PhD in Program

Engaging directly with the PhD Research Workshop and Nova SBE Research Seminars, candidates in this four-year, full-time program are immersed in a rigorous academic environment that prioritizes high-impact research. The curriculum is structured to bridge the gap between advanced theoretical training and the practical demands of the international job market in Economics and Finance.

Research-Led Specialization

The program follows a distinct trajectory: students spend the first year mastering core coursework, including Microeconomics, Macroeconomics, and Advanced Econometrics, before committing to a specialization track in either Economics or Finance. A defining feature of the experience is the mandatory exchange term, which encourages students to leverage the school's extensive global network—including institutions like Harvard, Stanford, and the London School of Economics—to broaden their research perspective.

Ultimately, the program concludes with a thesis comprised of three high-quality research papers intended for publication in top-tier peer-reviewed journals. With dedicated mentorship and support for job market preparation, including mock interviews and annual research assessments, this PhD is designed for scholars who aim to influence the global academic and policy landscape.

NOVA University Lisbon, founded in 1973 and located in Portugal’s dynamic capital region, is a modern and internationally minded institution with roughly 22,018 students, including about 3,408 international students. The university blends urban campus life with strong ties to Lisbon’s cultural and business districts, giving students easy access to internships, cultural attractions, and a lively student scene. Its relatively recent founding means NOVA emphasizes innovation, interdisciplinary study, and international collaboration.

Academically, NOVA offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs across sciences, social sciences, arts, and technology, and is recognized for research excellence in areas such as public health, economics, and engineering. Teaching often incorporates project-based work and partnerships with industry, helping students build practical skills alongside academic knowledge. Support services include academic advising, language courses, and career services geared to preparing graduates for both local and global job markets.

For international students, NOVA provides a welcoming environment with English-taught programs, orientation sessions, and assistance with housing and visas. Living in Lisbon offers a relatively affordable European experience compared with other capitals, plus excellent public transport and a pleasant climate. Whether you seek rigorous research training or practical industry connections, NOVA University Lisbon is a strong choice for students looking to study in a vibrant, internationally connected European city.