What the session is all about
Many students with strong training in economics see a PhD in Economics as the natural next step. Fewer know that a PhD in a business discipline is a strong alternative. It builds on everything you have learnt while opening up more applied, interdisciplinary research and a more favourable academic job market.
This session offers an informed perspective on both paths. You will hear what a career in business academia involves, how it compares with the traditional economics route, and what to consider as you plan your next steps.
What We'll Cover
- How a PhD in Management differs from a PhD in Economics, including a PhD in Economics within a business school
- The business disciplines open to economists: accounting, decision sciences, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing, organisational behaviour and strategy
- How economics content and methods carry across these fields, with more room for applied and interdisciplinary work
- Career prospects: placement, tenure and the academic job market in business schools, where smaller PhD cohorts mean a more favourable ratio of graduates to positions
- Funding, faculty-student ratios and the doctoral experience at a business school
- Pre-doctoral or research positions as a stepping stone into top PhD programmes
- A look at the INSEAD PhD in Management, with study across our Europe Campus and Asia Campus
- Open Q&A, with a current INSEAD PhD candidate who made the move from economics
Who this session is for
This session is for students in research master’s programmes in economics, and others with strong quantitative training, who are considering a PhD or an academic career. Whether you are already preparing applications or simply exploring your options, it is never too early to understand the full range of paths available to you.
Speakers
Professor of Economics
Apply for the 2027 intake
We're now accepting applications for the 2027 intake.
To learn more about the applications and admissions process, visit our Admissions Page.
