Predoctoral Program in Public Policy at Helpman Institute

Overview of the Program

Helpman Development Institute’s Predoctoral Program in Public Policy is a 12-month program designed to build capacity of graduates to conduct theoretical (modelling) and empirical research in applied microeconomics. This is in line with our overall aim of developing capacity for public policy effectiveness.

The program has two objectives. One, graduates of this program will develop strong foundation in microeconomic theory and microeconometrics. We will achieve this through rigorous course work in microeconomics, mathematics and statistics. Second, we will introduce students to applied microeconomics fields including industrial organization, labour, health, population, public and environmental economics.

On successful completion of the program, graduates will apply these skills to a research project in one of the applied microeconomics fields. The foundation developed during this program will enhance competitiveness of the graduates during application for candidacy in top PhD programs in economics and improve their suitability for roles in applied microeconomics and public policy research.

Program Structure

During the course students will take eight courses and a research capstone over three semesters.

In the first semester (January to April), students will take courses in mathematics for economists, intermediate microeconomic theory, advanced statistics, and seminars in applied microeconomics.

In the second semester (May to August), students will take courses in advanced microeconomic theory, econometrics, policy impact evaluation, and seminars in applied microeconomics.

Finally, students will apply the skills acquired in the two semesters in a research paper in applied microeconomics in the third semester (September to December).

Fees and Stipends

The Program is tuition-free, and students will be paid a stipend to cover some expenses. However, applicants are required to maintain primary residence and livelihood in Abuja throughout the year at their own expense.

Eligibility Criteria

All applicants must have:

• A bachelor’s degree in a relevant area (Mathematics, Statistics, Physics, Engineering, Economics, Finance, or other quantitative disciplines).
• Graduated with Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) higher than 4.2 on a scale of 5.0 or its equivalent in the undergraduate program.
• Completed the compulsory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), evidenced by a discharge or exemption certificate.
• A strong command of written and spoken English language. As part of the selection process, we will test applicant’s oral and written communication skills.

The information you provide in this initial phase will be used in screening against our eligibility criteria. Every information provided here must be verifiable or your applicatiob will be rejected.