PhD in Law and Economics
Nashville, USA
PhD
DURATION
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
Sep 2026
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
About: The PhD in Law and Economics at Vanderbilt University blends law and economics through interdisciplinary coursework and original research. You’ll study how economic analysis informs legal decision-making and how legal frameworks shape economic outcomes. Faculty are leading experts, and the program builds advanced analytical skills, critical thinking, and policy-relevant research capacity.
Career Outcomes: Graduates pursue academic and research careers in law and economics, policy analysis, government, think tanks, and the private sector. Many enter university teaching, empirical legal studies, economic consulting, regulatory policy roles, or PhD-level research positions. Expect career opportunities in academia, public policy, consulting, and industry globally.
The PhD in Law and Economics program at Vanderbilt University focuses on the interdisciplinary study of law and economics, blending principles and concepts from both fields to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between the two disciplines. Students in this program will explore how economic analysis can inform legal decision-making and policy development, as well as how legal frameworks can impact economic outcomes. Through rigorous coursework and research, students will develop advanced analytical skills and critical thinking abilities to address complex issues at the intersection of law and economics. The program is designed for students who are interested in pursuing academic or research careers in the fields of law and economics, providing a strong foundation in both disciplines to prepare graduates for success in a variety of professional settings. Faculty members at Vanderbilt University are leading experts in their respective fields, providing students with access to cutting-edge research and diverse perspectives on the study of law and economics. Graduates of the PhD program will be well-equipped to contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field, as well as to make meaningful contributions to policy development and decision-making in government, academia, and the private sector.
