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12 Best Economics & Public Policy PhD Universities in the United States 2026

This ranks 14 Economics & Public Policy PhD options in the United States for 2026. It is for applicants comparing doctoral study before choosing where to apply.

Ranked by our transparent composite score, with QS rankings, tuition fees and entry requirements.

12 universities · ranked best first

how we rank
2
CU Clark University logo

Clark University

United States · Public University

★ 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
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Founded
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3
HU Howard University logo

Howard University

United States · Public University

★ 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
—
Founded
—
4
PU Princeton University logo

Princeton University

United States · Public University

★ 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
—
Founded
—
6
UK University of Kentucky logo

University of Kentucky

United States · Public University

★ 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
—
Founded
—
9
CE College of Eastern Utah logo

College of Eastern Utah

United States · Public University

★ 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
—
Founded
—

Economics & Public Policy at other levels

Best Diploma Economics & Public Policy Best Bachelor's Economics & Public Policy Best Master's Economics & Public Policy Best Professional Economics & Public Policy

Frequently asked questions

Which are the best universities worldwide for PhD Economics & Public Policy?▾

Based on our composite ranking, the top choices include Claremont Graduate University, Clark University, Howard University. See the full ranked list above with QS positions, tuition fees and entry requirements.

How much does a PhD in Economics & Public Policy cost abroad?▾

Tuition varies by university and is indicative on each profile — public universities are generally the most affordable, while private and international branch campuses charge more. Scholarships can reduce costs significantly.

Can international students study Economics & Public Policy abroad?▾

Yes. Most programmes are taught in English and open to international students, who apply for a student visa through the immigration authority after accepting an offer.

How are these universities ranked?▾

We use a transparent composite score combining QS World/Asia positions, your destination country’s star rating, academic breadth, internationalisation and student support — never paid placement. See our ranking methodology for the exact weights.

Studying Economics & Public Policy at PhD level abroad

your destination country is a popular, affordable destination for Economics & Public Policy at PhD level, with provincially accredited programmes taught in English at both public and private universities, plus international branch campuses. The universities above are ordered by our composite ranking score, which combines QS World and QS Americas positions, your destination country’s star rating, academic breadth, internationalisation and student support — with no paid placement.

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A PhD or doctorate in Economics & Public Policy is the research route for applicants aiming at advanced academic work, policy analysis, or specialist economic research. It suits people who want to build deep expertise rather than complete a taught professional degree.

The options differ in ways that matter. The institutions listed are public, and the mix includes large university settings and smaller colleges or district-level institutions. Fees are not published in the facts provided, so applicants should compare cost directly with each university.

Before applying, verify the admission requirements, funding, programme structure, and length of study with the university. Also confirm tuition, any mandatory fees, and the exact research focus within Economics & Public Policy, since those details are needed to decide between doctoral options.