PhD in Health Economics

Our research degree in Health Economics gives you independence to specialise in a topic of your choice. Your degree will provide you with rigorous training in health economics, and how this impacts health service decision-making. During your study, you’ll receive support and guidance from leading academics in the discipline.

Your research

In your first year, you'll take two assessed modules while also beginning work on your research project. These taught modules will challenge you to think critically about complex economic problems, and how to apply quantitative methods to the understanding of economic structures and interactions.

Taught modules

You'll study two taught modules in Year 1, while beginning work on your research project. You'll pick one of three core modules listed for semester 1, and then Health Economics for Research in semester 2.

Semester 1

• Microeconomics for Research
• Econometrics for Research
• Mathematical Research Methods

Semester 2

• Health Economics for Research

In Years 2 and 3 you will continue to pursue your research project, culminating in the submission of a doctoral thesis. This course includes an additional, optional ‘write up’ year following the end of the formal registration period.

Teaching opportunities

We offer our PhD students the chance to become paid graduate teaching assistants (GTAs). The role can provide you with financial support towards the completion of your degree and develop your communication and teaching skills.

All offer holders and current students are invited to apply for GTA positions via email each July.

Course location

This course is run by the Department of Economics and Related Studies.

You’ll be based in the Department of Economics and Related Studies on Campus West. You'll need to be on campus regularly during your first year to attend taught assessments.

Your PhD can be studied through distance learning from Year 2 onwards, subject to supervisory approval before receiving your offer. If you would like to be considered for distance learning, please inform your prospective supervisor(s) during your online interview, and our Postgraduate Research Administrator, Maigen Savory (maigen.savory@york.ac.uk).

Entry requirements

Applicants to the PhD in Health Economics are usually required to hold a Bachelors degree in Economics with a 2:1 or 1st class honours (or overseas equivalent), and an MSc in Health Economics, Economics, or a closely related discipline, with a high average mark (60% or above, including at least 60% in the dissertation component).

English language requirements

If English is not your first language you must provide evidence of your ability.

Check your English language requirements

Applying

Apply for the PhD

Take a look at the supporting documents you may need for your application.

Find out more about how to apply.

Research proposal

You’ll submit a research proposal alongside your application. Your research proposal should be no longer than 2,000 words, and provide details on:

1. Your main research question
2. The relevant literature and your planned contribution to the current research in the area
3. The econometric and/or theoretical modelling methods you plan to use
4. Your data source(s) if you plan on conducting empirical research

As part of your application, you'll be interviewed by one or two academic staff members, including your prospective supervisor(s). The interview will last around 30 minutes to an hour, with plenty of time for you to ask questions and find out what York has to offer.

Before submitting your proposal, we advise you to check that your research fits the Department’s research interests. As part of your application, please nominate at least one preferred supervisor.

Visit our research page