Respected Doctors,

I would like to ask a couple of questions in regards to PhD Economics. Firstly, as I got MBA specializing in International Business.My under graduate degree was in Commerce from Pakistan with Economics only in the first year of it. I do have a sound understanding of Economics as I have been teaching it till A levels. How can I get myself into PhD Economics?

Also, is it a necessity to have university taught Masters degree in economics? Or is it acceptable if I get a distance learning Masters degree and then apply for a PhD?

University of London and Open University provides distance learning opportunities and the only reason why I am reluctant to sign up with any of the two is because, what if I wont be offered the place in PhD program from a recognized university later on?

These universities also offers Graduate Diploma and Advanced Diploma in Economics. So should I get myself into the diplomas rather than signing up for the degree?

Also what are the best ways to improve Mathematics for Economics? Any books and recommended websites?

I would like to take the opportunity to thank you all for reading and posting the relevant replies to this thread.

Best Regards,
Syed