Economics - Research

The strong and expanding doctoral Economics programme in the College of Arts, Social Sciences, and Celtic Studies offers participants a combination of advanced independent research, backed by structured training, which is delivered mainly in the first year. The central work involves the planning, execution and defence of a major thesis, satisfying internal and external examiners that the thesis is a work of serious scholarship. The doctoral programme equips participants with substantial research and writing experience, as well as developing an in-depth expertise in their chosen field.



The topic of the thesis is agreed between the student and their supervisor(s) and typically links to the research interests of the supervisor. Acceptance on the programme is subject to finding a suitable supervisor. For further information please check the Economics website at www.economics.nuig.ie/pgrad/pgrad-phd.php



Important note for MLitt research degree prospective students

Graduates wishing to pursue the research degree of MLitt may do so for the purposes of a stand-alone award. It is not a progression route to a PhD degree. Therefore, students registered for the MLitt research degree have no automatic transfer opportunity to a PhD programme. However, students on PhD research have the possibility to exit their programme early with an MLitt providing that they have satisfied the requirements for that award.

High honours degree (or equivalent international qualification). Other evidence that signifies suitability for the programme.

Course Code: MLITT-ECON

Applications are made online via the NUI Galway Postgraduate Applications System.

Course Code: MLITT-ECON



MLitt (Economics), full-time

MLitt (Economics), part-time

There are five research centres and units located within the Department, representing the main research interests of the Department:


Irish Centre for Social Gerontology (ICSG)


Centre for Innovation and Structural Change (CISC)


Environmental and Natural Resource Economics Research Unit (ENRE)


Irish Centre for Rural Transformation and Sustainability (ICERTS)


Socio-Economic Marine Research Unit (SEMRU)