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OPEN UNIVERSITY OF KENYA

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Economics

BE82
Online
3 YearsProgramme Duration
Total Fee: KES 337,500 | Year 1: KES 162,000 | Year 2: KES 132,000 | Year 3: KES 43,500. Fee Structure: View full fee structureFees per Year
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OPEN UNIVERSITY OF KENYA

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Economics

Online

Overview

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Economics is a flexible, research-led doctoral programme designed to develop advanced scholars, researchers, policy analysts and thought leaders in economics. The Programme builds strong capability in advanced economic theory, econometrics, research methodology, behavioural economics, machine learning in economics, project planning, monitoring and evaluation and specialised economic inquiry. It prepares candidates to generate original research that responds to complex national, regional and global economic challenges. Delivered through OUK’s technology-enabled learning model, the Programme combines independent online study, synchronous learner support, virtual research seminars, guided supervision, academic writing support, doctoral research development and thesis work. Candidates progress from taught doctoral coursework to comprehensive assessment, proposal development, preliminary findings presentation and final thesis submission.

Career Prospects

  • University teaching, academic research and postgraduate supervision;
  • Economic policy analysis, modelling and advisory roles;
  • National and county government planning, budgeting and policy units;
  • Central banking, fiscal policy, monetary policy and regulatory institutions;
  • Development agencies, international organizations and research think tanks;
  • Economic consultancy, impact evaluation and monitoring and evaluation;
  • Financial, investment, development, environmental, health, agricultural and transport economics;
  • Data-driven economic modelling, machine learning applications and policy simulation.
PROGRAMME DURATION3 Years
FEE PER YEARTotal Fee: KES 337,500 | Year 1: KES 162,000 | Year 2: KES 132,000 | Year 3: KES 43,500. Fee Structure: View full fee structure
APPLICATION STATUSOpen

INTAKE

2026 — Ongoing

Admission Requirements

  • A Masters degree in Economics from OUK or a relevant Masters degree from an accredited university.
  • Equivalent qualifications as approved by the University Senate may be considered.
  • Additional qualifications may be considered through Senate-approved Recognition of Prior Learning, relevant experience or other competencies that meet the admission criteria.

Government Funding

KUCCPS-placed students are eligible for government scholarships and HELB loans under the new funding model.

Flexibility

Customise your learning pace and choose courses that fit your commitments.

Inclusivity

Diversity is celebrated — all students have access to support services.

Openness

Open admissions, affordable tuition, and online delivery remove barriers.

Certification

Progressive: Certificate → Diploma → Degree as you complete credit hours.