The Ph.D. in Economics of the Tuscan Universities is a joint initiative by the Universities of Florence, Pisa and Siena. It aims to train students for a career as economists in research institutions. The first year consists of intensive coursework, which provides candidates with the knowledge and analytical skills needed to conduct the highest-level research. Courses are mainly held at the University of Siena. In the second and third years, students can choose where to continue developing their research projects. The distinctive feature of this Ph.D. is its pluralistic approach. Our students receive high-quality training on a variety of research methods and are exposed to cutting-edge research conducted by our own Faculty members. Emphasis is given to the historical dimension of economic phenomena and to seek interaction with other disciplines, such as law, biology, neurosciences and psychology. This multidisciplinary perspective is unique in Italian postgraduate education, allowing students to acquire the breadth of views necessary to deal with today's most pressing issues and make significant contributions to the complex fields of economics and social sciences.
Ph.D. candidates benefit from a high faculty-student ratio and interact with our post-doctoral researchers and visiting scholars, creating a dynamic and vibrant research life. English is the official language of the program, and we receive applications from Europe, Latin America, Asia, and Africa. Outside of the university walls, the Tuscan community functions as a strong and diverse resource. Students have the opportunity to collaborate on research projects and publications, consolidating academic and personal bonds carried on after completing their degrees. At the end of each academic year, doctorate candidates, faculty and alumni participate in the celebrated Pontignano Annual Meeting. This unique event builds community and creates a friendly atmosphere for presenting work in progress. The Pontignano Annual Meeting allows a fruitful intellectual exchange between contiguous generations and enriches the traditional relationship with the faculty. All students receive a scholarship that contemplates research and visiting abroad budgets. They are encouraged to attend academic conferences and present their work at events worldwide. Check out our current call for applications and where our past graduates landed their first jobs after completing their studies.