brutally honest advice/info would be appreciated. Undergrad: Solid flagship state school, T50 econ GPA: 3.6 overall, 3.9 in economics classes Scores: 166Q/165V Classes Mathematical economics -- Varian Analysis (B+), Multivariable calc (B), Linear Algebra (C+), Diff Eqs ©, Statistics (B+) A's in Intermediate Micro/Macro, Econometrics, Econ of Taxation, Environmental Econ, Law and Econ, Banking and Finance, etc... Experience: Summer internship at policy think tank, econ tutor LORs: Should be solid Interests:Policy, tax, public econ, macro I know, my math is really a weak spot. Will I be able to get into a PhD program at all? Should I aim for an MSc/MA instead? How about a Public Policy PhD? Some PhD programs I'm interested in: UC Boulder, GWU, Georgetown, Oregon, Harris (policy), Duke (Sanford policy)... Masters: LSE, PSE, Barcelona, Duke, Tillburg, Tolouse Am I in over my head or just psyching myself out? Thanks!

Hello, I am a non-native speaker of English (coming from Hong Kong) and I have got a poor result in Verbal GRE... Here are my scores: V: 148 Q:166 AW:4 I took the IELTS before and got a 7.5. I believe I can improve it to a 8.0 or a similar score in TOEFL. Can I have a try for the top programs?? :( I study in Chinese U Hong Kong and have all essential econ courses taken with good grades (GPA:3.84/4). But for math I only have up to Calculus 3, Linear Algebra, Intro Analysis and Time Series, and perhaps ODE. I really hope to get into top programs. Do you guys have some kind suggestions??? Btw, how's the reputation of my school (Chinese U Hong Kong) worldwide.....? Thanks, Michael

Hi all, I am currently attending Top 10 Econ undergraduate in the U.S. Eventually, my school allows students to take graduate level math courses if students show sufficient mastery of undergraduate mathematics and have certain grade point average. I was originally planning on taking graduate-level math courses such as Measure Theory, Functional Analysis and etc. Then, I noticed that our undergrad math department offers independent study course where students get to choose the topic and take the 1:1 course with a faculty member of their choice. here are my questions: would it be better off learning the grad-level math topics through independent study? (I believe that this can help me adjust the pace of my study and lower the risk of getting a bad grade) or would it be better off taking the actual graduate courses? Would A-s in math courses send a negative signal when I apply to Econ Ph.D?

So last semester I took linear algebra II and ended up getting a B-. Long story short, I did fairly well on my two midterms (A-) and quizzes, but due to the stress and pulling an all-nighter before the exam I did very badly on my final and was below average. After the final curve I somehow ended up at a B-. This grade is non-disputable and I am stuck with it. I was wondering how much this would impact my application. I now have a 3.8 gpa (down from a 3.87) due to this course. The grades in my other courses are as follows: Math Courses: Calc II (B- freshman year first semester), Calc III (A), Linear Algebra and Differential Equations (A+), Intro to Probability (A), Probability Thoery (A), Linear Algebra II (B-), Numerical Analysis (A-) Econ Courses: Intro to Econ (A), Intermediate Micro(A), Intermediate Macro(A), Econometrics (A), International Trade (A-), Senior Research Seminar (A-), Financial Economics (A), Intermediate Financial Theory (A+), Behavioral Economics (A+) I am taking Real Analysis, Concepts of Statistics and Applied Econometrics this semester. Assuming that I don't mess up again and obtain A's in all of them, would the B- in Linear Algebra II still have a large negative impact on my application (keep me out of getting into anything Top10)? I will be working a 2-year full-time RA job at a Top 10 university and will be applying Fall 2019. Any help or advice is much appreciated. Thanks!

I am lacking some essential math courses for PhD in econ, like ODE, Real Analysis and Probability. Can anyone tell me how useful it is if I take these courses during summer? Class hour is the same (~36 hours+conference), but each course only lasts for ~1 month. Courses under consideration: LSE: Real Analysis, Advanced Econometrics UCB: Intro to Analysis (MATH 104) McGill (somehow I know somebody here): ODE and Probability If I cannot take these courses, probably I can only take Intro to Analysis at my home next semester. Do Adcom discount my grades obtained during summer school?? Are they useful for admission?? Thanks all!!

Hello, I am currently in an Economics master programme in Japan, and plan to apply for an Economics PhD programme in US in this autumn. I am targeting at top 30 universities, but I hope I could be admitted by top 20. Since I learnt that math background and recommendation letters are crucial for application, I am wondering whether someone could be kind to give some advice about them? First, math background. There are math courses which I have taken: Advanced Mathematics B I (A) Advanced Mathematics B II (A-) Linear Algebra (A) Probability Theory and Mathematical Statistics (A) Statistics (B+) (A is the highest score level, we don’t have A+) And Advanced Mathematics B I & II cover single variable differential and integral calculus, multivariable calculus, ordinary differential equation and basic knowledge of space analytic geometry. However, I know that such kind of math curriculum in US is classified into different courses, like Calculus 1, 2, 3 and Differential Equations. Therefore I am wondering how these two courses will be evaluated during application. Will they be thought of equal as Calculus courses + Differential Equation in US? And I am to take Real Analysis next semester, but I am not sure whether I should also take the following classes: Adv. Calculus I – Vector Calculus Function Theory of a Complex Variable (Complex Analysis) Honors Mathematics B (Group, Orthogonal functions and Fourier series, Riemannian geometry of a surface) Set Theory & Topology Would someone be kind to provide some advice? Second, as to recommendation letters, in my current programme, I know some lecturers and professors graduating from US universities, and these universities are also in my application list. Will recommendation letters from these lecturers and professors be helpful when I apply for universities that they graduated from? Thanks a lot! >