Survive then Thrive: Talent, Research Motivation, and Completing the Economics Ph.D.

40 Pages Posted: 22 Jan 2007

See all articles by Wayne A. Grove

Wayne A. Grove

Le Moyne College - Department of Economics

Donald H. Dutkowsky

Department of Economics, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, Syracuse University

Andrew Grodner

East Carolina University - Department of Economics

Date Written: January 2007

Abstract

This study investigates the completion of the Ph.D. in Economics. We use ex ante information, based solely upon reviewing a set of individual applications from former doctoral students. Estimation for determining success is done by logit, multinomial logit, and generalized ordered logit. We find that students need different skills and attributes to succeed at each distinct and sequential stage of the doctoral program. Significant determinants for passing the comprehensive exams include high GRE verbal and quantitative scores, a Masters degree, and a prior focus on economics. Research motivation and math preparation play significant roles in completing the dissertation, but having a Masters degree and economics preparation becomes insignificant. GRE scores disappear as a significant determinant for completion in the generalized ordered logit estimates, which emphasize the sequential nature of the Economics Ph.D. program.

Keywords: Economics of Education, Economics - Graduate work, Economics students, Prognosis of success - Graduate schools, Higher education

JEL Classification: I21

Suggested Citation

Grove, Wayne A. and Dutkowsky, Donald H. and Grodner, Andrew, Survive then Thrive: Talent, Research Motivation, and Completing the Economics Ph.D. (January 2007). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=958470 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.958470

Wayne A. Grove

Le Moyne College - Department of Economics ( email )

1419 Salt Springs Road
Syraucse, NY 13214

HOME PAGE: http://webserver.lemoyne.edu/grovewa/

Donald H. Dutkowsky (Contact Author)

Department of Economics, Maxwell School of Citizenship and Public Affairs, Syracuse University ( email )

110 Eggers Hall
Syracuse, NY 13244-1020
United States
315-443-1918 (Phone)
315-443-3717 (Fax)

Andrew Grodner

East Carolina University - Department of Economics ( email )

A423 Brewster Building
Greenville, NC 27858
United States
2523286742 (Phone)

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