Postgraduate research in economics (MRes and PhD)
The School of Economics has an innovative research community, a welcoming atmosphere and excellent research facilities.
Our research students are encouraged to interact with a wide range of faculty members and attend our term-time seminar series, including external and internal speakers. PhD students also present their work once a year in a dedicated, internal seminar series which is attended by both students and faculty.
Why choose Bristol for your PhD study in Economics?
- Study at a top 5 UK university for research (THE analysis of REF 2021)
- Receive excellent support within a vibrant postgraduate research community
- Make use of comprehensive research facilities, including the extensive provision of networked software and databases and online access to all leading journals.
School of Economics postgraduate research programmes
MRes Economics
This 2-year master’s degree is designed for students with a potential interest in a future PhD at Bristol or elsewhere, emphasising the knowledge and skills needed for doctoral study. The programme is also suitable for those planning to work as an economist outside academia, but seeking a good technical training for their later career.
We encourage applications from those with strong master's or bachelor's degrees in economics or another quantitative discipline.
Visit the MRes Economics programme page
PhD Economics
This doctoral programme is based on preparation of a dissertation, offered on a full or part-time basis.
The standard entry route into the PhD is our MRes Economics programme. However, candidates with an MRes or MPhil degree from another institution will also be considered for direct entry into the PhD programme.
Visit the PhD Economics programme page
Funding
Students will need to secure funding before starting their MRes or PhD programme.
School of Economics bursaries
We award a small number of bursaries each year. These take a couple of different formats:
MRes AND PhD funding
This is awarded to students who successfully join our MRes Economics programme, that also show the potential for progressing to the PhD programme. The funding, available from the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) and the School of Economics, covers tuition fees and living expenses for both MRes and then PhD study
MRes applications submitted by 1 December (with a view to commencing studies the following September) can indicate their wish to be considered for this funding. MRes Applications submitted after 1 December can be considered for School of Economics bursaries only.
There is no funding for the MRes as a standalone degree, but students who self-fund for the MRes can apply for PhD funding (below) the following year.
PhD only funding
This is awarded to students who join the PhD programme directly, or who previously self-funded their MRes study at Bristol. The funding, available from a range of sources including the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), CSC, University of Bristol and School of Economics bursaries, covers tuition fees and living expenses.
PhD applications submitted by 1 December (with a view to commencing studies the following September), can indicate their wish to be considered for this funding. PhD applications submitted after 1 December will be considered for School of Economics bursaries only.
Postgraduate master's loan
The UK government a offers postgraduate master's loan to UK and EU nationals (conditions apply) which could help with the costs of studying our MRes. Find out how to apply.
Other funding
Find out about other sources of funding you may be eligible for, including various scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Pioneering research
Research in the School of Economics is internationally recognised for its originality, significance and for delivering real-world impact.
The department strikes a perfect balance with its intimate size, hosting both distinguished scholars and bright, emerging researchers. Furthermore, the school provides substantial bursaries and teaching opportunities, alleviating any financial pressures during my PhD journey.