Navigating the Path to a Top 20 US Economics PhD Program: Insights from a Non-Famous Institution Alumnus

When I was a PhD student at Columbia University, I never saw Harvard University in the same seat as me, and I never saw Western Michigan University anywhere. This is to say that top universities do not enroll famous universities into their doctoral programs; they enroll great students. Exceptional credentials will always win over a low or average-performing graduate from a prestigious institution.

For the past almost 30 years, I have been at a great but not famous university. My undergraduate students have been admitted directly into PhD programs such as Harvard, Columbia, Emory, and state flagships without needing an MA in economics. Need I say more?

The Reality of PhD Admission

During my time as an undergraduate economics major, I did not have the grades or the faculty support needed to get accepted into a PhD program. Therefore, I headed to Western Michigan to enhance my chances of being admitted to a PhD program. A PhD slot is a research job, and you will need to perform exceptionally well in any research you can accrue there. No PhD program wants you to fail the daunting Doctoral Qualifier exams in your first year at the next university.

But if you are a straight-A master's student and manage to get some publishable research accomplished at Western Michigan, you should be fine. Focus on doing great research and getting excellent grades during your master's program.

Strategic Admission Success

To increase your chances of acceptance into a top 20 US economics PhD program, you need to focus on two key aspects: your academic record and your PhD program selection strategy.

First, work hard to maintain a strong academic record during your master's program. Academic excellence is crucial, as top-ranked PhD programs are highly competitive. Your goal should be to achieve all A's in your master's coursework.

Second, carefully select the PhD programs that align with your research interests. Do not aim for the names on the "top" lists, but rather find faculty members who will support and guide you in your specific research area. By matching your research interests with those of the faculty, you can craft a compelling Statement of Purpose that showcases your dedication and potential.

Conduct thorough research on each program's faculty, research output, and funding opportunities. This will not only increase your chances of acceptance but also make sure that you choose a program that aligns with your long-term career goals.

Conclusion

The key to successfully navigating the path to a top 20 US economics PhD program is a combination of academic excellence, strategic program selection, and a clear focus on your research interests. By choosing the right programs and presenting a strong application, you can significantly enhance your chances of acceptance. Remember, the path to success lies in the details, not just the prestige of your alma mater.