PhD in Econometrics and Empirical Economics

The "Econometrics and Empirical Economics" PhD Programme is a high-level training programme for students aiming to obtain a research degree in econometrics, applied economics and finance. Professors of "Tor Vergata" and other leading universities teach the programme.

The Programme is generally run on a full-time basis and students are expected to be present in Rome through its completion. Most students are in their mid-to late twenties. At least half of the students receive a 3-year fellowship which includes the exemption from tuition fees. In order to achieve an international standard, the official language of the PhD programme is English.

At the beginning, full-time PhD students are required to attend a series of lectures and research workshops, covering topics that are at the cutting edge of recent developments in econometric theory and methodology. During the first year, those who do not hold a suitable Master's degree attend classes at the MSc in Quantitative Economics (MEI).

Second year students are expected to start working on their dissertation under the supervision of an advisor, commonly agreed upon with the coordinator. At the end of each term, an academic commission evaluates the progress made by PhD candidates. Two negative judgments can cause an interruption of the fellowship.

Third year students must then complete a thesis, which consists in an original and significant contribution to their chosen specialisation. Typically, a student completes the Programme within three to four years.

After their first year, PhD students are encouraged to visit foreign universities, where they can be awarded credit for their research and studies. The visiting period must be approved, and agreed on, by the foreign university, the coordinator and the academic advisor.

Candidates enrolled in other PhD programs or post-bachelor degrees cannot apply to the above programme. There are exceptions for joint PhD programmes between "Tor Vergata" and partner Universities such as University of Minnesota and University of Lausanne.