The PhD in Development Economics at Southwestern University of Finance and Economics (SWUFE) in Chengdu, China is a four‑year, full‑time doctoral research programme offered under the School of Economics in collaboration with the Institute of Development Studies (发展研究院) and the university’s economics faculty. It focuses on training high‑level researchers with deep expertise in the theories, methods and empirical analysis relevant to long‑term economic growth, structural transformation, poverty reduction and sustainable development, particularly within the context of China and other emerging economies. As part of SWUFE’s broader doctoral portfolio in economics, the programme emphasises rigorous training in advanced economic theory, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and applied policy analysis, enabling students to conduct independent, original research that contributes to the academic literature and informs public‑ and private‑sector decision‑making. Through seminars, coursework and a dissertation under faculty supervision, candidates develop the analytical capability to address complex development challenges—such as inequality, labour markets, institutional change, environmental sustainability and global economic integration—equipping graduates for careers in academic research, economic policy institutes, international organisations, government agencies and strategic consulting roles where expert understanding of development economics is essential. The programme reflects SWUFE’s commitment to research excellence and its strategic focus on economic development and sustainable growth issues.

 NOTE: The university may have additional program-specific eligibility requirements.
It is recommended to verify these on the official university website.