Prospective students interested in pursuing a degree in Applied Economics must apply for admission to the Wharton Doctoral Programs in Applied Economics. Applications to the former separate degree programs (Business and Public Policy, Insurance and Risk Management, and Real Estate) will be considered for admission under the new joint Applied Economics program.

Applicants may, if they wish, indicate a preferred field of study in their application.

All applicants must provide valid test scores — the Applied Economics program accepts either the GRE or GMAT, but strongly prefers the GRE.

Admission to Candidacy
Before admission to candidacy, the student is required to:

• Complete 20 course units, including all core courses.
  
  
• Take and pass two field exams.
  
  
• Submit a satisfactory candidacy paper.
  
  
• Present a satisfactory dissertation proposal (written and oral).
  
  

Financial Aid
All admitted students must have external funding or will be granted a four-year fellowship, including tuition, fees and stipend in accordance with Wharton and University guidelines. Students participate in the intellectual life of the department by working as a research or teaching fellow.

Check the FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) about Applied Economics if you have any additional questions.