FermentedFish

Thanks a bunch for your thoughtful replies. This is indeed something I need to ponder more on. I guess the annoying thing is that had I started off with an economics PhD in mind from the get go, I wouldn't be having these issues. The reason behind me considering the PhD program in economics is largely based on what I have been exposed to in my current research, where a lot of engineering work often boils down to the economic viability of a solution. I have thoroughly enjoyed the later economics classes I have taken and I like the mathematical problem solving it is prone to present. Also, it has been around 2-3 years since I took most of the math intensive classes. I have, however, taken some solid mechanics and automatic control that surely demanded mathematical ability, but were not at all related to the kind of math you would need for the economics PhD. Without being too detailed, I have done some research in the economic feasibility of certain types of renewable energy, including optimization. To research something like this from a macro as well as micro perspective, I believe, would be very interesting. However, I may not need a PhD in economics to do so, but I just feel like I would like to work my way from the bottom and up to really develop a thorough understanding of the problems. I suppose the chances of me being accepted would be larger at a program where there is a faculty member doing research in energy of environmental economics. I also briefly pondered what a future at somewhere like the IMF might look like, perhaps helping developing countries with energy/environmental strategies. I've seen that American University, not very highly ranked, has a large number of graduates moving on to the IMF. However, like juilletmercredi pointed out, I may not be ready for this transition yet. The MA would probably help, but I think doing that as well may be too time consuming for me. ExponentialDecay, sure, Princeton would be terrific, but to aim for it in my situation is indeed a little too optimistic for my taste! If I decide to go for this, I will definitely re-take the GREs and make sure to score high enough on the Q. Thanks again for the great replies. I will surely spend some more time considering this and move on with my thoughts on urch.

Hi everyone, I'm writing this post since I am in dire need of advice in making a very important decision. Currently, I am enrolled in an engineering PhD program at a decent school. However, I am not satisfied with my current situation and am pondering the alternatives. I am interested in exploring the option of applying to a PhD program in economics. This is a field that intrigues me and I believe I could be good at. Schools I am considering applying to: College Park (UMaryland), Hopkins, Georgetown, GW, American University, and George Mason. I have the prereqs when it comes to math and economic classes (calculus, linear algebra, multivariable calculus, optimization theory, and several advanced economics courses). These classes come from my previous European university and I have a BS/MS degree in engineering. GREs I have taken with both Q and V in the lower sixties. I believe I could raise the Q-part significantly if I retook the test, which I wonder if it would be worthwhile? Since I am currently in a PhD program I do have research experience, have presented at several conferences, and I am at the moment preparing two manuscripts for publication. I'm also sure I would be able to get 3 good LORs. Regarding GPA, I currently have a 4.00 from my current program. However, my previous grades from the BS/MS program are not as stellar. The average is around 3.75, but I have Bs in some of the harder math and econ classes, which I am worried might cause problems with the application. The positive part of it is that the trend has been constantly upward. I really needed to write this to summarize my thoughts. I would very much appreciate any comments on my chances or other application related advice. I also apologize in advance for any irritation these posts might cause (I did see the pinned post...), but I'm sure someone here has a better idea than I do, because I really don't know what my chances are, especially considering I am currently enrolled in a PhD program. Thanks and the best to all of you, A confused student