FAQs

We’ve curated the most frequently asked questions about applying and studying for a PhD in Economics. If your question isn’t answered here, feel free to contact us at [email protected]

Is there a taught postgraduate programme?

Our PhD programmes are research only, so from day 1 you will be working on your research proposal. We have many training opportunities available, and more can be discussed you’re your supervisors as you develop your skills audit. For postgraduate taught programmes at the OU, please consult Postgraduate Courses.

Who can apply for an MPhil/PhD in Economics?

While we recommend a postgraduate degree in Economics or related subject, we often accept a first degree only if the candidate demonstrates that their professional experience has equipped them with the independent study skills and knowledge a PhD in Economics requires. If in doubt, do reach out to the Postgraduate Convenor.

Is there a residency requirement? 

We welcome applications from students all over the world. We are currently offering a distance PhD mode of study (some countries are excluded; the list of exclusions is updated based on the FCDO ratings), for more information on modes of study and residency requirements, consult MPhil/PhD in FASS. For all modes of study, there may be the need to travel to Milton Keynes at specified times, in particular for the induction at the start, and for the viva at the end.

It is also important to check the residency requirements of any PhD funding. Some funding bodies, such as the AHRC and ESRC, may require students to reside in the UK, for example as a condition of receiving a grant.

Find out more information on support for overseas students.

How much does it cost?

Current tuition fees for the PhD programme can be found from OU Research Degrees website.

You may wish to consult additional costs international students face when applying, in particular the NHS surcharge. Please consult International Students Application.

Full-time PhD students are entitled to an annual research budget of £1,000 (£500 for part-time students), which, for example, can be used to travel to conferences or to archives.

What funding options do you have?

The Open University (OU), in collaboration with the Brunel University and the University of Oxford, is part of the Grand Union ESRC Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP). Each year, this group awards a number of ESRC-funded doctoral studentships to incoming PhD students at the OU, covering fees and maintenance. Find out more information on the DTP studentships.

If you are interested in applying for a DTP studentship, simply indicate on your PhD application form that you would like to be considered for DTP funding and identify whether it is the Grand Union DTP or OOC. If your application to the PhD programme is successful, you will have the opportunity to complete a short additional application for the studentship. Studentships are open to applicants of all nationalities.

Students are also welcome to apply for external funding. General information about funding opportunities for postgraduate research can be found from OU Research Degrees website.

Note that funded applications have different, often earlier deadlines.

How long does it take to do a PhD? And can I study part-time?

You have the option of studying full time or part time. Full-time students usually complete their PhD in three to four years, while part-time students typically complete in six to eight years.

What are the deadlines for applying for and beginning the MPhil/PhD?

Information about deadlines is available at MPhil/PhD in FASS.

Which areas of Economics does the OU supervise?

You can consult the Economics topics and areas our staff supervises at Economics Research Degrees at The Open University. The Economics department is also very well placed in interdisciplinary research, and research with other universities. If in doubt, do contact the Postgraduate convenor, who will help you put a team in place.

Are there different application deadlines for funded and self-funded students?

Yes. Information about deadlines is available at MPhil/PhD in FASS.

Do you offer an MPhil in Economics?

Yes. Students do have the option of pursuing an MPhil rather than a PhD. An MPhil requires research students to produce a thesis of 60,000 words (rather than 100,000 for the PhD) and it is typically completed in 15 months (full-time). The application procedure is the same for the MPhil and for the PhD.

Unfortunately, there is no funding available to study for an MPhil.

Who should I ask to be my referees for my PhD application?

You are required to provide the names and contact details of two referees in support of your application. Both referees should be individuals who can confirm that you have the skills required to successfully complete a PhD. At least one of the referees should be an academic - for example, the person who supervised your Masters dissertation. The other referee can also be an academic, or an employer who can confirm that you possess the necessary skills to undertake postgraduate research.

Do I need to submit a research proposal as part of my application?

Yes, a research proposal is a vital part of your application. Any application submitted without a research proposal will be rejected.

Your proposal should be about 1500-2000 words, and should clearly convey what your project is about, why it is important you undertake it, and what motivates you to want to research it. Your draft proposal should be presented to a high standard, be of good academic quality, and contain the following:
The title of your project
Review of academic literature
Research questions
Research methods
References list

It is important you spend plenty of time developing your proposal. You can access more advice at MPhil and PhD Application Process.

Would I be able to join a research group as a PhD student?

Yes. Members of the department currently take part in several research groups, in collaboration with members of other disciplines. PhD students are encouraged to participate in the activities of these research groups, where they can present their research, listen to invited speakers, and meet other leading academics in their field.

We currently cooperate closely with the following research groups:

You will also be meeting regularly with PG research students in Economics and beyond.

Can I get teaching experience at the OU as a PhD student?

While the typical Teaching assistant role you will find in brick and mortar universities is not available, we currently run a Teaching Scheme that invites PhD students to join an undergraduate module team and take part in discussions around creating and marking exams and essays, while benefitting from mentorship from an experienced tutor. PhD students can also receive training on writing and delivering lectures and have the opportunity to lecture to undergraduate students. The OU also collaborates with the Brilliant Club, where PhD students gain experience teaching in secondary schools.

If you are an international student, your working hours are limited by your student visa. Please do check these constraints when planning for your PhD.