lse phd thesis online

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Wu, Yue (2024) Shareholder activism: the interactions between firm meetings and asset markets. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Chen, Jane Jingxuan (2023) Essays on communication and trading in financial markets. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Salarkia, Amirabas (2023) Essays in empirical asset pricing. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Tang, Bo (2022) Essays on FinTech and financial markets. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Täger, Matthias (2022) Constructing climate risk: how finance governs its relationship with the planet’s climate. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Yin, Xiang (2022) Essays in empirical corporate finance. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Pelosi, Marco (2022) Essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Shi, Ran (2022) Essays in asset pricing. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Huang, Jiantao (2022) Essays in empirical asset pricing. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Chen, Juan (2022) Essays on corporate finance and governance. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Iwadate, Muneaki Bruce (2021) Essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Yuan, Yue (2021) Essays on corporate finance under asymmetric information. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Risteska, Simona (2021) Essays on learning and information-processing in financial markets. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Nicolai, Francesco (2021) Essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Pellicioli, Alberto (2021) Essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Carella, Agnese (2021) Essays in household finance. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Hu, Zhongchen (2021) Essays on household finance, venture capital, and labor. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Todorov, Karamfil (2020) Essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Core, Fabrizio (2020) Essays on entrepreneurship. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Wang, Su (2019) Essays in corporate finance. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Guo, Tengyu (James) (2019) Essays in factor-based investing. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Ryduchowska, Malgorzata Teresa (2019) Essays in empirical corporate finance. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Han, Yueyang (2019) Essays on information and frictions in financial markets. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Papadimitriou, Dimitris (2019) Essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Ricca, Bernardo (2019) Essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Kremens, Lukas (2019) Essays on foreign exchange risk. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Gorrín, Jesús (2018) Essays in empirical corporate finance. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Bretscher, Lorenzo (2018) Essays in macro finance. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Sabtchevsky, Petar Svilenov (2018) Three papers on asset pricing. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Obizhaeva, Olga A. (2017) Essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Savic, Una (2017) Essays in financial intermediation. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Punz, Michael (2017) Essays on delegated portfolio management. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Seyedan, Seyed (2016) Essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Zaccaria, Luana (2016) Essays in corporate finance. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Choi, Hoyong (2016) Essays on asset pricing. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Zhang, Cheng (2016) Essays on asset pricing. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Glebkin, Sergey (2016) Three essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Shen, Ji (2015) Essays on asset pricing in over-the-counter markets. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Martinovic, Milan (2015) Venture capital investments, exits and post-IPO performance. MPhil thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Yan, Wen (2015) Essays on the term structures of bonds and equities. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Lu, Yiqing (2015) Essays on adaptation, innovation incentives and compensation structure. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Chen, Huaizhi (2015) Essays on empirical asset pricing. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Roulstone, Claire (2015) Inside the social world of a witness care unit: role-conflict and organisational ideology in a service. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

von Drathen, Christian (2014) Essays in empirical finance. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Dobrynskaya, Victoria (2014) Downside risk in stock and currency markets. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Kuong, John (2014) Essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Huang, Shiyang (2014) Essays on information asymmetry in financial market. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Zhou, Ping (2014) Essays on credit risk. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Zeng, Jing (2014) Essays on financial intermediation. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Donaldson, Jason (2014) Essays in financial contract theory. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Zer Boudet, Ilknur (2013) Essays on financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Valenzuela Bravo, Marcela Andrea (2013) Essays on financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Piacentino, Giorgia (2013) Theories of the effects of delegated portfolio managers' incentives. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Costa Neto, Nelson (2012) Essays on information asymmetry and financial institutions. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Deb, Pragyan (2012) Essays on the impact of competition on financial intermediaries. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Yen, Yu-Min (2012) Three essays in financial econometrics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Shang, Qi (2012) Essays in asset pricing and institutional investors. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Maurer, Thomas A. (2012) Is consumption growth only a sideshow in asset pricing?: asset pricing implications of demographic change and shocks to time preferences. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Teo, Terence (2012) Essays on disclosure of holdings by institutional investors. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Parida, Sitikantha (2012) Essays on delegated portfolio management. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Lew, Sean (2012) Essays on market microstructure. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Fardeau, Vincent (2011) Essays in financial economics. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Venter, György (2011) Essays on asymmetric information and trading constraints. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Wang, Yiyi (2011) Rational bubble, short-dated volatility forecasting and extract more from the volatility surface. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Anton Sancho, Miguel (2011) Three essays on the comovement of financial assets. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Liu, Zijun (2011) Essays in financial intermediation. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Garavito, Fabian (2010) Essays on delegated asset management. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Bena, Jan (2009) Essays on the interaction between financial development and real economy. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Lee, KeunJung (2009) Three essays on corporate governance in Korea. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Chen, Runquan (2009) Volatility and correlation in financial markets: Econometric modeling and empirical pricing. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Protopapa, Marco (2009) An essay in corporate finance: Managerial incentives, financial constraints and ownership concentration. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Afonso, Gara Minguez (2008) Liquidity, information and coordination in financial markets. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Reusch, Christian (2008) On the non-linear dynamics of financial market risk and liquidity. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

Arcot, Sridhar Rao (2007) Essays in corporate finance. PhD thesis, London School of Economics and Political Science.

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• Undergraduate
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• Meet, visit and discover LSE

MPhil/PhD in Management - Information Systems and Innovation

• Graduate research
• Department of Management
• Application code G5ZC
• Starting 2024
• Home full-time: Closed
• Overseas full-time: Closed
• Location: Houghton Street, London

This programme offers you the chance to undertake a substantial piece of work that is worthy of publication and which makes an original contribution to the field of information systems. You will begin on the MPhil and will need to meet certain requirements to be upgraded to PhD status.

As a research-led department of management  ranking #5 in our field , we aim to produce top-quality social scientists who are able to conduct original, robust and significant socio-technical research in digital innovation. You will develop a profound understanding of the complex and dynamic interactions between information technology, organisations and society, and learn to define problems and research questions, collect and analyse data, and bring empirical observations to bear on the development of theory.

We have a strong tradition of high-quality research, teaching and knowledge exchange in information systems and innovation, with specific expertise in digital ecosystems, organisational technologies, security and privacy, health and financial services. The Information Systems and Innovation Faculty Research Group is one of the largest groups of its kind in the world.

You will work closely with international and world-class faculty as part of a vibrant community of doctoral students, all of whom are pursuing varied research in different fields of management. The programme also includes a comprehensive qualitative training, studies from a wide variety of countries and the opportunity to specialise in a designated field.

Programme details

For more information about tuition fees and entry requirements, see the fees and funding and assessing your application sections.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements for mphil/phd in management - information systems and innovation.

2:1 bachelor’s degree or equivalent in computer science or a social science discipline, plus high merit (65+) in a Master’s degree or equivalent in information systems or management or a related discipline.

Competition for places at the School is high. This means that even if you meet our minimum entry requirement, this does not guarantee you an offer of admission.

If you have studied or are studying outside of the UK then have a look at our  Information for International Students  to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

GRE/GMAT requirement

GMAT or GRE is recommended, but not mandatory. It must be no more than five years before 1 October 2024, and must show full and percentile scores for all sections.

  Find out more about GRE/GMAT

Assessing your application

We welcome applications for research programmes that complement the academic interests of members of staff at the School, and we recommend that you investigate staff research interests before applying.

We carefully consider each application on an individual basis, taking into account all the information presented on your application form, including your;

• academic achievement (including existing and pending qualifications)
• academic statement of purpose ( see guidance on writing your statement of purpose )
• academic references ( see guidance on references )
• GMAT/GRE (if provided)
• research proposal ( see guidance on writing your research proposal )
• sample of written work

See further LSE Graduate Admissions information on supporting documents

You may also have to provide evidence of your English proficiency. You do not need to provide this at the time of your application to LSE, but we recommend that you do. See our English language requirements.

When to apply

The application deadline for this programme is 15 January 2024 . See the fees and funding section for more details.

How to apply

To apply onlin go to the LSE Application System

Fees and funding

Every research student is charged a fee in line with the fee structure for their programme.  The fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It does not cover living costs or travel or fieldwork.

Tuition fees 2024/25 for MPhil/PhD in Management - Information Systems and Innovation

Home students: £4,829 for the first year (provisional) Overseas students: £22,632 for the first year

The fee is likely to rise over subsequent years of the programme. The School charges home research students in line with the level of fee that the Research Councils recommend. The fees for overseas students are likely to rise in line with the assumed percentage increase in pay costs (ie, 4 per cent per annum).

The Table of Fees shows the latest tuition amounts for all programmes offered by the School.

The amount of tuition fees you will need to pay, and any financial support you are eligible for, will depend on whether you are classified as a home or overseas student, otherwise known as your fee status. LSE assesses your fee status based on guidelines provided by the Department of Education.

Further information about fee status classification.

Scholarships, studentships and other funding

The School recognises that the  cost of living in London  may be higher than in your home town or country, and we provide generous scholarships each year to home and overseas students.

This programme is eligible for  LSE PhD Studentships , and  Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) funding . Selection for the PhD Studentships and ESRC funding is based on receipt of an application for a place – including all ancillary documents, before the funding deadline. 

Financial Aid and Funding sorted by research degree programme for applicants in the Department of Management.

Funding deadline for LSE PhD Studentships and ESRC funding: 15 January 2024

In addition to our needs-based awards, LSE also makes available scholarships for students from specific regions of the world and awards for students studying specific subject areas.  Find out more about financial support.

External funding 

There may be other funding opportunities available through other organisations or governments and we recommend you investigate these options as well.

Information for international students

LSE is an international community, with over 140 nationalities represented amongst its student body. We celebrate this diversity through everything we do.  

If you are applying to LSE from outside of the UK then take a look at our Information for International students . 

1) Take a note of the UK qualifications we require for your programme of interest (found in the ‘Entry requirements’ section of this page). 

2) Go to the International Students section of our website. 

3) Select your country. 

4) Select ‘Graduate entry requirements’ and scroll until you arrive at the information about your local/national qualification. Compare the stated UK entry requirements listed on this page with the local/national entry requirement listed on your country specific page.

Programme structure and courses

Information systems phd seminar series and workshops.

Throughout the programme all Information Systems and Innovation doctoral students attend weekly research seminars, which feature presentations and discussions from doctoral students, invited speakers and academic members of the Information Systems and Innovation Faculty group .

Research Practicums

In the first year of your programme, you will engage in active research, called Research Practicums, with different members of Faculty. The rotation of practicum assignments will include one-to-one training and collaboration that provides you better understanding of the research process, e.g.:

• Literature reviews.
• Applied research methods and practices.
• Determining theory-driven testable hypotheses.
• Identifying appropriate methods and samples.
• Conducting analyses.
• Evaluating findings and implications.
• Writing manuscripts for the academic peer-reviewed process with ultimate goal of publication in top-tier academic journal.

Courses & Seminars

In your first year you will take courses to prepare you for research in organisational phenomena associated with IT innovation, and the management of IT-enabled organisational and social change. You will take core quantitative and qualitative research courses and choose an elective course in advanced methods or data analysis methods. In consultation with your supervisor, you will settle on a definite research topic by the end of the first year.

At the end of this first year, your progress is reviewed to establish that you are on track to upgrade from MPhil to PhD status.

All first year doctoral students in the Department of Management will take the seminar A Social Sciences Perspective of Academic Research in Management.

Courses include:

Research Traditions and Paradigms in IS and Organisations The foundations of social research and the key issues concerning the status of knowledge and the forms by which it is acquired. You will focus on the ways by which key epistemological paradigms have been applied in the fields of Information Systems and Organisation Studies.

Introduction to Quantitative Analysis An intensive introduction to quantitative data analysis in the social sciences, covering the foundations of descriptive statistics and statistical estimation and inference. You will have computer classes to give hands-on training in the application of statistical techniques to real social science research problems.

Qualitative Research Methods You will cover the fundamentals of qualitative research methods with opportunities to put those methods into practice. It prepares you to design, carry out, report, read and evaluate qualitative research projects.

Managing Digital Platform Innovation Dynamics of large-scale digital service platforms and their associated ecosystems, with a focus on facilitating in-depth debates on complex research issues related to platform and infrastructure innovation.

Elective Methods or Data Analysis course

You will choose one course from a selection of options including:

• Doing Ethnography
• Qualitative Research with Digital and Visual Data
• Qualitative Text and Discourse Analysis
• Multivariate Analysis and Measurement
• Applied Regression Analysis
• Social Network Analysis

A Social Sciences Perspective of Academic Research in Management

Along with all MRes/PhD and MPhil/PhD students from across the Department of Management Research programmes you will participate in a seminar on the nature of scientific enquiry in the Social Sciences. The seminar series is led by members of the Faculty across the Department and provides an interdisciplinary collaborative perspective and the opportunity for students to develop academic presentation skills

Second, third and fourth year (PhD)

At the start of year two you will submit a research proposal, up to 15,000 words, related to your designated major field for upgrade to PhD. The paper will outline the aims and methods of your thesis, provide preliminary data collection and analysis. You will also need to submit a concise literature review in which the significance of the proposed research is articulated.

In years two to four of the programme, you are expected to dive deep into your research and write your thesis. While writing the thesis you will continue to attend the weekly Information Systems PhD Seminar during term times but can also attend other regular research seminars that may be relevant to your research.

Throughout your PhD you will be expected to show the continued development of research ideas for publication or presentation at conferences, participation in relevant training courses and career development activities.

For the most up-to-date list of courses please visit the relevant School Calendar page .

You must note, however, that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up to date and correct, a change of circumstances since publication may cause the School to change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will always notify the affected parties as early as practicably possible and propose any viable and relevant alternative options. Note that the School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to events outside of its control, which includes but is not limited to a lack of demand for a course or programme of study, industrial action, fire, flood or other environmental or physical damage to premises.  

You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee you a place. Please note that changes to programmes and courses can sometimes occur after you have accepted your offer of a place. These changes are normally made in light of developments in the discipline or path-breaking research, or on the basis of student feedback. Changes can take the form of altered course content, teaching formats or assessment modes. Any such changes are intended to enhance the student learning experience. You should visit the School’s  Calendar ,  or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the  updated graduate course and programme information  page.

Supervision, progression and assessment

Supervision.

You will be allocated a PhD supervisor on commencing the programme. 

During the first year of the programme, you will participate in Research Practicums, working in collaboration with different faculty mentors. Each research practicum is a 5-10 week engagement, enabling you to participate in research activities and develop your own research skills.

You will also attend and contribute to the Information Systems PhD Seminar Series and Workshops and other workshops relevant to your research question on a weekly basis. These are designed to strengthen your methodological skills and enable you to present your work in progress.

Progression and assessment

Successful completion of work required for each year is a necessary condition for re-registration in the following year. You will need to meet certain criteria, such as achieving certain grades in your assignments.

During the 2 nd year of registration you submit a research proposal for your upgrade to PhD.

You are required to complete your PhD thesis within four years and should allow three to six months for revisions and submissions.

Your final award will be determined by the completion of an original research thesis and a viva oral examination.

Student support and resources

We’re here to help and support you throughout your time at LSE, whether you need help with your academic studies, support with your welfare and wellbeing or simply to develop on a personal and professional level.

Whatever your query, big or small, there are a range of people you can speak to who will be happy to help.  

Department librarians   – they will be able to help you navigate the library and maximise its resources during your studies. 

Accommodation service  – they can offer advice on living in halls and offer guidance on private accommodation related queries.

Class teachers and seminar leaders  – they will be able to assist with queries relating to specific courses. 

Disability and Mental Health Service  – they are experts in long-term health conditions, sensory impairments, mental health and specific learning difficulties. They offer confidential and free services such as  student counselling,  a  peer support scheme  and arranging  exam adjustments.  They run groups and workshops.  

IT help  – support is available 24 hours a day to assist with all your technology queries.   

LSE Faith Centre  – this is home to LSE's diverse religious activities and transformational interfaith leadership programmes, as well as a space for worship, prayer and quiet reflection. It includes Islamic prayer rooms and a main space for worship. It is also a space for wellbeing classes on campus and is open to all students and staff from all faiths and none.   

Language Centre  – the Centre specialises in offering language courses targeted to the needs of students and practitioners in the social sciences. We offer pre-course English for Academic Purposes programmes; English language support during your studies; modern language courses in nine languages; proofreading, translation and document authentication; and language learning community activities.

LSE Careers  ­ – with the help of LSE Careers, you can make the most of the opportunities that London has to offer. Whatever your career plans, LSE Careers will work with you, connecting you to opportunities and experiences from internships and volunteering to networking events and employer and alumni insights. 

LSE Library   –   founded in 1896, the British Library of Political and Economic Science is the major international library of the social sciences. It stays open late, has lots of excellent resources and is a great place to study. As an LSE student, you’ll have access to a number of other academic libraries in Greater London and nationwide. 

LSE LIFE  – this is where you should go to develop skills you’ll use as a student and beyond. The centre runs talks and workshops on skills you’ll find useful in the classroom; offers one-to-one sessions with study advisers who can help you with reading, making notes, writing, research and exam revision; and provides drop-in sessions for academic and personal support. (See ‘Teaching and assessment’). 

LSE Students’ Union (LSESU)  – they offer academic, personal and financial advice and funding.  

PhD Academy   – this is available for PhD students, wherever they are, to take part in interdisciplinary events and other professional development activities and access all the services related to their registration. 

Sardinia House Dental Practice   – this   offers discounted private dental services to LSE students.  

St Philips Medical Centre  – based in Pethwick-Lawrence House, the Centre provides NHS Primary Care services to registered patients.

Student Services Centre  – our staff here can answer general queries and can point you in the direction of other LSE services.  

Student advisers   – we have a  Deputy Head of Student Services (Advice and Policy)  and an  Adviser to Women Students  who can help with academic and pastoral matters.

Student life

As a student at LSE you’ll be based at our central London campus. Find out what our campus and London have to offer you on academic, social and career perspective. 

Student societies and activities

Your time at LSE is not just about studying, there are plenty of ways to get involved in  extracurricular activities . From joining one of over 200 societies, or starting your own society, to volunteering for a local charity, or attending a public lecture by a world-leading figure, there is a lot to choose from. 

The campus 

LSE is based on one  campus  in the centre of London. Despite the busy feel of the surrounding area, many of the streets around campus are pedestrianised, meaning the campus feels like a real community. 

Life in London 

London is an exciting, vibrant and colourful city. It's also an academic city, with more than 400,000 university students. Whatever your interests or appetite you will find something to suit your palate and pocket in this truly international capital. Make the most of career opportunities and social activities, theatre, museums, music and more. 

Want to find out more? Read why we think  London is a fantastic student city , find out about  key sights, places and experiences for new Londoners . Don't fear, London doesn't have to be super expensive: hear about  London on a budget . 

Students who successfully complete the programme often embark on an academic career.

• Career and placements of previous Department of Management PhD students

The Department aims to give all qualified doctoral students the opportunity to teach. Developing teaching skills and experience is an important component of the students' career development and prepares you for future academic roles. To make this experience as valuable as possible we draw on the support from the LSE's Teaching and Learning Centre.

Support for your career

Throughout the programme, you are expected to participate in Information Systems and Innovation Faculty Research Group research workshops, enabling you to grow familiar with the process of presenting and discussing academic papers with experienced faculty, and provide opportunities for networking. Funding is also available for you to attend and present papers at academic conferences.

LSE Careers has a team dedicated to PhD students offering a wide range of resources and advice. You will receive regular updates on career events and workshops offered by LSE Careers and the LSE’s PhD Academy. Research based employment opportunities are communicated to students in our newsletters and email updates.

Find out more about LSE

Discover more about being an LSE student - meet us in a city near you, visit our campus or experience LSE from home. 

Experience LSE from home

Webinars, videos, student blogs and student video diaries will help you gain an insight into what it's like to study at LSE for those that aren't able to make it to our campus.  Experience LSE from home . 

Come on a guided campus tour, drop into our office or go on a self-guided tour.  Find out about opportunities to visit LSE . 

LSE visits you

Student Marketing, Recruitment and Study Abroad travels throughout the UK and around the world to meet with prospective students. We visit schools, attend education fairs and also hold Destination LSE events: pre-departure events for offer holders.  Find details on LSE's upcoming visits . 

Faculty members are unable to comment on your eligibility without viewing your full application file first. However, if you have any questions regarding the programme please contact the Department of Management PhD Office at  [email protected] . 

Admissions enquiries

With questions related to the admissions process, please contact the LSE Graduate Admissions team via their  getting in touch page .

Learn more about our research

Book a consultation

Download the programme brochure

Related Programmes

Mres/phd in management - organisational behaviour.

Code(s) N2Z3

MSc Management of Information Systems and Digital Innovation

Code(s) G5U4

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• Undergraduate
• Executive education
• Study Abroad
• Summer schools
• Online certificate courses
• International students
• Meet, visit and discover LSE

MRes/PhD Economics

• Graduate research
• Department of Economics
• Application code L1U4
• Starting 2024
• Home full-time: Closed
• Overseas full-time: Closed
• Location: Houghton Street, London

This programme offers you the chance to undertake a substantial piece of work that is worthy of publication and which makes an original contribution to the field of economics. You will begin on the MRes degree, and will need to meet certain requirements to progress to the PhD.

The Department of Economics pioneered the development of systematic research training in economics in Britain and our MRes/PhD Economics aims for the highest international standard of achievement and professional competence. The programme offers structured research training and supervision by faculty prominent in their fields. It begins with two years of rigorous coursework, equipping you with the theoretical knowledge and analytical techniques necessary to proceed to the research component of the programme. 

Many research students are associated with the work of one of LSE's research centres. You could work with the Suntory and Toyota International Centres for Economics and Related Disciplines on areas ranging from development economics to public policy; or on research technology, growth and globalisation as part of the Centre for Economic Performance . You could contribute to major research programmes addressing the key issues of unemployment, inflation, fiscal and monetary policy, macroeconomic development and growth, financial markets, and changes in the world economy at the  Centre for Macroeconomics ; or specialise in risk management, asset pricing, financial institutions and corporate finance as part of the Financial Markets Group .

Programme details

For more information about tuition fees and entry requirements, see the fees and funding and assessing your application sections.

Entry requirements

Minimum entry requirements for mres/phd economics.

An upper second class honours (2:1) degree (or equivalent) in any field. Some preparation in economics, a strong mathematics background and evidence of research potential are essential. The goal of the MRes/PhD Economics is to train first class researchers. We will use all available information to assess research potential.

Competition for places at the School is high. This means that even if you meet our minimum entry requirement, this does not guarantee you an offer of admission. 

If you have studied or are studying outside of the UK then have a look at our  Information for International Students  to find out the entry requirements that apply to you.

GRE/GMAT requirement

GRE is required for all applicants. This must be no more than five years old on 1 October 2024 and must show full and percentile scores for all three sections. Most successful MRes/PhD Economics applicants score 166 or above in the quantitative section.

Find out more about GRE/GMAT

Assessing your application

We welcome applications for research programmes that complement the academic interests of members of staff at the School, and we recommend that you investigate  staff research interests  before applying.

We carefully consider each application on an individual basis, taking into account all the information presented on your application form, including your:

- academic achievement (including existing and pending qualifications) - statement of academic purpose - references - CV - research statement - GRE/GMAT

See further information on supporting documents

You may also have to provide evidence of your English proficiency. You do not need to provide this at the time of your application to LSE, but we recommend that you do.  See our English language requirements  for further information.

When to apply

The application deadline for this programme is 14 December 2023 . However, to be considered for any LSE funding opportunity, you must also have submitted your application and all supporting documents by this deadline. See the fees and funding section for more details.

Research statement

An application for entry to the MRes/PhD Economics should include a Research Statement, along with other required information  (Note: A separate sample of written work is not required as part of the MRes/PhD Economics application).

What should my Research Statement contain?

Your Research Statement should be submitted in place of the Outline Research Proposal, along with your application form and other required supporting documents, via the LSE online application system.

Please answer the following questions clearly and concisely. Max 200 words per question.

• Why do you want to do research in economics?
• Can you explain how your studies and experience make you suitable to do research in economics?
• Which aspect of the PhD do you think you will like the most? Which will you dislike the most? Why?
• Tell us about your favourite paper in economics. What do you like about it? How would you improve it?
• Write a comment for a general audience on ONE of the following topics  (i) Is inequality good for growth?   (ii) Do immigrants take the jobs of native workers?   (iii) Is CEO compensation excessive?  (iv) Is universal minimum income a good idea?  (v) Overall, has central banks' move to inflation targeting has been a success?  (vi) Is culture an important determinant of differences in income per capita across countries?  (vii) Markets function well as information is aggregated efficiently through prices.  (viii) Elections are effective at disciplining politicians who do not have the public interest as their main goal.

How can I demonstrate research potential?

If you have served as research assistant for an economist please ask that person to write a letter focussing on your research skills and describe your experience – reference point 2 (above) of the research statement.

If not, please list any evidence you think would be valuable. Examples include but are not restricted to: experience working autonomously under stress without any guidance, demonstration of creativity in any form, experience of writing original research.

Fees and funding

Every research student is charged a fee in line with the fee structure for their programme. The fee covers registration and examination fees payable to the School, lectures, classes and individual supervision, lectures given at other colleges under intercollegiate arrangements and, under current arrangements, membership of the Students' Union. It does not cover  living costs  or travel or fieldwork.

Tuition fees 2024/25 for MRes/PhD Economics

Home students: £4,829 for the first year (provisional) Overseas students: £22,632 for the first year

The fee is likely to rise over subsequent years of the programme. The School charges home research students in line with the level of fee that the Research Councils recommend. The fees for overseas students are likely to rise in line with the assumed percentage increase in pay costs (ie, 4 per cent per annum).

The Table of Fees shows the latest tuition amounts for all programmes offered by the School.

The amount of tuition fees you will need to pay, and any financial support you are eligible for, will depend on whether you are classified as a home or overseas student, otherwise known as your fee status. LSE assesses your fee status based on guidelines provided by the Department of Education.

Further information about fee status classification.

Scholarships, studentships and other funding

The School recognises that the  cost of living in London  may be higher than in your home town or country, and we provide generous scholarships each year to home and overseas students.

This programme is eligible for  LSE PhD Studentships , and  Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) funding . Selection for the PhD Studentships and ESRC funding is based on receipt of an application for a place – including all ancillary documents, before the funding deadline. 

For the MRes/PhD Economics, the funding deadline is the same as the application deadline for the programme: 14 December 2023

The Economics Department also has a number of scholarship packages for direct entry MRes/PhD students. After the first year of the MRes/PhD Economics, there are teaching and research assistantships available in the Department. Read more about funding opportunities through the  Economics Department .

In addition to our needs-based awards, LSE also makes available scholarships for students from specific regions of the world and awards for students studying specific subject areas.  Find out more about financial support.

External funding

There may be other funding opportunities available through other organisations or governments and we recommend you investigate these options as well.

Further information

Fees and funding opportunities

Information for international students

LSE is an international community, with over 140 nationalities represented amongst its student body. We celebrate this diversity through everything we do.  

If you are applying to LSE from outside of the UK then take a look at our Information for International students . 

1) Take a note of the UK qualifications we require for your programme of interest (found in the ‘Entry requirements’ section of this page). 

2) Go to the International Students section of our website. 

3) Select your country. 

4) Select ‘Graduate entry requirements’ and scroll until you arrive at the information about your local/national qualification. Compare the stated UK entry requirements listed on this page with the local/national entry requirement listed on your country specific page.

Programme structure and courses

Introductory course (mres).

In early September, before the academic year commences, you will begin your degree programme by taking the Introductory Mathematics and Statistics course.

First year (MRes)

In the first year of the programme you will take advanced core courses in microeconomics, macroeconomics and econometrics, to equip you with the theoretical knowledge and analytical techniques necessary for research. Permission must be obtained to sit Econometric Analysis as it is intended for students with a strong econometric background and an interest in pursuing a PhD with econometrics as the primary field.

Microeconomics for MRes students Introduces the basic analytical tools that are necessary to conduct research in any field in economics.

Macroeconomics for MRes students Covers topics in advanced macroeconomics with emphasis on fundamentals and applications to recent theoretical advances. Either Econometrics for MRes students Covers inference, classical and generalised linear regression, generalised regression methods, time-series, panel-data, and microeconometric methods, and specialised econometric methods. Or Econometric Analysis Gives an advanced treatment of the theory of estimation and inference for econometric models.

Second year (MRes)

In the second year, you will typically take two PhD field courses and write a research paper in your major field. Currently, there are economics PhD field courses covering: econometrics, international, labour, public, development, industrial, microeconomics, macroeconomics, political economy. In addition, there are PhD field courses offered in Corporate Finance and Asset Pricing. From the second year onwards, you will also participate in a departmental research seminar and a work in progress seminar allied to your major research field.

Research Paper in Economics A research paper, between 5,000 and 10,000 words, related to the student's designated major field, to be submitted mid-way through the Spring Term.

Two courses from a range of options

Upon successfully completing the MRes and progressing to the PhD, you will work on your research and write your PhD thesis. You will also take one further PhD field course. You will also attend Work in Progress seminars, where you present your research, as well as the weekly departmental seminar series closest to your major field.

One course from a range of options.

Second and subsequent years of the PhD programme

You will continue to work on your research and write a PhD thesis. You will also continue to attend Work in Progress seminars, where you present your research, as well as the weekly departmental seminar series closest to your major field.

For the most up-to-date list of optional courses please visit the relevant School Calendar page .

You must note, however, that while care has been taken to ensure that this information is up to date and correct, a change of circumstances since publication may cause the School to change, suspend or withdraw a course or programme of study, or change the fees that apply to it. The School will always notify the affected parties as early as practicably possible and propose any viable and relevant alternative options. Note that the School will neither be liable for information that after publication becomes inaccurate or irrelevant, nor for changing, suspending or withdrawing a course or programme of study due to events outside of its control, which includes but is not limited to a lack of demand for a course or programme of study, industrial action, fire, flood or other environmental or physical damage to premises.  

You must also note that places are limited on some courses and/or subject to specific entry requirements. The School cannot therefore guarantee you a place. Please note that changes to programmes and courses can sometimes occur after you have accepted your offer of a place. These changes are normally made in light of developments in the discipline or path-breaking research, or on the basis of student feedback. Changes can take the form of altered course content, teaching formats or assessment modes. Any such changes are intended to enhance the student learning experience. You should visit the School’s  Calendar , or contact the relevant academic department, for information on the availability and/or content of courses and programmes of study. Certain substantive changes will be listed on the  updated graduate course and programme information  page.

Supervision, progression and assessment

Supervision.

You will be assigned a lead supervisor (and a second supervisor/adviser) who is a specialist in your chosen research field, though not necessarily in your topic. Lead supervisors guide you through your studies.

Progression and assessment

In order to progress to each subsequent year of the programme, and to progress to PhD registration, you will need to meet specific progression requirements, such as achieving certain grades in your coursework.

Your final award will be determined by the completion of an original research thesis and a viva oral examination.

More about progression requirements

Student support and resources

We’re here to help and support you throughout your time at LSE, whether you need help with your academic studies, support with your welfare and wellbeing or simply to develop on a personal and professional level.

Whatever your query, big or small, there are a range of people you can speak to who will be happy to help.  

Department librarians   – they will be able to help you navigate the library and maximise its resources during your studies. 

Accommodation service  – they can offer advice on living in halls and offer guidance on private accommodation related queries.

Class teachers and seminar leaders  – they will be able to assist with queries relating to specific courses. 

Disability and Wellbeing Service  – they are experts in long-term health conditions, sensory impairments, mental health and specific learning difficulties. They offer confidential and free services such as  student counselling,  a  peer support scheme  and arranging  exam adjustments.  They run groups and workshops.  

IT help  – support is available 24 hours a day to assist with all your technology queries.   

LSE Faith Centre  – this is home to LSE's diverse religious activities and transformational interfaith leadership programmes, as well as a space for worship, prayer and quiet reflection. It includes Islamic prayer rooms and a main space for worship. It is also a space for wellbeing classes on campus and is open to all students and staff from all faiths and none.   

Language Centre  – the Centre specialises in offering language courses targeted to the needs of students and practitioners in the social sciences. We offer pre-course English for Academic Purposes programmes; English language support during your studies; modern language courses in nine languages; proofreading, translation and document authentication; and language learning community activities.

LSE Careers  ­ – with the help of LSE Careers, you can make the most of the opportunities that London has to offer. Whatever your career plans, LSE Careers will work with you, connecting you to opportunities and experiences from internships and volunteering to networking events and employer and alumni insights. 

LSE Library   –   founded in 1896, the British Library of Political and Economic Science is the major international library of the social sciences. It stays open late, has lots of excellent resources and is a great place to study. As an LSE student, you’ll have access to a number of other academic libraries in Greater London and nationwide. 

LSE LIFE  – this is where you should go to develop skills you’ll use as a student and beyond. The centre runs talks and workshops on skills you’ll find useful in the classroom; offers one-to-one sessions with study advisers who can help you with reading, making notes, writing, research and exam revision; and provides drop-in sessions for academic and personal support. (See ‘Teaching and assessment’). 

LSE Students’ Union (LSESU)  – they offer academic, personal and financial advice and funding.  

PhD Academy   – this is available for PhD students, wherever they are, to take part in interdisciplinary events and other professional development activities and access all the services related to their registration. 

Sardinia House Dental Practice   – this   offers discounted private dental services to LSE students.  

St Philips Medical Centre  – based in Pethwick-Lawrence House, the Centre provides NHS Primary Care services to registered patients.

Student Services Centre  – our staff here can answer general queries and can point you in the direction of other LSE services.  

Student advisers   – we have a  Deputy Head of Student Services (Advice and Policy)  and an  Adviser to Women Students  who can help with academic and pastoral matters.

Student life

As a student at LSE you’ll be based at our central London campus. Find out what our campus and London have to offer you on academic, social and career perspective. 

Student societies and activities

Your time at LSE is not just about studying, there are plenty of ways to get involved in  extracurricular activities . From joining one of over 200 societies, or starting your own society, to volunteering for a local charity, or attending a public lecture by a world-leading figure, there is a lot to choose from. 

The campus 

LSE is based on one  campus  in the centre of London. Despite the busy feel of the surrounding area, many of the streets around campus are pedestrianised, meaning the campus feels like a real community. 

Life in London 

London is an exciting, vibrant and colourful city. It's also an academic city, with more than 400,000 university students. Whatever your interests or appetite you will find something to suit your palate and pocket in this truly international capital. Make the most of career opportunities and social activities, theatre, museums, music and more. 

Want to find out more? Read why we think  London is a fantastic student city , find out about  key sights, places and experiences for new Londoners . Don't fear, London doesn't have to be super expensive: hear about  London on a budget . 

Student stories

Hanwei Huang MRes/PhD Economics, 2018 China

I am a PhD student studying economics in the LSE. I am also affiliated with the Centre of Economic Performance (CEP), one of the largest research centres in the LSE. My main research interest is international trade.

One thing that I have learned from the faculties is that economics is not just about mathematics, it should answer interesting economics questions. Over the past few years in the LSE, I have been conducting a few research related to China. This is not surprising given my Chinese origin. Given the anti-globalization current that we have been witnessing, it is also quite relevant to the academic and policy circle to understand how China has become a global manufacturing power house and the champion of global trade.

My work features a close link between theory and empirics, another lesson I have learned in the LSE. My first piece of work done in the LSE focuses on the evolving structure of Chinese production and export. My second paper, which is a joint work with my supervisor Professor Ottaviano, studies how Chinese exporter producing multiple products respond to competition due to comparative advantage. My current research project studies how the domestic infrastructure construction boom that has been taking place in China has enabled China to make better use of globalization.

The most exciting part of LSE is that we are seated near the centre of the UK policy-making. I am fortunate enough to be able to be on a team from the CEP which has been studying various issues related to Brexit. It is only by doing this bit of work that I have seen how LSE research has shaped the debate in the media and the UK parliament.

As a one of the largest economics departments in the world, with numerous seminars and visitors every week, you bump into various people all the time. You might run into a workshop introducing machine learning. You might also hear people talking about big data in the Bean Counter, where we have our coffee. And I am very glad to be one of them here.

Stephan Maurer MRes/PhD Economics, 2017 Germany

I came to the LSE in 2011 after having completed my MSc in Economics at the Barcelona Graduate School of Economics. Already during my undergraduate studies in St. Gallen, I had gotten hooked to economics and to the idea of doing a PhD, and my time in Barcelona further confirmed this.

My research is in applied economics broadly, at the intersection of labour economics, political economy, and economic history. Economic history is for me both a tool and an end itself - I am interested in better understanding historical events, but I also frequently use exogenous variation provided by history to study questions in labour economics and political economy.

What I really like about research and the academic profession is that it offers a lot of freedom and allows me to work independently on a variety of issues. For example, I have studied determinants of city growth in Iron Age Europe, but also local economic effects of resource booms in the early 20 th century US South. I also enjoy teaching - during my time here, I have taught various courses and have found it very enriching. Being asked to explain concepts such that students can understand them often has deepened my own understanding. In this respect, I particularly enjoyed teaching in the MPA and MSc Programmes.

Research can also be frustrating. It involves a great deal of failed projects, ideas that do not materialize, and work that does not reap rewards. It is also very discontinuous - you can make great progress in few days, or feel like you’re banging your head against a wall for months. I was lucky to have two very dedicated supervisors to guide me through my PhD, helping me triage my ideas, strengthening my results by constantly questioning them, but also cheering me up when needed. My colleagues and friends at the LSE have also been a great help, not only but especially those from my cohort. Studying for the first year exams and going through the first research steps together has created a lot of cohesion and friendships that I am sure will continue to last for a long time.

After finishing my PhD, I will be joining the Department of Economics at the University of Konstanz as an Assistant Professor. I am very much looking forward to this new endeavour, but I will make sure to be back in London and at the LSE from time to time!

Preliminary reading

Readings are included in the respective course guides in the Calendar .

Quick Careers Facts for the Department of Economics

Top 5 sectors our students work in:

• Financial and Professional Services              
• Education, Teaching and Research            
• Government, Public Sector and Policy   
• Consultancy      
• Advertising, Marketing, PR Media, Entertainment, Publishing and Journalism

The data was collected as part of the Graduate Outcomes survey, which is administered by the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA). Graduates from 2020-21 were the fourth group to be asked to respond to Graduate Outcomes.

Students who successfully complete the programme often embark on an academic career. See information on the placements of previous students on this programme . 

Further information on graduate destinations for this programme

Starting from the second year of the MRes, students are encouraged to undertake some class teaching in the Department, as this represents useful professional training. Additional information about teaching in the Department .

Support for your career

Many leading organisations give careers presentations at the School during the year, and LSE Careers has a wide range of resources available to assist students in their job search. Find out more about the  support available to students through LSE Careers .

Find out more about LSE

Discover more about being an LSE student - meet us in a city near you, visit our campus or experience LSE from home. 

Experience LSE from home

Webinars, videos, student blogs and student video diaries will help you gain an insight into what it's like to study at LSE for those that aren't able to make it to our campus.  Experience LSE from home . 

Come on a guided campus tour, attend an undergraduate open day, drop into our office or go on a self-guided tour.  Find out about opportunities to visit LSE . 

LSE visits you

Student Marketing, Recruitment and Study Abroad travels throughout the UK and around the world to meet with prospective students. We visit schools, attend education fairs and also hold Destination LSE events: pre-departure events for offer holders.  Find details on LSE's upcoming visits . 

How to apply

Virtual Graduate Open Day

Register your interest

Related programmes, msc econometrics and mathematical economics.

Code(s) L1UB

MSc Economics

Code(s) L1U1

MRes/PhD Finance

Code(s) N4ZC

MPhil/PhD Economic Geography

Code(s) L7ZQ

MPhil/PhD Environmental Economics

Code(s) L7ZR

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Application process

Applying for a phd, introduction.

Known as a research degree, the PhD is usually a four year (full-time) or five to seven year (part-time) course of independent and original research which is supervised by an academic specialist in the subject area. 

You will contribute new research in the form of a thesis suitable for publication which is usually around 100,000 words. It is examined by two examiners, one internal and one external who read your work and then ask you to defend it in an oral exam, the viva voce. 

PhDs are traditionally research based, although the integrated PhDs, also known as New Route PhDs, combine research with more vocational training. Increasingly taught courses are compulsory in the first year. 

Professional doctorates are useful for students interested in careers outside academia and consist of a taught core and incorporate both professional practice and academic knowledge. They are available in education (EdD), engineering (EngD or DEng) and business (DBA). 

Why do a PhD?

People complete PhDs for a variety of reasons: 

love of a particular part of their subject

springboard into a new career

access to excellent resources/training useful for non-academic careers

as a pre-requisite for academic careers.

As well as planning then conducting research and writing the thesis, PhD students will often teach undergraduate or master’s students, support more senior academics in their research work, publish articles, attend and present at conferences, work with business or other organisations to explore the value of their research in other fields outside academia (impact), collaborate with organisations or individuals (knowledge exchange) and contribute to their field in voluntary capacity (for example, as a reviewer, event organiser, network co-ordinator). 

When can I do a PhD?

You can do a PhD if you have at least an Upper Second relevant first degree or a relevant master’s. You must have in-depth knowledge of your subject area and be able to present a comprehensive research proposal. Some people start the PhD straight after completing a master’s, other people work outside academia for a few years and then apply for the PhD. 

Before starting a PhD you could apply for a job as a graduate research assistant where you would support the research of an academic in your department, teach, take part in laboratory work and complete your own research. You could also consider completing a PhD part-time whilst in a job. 

Researching into PhDs

Choosing the right programme takes time and research. It is important to apply to departments that specialise in your topic. Check the research quality assessed in the  Research Excellence Framework  (REF 2014) and also the quality of the teaching in the department via the  Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF)  ratings. 

Talk to people who know the field about where they recommend is a good place to study. 

You can apply in one of two ways. You create the topic yourself, pitch it at your preferred institution in a Research Proposal and hope to gain funding via the institution. Alternatively, you can apply to work on a topic which has been agreed between a funding council and an institution and then advertised as a PhD position. If you are accepted funding will be assured. 

We recommend you take time to: 

ask for help from a current or recent academic tutor 

think about the people whose work you like, or who you read regularly, look at their department 

speak to the PhD administrator in departments that you think interest you 

use information on  Find a PhD

book on to a   LSE Careers further study event  

talk through your options with a careers consultant 

use the LSE Careers blog ,  So you’re thinking about a PhD? 5 tips for prospective PhDs .  

Making an application

Read the  LSE guidance on applying for a PhD .  

You will need to write a research proposal, personal statement and have a CV. 

The referees you choose are important as they will write about your academic achievements and potential. Get in touch with them early and ask for their advice too. 

Search  programmes with spaces at LSE . 

Useful publications in the LSE Careers physical library

Your PhD Companion, Stephen Marshall and Nick Green, 2004.

The PhD Application Handbook, Peter Bentley, 2006.

How To Get a PhD: third edition, Estelle Phillips and Derek Pugh, 2001.

Useful online information

Prospects.ac.uk:  postgraduate study and research . 

Find a PhD . 

The Fulbright Commission  for applications and funding in the USA.

Related pages

Watch our latest session on thinking about doing a phd, explore our further study events, book a one-to-one appointment to discuss your application.