PhD Programme in Economics, Finance, Accounting, or Marketing
A rigorous interdisciplinary PhD programme offering specialised tracks in economics, finance, accounting, and marketing with a focus on research excellence and career preparation.
Best for:Best for ambitious researchers with a strong quantitative background seeking a structured PhD programme in economics, finance, accounting, or marketing with clear career pathways in academia or industry.
Overview
This PhD programme at Goethe University Frankfurt, in collaboration with Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz and Technische Universität Darmstadt, provides a structured curriculum spanning eight semesters. Students choose from four tracks—Economics, Finance, Marketing, or Accounting—each featuring core courses in quantitative methods, econometrics, and specialised fields. The programme emphasises a seamless transition from coursework to independent research, including a third-year research paper requirement, teaching experience, and job market preparation. Graduates are equipped for leadership roles in academia, international institutions, government, and the private sector, with alumni placed at top universities and organisations worldwide.
What you'll do
- Complete a structured two-year coursework phase covering core areas of economics, finance, accounting, or marketing, including econometrics, mathematical methods, and programming.
- Pass qualifying examinations in specialised fields (e.g., microeconomics, macroeconomics, finance, or accounting) at the end of the first year to continue in the programme.
- Conduct independent research during the dissertation phase, producing a third-year research paper and participating in a guided teaching requirement.
- Engage in a job market course to develop skills for academic and non-academic career paths, including interview and presentation practice.
- Optionally, participate in voluntary internships or teaching/research assistant positions to gain practical experience.
Requirements
Degree required: A Bachelor's or Master's degree in Economics, Finance, Accounting, Marketing, or a related quantitative field.
Degree offered: PhD
Language: English; C2 proficiency (TOEFL iBT minimum 6 in all sections or IELTS Academic minimum 8.5).
Instruction: English
- Proven academic excellence in quantitative disciplines (economics, finance, accounting, or marketing).
- Strong proficiency in econometrics, mathematical methods, and programming languages (e.g., Python, R, or Stata).
- Advanced English language skills (C2 level) for coursework and research.
- Ability to pass qualifying examinations in specialised fields (e.g., microeconomics, macroeconomics, finance, or accounting).
- No nationality restrictions, but applicants must meet the university’s admission criteria.
- No age limit, but applicants should demonstrate readiness for doctoral-level research.
- No prior experience caps, though academic excellence and quantitative skills are critical.
Funding & terms
Programme and admissions
Admissions not verified
A catalogue listing does not mean applications are open or funding is guaranteed. Check the source for your intake.
- Intake
- Not confirmed by the source
- Duration
- Not confirmed by the source
- Teaching language
- Not confirmed by the source
- Taught / research mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Study mode
- Not confirmed by the source
- Campus
- Not confirmed by the source
- Prerequisites
- Not confirmed by the source
- Application instructions
- Not confirmed by the source
- Tuition
- Not confirmed by the source
- Funding
- Not confirmed by the source
How to apply
Deadline: 31 January or 31 March (annual, for winter semester admission)
Applicants must submit their application via the uni-assist portal. Required documents include a CV, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, a research proposal, and letters of recommendation. Detailed application guidelines are available on the GSEFM website.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Master's degree transcripts and diploma
- Proof of English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS)
- Research proposal or statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3)
- Motivation letter
Contact
GSEFM Student Services Office· Admissions Contact
https://www.gsefm.eu/applicants/requirements-and-deadlines.html
Create a free profile to unlock your personal match score, the full requirements, funding details and how to apply — in English or Persian.