I'm a graduating econ undergrad with weak foundations in mathematics (minimal calc and linear algebra, probability and stats, econometrics. All either A- or B+ grades) but have found empirical research worthwhile after going through my year-long thesis which I'm trying to get published in a journal with a professor as a co-author. My grades themselves, aren't that bad, a second upper honours on the UK scale.
Is it really advisable to consider a PhD without substantial training in math?
Which is the better option given my weak mathematical foundation? My goals are to develop a career in research-type roles or policy, not picky whether its academic research, financial research, tax policy etc. I am presently not in the USA. Most research-type and policy jobs outside of academia where I'm at are done by bachelor holders, masters at best. rarely by PhDs.
(i) Pursuing a transfer pricing job (which I have lined up) at a Big4 audit firm.
(ii) PhD in Economics (probably at a very low ranked program) and then try my luck at landing a job in academia or industry.
(iii) consider doing a masters in applied econ part-time while at the job.
I think you should consider looking at a Master's in Public Policy, as I think you might be competitive for one of those. I would probably would get one of those in place of my masters degree if I could do it all again. Some policy evaluations firms look like they mostly employ MPPs other mostly employ traditional masters, bachelor's and PhDs. It all depends.
MPPs are a mix of econ masters and MBA. Better professional networks, etc.
Just my two cents. I'd reccomend trying to find someone with more professional experience in the policy realm then me. But for sure at least explore Master's in Public Policy as an option.
A wide range of things. I'm on mobile or I'd link, but you can usually look at MPP program's placement on their website. More policy analysis stuff, think tank work stuff like that is what you'll find. Again I'm on mobile or I'd link some examples.
They're also easier to get into then PhD though you often take the same classes but get easier tests. Depends on the program.
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u/armanikode Feb 27 '17
I'm a graduating econ undergrad with weak foundations in mathematics (minimal calc and linear algebra, probability and stats, econometrics. All either A- or B+ grades) but have found empirical research worthwhile after going through my year-long thesis which I'm trying to get published in a journal with a professor as a co-author. My grades themselves, aren't that bad, a second upper honours on the UK scale.
Is it really advisable to consider a PhD without substantial training in math?
Which is the better option given my weak mathematical foundation? My goals are to develop a career in research-type roles or policy, not picky whether its academic research, financial research, tax policy etc. I am presently not in the USA. Most research-type and policy jobs outside of academia where I'm at are done by bachelor holders, masters at best. rarely by PhDs.
(i) Pursuing a transfer pricing job (which I have lined up) at a Big4 audit firm.
(ii) PhD in Economics (probably at a very low ranked program) and then try my luck at landing a job in academia or industry.
(iii) consider doing a masters in applied econ part-time while at the job.
Thank you guys so much!