About the PhD programme

The PhD program in Development Economics at the University of Ghana (UG) consists of a year of coursework, followed immediately by a comprehensive examination; and 3 years of thesis writing.

The Content

This is a 4-year taught PhD programme in Development Economics. The first year is devoted to coursework. The core courses include Applied Econometrics, Advanced Macroeconomics, Advanced Microeconomics, Applied Theories and Methods of Economic Development. The Elective courses are Applied Natural Resource Economics, Applied Agricultural Economics, Applied Health Economics, Advanced International Economics, Advanced Monetary Economics, Advanced Labor Economics, and Political Economy of African Development. The remainder of the 4 years is devoted to writing a dissertation on topics in development economics.

Facts & Statistics about the programme

Between 2014 and 2017, the program currently has 31 students, of which 11 are females including 2 international students. Ten (10) students were admitted in the first and second years, respectively; 6 students were admitted in the third year, and 7 were admitted this year. Of the total number of students admitted, 19 are on scholarship (50% of the first and second cohort, 67% of the third cohort and 71% of the last cohorts).

The 3 attractions of the programme are:

(1) Scholarships for some students (especially female candidates)

(2) Visiting Professors teaching in the programme

(3) The University of Ghana is a premier university within the sub-region and ranked the 7th Best in Africa according to the recent Times Higher Education rankings