For the University of Pittsburgh's Economics PhD program, what are the recommended or required mathematics courses for admission? Additionally, what are the main research areas within the department, and how do PhD students typically get involved in research activities?
Navigate to the University of Pittsburgh's Department of Economics website. Go to the 'PhD Program Admissions' page to find the mathematics requirements. Navigate to the 'Research' section to identify the primary research areas and how PhD students engage with the research community. Synthesize the gathered information into a concise answer.
State that the minimum mathematics requirements for PhD admission are two semesters of calculus and one semester of linear algebra, noting that most admitted students have more advanced preparation (e.g., real analysis, differential/difference equations, probability theory). List the six primary research areas of the department: econometrics, experimental and behavioral economics, labor/development, macroeconomics/international economics, microeconomic theory, and urban/public/history. Explain that PhD students participate in the research community starting in their second year through various opportunities.