The PhD in Regional Economics at Southwestern University of Finance and Economics (SWUFE) in Chengdu, China is a 4‑year full‑time doctoral programme offered through the China Western Economic Research Institute (the university’s research centre for economics) that focuses on advancing scholarly expertise in the economic analysis of regions, spatial development and regional economic policy. This academic degree is part of SWUFE’s doctoral offerings in economics and is structured to deepen students’ understanding of regional economic theory, spatial economic interactions and the determinants of economic growth and development across different geographic areas, with training in rigorous quantitative and qualitative research methods. Students undertake advanced coursework, seminars and independent research under the supervision of faculty to explore topics such as regional economic development, market integration, spatial analysis, urban and rural economics, and policy‑oriented research related to how regional economies function and interact within national and global contexts. The programme is designed to cultivate high‑level researchers and analysts who can contribute original academic insights and evidence‑based policy recommendations, making graduates well prepared for academic careers, research positions in government and international organisations, consultancy roles in economic development, or strategic planning in public and private sectors that require expertise in regional economic dynamics. Although most official SWUFE documentation notes that regional economics PhD programmes at SWUFE are taught in Chinese, there are internationally oriented listings indicating content areas and research focus that support global research engagement and practical geographic analysis.

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