phd economics new zealand

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

We use cookies to help us understand how you use our website so we can improve your experience. Visit our Website Privacy Statement or our cookies page .

PhD Economics

Course code.

Qualifications are made up of courses. Some universities call these papers. Each course is numbered using six digits.

The fourth number of the course code shows the level of the course. For example, in course 219206, the fourth number is a 2, so it is a 200-level course (usually studied in the second year of full-time study).

Each course is worth a number of credits. You combine courses (credits) to meet the total number of credits needed for your qualification.

Course planning information

General progression requirements, assessments.

Assessment weightings can change up to the start of the semester the course is delivered in.

You may need to take more assessments depending on where, how, and when you choose to take this course.

Explanation of assessment types

Textbooks needed.

There are no set texts for this course.

Get more information

Ask an Academic Adviser for more information about this course.

Enrol in this course

You can enrol to study this course in the student portal if you have already been accepted to study at Massey. New students need to apply for admission to a qualification first.

If you want to study a course without completing a qualification, you can apply for a Certificate of Proficiency .

Useful planning information

• Find more courses or qualifications
• Planning your study
• Application process overview
• Semester dates
• Fees and funding
• Scholarships and awards search
• International students’ information

PhD in Economics

A PhD in Economics is an essential qualification for an academic career – and it is also invaluable for any professional research-oriented economist.

The PhD is a programme of supervised individual research in an approved topic area. The PhD is by thesis only, although you may be advised to take some papers to strengthen your background in relevant areas.

Study for a PhD in Economics

A PhD in Economics from Otago University:

• Is likely to take about three to four years of full-time study to complete (note that the scholarships discussed below are only tenable for three years)
• May be studied on a part-time basis
• May involve a research topic that would be supervised across more than one department

To be considered for PhD study, you either need to have a Master's degree with a research thesis/dissertation or an Honours degree or Postgraduate Diploma with a research thesis/dissertation. The thesis/dissertation component of your degree needs to be worth approximately ¼ of your total credits for your final year of study. We require at least a B+ (or equivalent) average for your degree.

The fact that the Otago PhD does not include coursework means that you need to have obtained the skills (either theoretical, empirical, or both) required for your proposed research before coming to Otago. In addition, you must have good written and spoken English skills.

We expect that you will have taken courses that prepare you for your proposed research topic. Normally, this would include postgraduate courses in Economics, but can include, for example, courses in Mathematics, Statistics, Finance, Psychology, or other Social Sciences. If you do not have an adequate background in Economics for your chosen topic, you may be required to take some courses to strengthen your background in relevant areas.

PhD Scholarships and financial support

There are a few potential avenues of financial support for PhD students at Otago. The University of Otago has in excess of $15 million worth of scholarships available for students to study at the University of Otago, and for Otago students to study at other institutions around the world.

Find out more about possible ways of financing your study below:

• The University of Otago awards several scholarships each year . These are competitive and are awarded on the basis of academic merit. Please note that in order to be considered for a scholarship, the absolute minimum required is an "A" grade average (14 out of 20 for France; 1.4 for Germany; 3.8 out of 4 for ECE), aside from other academic achievements.
• From time to time individual staff within the Department obtain research grant funds that include funding for PhD students. This funding, when available, will be advertised on our web pages.

Please note, the Department requires that all doctoral applicants meet the English language requirements when formally applying, unless you hold a degree from a university in an English speaking country.

How to apply for a PhD in Economics at Otago

Interested in applying for a PhD in Economics at Otago? If so, you should email your application documents to the Department of Economics. If your background satisfies our requirements we will then advise you on how to formally apply for admission through the University's website. It is important that you do not formally apply to the University without having your application assessed by the Department first.

Please email the following (and only the following) documents to [email protected] and include the words “PhD application” in the subject line.

• A copy of your final academic transcripts (in English)
• A research proposal that provides a clear statement of the hypotheses you wish to test, the research methods you will use to test them, and presents a time line for the research. You should briefly discuss how your research will extend the existing literature. The proposal should not exceed 5-10 pages.
• A copy of your Honours or Master's dissertation or thesis. If this is written in a language other than English please supply an English translation of the abstract and introduction.

What topic areas are suitable for PhD research?

The key factor is the availability of appropriate supervision. For information on the current research interests of staff and topics they are interested in supervising please see below links:

• Department of Economics staff profiles
• Information on current research programmes within the Department

Where our recent PhD graduates have been employed

Study with us, and you could fulfill your own career ambitions as a professional research-oriented economist.

Recent Department of Economics graduates have filled a variety of interesting and challenging positions around the world:

• Trudy Sullivan: Lecturer, Department of Preventive and Social Medicine, University of Otago
• Aurelia Lepine: Research Fellow, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine
• Elodie Blanc: Postdoctoral position at MIT
• Willie Lahari: Statistical Office for the Government of Papua New Guinea
• Marie-Claire Robitaille-Blanchet: Assistant Professor, University of Nottingham (China), (previously Postdoctoral position, University of Western Australia)
• Jan-Jan Soon: Lecturer, Utara University of Malaysia
• Alvin Etang Ndip: Consultant, World Bank (previously Postdoctoral position, Yale University)
• Onur Koska: Assistant Professor, University of Tubingen (Germany), (previously Postdoctoral position, University of Würzburg (Germany)
• Kelvin KC Seah: Lecturer, Department of Economics, National University of Singapore
• Eng Joo (Andrew) Tan: Research Associate, University of New South Wales (previously Postdoctoral Fellow, Australian National University)

Further information on doctoral study at Otago

For further information about studying for a PhD at Otago, please:

• Read general information about doctoral study at Otago
• Contact the Department with any questions about the PhD degree in Economics

Te Raupapa | Waikato Management School

Te Raupapa Waikato Management School

Enrol at a business school in the top 1% globally..

At Te Raupapa Waikato Management School (WMS), our focus is on your success and our drive for excellence is embedded in the school's DNA. We were the first business school in New Zealand to achieve the prestigious Triple Crown Accreditation, which we still hold today. This places us in the top 1% of business schools globally. Here at WMS, you'll learn from passionate lecturers who are experts in their fields, actively engaged as business consultants and researchers with ties to leading companies and government agencies all around the world. We believe in empowering you to think independently and collaborate effectively through interactive discussions and hands-on learning opportunities. With our smaller class sizes, our lecturers are not only knowledgeable but also approachable. We're here to support your journey towards success, on hand to provide extra support when you need it.

Explore our qualifications — including a variety of specialist subjects. Whether you're pursuing an undergraduate or postgraduate degree, or opting for a certificate or diploma, our programmes will supercharge your career in the dynamic world of business.

Undergraduate qualifications

Postgraduate qualifications

Apply to the Waikato Management School

Find out more about the Waikato Management School, including our people, and our current strategy.

Welcome from the PVC

At the Waikato Management School (WMS), our purpose is to empower people to grow thriving businesses, a thriving society, and a thriving world.

Close industry connections with SMEs, not-for-profits, multinational corporations, government agencies and other major organisations, give our academics world-leading expertise, real-world insights, and deep connections with business and society.

Discover our research

Student experience

Our students can access a range of services to make their learning experience more enjoyable and successful. The Management Student Centre (MSC) has a team of advisors who can help you choose your programme of study, including a dedicated Māori mentor.

The events calendar at Waikato Management School is packed with exciting opportunities — from guest speakers and research seminars, to our legendary WMS Case Competition and the NZ Economics Forum. Find out more about upcoming events.

Business Alumni

Learn more about our Business Alumni network at Waikato Management School. Stay connected, share insights, and inspire the next generation of leaders.

Business engagement

Learn to lead with confidence and make connections that matter through our broad range of executive education and corporate development programmes — designed to meet the specific needs of business, and industry, and the needs of working managers. 

Executive Short Courses

News and media

Stay up-to-date with the latest  announcements from Waikato Management School, check recent media articles that feature our staff or students and look back through our archive of WMS in the news.

Accreditation and rankings

WMS has proudly held Triple Crown Accreditation since 2005 — an international benchmark of excellence that puts us in the top 1% of business schools globally. We are also ranked 1st in NZ and in the top 3% globally for economics research.

Meet some of our students

Triple crown accreditation.

If you have any general enquiries, please get in touch — we're here to help you.

Postal address

Courier address, you’re viewing this website as a domestic student.

You’re currently viewing the website as a domestic student, you might want to change to international.

You're a domestic student if you are:

• A citizen of New Zealand or Australia
• A New Zealand permanent resident

You're an International student if you are:

• Intending to study on a student visa
• Not a citizen of New Zealand or Australia

Why study Economics?

Studying Economics will help you see the world in a different light; and understand how to apply this new perspective to help resolve issues in our society. You'll learn how to help people, governments and businesses make better decisions about using natural and financial resources to meet different goals.

Economists contribute to government decision-making on many different issues, such as shaping new laws and taxes, or advising on international trade agreements. They can also be involved in recommending incentives and penalties geared towards changing people's behaviour, such as encouraging people to leave their car at home.

You'll learn how to explain the reasons for different market structures, analyse the implications of government policy, anticipate how people might react to price changes, and demonstrate the gains from trade.

If you're passionate about business, current affairs, finance or maths then economics may be a good fit for you. Economics brings together ideas from many different areas: politics, psychology, sociology, geography, law and statistics.

Career Opportunities

• Business analyst
• Economics teacher / lecturer
• Financial Analyst
• International trade advisor
• Government economist (eg. Treasury)
• Policy Analyst or Advisor
• Management consultant
• Research economist
• Waikato Management School

Study Economics in these qualifications

• Bachelor of Business
• Bachelor of Social Sciences
• Bachelor of Climate Change
• Bachelor of Arts
• Graduate Certificate
• Graduate Diploma
• Postgraduate Certificate
• Postgraduate Diploma
• Master of Management Studies
• Master of Social Sciences
• Doctor of Philosophy

Learn from the best

You'll be taught by lecturers who are also world-leading economists. Waikato is not only ranked #1 in New Zealand, but also in the top 3% of institutions globally for economics research over the last 10 years (IDEAS/RePEc rankings). Six of the country’s top 20 research economists are based here at Waikato Management School.

While studying at Waikato, there'll be plenty of opportunities for you to make new friends, such as through the  Economics Discussion Group . This is a student-led group that gets together regularly to discuss economic issues.

Internationally recognised

You'll study at our internationally recognised Waikato Management School, which is in the top 1% of business schools globally thanks to our prestigious Triple Crown Accreditation from AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA.

Waikato is also ranked in the world's top 175 universities for Business and Economics in the  Times Higher Education World University  Subject Rankings .

Qualifications

If you wish to take Economics as your 1st Major subject, you'll need to enrol for either the Bachelor of Business , the  Bachelor of Arts , the  Bachelor of Social Sciences , or the  Bachelor of Climate Change .

Otherwise you can normally take it as a 2nd Major (8 papers) or Minor subject (4 papers) for any other bachelor's degree offered at the University of Waikato.

If you'd like to gain specialist expertise through postgraduate research, take a look at our  Master of Management Studies in Economics.

Economics papers

Subject regulations.

Economics Subject regulations

Scholarships

Visit our  Scholarship Finder for information about possible scholarships.

What our students are saying

One of the best times to pop into MSC is Open Advice Day, held every Wednesday from 10am to 2pm.

Student Centre

International students, management student centre (msc), you’re viewing this website as a domestic student.

You’re currently viewing the website as a domestic student, you might want to change to international.

You're a domestic student if you are:

• A citizen of New Zealand or Australia
• A New Zealand permanent resident

You're an International student if you are:

• Intending to study on a student visa
• Not a citizen of New Zealand or Australia

• Skip to Content
• Skip to Main navigation
• Tāwāhi International
• Oranga Tauira Student Life
• Rangahau Research
• Ākonga o Mua Alumni
• Ahumahi me ngā Kaiwhakawhiwhi Mahi Industry & employers
• Mō Mātou About
• Apply Enquire
• MyAUT Staff intranet

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the University's highest qualification. The degree is undertaken by research only and leads to advanced academic and theoretical knowledge in a specialist area.

The PhD is suitable for students who want to pursue an academic or research career, or a senior position in the public or private sector. Doctoral studies present you with the opportunity to generate new ideas that can benefit business and society. You will make a significant original contribution to knowledge and understanding in your field of study and meet recognised international standards for your work.

Explore our research expertise

AUT's academic supervisors are recognised world-class researchers who have the expert knowledge in their fields to guide you throughout your studies.

Browse research expertise

Download programme guides

• Architecture & Built Environment (2025)
• Go further with a Doctoral Degree
• AUT Prospectus (2025)

Applications received after the application date will be considered on a case-by-case basis otherwise the application will be held over for the subsequent start date.

• Fees shown are based on a full-time workload for the points indicated next to the fee. The exact fee charged will depend on which courses you select at the time of enrolment.
• Fees are subject to change year to year. If you are planning for study beyond the current year, fees may vary from those stated.
• There may also be other fees and charges you need to pay .
• International students' tuition fees reflect the full cost of tuition. Domestic students' tuition fees are less due to a proportion of the tuition fees being funded by the New Zealand Government.

Indicative 2024 international fees

Scholarships

• Entry requirements
• Application process
• What you study
• Career opportunities

Minimum entry requirements

Must normally have completed the following in a discipline appropriate to the proposed research:

• Master’s degree with honours OR
• Bachelor’s degree with honours (equivalent to 4 years of study)

The degree must normally have been gained at the standard of first class or second class (first division) honours from this University or a recognised equivalent. The degree should include advanced learning in research, execution of a research project and a written report on the research.

International student entry requirements

English language requirements

Engineering, Computer and Mathematical Sciences

• IELTS (Academic) 6.5 overall with 6.5 in Writing and no band less than 6.0

All other study areas

• IELTS (Academic) 6.5 overall with 7.0 in Writing and no band less than 6.0

Other requirements

Acceptance is subject to the availability of staff for supervision, prior research preparation and appropriate facilities.

How to apply for the Doctor of Philosophy

• Apply online and submit all required documents at least three months prior to the intended start date
• The Graduate Research School will assess your eligibility and forward to the relevant faculty to confirm possible research areas and supervisors
• Where the faculty confirms the availability of resources, including supervision, they will request for you to complete the formal research proposal (PGR2). Your PGR2 Research Proposal, including supervisory signatures, must be submitted to your Faculty Postgraduate Office a minimum of four weeks prior to your intended start date. If you are planning to start on 1 February, submit your signed PGR2 by 15 December.
• Once the research proposal is confirmed by the faculty, it will be sent to the Graduate Research School for approval and to issue an Offer of Place

For general enquiries for the Doctor of Philosophy programme please contact [email protected] .

Preparing a PhD research proposal

Prospective PhD applicants are required to prepare a formal research proposal, specifying the field of research and a general research question you wish to investigate.

Admission to a doctoral programme

Guidelines for the Faculty of Business, Economics and Law

Guidelines for the Faculty of Culture and Society

Information we need to assess your application

We require the following information:

• Faculty and/or field you wish to conduct your study in
• Academic transcripts
• Grading scale for postgraduate qualification
• Degree certificates (undergraduate and postgraduate)
• Title of the thesis/dissertation/research project
• 1-2 page document (maximum) outlining your proposed research project
• Curriculum vitae (CV)
• If English is not your first language you need to provide evidence of English language proficiency – IELTS (Academic) test results or recognised equivalent. If your postgraduate study was completed in English within three years, this may be waived

Once the required information is received, we will forward your enquiry to the relevant faculty who will communicate to you about the outcome of your application, possible research areas and supervisors.

Requirements for specific subjects

Art & design.

We require a portfolio (between 10-15 annotated images as a pdf or PowerPoint file or a URL for a website)

Provide evidence of completing the courses Microeconomics, Macroeconomics and Econometrics at postgraduate level. Course syllabus or similar is required for assessment of comparability of those courses to those taken in New Zealand

Doctoral students will attain the knowledge, values and attributes to make significant contributions to their professional communities and societies through further high-quality research, and developments.

You put together a proposal that critically reviews work done in your area of research. This requires a suitable research methodology and a timeframe for completion of the degree. You are expected to publish one or more papers for a reputed international conference in your chosen area of research.

Once you have completed your research proposal, you refine your design, collect data and conduct your research as appropriate. Data is collected and analysed and the results are published at international conferences. A journal publication is also encouraged at this point.

The first step in the final stage of the PhD is finalising the data collection and analysis. You then write your PhD thesis and submit it to the supervisor for feedback. It could take two or three drafts before the thesis is ready for submission and examination.

Skills you will develop as part of the PhD

The outcomes for graduates of the Doctor of Philosophy are outlined in the Graduate Profile below.

Graduate Profile

It is expected that graduates with a Doctor of Philosophy will have gained the necessary skills and qualifications to follow an academic or research career. Alternatively, your research topic may lead you to a position of expertise in your chosen field. The opportunities to apply the knowledge and skills you gain through a PhD will be extensive, both in industry and academia.

The information on this page was correct at time of publication. For a comprehensive overview of AUT qualifications, please refer to the Academic Calendar .

Why a New Zealand PhD?

New zealand’s phd package.

International PhD students in New Zealand enjoy the following benefits:

How to apply

Apply now to your preferred university:.

Victoria University of Wellington

The University of Waikato

The University of Otago

Massey University

Lincoln University

The University of Canterbury

AUT University

The University of Auckland

Jessica Patiño-Pérez | Colombian PhD student

Still have questions?

How much are tuition fees, what is the phd structure, what is the length of a phd programme, how will my phd be assessed, how soon are you planning to begin your studies.

I'm ready to start now

Great! Get started by using our course search tool to find a programme that suits you. Then follow our 5 step guide to plan your study experience.

I'm thinking later

No problem. Why not sign up for our email updates? We'll keep you inspired while you consider your study plans.

Keep exploring

• Our campus and environment
• Campus maps
• Sustainability Hub
• Canterbury University Press
• Donating to UC
• Partnering with UC
• Corporate information
• Our structure
• Our rankings
• Getting started
• Admission and enrolment
• Study costs
• Qualifications
• Study support
• Scholarships
• Engineering
• Academic study options
• UC Graduate School
• Other study options
• School & community outreach
• Support and wellbeing
• Accessibility
• Accommodation
• Communities and clubs
• Financial support
• IT logins and tools
• Jobs and careers
• Safety and security
• Sports, fitness and recreation
• Student ID | Canterbury Card
• Student life
• Sustainability
• About UC's research
• Doing research at UC
• IP and commercialisation
• Research facilities and equipment
• Research and Innovation
• Research groups and centres
• Research specialities and projects
• Field stations

News and Events

Rongo o te wā.

• Regular events and celebrations
• Future students
• Current students

International students

• Postgraduates
• open_in_new UC Online

Doctor of Philosophy

UC's Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) involves extensive, sustained, original research in your chosen subject. Learn more about doing a PhD through Te Kura Tāura | UC Graduate School. 

TUITION FEES

2024 tuition fees estimate per 120 points:

• Domestic — $7,627 - $9,1864 (subject dependent)
• International — $7,627 - $9,1864 (subject dependent) for students residing in NZ. Students residing offshore may be charged at the rate of $35,400 - $48,000 per 120 points (subject dependent). Contact Te Kura Tāura | UC Graduate School for more information.

Introduction

The UC Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is a research-only degree, carried out under expert supervision and using world-class facilities. At UC you can complete a PhD in over 70 subjects, joining over 1,000 students from more than 60 nations.

A PhD involves extensive, sustained, and original research in your chosen subject, with the results being presented in a thesis that will contribute to intellectual knowledge of the field. It is a mark of intellectual ability, self-discipline, and commitment. A PhD prepares you for a number of careers, including as an academic.

What will my study involve? keyboard_arrow_down

Why study a phd at uc.

• In addition to expert supervision, UC provides all doctoral students with opportunities to gain transferable skills in areas including communication of research, networking, career planning, databases, statistical analysis, ethics, professional practice, and cultural awareness.
• UC has a number of unique research facilities, collections, resources, and field stations; many of which are renowned globally. See more about our Research impact .
• The University has a thriving postgraduate research community which includes clubs and associations for social interaction and support. See the UC Postgraduate Students' Association for information.
• To find out more about the research interests of staff, start by searching the database in the UC Research Profile . UC Research Profile provides information about individual researchers, the projects they are working on, the research groups they belong to, the specialist equipment that they use for research, and their affiliations.
• There are many benefits for international students studying towards a PhD in Aotearoa New Zealand, such as the possibility to work while studying, apply for a work visa once graduated, pay domestic student fees, and school and work benefits for your partner and children.

Entry requirements keyboard_arrow_down

Entry requirements.

Enrolment in a PhD requires completion of a research-focused honours or master’s degree, at First or Second Class (Division I) Honours or Distinction level (or equivalent qualifications).

Applicants with qualifications from outside Aotearoa New Zealand must have been granted admission to the University. Our admissions team, in consultation with the host department, look at your qualifications and transcripts to ensure that you have the background required to complete a PhD. It is possible that you may be required to complete preparatory courses prior to or after admission into a PhD programme.

In exceptional circumstances applicants without the typical academic background, but who can demonstrate the ability to pursue a PhD, may be admitted at the discretion of the Dean of Postgraduate Research.

If English is your additional language, you are also required to meet UC's English language requirements .

For the full entry requirements, see the Regulations for the Doctor of Philosophy or use the admission requirements checker .

One or more courses or research may require vaccination

The government has announced new vaccination requirements for the health and education sectors. At UC, our programmes are strongly connected to our communities of practice. For many of our programmes, you will not be able to complete research or practice-oriented courses if you are not vaccinated. This is due to research/practice taking place in health centres and schools/kura where all employees and volunteers are required to be vaccinated.

For enrolment in the Health Sciences major, you will be required to be vaccinated in line with the  NZ Government regulations , and supply evidence of your vaccination status.

How to apply

PhD students must contact a potential supervisor before applying. Information about the research interests of academic staff (supervisors) can be found on the relevant department website, or the UC Research Profile .

Find out more about how to apply for Doctoral degrees .

See Admission and enrolment for all information on enrolling at UC.

Subjects and courses keyboard_arrow_down

Subjects and courses.

Contact the relevant department for information about these subject areas:

Fees keyboard_arrow_down

2024 tuition fees estimate (per 120 points):

2023 tuition fees estimate (per 120 points):

• Domestic — $7,419 - $8,936 (subject dependent)
• International — $7,343 - $8,845 (subject dependent). Students residing offshore may be charged at the rate of $33,700 - $46,000 per 120 points (subject dependent). Contact Te Kura Tāura | UC Graduate School for more information.

SSL estimate (per 120 points):

• 2024 — $1,100.40
• 2023 — $992.40

Domestic tuition fees

International tuition fees

Student Services Levy (SSL)

Funding your study

Planning my degree

Degree structure keyboard_arrow_down, how do i plan my degree.

You may begin your PhD on the first day of any month of the year. Study and research for the PhD is regarded as a full-time occupation throughout the calendar year.

The minimum period of enrolment for full-time study is 3 years and the maximum period 4 years. There are provisions to apply for part-time study, in which case the minimum period is 4.5 years, and you should complete your thesis within 6 years.

For full requirements, see the Regulations for the Doctor of Philosophy .

Postgraduate Prospectus 2024

Whakatairanga tāura, international prospectus.

Student stories

Abdul hasib suenu, 20 july 2023.

"I have always been passionate about matters of global justice and fairness..."

Alistair McDougall

"Physics equips you with the tools required to explore the universe..."

Amy Whitehead

"My previous jobs have taken me to some amazing places, from deepest Fiordland to Antarctica..."

Ana Isabel Sarkis Fernandez

"My postgraduate studies have allowed me to keep up with the most innovative solutions and pioneering research..."

Agnes Ade Ririn Dwi Haryani

"This degree allows me to do crosscutting research with other fields of study..."

Bhuvan Sarupuri

"Flexibility, resources, and guidance from supervisors are the best things about UC…"

Bianca Couto de Aguiar and Ricardo Pimenta

"It has been interesting and very rewarding living in such a different diverse culture..."

Charles Egwuba

"I know that every day I spend on my research and work, is geared towards improving the lives of people..."

Clare Wilkinson

"I fell in love with the landscape, the culture, and the people..."

By clicking "Accept All Cookies", you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyse site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts.

General enquiries

0800 827 748 (within NZ) +64 3 369 3999

info@canterbury.ac.nz

International enquiries

+64 3 364 3443

Ask a question

More contact details

See all contacts

Emergency contact details

Ext: 92111 (from a campus landline) Direct dial: 0800 823 637

Emergency information

University of Canterbury | A Fair Trade University

Wellington School of Business and Government Ōrauariki

Phd programmes.

Victoria University of Wellington is the number one research institution in New Zealand—there’s no better place to gain your PhD.

Studying for a Doctor of Philosophy

A Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree represents the high point of academic achievement. It involves original and sustained research under academic supervision, and demands considerable intellectual ability, academic rigour, self-discipline, and dedication.

A PhD normally follows a Master's or Honours degree, or extensive relevant experience.

Key benefits of the PhD programme

PhD study offers many benefits including:

• the opportunity to make a significant contribution to both scholarship and practice
• the rewards of pursuing a topic of deep personal interest to you, building on prior education and experience through an individualised course of study
• the development of skills in research, analysis, theorising, methodology, and communication
• the opportunity to develop valuable networks with Wellington School of Business and Government’s interdisciplinary academic members and your fellow PhD candidates.

Application deadlines

There are three application deadlines— 1 March , 1 July , and 1 November each year.

To be considered, applications must be completed online and before the deadline.

More information

For any enquiries about PhD admission and enrolment, email [email protected]

Faculty of Graduate Research

The Faculty of Graduate Research (FGR) has overall responsibility for the University's PhD programmes.

• MyAucklandUni
• Student Services Online
• Class search
• Student email
• Change my password
• MyCDES+ (job board)
• Course outlines
• Learning essentials
• Libraries and Learning Services
• Forms, policies and guidelines
• New students
• Enrol in courses
• Campus card
• Postgraduate students
• Summer school

AskAuckland

• Student Hubs
• Student IT Hub
• Student Health and Counselling
• Harassment, bullying, sexual assault and other violence
• Complaints and incidents
• Career Development and Employability Services (CDES)
• Ratonga Hauātanga Tauira | Student Disability Services (SDS)
• Rainbow support
• Covid-19 information for our community
• Emergency information
• Report concerns, incidents and hazards
• Health and safety topics
• Staff email
• Staff intranet
• ResearchHub
• PeopleSoft HR
• Forms register
• Careers at the University
• Education Office
• Early childhood centres
• University Calendar
• Opportunities
• Update your details
• Make a donation
• Publications
• Photo galleries
• Video and audio
• Career services
• Virtual Book Club
• Library services
• Alumni benefits
• Office contact details
• Alumni and friends on social media
• No events scheduled for today You have no more events scheduled for today
• Next event:
• Show {0} earlier events Show {0} earlier event
• Event_Time Event_Name Event_Description
• My Library Account
• Change Password
• Edit Profile
• My GPA Grade Point Average About your GPA GPA not available Why can't I see my GPA?
• My Progress
• Points Required Completed points My Progress Progress not available All done!
• Student hubs
• Health and counselling
• All support
• Health, safety and well-being

The University of Auckland

Doctor of Philosophy PhD

The PhD is a globally recognised postgraduate research degree and the highest level of degree you can achieve. PhD students are critical, curious, creative thinkers who undertake original research over at least 3 years.

Breadcrumbs List.

• Ngā akoranga | Study
• Study options
• Find a study option
• You are currently on: Doctor of Philosophy

Programme overview

The University of Auckland PhD is a globally recognised postgraduate research degree, available in over 100 different subjects. Candidates will undertake independent and original research, supervised by academic experts and research leaders.

During your doctoral studies, you will have opportunities to expand and develop your personal, professional and academic skills. Our doctoral candidates present their work at local and international conferences, and are encouraged to network and collaborate with a wide range of experts in their research field.

All of our doctoral policies and guidelines governing PhD study, including the PhD statute, are available in Doctoral policies and guidelines .

If you are looking for PhD study in a subject not listed here, it may be available under a different title. For more information, please contact a postgraduate adviser in the relevant faculty.

Programme structure

Entry requirements.

• Fees and scholarships
• Find a Supervisor

The University of Auckland PhD is a three-to-four year full-time advanced research degree.

On entry to the PhD programme, you will be enrolled provisionally. By the end of your first year, you must meet a number of milestones to be confirmed into the PhD programme, including developing a full thesis proposal. After confirmation, you will continue to work on your research before submitting your thesis for examination after three years and within four years of your start date. The examination process includes an oral exam.

Part-time enrolment is available for New Zealand students, in which case provisional enrolment lasts for 24 months, and you must submit your full thesis for examination no earlier than 6 years, and within 8 years, of your start date.

As part of your PhD study, you have access to our doctoral skills workshops and resources, designed to help you achieve success in your research and develop skills for your future. We have a dedicated postgraduate careers advisor, and our library service includes research services advisers to help you in your research. The central School of Graduate Studies provides dedicated support and advice for the doctoral community.

For international students, your visa conditions will generally stipulate that you must be enrolled for full-time PhD study.

It may be possible for candidates to undertake a PhD including scholarly creative work and/or publications that they worked on while under supervision for their PhD. For information on including scholarly creative work in a PhD, see the PhD including scholarly creative work policy and procedures . To read the rules about including publications in a PhD, see the Doctoral thesis policy and procedures .

To read the rules about including publications in your PhD, see Doctoral Candidates– including publications in a thesis policy and procedures . 

Subjects available in this programme

• Anaesthesiology
• Ancient History
• Anthropology
• Applied Linguistics
• Architecture
• Art History
• Asian Languages and Cultures
• Behavioural Science
• Bioengineering
• Biological Sciences
• Biomedical Science
• Chemical and Materials Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Commercial Law
• Communication
• Comparative Literature
• Computer Science
• Computer Systems Engineering
• Criminology
• Dance Studies
• Development Studies
• Electrical and Electronics Engineering
• Engineering Science
• Environmental Science
• European Languages and Culture
• Exercise Sciences
• Food Science
• Forensic Science
• Gender Studies
• General Practice
• Global Studies
• Health Psychology
• Health Sciences
• Heritage Conservation
• Information Systems
• Innovation & Entrepreneurship
• International Business
• Latin American Studies
• Linguistics
• Marine Science
• Mathematics
• Mathematics Education
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronics Engineering
• Media and Screen Studies
• Medical Imaging
• Molecular Medicine
• Māori Studies
• Māori and Pacific Health
• Obstetrics and Gynaecology
• Operations and Supply Chain Management
• Operations Research
• Ophthalmology
• Pacific Studies
• Paediatrics
• Perinatal Science
• Pharmacology
• Politics and International Relations
• Population Health
• Public Policy
• Social Work
• Software Engineering
• Speech Science
• Translation Studies
• Urban Design

My highest qualification is from:

Programme requirements, minimum programme requirements.

Minimum requirements listed here are the likely grades required and do not guarantee entry. We assess each application individually and applicants may require a higher grade to be offered a place.

• Honours or masters degree
• Evidence of significant research, usually undertaken as part of prior study

Further programme requirements

Supervision and research requirements.

Meeting our academic requirements does not guarantee entry.

You must demonstrate an ability to research independently, and possess a high level of theoretical understanding. Acceptance is subject to staff availability for supervision, and appropriate resources and facilities.

You must write an initial statement of research intent to demonstrate your research capability and experience.  

How to apply

Check out our guide to applying for a PhD or doctorate .

• Masters-level qualification or the equivalent of a bachelors degree with honours

No bands less than 6.0

See alternative English language requirements

Calculate your Grade Point Equivalent (GPE)

You must write an initial statement of research intent to demonstrate your research capability and experience.

All students must meet our English-language requirements as a condition of entry.

How much does a Doctor of Philosophy cost per year?

A New Zealand government funding scheme enables the University of Auckland to offer PhD study to international students for the same tuition fees as New Zealand PhD students.

Fees are set in advance of each calendar year and will be updated on this website. Fees are inclusive of 15% GST, but do not include the Student Services Fee, course books, travel and health insurance, or living costs. Amounts shown are indicative only. In addition to the tuition fees, there is a Student Services Fee of per point, estimated at for full-time study (120 points). Fees will be confirmed upon completion of enrolment.

*Please note: amounts shown are indicative and estimates only.

See course fees for each faculty

Find out about financial support information

Scholarships and awards.

Find out about the scholarships you may be eligible for.

Student loans and allowances

Are you a New Zealand citizen or resident? You could be eligible for a student loan or allowance.

Cost of living

Get an idea of how much accommodation and general living in Auckland will cost.

Eligible candidates can enrol and start their PhD at any time of year. You must enrol within 6 months of your unconditional offer. 

A University of Auckland PhD is available in over 100 different subjects but your research project will be unique. As part of the application process, you need to provide an outline of your proposed research project.

Although you are not required to nominate a doctoral supervisor as part of your initial application, you can also look at supervisor profiles and research projects , or to find out more about the research carried out at the University of Auckland, click on the links in the Subjects tab to start exploring faculty research webpages for your area of interest.

Where could this programme take you?

Our PhD graduates are successful in a wide range of fields and careers, as well as the traditional academic research career path. The PhD gives you extensive specialist and transferable skills, which are sought after in many sectors, including industry and government, and can even help you to develop entrepreneurship skills to run your own start up. With focused development opportunities available throughout your PhD study, and dedicated postgraduate career advice, we can help you to explore and meet your own career goals, no matter what direction you take.

Student career planning service

Once you become a student at the University, you can get help with planning and developing your career from Career Development and Employability Services .

Graduate story: Katherine Higgins

Having supportive doctoral supervisors paved the way for Katherine Higgins to develop and facilitate collaborative projects with visiting artists at MIT.

Do you need help?

Your online help and support centre. Search our frequently asked questions.

Can’t find the answer in AskAuckland?

Need to speak to someone.

You can phone us directly.

PhD Econometrics programs in New Zealand

Deadline information, best universities with econometrics in new zealand.

Bachelor Econometrics programs in New Zealand

Master Econometrics programs in New Zealand

Most Popular Econometrics programs in New Zealand

We use cookies to give you the best online experience. Their use improves our sites' functionality and enables our partners to advertise to you. By continuing to use our website or clicking on the I agree button you are agreeing to our use of cookies in accordance with our Cookie Policy. Details on how we use cookies can be found in our Cookie Policy

Don’t miss out!

Sign up or Log in now to save your favorites.

Get updates on your chosen subjects and programs

Wishlist your ideal programs

Save time sending enquiries to programs providers

• Program Finder
• Internships
• Scholarships
• Collections
• Bachelor programs
• Masters programs
• PhD programs
• MBA programs
• PostDoc programs
• Norway programs
• US programs
• UK programs
• Canada programs
• Germany programs
• Italy programs
• Netherlands programs
• Australia programs
• New Zealand programs
• Applied Sciences
• Natural Sciences
• Social Sciences
• Clients and Partners
• Public relations