PhD Data Science and Economic Policy

The PhD in Data Science and Economic Policy is uniquely positioned to advance Ghana's long-term development goals, especially those enumerated in the Ghana@100 development framework, by cultivating a cohort of highly skilled researchers and thought leaders who can bridge the gap between complex data analytics and transformative economic policy design. Through rigorous doctoral-level inquiry, candidates develop the ability to conduct original, cutting-edge research that informs high-stakes decision-making in areas such as public finance, industrial diversification, international trade, monetary policy, social welfare, and environmental sustainability. The programme augments Ghana's drive toward evidence-based policy and a knowledge-based economy by producing experts capable of tackling multifaceted challenges, from evaluating major infrastructure projects to modelling climate-resilient agricultural systems, using robust empirical methods.

The programme distinguishes itself from other doctoral programmes in Ghana by combining cutting-edge data analytics with advanced economic policy design at the highest level of scholarship. While conventional PhD programmes may emphasise either data science or economic theory and policy in isolation, this programme's curriculum and research focus fuse the two disciplines, giving candidates the tools to generate original, empirically driven policy insights. Students are not limited to theoretical work or computational exercises; instead, they learn to frame research questions that directly inform decision-making in areas such as public finance, industrial diversification, social welfare and overall economic transformation. It tailors advanced analytical tools such as machine learning, big data analytics, and econometric methods to Ghana's socio-economic realities, setting it apart from more generalised data science or economics doctoral offerings.

The number of people with both the methodological rigour to handle large, complex datasets and the policy exposure to translate empirical results into effective national agendas is limited in Ghana's development space. As Ghana moves towards a data-informed approach in public finance, social welfare, and infrastructure planning, most researchers lack the advanced-level research skills to design and implement analytical economic policy studies involving AI and machine learning tools. This deficit is most acute in high-level policy analysis and long-term development planning. The PhD in Data Science and Economic Policy fills these gaps by integrating doctoral-level training in advanced data science methods with specialised coursework in economic policy design, and by providing abundant scope for real-world collaboration with government departments, think tanks, and businesses.

The programme aligns closely with the University's mandate to undertake teaching, research, and extension services by equipping students with advanced analytical skills and fostering groundbreaking research in economic policy. It also supports the University's mission - "An equal opportunity University uniquely placed to provide quality education through the provision of comprehensive, liberal and professional programmes that challenge learners to be creative, innovative and responsible citizens" - by challenging doctoral candidates to develop data-driven, innovative policy solutions to the developmental challenges facing Ghana and Sub-Saharan Africa as a whole.