Get a PhD in Behavioral Economics?

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To earn a PhD in behavioral economics, one must first complete an undergraduate and graduate degree in economics or a related field. It is important to take courses in behavioral economics and work with a consultant to prepare for a doctoral program. Completing a master’s degree in economics can also help prepare for a PhD program. PhD-level courses in economics, as well as courses in behavioral decision making and financial behavior, are necessary to earn a PhD in behavioral economics.

To earn a PhD in behavioral economics, you will first need to work on an undergraduate and graduate degree before being accepted into a PhD program. Behavioral economics is a subcategory of economics, and many universities do not offer a degree specifically in this area. There are, however, other programs directly related to this profession that can be considered undergraduate options. Regardless of your major, your undergraduate degree should draw heavily on the principles of economics if you plan to eventually pursue a PhD in behavioral economics.

During your undergraduate years, it can be helpful to work with a department chair or consultant to ensure you take the necessary courses to advance to a master’s program in an economic field. Undergraduate courses may include principles of economics, microeconomics, experimental economics, and behavioral economics if offered at your university. These programs usually take at least four years to complete, and during that time you should start researching your options for graduate programs.

Completing a master’s degree in an economic field will help you enter a doctoral program and ultimately earn a doctorate in behavioral economics. Behavioral economics is a relatively rare degree topic; therefore, you might consider a general degree in economics with a solid background in behavioral courses to prepare. Some classes you might consider taking include growth and development, economic forecasting, managerial economics, and collective decision making. Courses may vary by university, but you should look for those that are related to your PhD focus. A master’s program usually takes two years, and you will usually need to excel in your courses to be accepted into a doctoral program.

You will need to successfully complete several PhD-level courses in economics to earn a PhD in behavioral economics. While not all of your courses are based on the behavioral aspects of economics, you can supplement your programming with courses that will provide you with a solid background in this subfield. Some courses that will help you earn a PhD in behavioral economics include behavioral decision making, financial behavior, and fundamentals of behavioral economics.




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