Ph.D. in Economics

The Ph.D. program in Economics at the University of Nevada, Reno offers a collegial and supportive academic environment, with close interaction between students and faculty. The program emphasizes the integration of economic theory with applied econometrics, promoting a strong, practical approach to economic research. Students may choose to specialize in areas such as Behavioral Economics, Urban and Regional Economics, Macroeconomics, Natural Resource and Environmental Economics, and Applied Microeconomics, including subfields like Health and Labor Economics.

The Economics Ph.D. program is classified as a STEM degree by the U.S. Department of State (CIP Code 45.0603: Econometrics and Quantitative Economics). This designation allows international students to work in the U.S. for up to 36 months after graduation under F-1 Optional Practical Training (OPT), which includes a 12-month standard period plus a 24-month STEM extension. For more information on student visas and OPT, visit the Office of International Students and Scholars.