grants for phd programs

50 Best Scholarships for Ph.D. Students

Reviewed by David Krug David Krug is a seasoned expert with 20 years in educational technology (EdTech). His career spans the pivotal years of technology integration in education, where he has played a key role in advancing student-centric learning solutions. David's expertise lies in marrying technological innovation with pedagogical effectiveness, making him a valuable asset in transforming educational experiences. As an advisor for enrollment startups, David provides strategic guidance, helping these companies navigate the complexities of the education sector. His insights are crucial in developing impactful and sustainable enrollment strategies.

Updated: February 23, 2024 , Reading time: 29 minutes

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“First, you get your bachelor’s degree, and you think you know everything. Then, you get your master’s degree, and you realize you don’t know anything. Then you get your doctorate, and you find out that nobody knows anything.”

While we can’t find information on who said these words, we can’t help but laugh! You, a student pursuing your doctoral degree, may even laugh at it because there’s a grain of truth to it. Your doctoral dissertation, after all, will likely be about creating new knowledge or building on old knowledge because “nobody knows anything,” in a manner of speaking. 

But why are you pursuing a doctoral degree when your master’s degree will suffice for most jobs? There are even people who believe that it’s a waste of time and money for many reasons. Some people push for it because of the numerous benefits that it brings.

So which one’s a better perspective? A doctoral degree is about contributing to the existing body of knowledge through original research. It is considered an introduction to independent research in your chosen field with your doctoral dissertation as the first of many intellectual masterpieces.

Let’s first take a look at the unfavorable view because there’s also some merit to it. For one thing, there’s the cost of doctoral education that, in U.S. universities, can range from $28,000 to $40,000 per year in tuition and fees. In Ivy League universities, the cost can be higher – at Harvard University, for example, the full tuition needed for the first two years of study is $49,448, exclusive of health insurance, housing, books and supplies, and food expenses. 

Yes, indeed, it isn’t cheap to get a doctoral degree in the United States, not even in one of the lesser-known universities!

In addition, there’s a sense of dissatisfaction among doctoral students. You may feel, at one point, that you’re doing slave labor, no thanks to the 10-hour workdays, and low pay during your research.

Your employment prospects may also seem uncertain, considering the competition due to the oversupply of Ph.D. holders . The number of Ph.D. holders exceeds the number of employment opportunities for them, too! Such a disconnection partly stems from the high degree of specialization required in getting a doctoral degree, not to mention that Ph.D. holders have high employment expectations.

Still, the number of doctoral degree holders in the U.S. has more than doubled between 2000 and 2018! In 2000, there were 2 million Ph.D. holders, and by 2018, there were already 4.5 million. Why do people pursue doctoral degrees despite the myriad of challenges that come with them?

Here’s why.

• You have a clear edge in getting higher positions and, thus, higher pay. Studies have shown that a Ph.D. is a contributing factor toward earning over 20% more than people with master’s degrees.   The Chronicle of Higher Education revealed instructors of Legal Professions and Studies without a doctorate earned $64,785, while those with doctorate degrees earned $91,828 per year (2011). In a PayScale comparison , Ph.D. holders earned $98,300 per year, on average.
• Your specialized knowledge and skills are highly marketable. You will likely enjoy a flexible career path, whether you choose a career in public service or the private sector. Your career will also be characterized by the highest lifetime earning potential and the lowest unemployment rate! Your Ph.D. training will also strengthen your critical thinking and complex problem-solving skills, which are highly sought after by employers. 
• You will be a recognized knowledge creator, a rare skill sought after by society and employers, too. You have gained both the discipline and ability to search for, introduce, and defend new knowledge, even under the most stringent scrutiny. Your competencies will lead to a leadership position as you gain respect and prestige.

Are you still worried about the financial expenses of getting a Ph.D. in your field? We completely understand since $50,000-plus per year plus the difficulties of juggling work, studies, and family responsibilities will break a lesser person. But you can achieve your doctoral degree through scholarships and grants!

This isn’t a new concept either as millions of Ph.D. holders have also achieved such a lofty goal. Many of them have been scholars and fellows for most, if not all, of their studies – and it’s a path you can take, too, with plenty of planning and networking.

You have dozens, if not hundreds, of scholarship and fellowship opportunities in your field of study, not to mention the ones offered without restrictions as to the field of study. The trick here is in diligently looking for these opportunities, applying to as many as you are qualified for, and complying with the requirements.

You may have to apply every semester or academic year for a new scholarship or fellowship, but it’s worth the time and effort. You could be lucky and be one whose studies were financed through scholarships and grants from year one; although, luck has little to do with it because you spent time looking and qualifying for the scholarships you deserve!

Here, we present you with 50 of the Best Scholarships and Fellowships for Doctoral Students that we think are worthy of your consideration.

The Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $30,000 up to 400,000 (international coursework or research of up to 4 years) Deadline of Application: Rolling (depends on the country)

The Rotary Foundation Global Grant Scholarships program is open to full-time Ph.D. students involved in peace and conflict prevention or resolution, disease prevention and treatment, and water and sanitation. Applications can be made via a local Rotary Club chapter, and the chapter must sponsor non-Rotarians applying for the scholarship. The chapter creates the applicants’ initial application, and the latter then completes the online scholar profile.

The amount can be used for various costs, including passport/visa, travel expenses, tuition, and other fees, vaccinations, school supplies, room and board, and household supplies.

Newberry Consortium in American Indian Studies Faculty Fellowship

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $5,000/month (Long-term fellowship for 4-9 months); $5,000/month (Short-term fellowship for a month only) Deadline of Application: November 1, 2023 (Long-term fellowship); January 15, 2024 (Short-term fellowship)

The American Indian Studies Faculty Fellowship is intended for scholars in the early stages of their careers who are involved in American Indian studies, specifically research in the Newberry Consortium collections. Doctoral students are welcome to apply. The monthly stipend can be used for a wide range of education-related expenses, too.

Fellows receive the NCAIS research carrel and other fellowship privileges, as well as perform responsibilities related to their research. These include research presentation, seminar participation, and consultation with other NCAIS Graduate Student Fellows.

AIA Fellowship for Study in the U.S.

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: Varies Deadline of Application: November 1, 2023

The Archaeological Institute of America (AIA) offers post-doctoral research fellowships for archaeologists working at Deutsches Archäologisches Institut (DAI) or its project collaborators. The fellowships are for either fall 2024 or spring 2025 in selected universities, including the University of Cincinnati, the Joukowsky Institute at Brown University, or the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA).

Fellows are provided with financial support for travel expenses, a stipend for living expenses, and residency at a university housing or rental housing, as well as library privileges. The residency lasts for 2-3 months only, and during which time, the Fellows are expected to give a minimum of one lecture at their respective host university. 

Applications should include a duly filled-up online application form, a curriculum vitae, and two references, among others.

NSF Graduate Research Fellowship

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $50,000 (This represents the total dollars awarded every year. The actual amount given to fellows vary depending on their program) Deadline of Application: November 1, 2023

The NSF Graduate Research Fellowship is for doctoral students pursuing NSF-supported STEM disciplines in accredited universities. If you wish to apply, follow the recommended application templates and formats to be considered. The application should include an essay, a recommendation letter, a personal statement, an official transcript, and a completely filled-up application form.

Note the different dates for submission to the National Science Foundation of the full proposal depending on the type of grant: 

• October 16, 2023 – Life Sciences
• October 17, 2023 – Computer and Information Science and Engineering, Materials Research, Psychology, Social Sciences, STEM Education and Learning
• October 19, 2023 – Engineering
• October 20, 2023 – Chemistry, Geosciences, Mathematical Sciences, Physics and Astronomy

AWWA Abel Wolman Scholarship

Type of Scholarship: Annual (Renewable) Amount: $30,000 for one year (If necessary, a fellow can apply and be approved for the second year of financial support) Deadline of Application: Opens September to December 2023 for the 2024 awards 

Students who are pursuing advanced training and research, including doctoral studies in water supply and treatment and its related fields, can apply for the Abel Wolman Fellowship. The doctoral fellowship provides financial support for up to two years to an outstanding student. Applications can be sent to the American Water Works Association (AWWA), and more information can be seen on its site.

AWWA Larson Aquatic Research Support Scholarships

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $7,000/student Deadline of Application: Opens September to December 2023 for the 2024 awards 

Made in honor of Dr. Larson, the Larson Aquatic Research Support (LARS) scholarship is available for outstanding doctoral students engaged in the fields of science and engineering. The selection committee chooses one doctoral student every year for the scholarship, with an emphasis on excellent academics and leadership potential.

Applications must include a resume, official transcripts, three recommendation letters, and GRE scores as well as a course of study. Be sure to submit your research plans, too, with your application.

YIVO – Joseph Kremen Memorial Fellowship

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $5,000 Deadline of Application: Opens in September 2023 for the 2024-2025 fellowship period

The Joseph Kremen Memorial Fellowship is available for postgraduate researchers studying Eastern European Jewish arts, theater, and music. Keep in mind that only one exemplary scholar will be chosen annually, so it’s highly competitive. The chosen fellow can spend the stipend on expenses related to his/her research in YIVO’s archives and library collections.

Every fellow is also required to deliver a public lecture regarding his/her research. The research period should be between 2 and 3 months only. Interested applicants should submit a written summary of their respective research on acceptable topics.

YIVO- Dora and Meyer Tendler Fellowship

Yet another sought after YIVO scholarship is the Dora and Mayer Tendler Endowed Fellowship, a scholarship program for individuals in doctoral and post-doctoral research. Only one exemplary fellow is chosen every year.

The research should focus on American Jewish history with the selection committee giving preferential consideration to research proposals related to the Jewish labor movement. As with all YIVO fellowships, the selected fellow should conduct 2-3 months of research in YIVO’s archives and library, as well as make a public lecture.

AERA Minority Dissertation Fellowship

Type of Scholarship: Annual (Non-renewable) Amount: $25,000 Deadline of Application: November 1, 2023

The American Educational Research Association Dissertation Fellowship is open for doctoral students belonging to the minorities. These include African Americans, American Indians, Alaskan Natives, Hispanics, Asians, and Pacific Islanders. Both U.S. citizens and permanent residents in the U.S. can apply for as long as they are in a doctoral program in an accredited university.

Since this is a write-up fellowship, applicants should be working full-time on their course requirements and be writing their dissertations. There are three components to the award: a $25,000 stipend that can be used for tuition and fees, books and supplies, equipment and software, living expenses and travel, and other direct research-related expenses; a research presentation at the 2025 AERA Annual Meeting; and participation in the AERA Minority Fellows Mentoring and Career Development Workshop. 

National Gem Consortium Ph.D. Science Scholarship

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $16,000 living stipend plus a paid summer internship Deadline of Application: November 10, 2023

The National Gem Consortium’s PhD Science Scholarship is exclusive for students belonging to the minority in their first year of doctoral studies. Applicants should be pursuing a natural science discipline, such as earth science, chemistry, biology, mathematics, physics, and computer science. The scholarship applies to an accredited GEM member university.

Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship or legal residency, as well as be able to maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA and get promising GRE scores.

NAEd Spencer Dissertation Fellowships

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $27,500/fellow (Up to 35 fellowships are awarded every year) Deadline of Application: October 5, 2023 at 5pm Eastern Time

The National Academy of Education (NAEd) awards its Spencer Dissertation Fellowships to exemplary doctoral students pursuing studies in the history, theory and analysis, and practice of formal education. The amount should be used in the completion of each fellow’s dissertation and should be spent within two years and under the proposed work plan.

Eligible candidates must have completed all pre-dissertation requirements and be enrolled in a graduate school in the U.S. Applicants are required to submit their respective research proposal and two reference letters, as well as demonstrate an interest in education research.

National Gem Consortium Ph.D. Engineering Fellowship

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $16,000 living stipend for the first academic year plus a paid summer internship Deadline of Application: November 10, 2023

The National GEM Consortium in Engineering Fellowship is open to Ph.D. students belonging to the minority, and who have been accepted into a doctoral program straight from a bachelor’s degree program or who have earned a master’s in Engineering. Fellows can be enrolled in any of the participating GEM member universities. 

The above-mentioned stipend applies to the first academic year of fellowship for a Ph.D. Engineering/Science Fellow. After that, the fellow will enjoy continued living stipend up to the fifth year of Ph.D. studies through a combination of alternative funding sources. The fellow will also have his tuition and fees paid for by the GEM university member.

Michael J. Barrett Doctoral Dissertation Grant

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $10,000 (Up to two awards are granted every year) Deadline of Application: October 15, 2023 (Winners are announced by December 15, 2023)

The Michael J. Barrett Doctoral Dissertation Grant is exclusively for doctoral candidates pursuing accounting, auditing, and business programs in accredited colleges and universities. Only complete applications will be accepted with the required submissions, including the dissertation proposal, detailed cover letter, and two letters of recommendation from relevant professors.

Applicants should also demonstrate an intention to teach auditing for a minimum of two years, attend a relevant doctorate program, have either completed or within a year of completion of pre-dissertation requirements, and be in the dissertation writing stage.

Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Doctoral Award

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $20,000 annual stipend and a maximum of five years of full tuition and fees coverage (Except when the university/college disallows fee waivers) Deadline of Application: Opens in January 2024 for the 2024 DSP Fellowship

The SREB Doctoral Award is a package consisting of two components. First, the scholar will get three years of direct support. Second, he/she will also get two years of institutional support from his/her college/university – a $20,000 annual stipend. During these five years, he/she will also enjoy full coverage of tuition and fees, with some exceptions as needed.

Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Dissertation Award

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $20,000 annual stipend, maximum of five years of full tuition and fees coverage (Except when the university/college disallows fee waivers) and $500 research allowance Deadline of Application: Opens in January 2024 for the 2024 DSP Fellowship

The SERB Dissertation Award is a short-term program (only one year), but it’s among the most generous programs we’ve come across. The scholar will be provided with direct financial support, as mentioned above, as well as professional development support and an invitation to the Compact for Faculty Diversity Institute on Teaching & Mentoring.

Eligible applicants should have completed all their required coursework and exams, as well as either will defend or have successfully defended their respective dissertation prospectus before the academic year starts. Enrollment in a participating college/university in a participating state is a must.

(ISC)² Graduate Cybersecurity Scholarship

Type of Scholarship: Annual (Renewable but applicant must go through the process again) Amount: $1,000 – $5,000 (Up to 20 awards will be given for this cycle) Deadline of Application: Opens January 15, 2024 and closes February 29, 2024 11:59 pm EST

The (ISC)² Graduate Scholarship program is offered to individuals planning to pursue or pursuing doctoral degrees in cybersecurity or information assurance. Eligibility requirements include a minimum of 3.5 GPA or equivalent, may be enrolled in face-to-face or online classes, maybe a part-time or full-time student, and maybe attending a school in the U.S. or abroad. Non-U.S. citizens may also apply. 

Submissions should include either the most recent or current unofficial transcripts, a letter of recommendation, an updated curriculum vitae, and an essay. Take note that funds will only be disbursed upon proof of enrollment and receipt of official transcripts.

ASA Minority Fellowship Program

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $20,000 stipend for a full academic year (August 1 – July 31) Deadline of Application: Opens on November 5, 2023 and ends on January 31, 2024

The American Sociological Association (ASA) established its Minority Fellowship Program (MFP) to provide financial support for sociologists of color, particularly in the pursuit of advanced studies or specialization. Candidates can be U.S. citizens or permanent residents or eligible under DACA rules, and they should either be attending or have completed a full academic year in a sociology doctorate program.

Aside from the annual stipend, ASA also makes arrangements for tuition payments to the concerned departments or universities. Funds for travel to the ASA annual meetings are also available, albeit limited.

YIVO – Fellowship in East European Jewish Studies

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $20,000 stipend  Deadline of Application: Opens in September 2023 for the 2024-2025 fellowship period

The combined Professor Bernard Choseed Memorial Fellowship and the Natalie and Mendel Racolin Memorial Fellowship come with many benefits. Aside from the financial stipend, its recipient has three months of free access to the YIVO Library and Archives for his/her research. He/she, on the other hand, will be required to deliver at least two public lectures on Jewish studies.

YIVO – Fellowship in Baltic Jewish Studies

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $4,000 stipend Deadline of Application: Opens in September 2023 for the 2024-2025 fellowship period 

This is a combination of scholarships with a $4,000 combined stipend. The scholarship supports original doctoral research in Baltic Jewish studies for 2-3 months. The research should be conducted at the YIVO Library and Archive and the recipients are required to give a public lecture.

YIVO – Fellowship in Polish Jewish Studies

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $4,000 stipend Deadline of Application: Opens in September 2023 for the 2024-2025 fellowship period  

The Fellowship in Polish Jewish Studies is also a combined scholarship with a cumulative $4,000 stipend for 2-3 months. The recipient should spend the scholarship duration on research at the YIVO Library and Archives, and the dissertation should touch on Polish-Jewish history, relations, and cultural exchanges. He/she will also be required to give a public lecture on the topic.

YIVO – Fellowship in East European Jewish Literature

The Fellowship in East European Jewish Literature is also a combined scholarship with a specific focus on Eastern European Jewish literature. The recipient can focus his/her research on the Jewish diaspora regardless of location. As with the other YIVO scholarships, it comes with a stipulation for 2-3 months of research at YIVO’s library and archives, as well as a public lecture.

YIVO – The Dina Abramowicz Emerging Scholar Fellowship

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $3,000 stipend Deadline of Application: Opens in September 2023 for the 2024-2025 fellowship period

This is a fellowship for post-doctoral research on Eastern European Jewish studies. The research should result in a notable scholarly publication on the topic, although the fellowship can also be applied to doctoral dissertation revision. The fellowship, which has the same 2- to 3-month research at the YIVO library and a public lecture, can be awarded as is or combined with other YIVO fellowships.

YIVO – The Workers Circle

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $10,000 stipend Deadline of Application: Opens in September 2023 for the 2024-2025 fellowship period   

The Workers Circle/ Dr. Emanuel Patt Visiting Professorship in Eastern European Jewish Studies may also be combined with other fellowships, or it can be awarded separately. It’s also designed to provide financial support for up to three months of post-doctoral research by the visiting faculty member/recipient who, in turn, is required to give a public lecture.

Nurses Educational Funds, Inc. (NEF)

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: Varies  Deadline of Application: Opens October 2, 2023 and ends on February 1, 2024

NEF offers several scholarship opportunities for doctoral students in the field of nursing, many of which are the result of endowments by notable nursing practitioners who want to support the continued education of professional nurses. 

• The NEF/Johnson and Johnson Health Equity Scholarship program promotes the research, advocacy and clinical practice of nursing professionals interested in underrepresented groups and addressing the health inequalities and disparities in these populations. 
• The AJN/Thelma Schorr Scholarship program has a preference for nurses with nursing leadership potential. 
• The Cynthia Davis Sculco Scholarship permanent program awarded scholarships to nurses studying nursing education at the doctoral level. 
• The M. Elizabeth Carnegie African American Scholarship program is for black nurses in doctoral degree programs. 

Intercollegiate Studies Institute Graduate Fellowships

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $5,000 to $15,000 Deadline of Application: January 19, 2024   

ISI awards up to 15 graduate fellowships for doctoral students pursuing degrees in either the social sciences or humanities. Applicants must be U.S. citizens with plans of full-time enrollment in the 2024-2025 academic year and intend to teach at the post-secondary level. Applicants who weren’t granted fellowships in their previous application can reapply; previous fellows are ineligible for application. 

Application requirements include 1,250- to 2,500-word original essay on the topic of, “What is the relationship between liberal education and a free society?”; autobiography; academic writing sample, and two academic letters of recommendation.  

Fellowship amounts can be used for tuition, books, and living expenses, among other program-related expenses at the awardee’s discretion. Fellows must attend annual weekend colloquium with their expenses paid for by ISI. 

Newberry Consortium National Endowment for the Humanities Fellowships

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $5,000/month  Deadline of Application: November 1, 2023 

The long-term fellowship lasts between four and nine months during which time the recipient will perform scholarship activities relevant to the collections owned and maintained by The Newberry Consortium. Applicants must possess a PhD degree or its equivalent on or before the application deadline, as well as be either a U.S. citizen or a foreign national with at least three years of continuous residence in the country. 

NCTM & AMTE Early Career Research Grant

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $10,000 each, maximum  Deadline of Application: November 1, 2023 

Granted in partnership with Eugene P. & Clara M. Smith Mathematics Education Research Fund, the Early Career Research Grant accepts applications from doctoral candidates pursuing math education degrees. The grant must be used in supporting their doctoral research project, preferably projects that bridge research and practice. 

Note that early career math educators, or those who have completed either an EdD or PhD in math education or other related fields within the past five years, are eligible to apply. Doctoral students will only be considered if they have advanced to candidacy status in accredited programs. 

Midwest Nursing Research Society  (MNRS) Seed Research Grant

Type of Scholarship: Annual  Amount: One $5,000 maximum  Deadline of Application: October 18, 2023 

The MNRS Seed Grant will support researchers engaged in quantitative and qualitative research in nursing science-related topics. Applicants must perform their research in the Midwest. Nursing researchers are eligible to apply regardless of their time from dissertation and previous funding history. Current and active membership in the MNRS is a must to be considered for eligibility. 

Zonta International Amelia Earhart Fellowship

Type of Scholarship: Annual (Non-renewable)  Amount: $10,000 with up to 30 awardees  Deadline of Application: November 15, 2023

Established in 1938, the Amelia Earhart Fellowship promotes equal access to resources for women in the fields of aerospace engineering and space sciences. Awardees are chosen based on their superior academic record and applied research in aerospace engineering and space sciences. 

Applicants must be women pursuing doctoral degrees in these fields with the award amount allowed for use at any accredited college or university and for postgraduate courses and degrees. Strict eligibility requirements, such as club members and their family members as well as previous fellows being disqualified, are implemented. 

Wenner-Gren Foundation Dissertation Fieldwork Grant

Type of Scholarship: Annual (Non-renewable)  Amount: $25,000  Deadline of Application: November 1, 2023 

While the Dissertation Fieldwork Grant doesn’t have any particular preferences for research topics, methodology and location, the Wenner-Gren Foundation welcomes interdisciplinary proposals. Applicants must demonstrate their capacity and passion for the advancement of anthropological knowledge that increases the depth and breadth of our understanding of being human. The award amount should be used for doctoral research in this regard. 

Applicants must be doctoral students and must designate a dissertation advisor on their application. Previous applicants may reapply via a resubmission. 

MNRS Step-Up Grant 

Type of Scholarship: Annual  Amount: $2,500 Deadline of Application: October 18, 2023

The MNRS will select one awardee for the Step-up Grant from funds generated through its MNRS Foundation Annual Walk-a-Thon. The award amount can be used for qualitative and quantitative research in any nursing-related topic, but there’s a preference for research into the health inequalities and discrepancies in the Midwest. 

Doctoral students will only be considered for dissertation grants. Strict policies are in place for the use of the grant amount. 

MNRS Founders Circle Dissertation Grant

Type of Scholarship: Annual Amount: $2,500 Deadline of Application: October 18, 2023

The MNRS Founders Circle Dissertation Grant will be awarded to just one doctoral student but can only be used as a dissertation grant. The grant is intended for the promotion of nursing science and practice including quantitative and qualitative research among researchers in the Midwest. 

Only current and active MNRS members will be considered during the application and selection process.

MNRS Joseph & Jean Buckwalter Dissertation Grant

Established in honor of the husband-and-wife duo, the Joseph & Jean Buckwalter Dissertation Grant supports researchers in the Midwest whose interests are in mental health and chronic illnesses. 

MNRS/Council for Advancement of Nursing Science (CANS) Dissertation Grant

Type of Scholarship: Annual  Amount: Up to $5,000  Deadline of Application: October 18, 2023

Only one awardee will be selected for the MNRS/CANS Dissertation Grant. Applicants, who must be current and active MNRS and CANS members to be considered, will be evaluated based on their quantitative and qualitative research into the advancement of nursing science and practice. 

Stantec Scholarship

Type of Scholarship: Annual  Amount: $10,000 Deadline of Application: Opens September to December 2023 for the 2024 awards

Stantec Inc., a well-known provider of engineering consulting services with specializations in construction management, architectural and environmental services, offers the Stantec Scholarship in partnership with the American Water Works Association (AWWA). The scholarship supports a student pursuing a PhD in water treatment science and engineering. 

Note that the AWWA-Stantec Scholarship is part of the Stantec Equity and Diversity Scholarship, which promotes equity, diversity and inclusion for positive impact in the industry. 

The Mellon Foundation Fellowship

Type of Scholarship: Annual  Amount: $5,000/month Deadline of Application: November 1, 2023 

This is a long-term fellowship offered by The Newberry with fellows getting financial support for a period between four and nine months. Fellows must be engaged in scholarship in any field pertaining to its collection. 

Richard H. Brown/William Lloyd Barber Felowships

The long-term fellowship program welcomes applicants with a PhD degree on or before the application deadline. The Richard H. Brown/William Lloyd Barber Fellows must spend between four and nine months on studying American history, particularly on topics related to The Newberry’s collection. 

The Evelyn Dunbar and Ruth Dunbar Davee Fellowship

The long-term Evelyn Dunbar and Ruth Dunbar Davee Fellowship program offered by The Newberry supports scholarships in its music-related collection. Fellows will be awarded the monthly stipend for 4-9 months. 

Lloyd Lewis Fellowships in American History

Past fellows of the Lloyd Lewis Fellowships in American History offered by The Newberry performed scholarly activities related to American history as it pertains to its collection. The long-term fellowship program requires commitment for 4-9 months and a PhD degree to be considered. 

The Audrey Lumsden-Kouvel Fellowship

Yet another long-term fellowship program offered by The Newberry, the Audrey Lumsden-Kouvel Fellowship supports scholars-researchers studying the history and literature of Romance cultures and the colonial Americas from the late medieval to the early modern periods. Fellows have a PhD degree and receive a monthly stipend during the duration of the fellowship, usually 4-9 months. 

The Monticello College Foundation Fellowship for Women

The Newberry-administered Monticello College Foundation Fellowship for Women supports one female fellow who must hold a PhD on or before the application deadline. The fellow receives a monthly stipend for 4-9 months and must demonstrate scholarly productivity during her in-residence tenure at the Newberry. 

Rudolph Ganz Fellowship

Named in honor of American pianist, conductor, composer, and music educator Rudolph Ganz, The Newberry-administered long-term fellowship provides financial support for researchers engaged in the study of Ganz’s papers in its collection. These include Ganz’s musical compositions as well as lectures, speeches, essays and recordings. 

Most of the long-term fellowships (4-9 months’ duration) are open for scholars regardless of their nationality; the notable exception is the National Endowment for the Humanities-funded program. International scholars possessing the J-1 visa are also eligible for long-term fellowships. 

The Newberry Short-Term Residential Fellowships for Individual Research

Type of Scholarship: Annual  Amount: $3,000 for one month only Deadline of Application: December 15, 2023 

Eligible applicants are scholars and researchers in any field. Applicants who are in their graduate studies must have completed their academic requirements except for their dissertation (All But Dissertation or ABD) by December 15, 2023 to be considered. 

The Newberry Fellows’ Fellowship

The Newberry Fellows’ Fellowship program supports researchers/scholars with a demonstrated need for scholarly activities related to the Newberry collection. The short-term program welcomes scholars from all fields of study but graduate students who submit their application must be on ABD status by application deadline. 

The Newberry The John S. Aubrey Fellowship

The John S. Aubrey Fellowship is also a short-term program designed for scholars/researchers interested in studying the Newberry collection. Again, graduate student applicants must have completed academic requirements except for their dissertation. 

The Newberry The Charles Montgomery Gray Fellowship

PhD candidates who have yet to finish their doctoral dissertations but have complied with academic requirements are welcome to apply for the short-term fellowship. Note that postdoctoral scholars are also eligible. While the fellowship welcomes scholars/researchers from all fields of study, the Newberry gives preference to research projects related to the Renaissance and early modern periods, as well as legal history, European history, and English history. 

The Newberry The Adele Hast Fellowship in American History

The short-term Adele Hast Fellowships is particularly intended for scholars/researchers engaged in the study of American history as it relates to the Newberry collections. Both PhD students on ABD status and postdoctoral scholars are welcome to apply. 

The Newberry The Arthur and Janet Holzheimer Fellowship in the History of Cartography

Postdoctoral scholars and PhD students who have yet to complete their dissertation can apply for the short-term fellowship. But their research projects must be specifically related to cartography including its history, evolution and materials. 

The Newberry The Anne Jacobson Schutte Fellowship in Early Modern Studies

The short-term fellowship invites PhD students on ABD status and postdoctoral scholars to apply for the short-term fellowship. Preference is for researchers/scholars engaged in the study of the culture, society and other aspects of the early modern period (1300s-1700s). Scholars whose research projects are related to spirituality, Venice, and/or women’s studies are highly preferred. 

For most, if not all, of the short-term fellowship programs administered by The Newberry, the application materials include a project abstract, project description and bibliography as well as a curriculum vitae and letters of recommendation. The letters of recommendation have a 10-day grace period for recommenders (i.e., up to December 25, 2023 only). Notices to applicants will be sent by late April or early May 2024. 

For the long-term fellowships, The Newberry provides a ten-day grace period for the letters of recommendation (i.e., up to November 10, 2023 only). Applicants will be sent notification notices (accepted/rejected) in either late February or early March 2024. 

MNRS/Sigma Research Grant

Type of Scholarship: Annual  Amount: Up to $3,500  Deadline of Application: April 1, 2024

Qualified nurses who are enrolled in doctoral programs are eligible to apply for the MNRS/Sigma Research Grant. The selected awardee must implement and complete their research projects within one year after receiving the funds and must agree to the terms in a Research Grant Agreement.

Are scholarships for Ph.D. applicants easy to obtain?

The availability of scholarships for Ph.D. applicants varies depending on the program and school. Generally, scholarships are more difficult to obtain than grants or fellowships, as there is often a limited amount of funds available and a more significant number of applicants competing for them.

However, several scholarships are available specifically for Ph.D. applicants, so it is worth researching what is available and applying for those that are a good fit.

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•       Financial Aid       PhD Scholarships and Financial Aid

PAYING FOR YOUR PHD Expert Tips, Scholarships Opportunities and Resources for Financing an Advanced Degree

The average yearly tuition for a PhD program is slightly above $16,000, which means students will invest about $80,000 in tuition fees alone for a five-year program. Add in fees, cost-of-living, travel expenses and the figure can easily surpass six figures. Yet, it is possible to fund a PhD program without breaking the bank and going into debt.

Featured Online Schools

• PhD Cost Breakdown
• PhD Financial Aid Options
• Expert Spotlight: Lawrence Burns, PhD
• Earning Outlook for Phd Students
• Most Lucrative PhD Careers
• Expert Spotlight: Darren Pierre, PhD
• PhD: By The Numbers
• Additional Financial Aid Resources

PHD COST BREAKDOWN

The value of a college education should not be understated, but neither should its actual cost. Earning a doctoral degree can be an expensive proposition. According to the latest data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the average tuition and fees for a graduate program of study was $16,435 in 2012-2013. The table below outlines the 2012-2013 graduate tuition and fees by academic institution.

• All Institutions $16,435
• Public $10,408
• Private Non-Profit $23,698
• Private For-Profit $14,418

Source: National Center for Education Statistics

A rough calculation of the number of years it takes to complete a doctoral program, multiplied by the average 2012-2013 tuition and fees from the NCES, reveals the following total cost figures by academic field of study.

A five- to six-figure education is something to take seriously as there are debt implications after leaving finishing a PhD program. Graduating doctoral students in 2013 left school with an average debt of just over $15,000, according to the National Science Foundation. By field, students in the Social Sciences, Education and Humanities graduate with the highest levels of student debt:

• Education: $26,566
• Social Sciences: $26,222
• Humanities: $21,485

Conversely, the science and technology fields graduate students with the lowest debt figures:

• Physical Sciences: $6,342
• Engineering: $7,031
• Life Sciences: $11,905
• Physical Sciences 78.2%
• Engineering 75.1%
• Life Sciences 67.2%
• Humanities 48.4%
• Social Sciences 46.5%
• Education 44.1%

Source: National Science Foundation, Survey of Earned Doctorates, 2013

While these figures may seem alarming, a deeper dive into survey data from the National Science Foundation actually paints a more positive picture. Overall, more than 62 percent of all doctoral recipients graduate from school without a single dollar of debt.

Prospective students can use the table below to get a better sense of the percentage of students who take on debt at incremental levels in each field of academic study. A majority of students graduate with $10,000 or less in debt after finishing their doctoral degree.

PhD Cost Factors

The total cost of earning a doctoral degree is variable because of the sheer number of different factors involved. Tuition is not the only cost to consider when thinking about applying to a PhD program.

Typically, students pay full tuition rates during their first three years of doctoral study and receive reduced tuition rates for the remainder of the program. However, the actual cost of tuition does vary and may be dependent on the student’s actual degree program.

Graduate students pay a range of fees, with the most common including:

• Health Services (access to health facilities on campus)
• Health Insurance (personal health insurance)
• Student Activity (subsidizes athletics and other clubs)
• Student Recreation (access to recreational facilities on campus)

Some programs estimate students should be prepared to pay between $3,000 and $4,500 per academic year in student fees and health insurance costs.

Students with a master’s degree or coursework in a similar graduate program may be able to transfer credits into their doctoral program. That can lower the total number of credits required to graduate, which can lower the total cost of the degree. However, some institutions do limit the amount of tuition credits that can be applied for graduate work done in a related field at other institutions.

Whether or not the student has an assistantship does not affect the cost of textbooks and other academic materials. Books are a revolving charge, one a student should plan upon each semester or quarter.

Housing, utilities and food are considered indirect expenses students incur during their education. PhD students should plan on anywhere from $12,000 to $25,000 and up for living expenses each year. Again, this figure is highly variable based on the location of the university and the cost-of-living in that area.

Owning a car means additional budgeting for insurance, car payments and gas. Additionally, students may need to travel for conferences and research. Without funding from a graduate student association or grant program, the student will have to cover these costs individually.

PhD students with children may have to account for childcare costs. Purchasing a new computer and other supplies may also be required. This type of budgeting will vary from individual to individual, program to program.

Most PhD programs allow students to progress at their own pace, requiring them to complete and defend their dissertation within a certain time period (e.g. six years). However, the time it takes to complete a dissertation depends on the student, area of study, research, etc. This can impact cost of attending a doctoral program.

Example Cost of Attendance

A student’s budget should include the total cost of attendance—that is both direct (tuition and fees) and indirect costs (e.g. housing). This budget is the starting point for determining the student’s financial need, how much financial aid they require, and if they can afford to attend a doctoral program. Below is a sample five-year total cost of attendance chart based on an in-state tuition program, with a budget that assumes fixed costs for fees and indirect costs, such as housing. It also does not take into account assistantships and tuition waivers for assistants.

Based on a figure that’s slightly below the 2012-2013 average graduate tuition cost, the total cost of attendance can still produce sticker shock. An average student in a program that charges $12,000 per year in tuition could have to pay between $30,000 and $45,000 year in total costs.

PhD FINANCIAL AID OPTIONS

Prospective PhD candidates have an abundance of financial aid options to help fund their graduate studies. Typically, students are fully funded by a combination of sources, including scholarships, fellowships, research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or student loans.

It is important for students to note that most sources of aid are awarded by individual academic programs, so they should follow-up with their department for up-to-date information.

Below is a high-level overview of the common types of graduate financial aid.

Prospective PhD candidates can turn to a variety of funding sources, including scholarships, grants, and fellowships to support their education financially. As discussed, most students use a combination of one or more of these funding sources to finance their degree program and research.

PhD students can apply for a variety of scholarships that award students with funds that can be used to help cover the cost of tuition, books and other fees.

Grants are similar to scholarships and are academic-based awards that can be used to augment other sources of financial aid.

Fellowships are a different type of funding that may encompass a scholarship or grant and can be used to fund research, study and teaching in the US and internationally. Many fellowships provide full tuition and a yearly stipend to students.

A PhD should never be an end in itself but rather a means to an end. The path to a PhD is an arduous one and should never be undertaken without serious thought to what it will bring the student. That said, there is money available for graduate study in most fields, and a student in the humanities should be very careful to apply to appropriate programs which fund their grad students.

• Engineering
• Physical Sciences

The SMART program is designed to support graduate students studying in STEM disciplines and offers a range of other benefits, including supplies and health insurance allowances and employment placement services with the DoD after graduation.

The National Defense Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowship is a three-year graduate fellowship that is designed to support doctoral students across fifteen engineering disciplines.

This three-year fellowship program supports the research efforts of doctoral students in STEM-related fields of study and allows them to pursue their work at any accredited graduate program in the country.

Renewable award for graduate students enrolled in a full-time APA-accredited doctoral program of study in psychology. Underrepresented, minority students are encouraged to apply.

This fellowship is open to female scholars and is designed to help offset the doctoral student’s living expenses during her final year of working on a dissertation.

This fellowship is a single-year of funding that is designed to support the doctoral research of a student working in child psychology.

The Javits Fellowship is provided on a needs- and competitive-basis to graduate students pursing graduate degrees in the humanities, social sciences, and the arts.

Two fellowships are awarded to support doctoral students who plan to study at the American School of Classical Studies in Athens, Greece for a year.

The Richard M. Weaver Scholarship is open to graduate student members of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute and supports the academic work of scholars pursuing teaching careers at the college level.

The AICPA fellowship is designed for minority students pursuing or planning to pursue a doctorate in accounting.

Five scholarships are available to provide financial assistance to graduate students pursuing studies in accounting and plan on earning CPA licensure.

This fellowship provides financial support to female scholars conducting research and economic analysis into natural resource, food, or agricultural issues.

This renewable, four-year fellowship is designed to support a scholar’s work in the field of stewardship science: nuclear science, high density physics, and materials under extreme conditions and hydrodynamics.

This multi-year fellowship supports doctoral research in several fields, ranging from chemistry to geology, materials science to physics and connects fellows with NPSC employer partners.

The NWRI fellowship program is open to full-time doctoral students conducting water-based research in areas such as water quality, water treatment and technologies, water supplies and water resources.

Really think about your reasons for getting a PhD. Critically exam the support systems you have in place to get you through the journey: 50 percent of doctoral students suffer from depression. Utilize services like the counseling center on your college/university campuses to help you respond to the stressors that may occur with the transition.

ASSISTANTSHIPS, FELLOWSHIPS AND LOANS

Graduate assistantships.

Graduate assistantships are a form of academic appointment and are provided by individual departments. Competitive in nature, they are typically awarded on the basis of the student’s academic accomplishments and potential in the graduate program of study. Most programs provide appointments for one year at time and students receive a tuition credit or waiver and monthly stipend. There are three types of assistantships: Teaching Assistantships, Assistant Lecturers, and Research Assistants.

Teaching assistants perform a range of support duties for faculty members at a university, including grading papers and teaching classes.

Lecturers may serve as instructors in the academic department where they are studying.

Research assistants conduct and assist faculty members with research projects in the student’s area of interest.

Fellowships

Fellowships are short-term funding opportunities (typically 9- to 12 months) provided to students in the form of tuition credits and/or stipends. They support a student’s graduate study in their field of choice, may assist them in their research, or gain professional training in an area of interest. Fellowships are competitive and are available in two types: University-based and External.

Individual schools, colleges, and departments at a university (e.g. College of Science, Department of English) may have endowed fellowships. Students are either nominated for an award by their department or may be open to an application process.

External fellowships are funded by foundations, government agencies and other groups and provide opportunities to study both in the US and abroad. For example, the Department of Defense offers the National Defense Science & Engineering Graduate Fellowship to engineering students studying in one of sixteen engineering specialties.

Corporations

Many companies and businesses have created scholarship, fellowship, and tuition reimbursement programs for their employees. Depending on the company, there may be a possibility it supports the graduate school efforts of its employees. Speak to the Human Resources department to learn more about the potential funding avenues available.

Graduate students may borrow funds from the federal government under two loan programs: William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program and the Federal Perkins Loan Program.

Private financial institutions, including banks and credit unions, offer unsecured educational loans to graduate students. These loans must be repaid with interest. The interest rates, loan amount, and repayment terms are based on the credit worthiness of the borrower.

Federal work study provides students with demonstrated financial need part-time job opportunities that allow them to earn income while they are in graduate school. The program focuses on placing students in community service situations related to the student’s academic course of study. A majority of jobs are on-campus, but some schools may have some off-campus jobs with nonprofit agencies and other groups. It is important to note that some universities may not allow students to use their federal work study for tuition, but other related expenses (e.g. books, fees).

EXPERT SPOTLIGHT: Lawrence Burns, PhD

What should a future phd student consider when selecting a program of   study .

Speaking in the humanities, a student is best advised, I think, to select the faculty member with whom he or she wishes to study rather than simply a program. This faculty member becomes the student’s mentor, a relationship that lasts well beyond graduate school years. Because the mentor becomes the student’s primary reference, his or her standing in the field can and does have an impact on pre- and post-doctoral grants a student might win as well as on the student’s success on the academic job market.

It is a delicate balance though, because one must also look at programs that have standing in a particular field and at institutions that can afford to fund their PhD students throughout their graduate years.

Much is made about the saturation of PhD graduates and not enough   positions — both in academic and the private sector. Should that dissuade   a student from pursuing a PhD?

Yes, of course. Again, a PhD is not something that comes easily, and it should not be pursued without a reason for it. On the other hand, for students who are committed to their fields, and for whom that field is a career choice, the PhD is still the only way into the university job market. 

There is a catch-22 in the world of post-graduate education. Research universities need to turn out research, and researchers often depend on their grad students to assist them–in all fields–and departments on their PhD candidates to teach many undergraduate courses. PhD students are thus recruited regardless of the job market for the PhD holders.

The challenges in funding the PhD for me were less about how am I going to pay for this degree, but making the adjustment from being a full-time salaried employee to now, taking a significant pay cut to serve as a graduate assistant.

EARNING OUTLOOK FOR PHD STUDENTS

Potential career earnings should be a significant part of the discussion when considering whether or not to pursue a doctoral degree. Completing an advanced program of study could increase an individual’s earning potential with their current or future employers.

Research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics reveals a direct correlation between educational attainment and career success—both in employment opportunities and annual salaries. Doctoral degree holders are some of the highest paid professionals in the country. The table below outlines the difference in earnings by degree level in 2014.

source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Earnings and Unemployment by Educational Attainment

• Industry or Business $97,700
• Government $82,000
• Nonprofit Organizations $72,500
• Other $70,000
• Academia $60,000

Source: National Science Foundation, Survey of Earned Doctorates

In turn, prospective students should consider how their sacrifice of time and money will pay off when they embark in their careers. Some professional fields have a higher return on investment than others. A majority of PhD candidates endeavor to become tenured-track faculty members, but they should realize that academia is one of the lowest paying sectors for individuals with a doctoral degree.

A review of National Science Foundation survey information shows that the best paying professional areas for PhD graduates include Industry and Business—with an average salary of $97,700. At the bottom of the list? Academia.

MOST LUCRATIVE PHD CAREERS

So, which PhD degrees pay the best?

According to the NSF, business, economics, and engineering are consistently among the best earning academic fields regardless of industry. The following tables outline the highest paying academic fields by professional area of work after graduation.

• Business Management and Administration $110,000
• Economics $82,000
• Engineering $79,000
• Health Sciences $70,000
• Education $60,000
• Business Management and Administration $135,000
• Economics $115,000
• Mathematics and Computer Information Sciences $115,000
• Geosciences $110,000
• Engineering $98,000
• Economics $112,500
• Business Management and Administration $96,590
• Engineering $96,500
• Mathematics and Computer Information Sciences $95,300
• Health Sciences $94,000
• Business Management and Administration $105,000
• Economics $100,000
• Mathematics and Computer Information Sciences $100,000
• Health Sciences $98,000

At the occupational level, 2012 employment research from the Bureau of Labor Statistics revealed the best paying doctoral career was Physicist ($109,600), followed by Astronomers ($105,410), and Engineering Professors ($94,130).

Overall, the top 10 most lucrative PhD careers include the following:

• 1 Physicists $109,600
• 2 Astronomers $105,410
• 3 Engineering Professors $94,130
• 4 Economics Professors $90,870
• 5 Health Specialties Professors: $90,210
• 6 Agricultural Sciences Professors $86,260
• 7 Biochemists and Biophysicists $84,940
• 8 Forestry and Conservation Science Professors $84,090
• 9 Physics Professors $80,720
• 10 Medical Scientists $79,930

EXPERT SPOTLIGHT: Darren Pierre, PhD

How has earning a phd impacted you personally and professionally.

Personally, the PhD was an incredibly introspective process. I believe for many, they go into the PhD thinking one thing, and come out transformed by the experience. I learned and grew personally in how I harness my self-worth, I grew professionally in my ability to humble myself and authentically listen to the feedback given about my work.

Professionally, I move with a greater level of confidence, I have more insight into my own potential in ways I could have never imagined, and all of that propelled me to write my book, The Invitation to Love.

Through your own experience, what are the biggest mistakes   prospective PhD students make when choosing and/or funding their PhD?

The biggest mistake that perspective students make is doing the degree for the wrong reason. If you are doing the degree for any other reason that self-motivated factors, you will falter. Doing the PhD to cover areas of insecurity, or low self-worth; doing the PhD for the prestige or title sake, those reasons will have you floundering and faltering when the psychological stressors being to weigh heavy.

Did you create a roadmap--financially or academically--to stay on track to   completing your PhD?

Absolutely, you have to have a plan and work that plan. Each Sunday, I would develop the week's action plan, I would carve out everything from when I was doing assignments/research to when I would work out, everything was on a schedule so that even when the fog of the process set in, I had headlights (my schedule) that allowed me to drive consistently when the road ahead was hard to see.

PHD: BY THE NUMBERS

Doctoral education in the U.S. is a varied and broad system, one that has been growing in popularity. In the 2013-2014 academic year, more than 178,000 doctoral degrees were conferred to students nationally, according to data from the National Center for Education Statistics.

• Doctoral Education Continues to Grow
• Engineering and Physical Sciences Dominate
• STEM Fields are the Most Popular
• Only Half of Students Earn a PhD in the Same Academic Field as their Master’s Degree
• Doctoral Degrees are an Investment in Time
• Primary Source of Funding Varies by Program

In its survey of earned doctorates, the National Science Foundation learned the number of doctoral recipients increased by nearly 30 percent between 2003 and 2013.

The most popular academic areas of study were Engineering and the Physical Sciences.

• Engineering 69.80%
• Physical Sciences 59.30%
• Health Sciences 53.60%
• Life Sciences 44.60%
• Other 38.90%
• Social Sciences 19.90%
• Humanities 9.10%
• Education -25.70%

Within the engineering and physical sciences disciplines, multiple sub-fields have been experiencing explosive interest and enrollments, with some programs (e.g. physics, materials science engineering) growing by more than 70 percent between 2003 and 2013.

• Other engineering 127.5%
• Materials science engineering 86.5%
• Aerospace, aeronautical, and astronautical engineering 74.5%
• Mechanical engineering 70.5%
• Electrical, electronics, and communication engineering 53.6%
• Chemical engineering 46.0%
• Computer and information sciences 119.1%
• Mathematics 83.0%
• Physics and astronomy 76.7%
• Geosciences 28.8%
• Chemistry 22.0%

According to NSF, the science, technology, engineering and mathematics fields are the most popular doctoral areas of study.

• Life Sciences 23.3%
• Physical Sciences 17.6%
• Engineering 17.0%
• Social Sciences 15.9%
• Humanities 10.7%
• Education 9.4%

Interestingly, slightly more than 56 percent of graduate students continue into a doctoral program in the same field as their master’s degree. Rates are highest in the humanities, engineering, and social sciences fields.

• Humanities 67.6%
• Engineering 65.7%
• Social Sciences 65.6%
• Education 61.5%
• All Fields 56.1%
• Physical Sciences 53.4%
• Life Sciences 35.5%

It requires approximately 7.5 years of study for the average graduate student to complete a doctoral degree after enrolling in graduate school. Education takes the longest — more than 11 years, while the physical sciences and engineering fields only require 6.5 to 6.6 years of study to complete.

• Education 11.7
• Humanities 9.2
• Social Sciences 7.7
• All Fields 7.5
• Life Sciences 6.9
• Engineering 6.6
• Physical Sciences 6.5

According to the NSF, the most common source of funding for doctoral students are teaching and research assistantships. The table below details the primary source of funding for students by academic area of study.

• Life Sciences Fellowships/ Grants
• Physical Sciences Research Assistantships
• Social Sciences Teaching Assistantships
• Engineering Research Assistantships
• Education Own Resources
• Humanities Teaching Assistantships
• All Fields Research Assistantships

The following table includes a breakout of the primary funding source by major field of study, according the National Science Foundation.

Source: http://www.nsf.gov/statistics/sed/2013/data-tables.cfm

ADDITIONAL FINANCIAL AID RESOURCES

The ultimate financial goal of any PhD student should be to complete their program successfully and move into a professional career with as little debt as possible. The resources below are available to help students locate scholarships and other funding sources that can help make that goal a reality.

Unigo offers a selection of financial assistance resources for graduate students, including a scholarship directory, a scholarship match tool, educational information on student loans and funding options, and more.

Scholarships.com is a website that provides a selection of financial aid information, including a searchable scholarship directory, insights into funding trends, financial aid calculators, and information about grants and fellowships.

Peterson’s is an educational resource site that includes a searchable scholarship database, articles and advice columns, and a catalog of graduate school profiles.

FinAid.org is an educational resource site that focuses on financial aid and offers information about student loans, federal financial aid, financing a doctoral education, and includes a scholarship search option.

An office of the U.S. Department of Education, Federal Student Aid is the country’s largest provider of financial aid. Graduate students can learn about and pally for loans, grants, and work-study funds to pay for their doctoral education.

FastWeb is a financial aid-focused website that offers a searchable scholarship directory that allows students to focus their search to their major area of study, work experience, and personal and professional activities.

Chegg is an online educational portal that not only offers used textbooks, but a scholarship database as well.

30 Fully Funded Ph.D. Programs

These fully funded Ph.D. programs are in fields like business, computer science, education and nursing.

(Getty Images) |

Many Ph.D. programs are fully funded.

Students interested in graduate research in various fields, from public health and English to computer science and engineering, have numerous options for Ph.D. programs that offer full funding. These programs typically provide waived tuition and fees and an annual stipend. Some also offer health insurance and other benefits. Gaining admittance into these small cohorts can be highly competitive, and the programs can be time-consuming . Here are 30 fully funded Ph.D. programs at U.S. colleges and universities. Keep in mind this is not a comprehensive list – there are others out there.

• Ph.D. in anthropology at the University of Chicago

Anthropology Ph.D. students at the University of Chicago can receive funding for up to eight years of study, assuming they are in good standing at the university. During that time, they will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus health insurance and a living stipend – which equated to $33,000 for the 2022-2023 school year – and can apply for external fellowships.

Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University (MA)

Harvard University's T.H. Chan School of Public Health in Boston offers a Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health that aims to provide students with expertise in disease prevention and treatment. This program includes tuition, a stipend and health insurance for five years as long as the student maintains satisfactory academic progress. International students receive the same benefits. Current research in the school's laboratories involves diseases like AIDS, cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, malaria and tuberculosis.

(Dominick Reuter) |

• Ph.D. in business at Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Students enrolled in the Sloan School of Management at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology can study a range of fields like organization studies, accounting and information technology. Those pursuing a Ph.D. will receive a full-tuition scholarship plus a monthly stipend of $4,267, capped at $51,204. They will also receive medical insurance, new laptops at the beginning of their first and fourth years of study and $4,500 over five years for conference travel expenses.

(Tommy Lavergne | Rice University)

Ph.D. in business at Rice University (TX)

At the Rice University Jones Graduate School of Business in Texas, students enjoy full financial assistance upon admission to the Ph.D. program. Aiming to prepare students to teach in fields like accounting, finance, organizational behavior and strategic management, the program provides students with a research or teaching assistantship. Students receive a tuition waiver and a $40,000 annual stipend contingent on making satisfactory academic progress and maintaining full-time student status.

Office of Strategic Communication | University of Iowa

• Ph.D. in business at the University of Iowa

The University of Iowa's Tippie College of Business offers Ph.D. degrees in fields such as accounting, economics, business analytics and marketing. The college says it provides full funding to "virtually all admitted students." This includes tuition and fees, a minimum nine-month stipend of about $20,000 with annual adjustments and comprehensive health insurance covered at 90%. Some departments offer funding for research presentations at major conferences, summer fellowships and paid time off for independent research.

Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University (NY)

According to Cornell University 's website, all students admitted to the chemical engineering Ph.D. program at the New York school receive a full tuition waiver, health insurance and a stipend. This funding can come from a teaching assistantship, research assistantship or fellowship, and full stipends are granted for nine months with the likelihood of additional aid in the summer.

Chris Taggart | Columbia University

Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University (NY)

Students enrolled in Columbia University 's Ph.D. program in clinical psychology at the Teachers College in New York receive fully funded tuition and a $25,000 stipend annually for three years. The stipend also carries into a student's fourth year. These doctoral fellows "may be expected to serve" as graduate teaching or research assistants. Students typically complete the mentor-matched program, which includes a full-year internship, in five to seven years.

Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University (RI)

Brown University 's Ph.D. students in computer science have access to "full financial support while completing the degree," plus the option to take classes at nearby schools without incurring additional costs, according to the school's website. In fact, doctoral students in any program at the Rhode Island university are guaranteed five years of financial support, which includes tuition remission, a stipend, health services fees and a subsidy for health insurance.

Georgetown University |

Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University (DC)

Georgetown University 's Ph.D. program in computer science provides scholarships and assistantships that cover full tuition at the Washington, D.C., school and include a stipend and health insurance for the first five years. Once enrolled in the program, students must complete the Apprenticeship in Teaching Program and ultimately write and defend a full research dissertation in a seminar open to the public.

Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University in St. Louis

Ph.D. students in the computer science or computer engineering program at Washington University in St. Louis receive full tuition support and health insurance. According to the university's website: "As a doctoral candidate, you will also receive a generous stipend to cover living expenses and a new, high-end Apple laptop computer. This support is guaranteed as you continue to make satisfactory progress towards your degree." Doctoral students may also qualify for one of three fellowships.

Jeff Miller | UW-Madison

• Ph.D. in counseling psychology at the University of Wisconsin—Madison

Incoming Ph.D. students at the School of Education at the University of Wisconsin—Madison are guaranteed full funding for the duration of the time that they are expected on campus, according to the university's department of counseling psychology website. Doctoral students also receive a benefits package that includes health insurance. Funding may come from financial aid, fellowships, assistantships and/or traineeships.

Emory University |

Ph.D. in economics at Emory University (GA)

Students enrolled in the economics Ph.D. program at Emory University typically receive full funding, according to the Georgia university's website. The stipend provided to students is $36,376 per year for five years, starting in fall 2023, and the full tuition scholarship is worth $70,200 per year. Funding for admitted students also includes a $4,370 annual subsidy that covers 100% of a student's cost of health insurance. First-year students have no stipend-related work requirements.

• Ph.D. in education at New York University

New York University's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development offers more than 30 degree programs. Many can be pursued on campus or online. Ph.D. degrees are offered in areas like developmental psychology, educational leadership and childhood education. Full-time NYU Steinhardt Ph.D. students are eligible for a funding package that includes an annual stipend – $32,000 for the 2022-2023 academic year – tuition coverage for required coursework and student health insurance for five years.

L.A. Cicero, Stanford News Service |

Ph.D. in education at Stanford University (CA)

Stanford University's Graduate School of Education allows students numerous fellowship and assistantship opportunities at the California school, along with a "five-year funding guarantee that provides tuition aid, fellowship stipend, and assistantship salary, and covers the standard cost of attendance," the program website reads. At the Graduate School of Education, doctoral students can choose from a range of academic areas like curriculum studies and teacher education, and developmental and psychological sciences.

• Ph.D. in education at the University of Pennsylvania

The University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education provides full funding to Ph.D. students as part of a fellowship and research apprenticeship package. This funding includes a living stipend, health insurance and coverage of tuition and fees for up to four years if the student maintains full-time enrollment. Some students may also qualify for additional summer funding.

• Ph.D. in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor

Doctoral students in engineering at the University of Michigan—Ann Arbor can choose from numerous areas of specialization under umbrella categories like aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, macromolecular science and engineering, and robotics. All engineering doctoral students are guaranteed full funding, a monthly living stipend and health insurance. The exact amount can vary, according to the program's website, and funding comes from a range of sources, including graduate student instructor positions and fellowships.

Boston University Photography |

• Ph.D. in English at Boston University

Annually, doctoral students studying English at Boston University receive a stipend plus full tuition, fees and basic health insurance. This funding is guaranteed for at least five years, with two of those years typically free from teaching requirements. Funding can sometimes be extended up to seven years, according to the university's website, but it's not guaranteed. Students may also apply for various prizes, fellowships and short-term research and travel grants.

(Stephanie Diani) |

• Ph.D. in English at the University of California—Los Angeles

Applicants to the Ph.D. in English program at the University of California—Los Angeles are automatically considered for various funding options. A six-year funding package includes "a minimum of two years of full fellowship, four years of summer stipend support and up to four years of teaching assistantships," according to the school website. Beyond tuition, fees and health insurance are also covered.

Jeff Watts |

Ph.D. in international relations at American University (DC)

American University offers doctoral students in its international relations program who do not have external funding a renewable four-year Dean's Fellowship that is contingent on making satisfactory academic progress. The fellowship includes the cost of tuition, fees and a stipend that must be earned via a part-time role as a teaching or research assistant. Students also must "demonstrate competency in a modern foreign language" before graduating.

Jonathan Cohen | Binghamton University

• Ph.D. in management at Binghamton University—SUNY

All students admitted to the interdisciplinary management Ph.D. program at the Binghamton University—SUNY School of Management in New York receive a combination of a full-tuition scholarship and a teaching or research assistantship for each academic year, up to four years. This STEM-designated business doctoral degree prepares students for careers in academia and work in the public and private sectors, and has a student-faculty ratio of 1-to-1, according to the university's website.

Duke University Communications |

Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University (NC)

Doctoral students at Duke University in North Carolina studying materials science and engineering generally receive full tuition, a stipend and fee support for the first five years. Students also receive up to six years of health insurance if they are on the university's student medical insurance plan. The doctoral program aims to help students publish with a faculty adviser and develop research skills, with the opportunity to present research at professional conferences.

Homewood Photography | JHU

Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University (MD)

The School of Nursing at Johns Hopkins University in Maryland provides most doctoral students with three fully funded years of study. Available financial aid includes graduate assistantships, targeted fellowships and nursing-specific funding. The university aims to "advance the theoretical foundation of nursing practice and healthcare delivery" with the degree, its website reads. "By graduation, most Hopkins nurse scholars have been awarded grants that continue their research and set them well on their way to a successful career."

• Ph.D. in nursing at the University of Virginia

All students admitted to the University of Virginia 's Ph.D. in Nursing program are eligible for four years of scholarship funding to cover tuition, insurance and fees, as well as annual stipends. To receive certain aid, students must work 10 hours per week as a graduate teaching assistant. With a heavy research focus, students can expect courses in qualitative, quantitative and historical research, and will have to submit a research proposal for peer review.

Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University (CT)

At Yale University in Connecticut, the School of Nursing offers full funding to its Ph.D. students. They receive a monthly stipend for four years in addition to paid tuition and health care. The program allows students to gain in-depth knowledge in a particular area of study. Every incoming Ph.D. student gets paired with a faculty adviser "whose area of expertise and active research most closely matches with the student’s scholarly interest," according to the school's website.

University of Minnesota |

• Ph.D. in psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities

Students admitted to the Ph.D. program to study psychology at the University of Minnesota—Twin Cities are guaranteed full funding for five years as long as they maintain satisfactory performance and degree progress. This funding includes full-time tuition, a nine-month stipend and subsidized health insurance. Funding comes from some combination of teaching assistantships, traineeships, research assistantships and fellowships. Students in the program can specialize in areas like cognitive and brain sciences, industrial-organizational psychology and social psychology.

Matt Cashore | University of Notre Dame

Ph.D. within the Romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame (IN)

University of Notre Dame doctoral students who focus on French and Francophone studies, Iberian and Latin American studies or Italian studies are guaranteed five years of funding. Funding includes a full scholarship, including tuition and fees, plus a stipend and health insurance. Anyone who completes the Ph.D. degree requirements at the Indiana university within five years will automatically receive a one-year postdoctoral fellowship via the university's 5+1 Program. Fellows will have a teaching load limited to one course per semester.

Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College (PA)

Students admitted to Bryn Mawr College 's Ph.D. program in social work receive full tuition waivers and "substantial stipends" toward living expenses. The Pennsylvania college's website says: "Consistent with our model, all Ph.D. students are funded equally, and do not compete for basic financial support during coursework." The program's cohorts typically include only three or four students each year. According to the college, it awarded the first Ph.D. degree in social work in the U.S. in 1920.

Vanderbilt University |

Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University (TN)

Funding is guaranteed for all admitted doctoral students enrolled in the special education Ph.D. program at the Peabody College of Education and Human Development at Vanderbilt University in Tennessee. This includes full tuition, a "competitive" monthly stipend and health insurance for up to four years. Students may also be nominated for additional honor scholarships and fellowships. Areas of focus within the Ph.D. program include high-incidence disabilities and early childhood education.

Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University (IL)

This interdisciplinary Ph.D. program at Northwestern University in Illinois combines coursework in humanities, social science and the visual arts. The program's students receive a five-year full-tuition scholarship plus an annual living stipend. Ph.D students enrolling at this program in fall 2022 will receive a living stipend of at least $36,960 during the 2023-2024 school year. Stipend amounts may change from year to year. Students can apply for subsidies to facilitate conference travel and summer language study.

(Photo by Sarah L. Voisin | The Washington Post via Getty Images)

• Ph.D. in women, gender and sexuality studies at University of Maryland

At the University of Maryland 's Harriet Tubman Department of Women, Gender and Sexuality Studies, Ph.D. students without a master's degree usually have five years of guaranteed funding. Those with a master's degree usually are funded four years, with awards stemming from a mix of departmental fellowships and graduate teaching assistantships. Since the program's establishment in 1999, the department has granted 36 Ph.Ds, according to UMD's website.

Learn more about paying for graduate school.

Finding a fully funded program isn't the only option to offset the costs of graduate school. See these seven strategies to pay for graduate school to learn more. Check out the latest Best Graduate Schools rankings to see the country's top business, medicine and law programs – and more. For additional grad school tips, follow U.S. News Education on Facebook , Twitter and LinkedIn .

Ph.D. programs that are fully funded

• Ph.D. in biological sciences in public health at Harvard University
• Ph.D. in business at Rice University
• Ph.D. in chemical engineering at Cornell University
• Ph.D. in clinical psychology at Columbia University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Brown University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Georgetown University
• Ph.D. in computer science at Washington University—St. Louis
• Ph.D. in economics at Emory University
• Ph.D. in education at Stanford University
• Ph.D. in international relations at American University
• Ph.D. in materials science and engineering at Duke University
• Ph.D. in nursing at Johns Hopkins University
• Ph.D. in nursing at Yale University
• Ph.D. within the romance languages and literatures department at the University of Notre Dame
• Ph.D. in social work at Bryn Mawr College
• Ph.D. in special education at Vanderbilt University
• Ph.D. in theatre and drama at Northwestern University

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• PhD Degree Funding

Harvard guarantees full financial support to PhD students—including tuition, health fees, and basic living expenses—for a minimum of five years.

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Harvard's financial support package is typically for the first four years of study and the completion year, using a tiered  tuition structure that reduces tuition over time as students progress through their degree programs. This multiyear funding package includes a combination of tuition grants, stipends, traineeships, teaching fellowships, research assistantships, and other academic appointments. In addition, Harvard Griffin GSAS students are particularly successful in securing grants,  fellowships , and other sources of external funding as part of their professional development.

The standard funding package includes:

• grant toward tuition and fees—paid in full for years 1 through 4, plus the dissertation completion year, with a partially subsidized dental plan option available
• living expense stipend during years 1 and 2
• a combination of stipend, teaching fellowships, and/or research assistantships during years 3 and 4
• if noted in your Notice of Financial Support, summer research funding following the first four academic years from Harvard Griffin GSAS or faculty grants
• stipend and/or research support during the completion year.

In some programs, the timing and structure of living expense support may vary from this pattern. For example, students in the sciences typically receive full funding until they complete their degrees.

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PhD Student Funding Overview

At Yale, you can earn your doctorate at our expense. 

Our funding packages for Yale PhD students are among the most generous in the world. Every PhD student receives a fellowship for the full cost of tuition, a stipend for living expenses, and paid health coverage, though the details of your funding package will differ depending on your academic program. On average, doctoral students receive more than $500,000 in tuition fellowships, stipends, and health premium benefits over the course of their enrollment. Full PhD funding normally extends for a minimum of five years, unless your doctoral program is of shorter duration, e.g., Investigative Medicine, Law, Nursing, and Public Health. 

The main categories of funding available to PhD students are detailed below. Our Programs & Policies handbook contains additional information about funding and fellowship opportunities available at the Graduate School, along with applicable policies. 

If you have questions about your funding, you can ask your program registrar or DGS, Graduate Financial Aid, or Associate Dean Robert Harper-Mangels.

Types of Funding for PhD Students

University Fellowships (UFs) are provided through the Graduate School and do not require teaching in Yale's Teaching Fellow Program. UFs are often used during the initial year(s) of your doctoral program to cover your stipend and tuition, when you are engaged in coursework and identifying an adviser.

For official policies governing University Fellowships, including information on deferring a UF, please see our Programs & Policies Bulletin .

In subsequent years and in most programs, your stipend will be funded by a teaching fellowship or a research assistantship.

Teaching Fellowships (TFs) are contingent on teaching Yale's Teaching Fellow Program (TFP). While you are on a TF, a portion of your stipend is compensation for teaching. The rest of your stipend will come from other sources, depending on your department or program. See the Teaching Fellow Funding page for more information.

The teaching portion of your stipend is subject to federal tax withholding, so you will notice a difference in your paycheck in teaching versus non-teaching semesters.

In lieu of teaching in the Teaching Fellow Program, PhD students in the humanities and social sciences may choose to undertake one of the available Professional Development Opportunities . These positions allow you to gain professional experience at a library, museum, or other office on campus relevant to your studies. 

If you are in the natural sciences, your funding will likely come from training grants and faculty research grants at some point during your enrollment. In most programs, you may only join a research group that has active grant funding. Please consult with your DGS, if you have questions about this aspect of your funding package.

We strongly encourage you to compete for external fellowships. Winning an external award in a national competition, whether sponsored by a public or private agency, is a significant honor. External fellowships may be subject to our Combined Award policy. Please be sure to review our External Fellowships & Awards page to understand how external awards interact with university funding.

An external fellowship may also offer you added flexibility in your program. 

• If you are a student in the natural sciences, an external fellowship may allow you to pursue a project or idea that is otherwise not eligible for financial support through your adviser’s research funding. 
• If you are a student in the humanities or social sciences, an external fellowship might allow you to defer a University Fellowship (UF) to a subsequent term or year. 

You can search for external fellowships through the Yale Student Grants Database , other university search engines (e.g., UCLA ), and commercial sites .

You must notify the Graduate School of any external awards you receive. 

• Send a copy of your award letter to the Financial Aid Office at [email protected] .
• If your award is subject to the Combined Award policy, then you will receive a combined award letter via email when your award has been processed, outlining your updated funding package. 

For any questions and concerns regarding your combined award letter, please contact the Graduate School Financial Aid Office via email at [email protected]. Associate Dean Robert Harper-Mangels can also advise regarding our Combined Award policy.

Additional GSAS Financial Support

Phd stipends.

An overview of information relevant to the PhD stipend.

Health Award

The Graduate School provides Yale Health Basic Coverage at no cost to all students (Master's and PhD) who are enrolled at least half-time in degree-seeking programs. In addition, all PhD students registered at least half-time receive a Health Fellowship Award that covers the cost of Yale Health Hospitalization/Specialty Care Coverage.

Featured Resource

Family Support Subsidy for Parenting PhD Students

PhD students who are registered full-time in any year of study are eligible for the family support subsidy to assist with child-related expenses.

Dean's Emergency Fund

The Dean’s Emergency Fund enables terminal master’s and PhD students in the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences to continue making academic progress despite unanticipated, extreme financial hardships that cannot be resolved through fellowships, loans, or personal resources. The maximum award for eligible requests is $2,000.

Conference Travel Fellowship (CTF)

https://gsa.yale.edu/ctf

By partnering with the MacMillan Center and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, graduate students with representatives in the Graduate Student Assembly are eligible for annual conference travel funding of up to $800.

PhD Student Travel Health Fellowship

If you are a PhD student traveling for dissertation research, the Graduate School provides a Travel Health Fellowship to cover the cost of required immunizations and prescription drugs at Yale Health.

Graduate Financial Aid Office

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Top Fully Funded PhD Programs

Karla Ibarra is a content writer at Scholarships 360. She has worked as an English teacher and writing tutor. As a writing tutor, she has experience editing scholarships and college application essays. Karla graduated from Texas A&M University with a degree in Communication and a minor in English.

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Maria Geiger is Director of Content at Scholarships360. She is a former online educational technology instructor and adjunct writing instructor. In addition to education reform, Maria’s interests include viewpoint diversity, blended/flipped learning, digital communication, and integrating media/web tools into the curriculum to better facilitate student engagement. Maria earned both a B.A. and an M.A. in English Literature from Monmouth University, an M. Ed. in Education from Monmouth University, and a Virtual Online Teaching Certificate (VOLT) from the University of Pennsylvania.

Fully funded PhD programs offer students seeking their doctor of philosophy degrees the ultimate experience. With the average cost of a PhD at nearly $100,000 , students are able to focus on their studies without worrying about paying for their degrees or living expenses. Keep reading to learn about some of the top fully funded PhD programs in a variety of majors.

What is a “Doctorate of Philosophy” degree?

A “doctorate of philosophy” degree, better known as a PhD, is among the highest level degrees in the United States. A PhD is awarded after the successful completion of an extensive research and writing project known as a dissertation. Students can earn a PhD in a variety of fields, with most majoring in the humanities or social sciences. 

Further reading: What is a PhD?

How we chose the fully funded PhD programs on our list

We looked for programs that have stellar reputations in their respective majors. It makes sense that the most reputable programs offer the resources that are most important to  PhD students. Working with distinguished professors in their field and having access to outstanding libraries, PhD students will be immersed in the ideal learning environment. 

Opportunities to learn under and network with the most well regarded academics is invaluable for students’ future careers. Finally, we looked for fully funded programs that include not only full tuition coverage, but also living stipends and health insurance. A few of the programs might require students to “give back” in the way of graduate assistantships , so keep that in mind as you read the fine print on each website. 

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The top fully funded phd programs.

The following list is in alphabetical order with no preference for one particular program. We included a variety of majors in different regions, but remember, this is just the start of an exhaustive listing of fully funded PhD programs across the USA and the world!

Boston College’s PhD in English

The PhD in English Program at Boston College prepares students for careers in academia or other English related fields. With a focus on critical thinking, writing, and research, the program explores  literature through abstract, cultural, and historical contexts. Students are able to focus on various literature periods, creative writing, and literary theory.. Working closely with renowned faculty, the program offers abundant resources and support services including fellowships and publishing opportunities. 

• Location: Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts
• Focus of study : Creative writing, critical theory, and literary and cultural studies
• What is included : Full tuition remission, health insurance, and a living stipend

Brown University PhD in Computer Science

Brown University offers a PhD program in Computer Science for students interested in a strong foundation in computer science theory and applications and opportunities to conduct research in collaboration with faculty and peers. Brown’s computer science department has research strengths in artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, computer graphics, and theory. The program is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to conduct independent research in computer science and to prepare them for academic or industrial careers.

• Location: Providence, Rhode Island
• Focus of study : Algorithms, artificial intelligence, computer systems, databases, and more
• What is included : Full tuition, health insurance, and living stipend

Cornell University PhD in Chemical Engineering 

Cornell University offers a PhD program in Chemical Engineering to provide students with a broad foundation in chemical engineering principles and their application to solving real-world problems. The program aims to train students in core courses in chemical engineering, including transport phenomena, thermodynamics, and reaction engineering, while providing them with opportunities to conduct original research. Students in the program have access to state-of-the-art research facilities, funding opportunities, and a supportive community of faculty and fellow students.

• Location: Ithaca, New York
• Focus of study : Chemical engineering principles and research topics including biotechnology, energy, materials science, and process systems engineering
• What is included: Full tuition waiver, stipend, and health insurance

Duke University PhD in Literature

Duke University’s PhD program in literature prepares students for careers in academic research and teaching. The program offers a variety of courses in literary theory, criticism, and methodology, as well as opportunities to specialize in specific genres, periods, and cultures. The program also encourages interdisciplinary work, with opportunities to collaborate with scholars in other fields across the university. Graduates of the program have gone on to careers in academia, publishing, journalism, and other areas.

• Location: Durham, North Carolina
• Focus of study : Literary theory, research methods, and a range of cultural and literary texts
• What is included : Five years of living stipend, tuition, and fees support as well as six years of health and dental insurance

Harvard University PhD Program in Biological Sciences in Public Health

The PhD program in Biological Sciences in Public Health at Harvard University is designed for students who want to pursue research in the field of public health with a focus on biological sciences. The program focuses on the intersection of biology and public health, specifically emphasizing understanding the biological mechanisms underlying disease and developing strategies to prevent and treat illness. PhD students receive a rigorous education in both biological and public health sciences, preparing them to become leaders in advancing our understanding of human health and disease.

• Location: Boston, Massachusetts
• Focus of study : Cancer biology, environmental health, genetics, global health and infectious diseases.
• What is included : Competitive funding packages, including tuition waivers, stipends, and health insurance

Johns Hopkins University PhD in Nursing

The PhD in Nursing program at Johns Hopkins University is designed to prepare nurse scientists who will conduct research to advance nursing science and improve the health and well-being of individuals, families, and communities. The program is designed to be interdisciplinary, integrating knowledge from nursing, social and behavioral sciences, and biostatistics. PhD students may work as nursing faculty members, researchers, or policymakers, contributing to advancing nursing practice and developing nursing knowledge.

• Location: Baltimore, Maryland
• Focus of study : Aging and dementia care, cardiovascular and chronic care, community and public health, health systems and outcomes, and more
• What is included: Full tuition with a stipend for the first three years of study

New York University PhD in Education

New York University offers a PhD in Education through its Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. The program provides a solid foundation in education theory and research methods, including coursework, research apprenticeships, and independent research. Upon graduation, students are well-prepared to pursue careers in academia, research, policy, and leadership in educational organizations. They are also equipped with the skills and knowledge to contribute to developing and implementing policies and practices in education.

• Location: New York, New York
• Focus of study : Learning sciences, educational policy, educational technology, and curriculum development. 
• What is included: Annual stipend, tuition coverage for required course work, and health insurance through the fifth year

Princeton University PhD in Mathematics

Princeton University offers a PhD program in mathematics that is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, industry, or government. The program aims to provide a rigorous and comprehensive mathematics education, emphasizing both the theoretical foundations and applications of the discipline. Students take advanced courses in various mathematical fields, such as algebra, geometry, analysis, topology, and applied mathematics. Princeton’s program in mathematics is widely regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious and rigorous programs.

• Location: Princeton, New Jersey 
• Focus of study : Algebraic geometry, mathematical physics, number theory, and topology
• What is included: Full tuition and student health plan coverage

Rice University PhD in Business

Rice University offers a PhD in Business through its Jones Graduate School of Business, designed to prepare students for academic careers and research-oriented positions in industry and government. Students in the program take courses in microeconomics, econometrics, statistics, research methods, and business ethics. In addition to coursework and research, students in the program are encouraged to work as teaching or research assistants. Rice University’s PhD program provides students with a strong foundation in business theory and research methods, with opportunities to work with world-class faculty on cutting-edge research projects.

• Location: Houston, Texas
• Focus of study : Accounting, finance, management, marketing, and strategic management
• What is included : Waived tuition fees, a stipend to cover living expenses, health insurance, and may be eligible for research and travel funding to support their research projects

University of Chicago PhD in History  

The PhD program in History at the University of Chicago is a demanding but rewarding experience that prepares students for a career in academia as scholars or teaching in the field of history. The program focuses on developing students’ knowledge of cultural, intellectual, economic, political, and social history under the guidance of highly qualified faculty advisors. PhD students also have the opportunity to present their research at conferences and publish articles in academic journals.

• Location: Chicago, Illinois
• Focus of study : Ancient, contemporary, early modern, medieval, or modern history 
• What is included: Tuition, student health insurance, and a stipend for living expenses and research support

University of Michigan PhD in Engineering 

The PhD in Engineering at the University of Michigan is a top-rated program that prepares students for research and academic careers in various engineering disciplines, including biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, civil and environmental engineering, electrical engineering, and many more. PhD students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct independent research, develop new technologies, and advance the engineering field. The University of Michigan has a strong reputation for research and innovation, and the PhD program in Engineering provides students with ample opportunities to collaborate with faculty and industry partners.

• Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan 
• Focus of study : Materials science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science.
• What is included: Tuition waiver, monthly living stipend, and health insurance 

University of North Carolina PhD in Media and Communication  

The PhD program in Media and Communication at the University of North Carolina provides students with advanced knowledge and skills in media and communication theories, research methods, and critical analysis. Students can tailor their studies to their research interests by choosing from a variety of electives and seminars offered by the department. Graduates of the program have gone on to work in academia, media organizations, research institutions, and other industries where communication skills and media literacy are highly valued.

• Location: Chapel Hill, North Carolina 
• Focus of study : Media and politics, journalism studies, digital media, global media, media effects, and cultural studies
• What is included: Tuition and fees for three years, health insurance, a $20,000+ annual stipend, and support for research and travel

Frequently asked questions about fully funded PhDs

What does 'fully funded phd' mean, can international students apply for fully funded phds, how long does a fully funded phd program take, do i need to have a master's degree to apply for a phd, what is the difference between a phd and a professional doctorate.

Keep reading: PhD vs. Doctorate: Everything You Need to Know

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From research experiences across the world to internships at its headquarters, the U.S. National Science Foundation offers graduate students and recent Ph.D.s paid opportunities to expand their skills and knowledge in science and engineering.

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Information for principal investigators

This page highlights opportunities that graduate students and recent Ph.D.s can directly apply to.

If you're interested in supporting graduate students with NSF funding, explore NSF's  Funding Search  page. Most of NSF's funding opportunities allow proposers to include graduate student researchers in their project budget.

Some NSF opportunities focus explicitly on supporting graduate student training through  internships  and other activities, like NSF's  Non-Academic Research Internships for Graduate Students (INTERN) program.

NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program (GRFP)

The prestigious NSF Graduate Research Fellowship Program supports outstanding graduate students who are pursuing research-based master's or doctoral degrees in STEM — science, technology, engineering and mathematics — or in STEM education.

The five-year fellowship provides three years of financial support that can be used at accredited U.S. institutions. This support includes an annual stipend and a cost-of-education allowance covering tuition and fees.

Eligibility

Applicants must be citizens, nationals or permanent residents of the United States. Applicants must be pursuing full-time research-based master's and doctoral degrees in STEM or in STEM education at accredited U.S. institutions.

How to apply

Applications are due in the fall of each year. Learn more about the program and how to apply at  nsfgrfp.org .

International Research Experiences for Students (IRES)

NSF's IRES program offers international research opportunities to undergraduate and graduate students.

Participants are mentored by researchers at a foreign lab, allowing them to build their professional network. IRES opportunities usually involve small groups of students who travel to a host institution for a summer-length research project.

Undergraduate or graduate students who are citizens, nationals or permanent residents of the United States are eligible to apply.

Students must contact researchers with IRES funding for information and application materials. Application materials for different IRES opportunities can vary: they may require a statement of purpose, transcripts, reference letters or additional materials.

To find active IRES projects, visit the  NSF IRES Project Search . Each project lists the name and contact information of the principal investigator, or lead, of that project.

You can also find many (but not all) IRES opportunities on the  NSF Education and Training Application  website, where you can prepare and submit applications for IRES and other NSF education and training opportunities.

Computer and Information Science and Engineering Graduate Fellowships (CSGrad4US)

The CSGrad4US program helps bachelor's degree holders return to academia and pursue their research interests in computer and information science and engineering fields.

The three-year fellowship includes a stipend and cost-of-education allowance. 

Applicants must be citizens, nationals or permanent residents of the United States who are not currently enrolled in any degree-granting program and have never enrolled in a doctoral program. Applicants must intend to apply for full-time enrollment in a research-based doctoral degree program in a computer and information science and engineering field within two years.

Applications are typically due in the spring or early summer of each year. Learn more about the program and how to apply on the CISE Graduate Fellowships page.

Doctoral Dissertation Research Improvement Grants (DDRIG)

Some of NSF's programs offer grants to doctoral students, allowing them to undertake significant data-gathering projects and conduct field research in settings away from their campus.

The award amounts of these grants vary across programs but typically fall between $15,000 to $40,000 (excluding indirect costs).

Doctoral students enrolled in U.S. institutions of higher education who are conducting scientific research are eligible to apply. Applicants do not need to be U.S. citizens.

These proposals are submitted to NSF through regular organizational channels by the doctoral student's dissertation advisor, with the student serving as the co-principal investigator on the proposal.

Visit NSF's  Funding Search  to see the list of programs that currently accept DDRIG proposals. Deadlines vary by program: some accept proposals at any time while others have annual or semi-annual deadlines.

Note: Information on the NSF-funded Law and Science Dissertation Grant (LSDG) can be found on the LSDG website .

NSF Research Traineeship Program (NRT)

The NSF Research Traineeship Program gives graduate students opportunities to develop the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a range of STEM careers.

Graduate students funded by the program receive, at minimum, 12-month-long stipends that support their participation in the program's training activities, which can include courses, workshops and research projects.

Graduate students who are citizens, nationals and permanent residents of the United States are eligible to participate as funded trainees in the NRT program. International students can participate as unfunded trainees. Participants must be enrolled in research-based master's or doctoral degree programs.

Students must contact researchers with NRT funding for information and application materials.

To find active NRT projects, visit the  NSF NRT Project Search . Each project lists the name and contact information of the Principal Investigator, or lead, of that project.

For more information about the NSF Research Traineeship Program, please contact  [email protected] .

Mathematical Sciences Graduate Internship

NSF's Mathematical Sciences Graduate Internship program supports summer research internships for doctoral students in the mathematical sciences. These internships are primarily at national laboratories and focus on introducing students to applications of mathematical or statistical theories outside of academia.

Current graduate students pursuing doctoral degrees in mathematics, statistics or applied mathematics are eligible to apply. Participants do not need to be U.S. citizens.

Applications are due in the fall or winter each year. Learn more about the program and how to apply on the internship website .

Presidential Management Fellowship Program

The Presidential Management Fellows Program is a two-year paid fellowship designed to prepare current or recent graduate students for a career in the analysis and management of public policies and programs. At NSF, fellows serve as program and management analysts and a variety of other positions requiring a scientific degree.

Current or recent graduate students are eligible to apply.

Applications are due in the fall of each year. Learn more about the program and how to apply at  pmf.gov .

Summer Scholars Internship Program

NSF's Summer Scholars Internship Program is a 10-week-long summer internship for undergraduate and graduate students. Students participating in the program work in NSF offices that align with their academic interests. Through the program, interns learn about science administration and how federal policies affect the science and engineering community.

Graduate students and undergraduates who are citizens, nationals or permanent residents of the United States are eligible to apply.

Students interested in the NSF Summer Scholars Internship Program can apply through the following organizations:

• QEM Network
• Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities National Internship Program

For more information on the NSF Summer Scholars Internship Program, please contact  [email protected] .

Applying for a postdoc?

NSF's Postdoctoral Research Fellowships support independent postdoctoral research, allowing fellows to perform work that will broaden their perspectives, facilitate interdisciplinary interactions, and help establish them in leadership positions.

These two- or three-year fellowships provide a stipend and a research and training allowance.

Citizens, nationals and permanent residents of the United States who have recently earned a Ph.D. or will have earned their Ph.D. before beginning the fellowship are eligible to apply.

Current postdoctoral fellowship opportunities can be found on NSF's  Funding Search .

Deadlines vary by program: some accept proposals at any time while others have annual deadlines.

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The Division of Graduate Education (DGE) provides funding to support graduate students and the development of novel, innovative programs to prepare tomorrow's leaders in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.

Announcements

• Graduate Research Fellowship Program Quick Facts  Read More ›
• Information on the EHR Core Research (ECR) Program  Read More ›
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Funding Opportunities

• Global Centers (NSF 24-556) Posted March 11, 2024
• Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research: Workshop Opportunities (EPS-WO) (NSF 24-540) Posted February 13, 2024
• NSF Innovation Corps Hubs Program (NSF 24-532) Posted January 25, 2024

Upcoming Due Dates

• Responsible Design, Development, and Deployment of Technologies (NSF 24-524) Full Proposal: April 8, 2024, Phase 1: Planning Grants, Translational Research Coordination Networks, Workshops
• EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement (RII): EPSCoR Research Fellows (NSF 24-528) Full Proposal: April 22, 2024
• Innovations in Graduate Education (IGE) (NSF 24-529) Full Proposal: April 22, 2024

Popular Links

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Studentships and doctoral training

Get a studentship to fund your doctorate.

UKRI studentships offer funding for doctoral research. They also offer you access to training, networking and development opportunities to help you build a research and innovation career.

Our expectations for research organisations, supervisors and students are set out in the statement of expectations for doctoral training .

You could get:

• a minimum stipend of £19,237 per year for your living costs, which is paid to you in regular instalments
• support for your tuition fees (minimum £4,786 per year)

The stipend is usually non-taxable and does not need to be paid back. Some research organisations may offer more if you study in London, or they or one of their collaborators might decide to top up the payment. This will be outlined in the studentship advert from the research organisation.

We normally pay the support for tuition fees directly to your research organisation.

The levels given here are for the academic year 2024 to 2025. UKRI’s approach to doctoral stipend and fee levels will be reviewed through the  new deal for postgraduate research .

Additional support for your doctoral studies

As a UKRI-funded doctoral student, you may be able to access additional funding to cover the cost of other related training and development opportunities.

This could include:

• conference attendance
• language training
• overseas research visits
• internships or placements with a non-academic partner

The availability of support will depend on the research organisation and the training grants they have on offer. You should contact the research organisation you are interested in applying to, to find out what you could get.

Extra support if you have a disability

If you have a disability, you may be entitled to a Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) on top of your studentship.

You should speak to your research organisation’s disability advisor to assess your needs. They can help put the right support in place, including a DSA application if necessary. You cannot claim DSA directly from UKRI.

DSA helps to cover the cost of any additional support that a person studying for a doctorate might need as a result of a disability, mental health problem or specific learning difficulty.

The allowance covers:

• non-medical personal assistance
• specialist equipment
• extra travel costs
• general expenses

Find out more about DSA in our framework .

If you are a research organisation you can download claim forms and guidance for DSA .

Who can apply

Any prospective doctoral student wishing to study at a UK research organisation, including prospective international students, can apply for a UKRI studentship.

All UKRI-funded doctoral students will be eligible for the full award, both the stipend to support living costs, and home-level fees at the UK research organisation rate.

How to find opportunities

Many UK research organisations offer some form of studentship funding from UKRI. These opportunities will depend on the subject you want to study and will normally be advertised by the research organisations.

Research organisations may have additional opportunities that do not involve UKRI. UKRI supports around 20% of all UK-based postgraduate researchers. You should speak to the research organisation you are interested in to find out what studentships are available.

You could also consider using a specialist website like   FindaPhD  to look for opportunities.

When to apply

Research organisations set their own deadlines for applications.

Many open for applications early in the academic year and close in January or February. This is not a hard and fast rule. It is important that you check the deadlines for the research organisation where you want to study.

How to apply

You cannot apply to UKRI for a studentship. You must contact the research organisation you are interested in studying with and use their application process.

For doctoral students who are already studying with a studentship, there are opportunities to get additional funding to support placements that are separate from your doctorate.  Find training and development opportunities .

Last updated: 14 February 2024

This is the website for UKRI: our seven research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Let us know if you have feedback or would like to help improve our online products and services .

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Lindner College of Business » Programs » Graduate Programs & Certificates

Graduate Programs & Certificates

Learning is a lifelong pursuit. Whether you are seeking to level up your skills, pick up a credential or pivot into a new industry, our offerings can help you achieve your goals.

Lindner's diverse portfolio of graduate degrees help students expand their knowledge, hone their expertise and cultivate their network.

Our engaged, expert faculty craft courses that connect advanced business concepts to the applicable skills top employers demand.

Master's degree options

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science in Accounting
• Master of Science in Applied Economics
• Master of Science in Business Analytics
• Master of Science in Finance
• Master of Arts in Human Resources
• Master of Science in Information Systems
• Master of Science in Marketing
• Master of Science in Taxation

Graduate certificates

Fast, focused and relevant, our graduate certificates help students gain specialized knowledge of a business function or cross-disciplinary domain in as little as eight months.

Graduate certificates can be completed as standalone programs or in conjunction with the Lindner MBA or master's program.

• As a standalone option , graduate certificates help students effectively weave new skills into their existing knowledge, without the commitment of a degree.
• Graduate certificates can also serve as the preliminary step to starting a master's degree program. All credits taken as part of a graduate certificate may be subsequently applied towards an MBA or relevant MS degree.
• Finally, students can add even more value to their degree * by layering a graduate certificate into their current MBA or MS studies.

Certificate programs are not eligible for federal financial aid and the unversity will not issue an 1-20 for international applicants pursuing a standalone certificate.

Certificate options

• Business Foundations
• Data Analytics
• Data Science
• Enterprise Resource Planning
• Finance (Investment Management)
• Health Care Administration
• Health Care Finance
• Health Care Operations
• Health Care Policy and Regulation
• Human Resources
• Leadership and Management
• Digital Marketing
• Marketing Research
• Professional Selling and Sales Management
• Public Economics
• Real Estate
• Corporate Taxation
• Individual Taxation
• Entrepreneurship
• International Business

*Degree-seeking students must still apply for admission to the desired graduate certificate program. Please contact your academic advisor to apply.

Doctoral programs

For those who are attracted to research or mastering  how to teach business, Lindner's apprentice-style PhD programs consistently help place emerging thought leaders in public and private business schools around the world.

PhD concentrations

• Operations, Business Analytics, and Information Systems (OBAIS)

Jeffrey Franke

Assistant Dean , Graduate Programs

1318 Carl H. Lindner Hall

Bouvé College of Health Sciences

Applied behavior analysis.

The Master of Science in Applied Behavior Analysis prepares graduates to become behavior analysts, serving in supervisory and consultant roles within schools, agencies, hospitals, and other organizations that seek to apply behavioral science to improve socially significant behaviors.

The MS in Applied Behavior Analysis program is verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) as meeting the coursework requirements to sit for the 5th Edition Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB) exam. This online program includes seven core courses in behavior analysis plus an additional three courses that extend the student’s familiarity with clinical procedures and with the research supporting their use. Students are given the option of completing supervised fieldwork on their own or by enrolling in courses that provide supervision through the Concentrated Supervised Fieldwork option. 

Northeastern University became one of the first universities to offer a Master's degree in applied behavior analysis when it was created in 1976. In 2013, the MABA program became a fully online program which employs evidence-based practice in applied behavior analysis and online learning experiences. 

More Details

Unique features.

• Asynchronous online program with optional synchronous components, allows students to complete their degree in a way that works for their life and commitments
• Choose how to accrue your field work hours as required by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board

Program Objectives

This program was designed to prepare students to employ the principles and procedures derived from research to create meaningful change in the lives of their clients. This is achieved through in-depth exploration of foundational concepts such as classical and operant conditioning, reinforcement, motivating operations, stimulus control, and more. Advanced courses build upon this foundation, preparing graduates to address the most complex behavior problems and learning challenges.

Career Outlook

Many students become Board Certified Behavior Analysts (BCBAs) after graduation. Our graduates often go on to work in schools or private agencies, providing oversight of behavioral and educational programming for individuals with autism and related disabilities. Graduates also work in research or hospital settings, or they pursue terminal degrees in behavior analysis or related fields.

Accreditation Description

The Master’s program is verified by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI) as providing the course content required to sit for the BACB exam. See the data: BCBA Examination Pass Rates for Verified Course Sequences.

Testimonials

Greg lum, alumnus, catherine martin, alumna, looking for something different.

A graduate degree or certificate from Northeastern—a top-ranked university—can accelerate your career through rigorous academic coursework and hands-on professional experience in the area of your interest. Apply now—and take your career to the next level.

Program Costs

Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.

How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.

Requirements

• Application fee
• Two letters of recommendation
• Transcripts from all institutions attended
• Personal statement
• TOEFL or IELTS for applicants who do not hold a degree from a U.S. institution and whose native language is not English

Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.

Admissions Details Learn more about the Bouvé College of Health Sciences admissions process, policies, and required materials.

Admissions Dates

Students enroll in the fall and spring. Fall:  August 1 Spring:  December 15

We use rolling admissions. Applications will be reviewed after they are complete in our system.

Industry-aligned courses for in-demand careers.

For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.

View curriculum

Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace. This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.

Our Faculty

Northeastern University faculty represents a broad cross-section of professional practices and fields, including finance, education, biomedical science, management, and the U.S. military. They serve as mentors and advisors and collaborate alongside you to solve the most pressing global challenges facing established and emerging markets.

Nicole M. Davis, PhD. BCBA LABA

Maeve Donnelly

Laura Dudley, PhD. BCBA-D LABA

By enrolling in Northeastern, you’ll gain access to students at 13 campus locations, 300,000+ alumni, and 3,000 employer partners worldwide. Our global university system provides students unique opportunities to think locally and act globally while serving as a platform for scaling ideas, talent, and solutions.

Below is a look at where our Psychology & Mental Health alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.

Where They Work

• Behavior Analysis, Inc.
• Behavior Based Learning, LLC
• Boston Public Schools
• UMass Medical School
• The New England Center for Children

What They Do

• Healthcare Services
• Community and Social Services
• Business Development
• Entrepreneurship

What They're Skilled At

• Mental Health
• Psychotherapy
• Public Speaking

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on  Linkedin .

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MIT economics to launch new predoctoral fellowship program

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The MIT Department of Economics is launching a new program this year that will pair faculty with predoctoral fellows.

“MIT economics right now is historically strong,” says Jon Gruber, the Ford Professor of Economics and department head of MIT economics. “To remain in that position involves having the resources to stay on the cutting edge of the research frontier, and that requires the use of predocs.”

The nature of economic research has changed enormously, adds Gruber, due to factors like the use of large datasets, innovations in experiment design, and comprehensive data analysis, all of which require the support of predocs. This new research model empowers economists to address national and global challenges in profound and much more effective ways.

The new predoc program is made possible by an ongoing major fundraising initiative in the department. 

Gruber gave credit to Glenn Ellison, the Gregory K. Palm (1970) Professor of Economics and former department chair, for working closely with Roger Altman, MIT Corporation member and the former head and current member of the visiting committee, to craft a vision for the future of the department that will ultimately include up to 24 predocs that would work for economics faculty at MIT. 

“It’s a great vision. They put a lot of work into it,” Gruber says.

With significant support from the Altman Family Fund, Gruber explains, the predoc program will be able to ramp up, providing predocs to the department’s junior faculty. He expects six predocs to start in the department this fall.

“We’ll have a wide range of junior faculty who will be using these predocs for a bunch of really interesting and important questions that are very data- and research-intensive,” Gruber says.

Tobias Salz, the Castle Krob Career Development Associate Professor of Economics, is one of the faculty members already benefiting from a pilot of the new program. He’s working on a large project on the search engine market.

“I am working with a predoctoral research fellow who has been instrumental in many parts of the project, including the design of an experiment and data analysis,” says Salz. “Initially, I was only able to hire him for one year, but with the new funding I am able to extend his contract. The predoctoral program has therefore helped ensure continuity on this project, which has made a big difference.”

Nina Roussille, assistant professor of economics, says her work will greatly benefit from collaborating with a predoc. Several of her projects either require the analysis of large, administrative datasets or the implementation of large-scale experiments.

“This kind of work will be greatly enhanced and streamlined with the help of a predoc to construct, clean, and analyze the data, as well as to set up the experiments and study their effects. This will free up some of my time to participate in more projects and allow me to focus my efforts on high-yield tasks, such as data analysis and paper writing,” says Roussille.

Roussille adds that she’s excited about the opportunity to mentor a young economist on the path to a PhD.

“They’ll greatly benefit from the vibrant research environment of the MIT economics department,” she said.

Gruber sees the program as mutually beneficial for both the predocs and the faculty.

“The advantage for the predoc is they get research experience and they get to know a faculty member,” adds Gruber. “The advantage for the faculty is they get to work with someone who wants to excel and make an impression with the person they research for.”

Beyond establishing the predoc program, this current fundraising initiative prioritizes building resources for faculty research in the Department of Economics. In addition to the gift from the Altman Family Fund to establish the predoctoral fellowship program, this fundraising initiative has secured several other significant contributions, including:  

• the creation of the Daniel (1972) and Gail Rubinfeld Professorship Fund, through the support of Dan Rubinfeld, PhD ’72;
• the Thapanee Sirivadhanabhakdi Techajareonvikul (1999) Professorship Fund, established by economics undergraduate alumna and her husband, Aswin Techajareonvkul MBA ’02;
• another endowed professorship in the department, through the support of an anonymous donor;
• the creation of the Locher Economics Fund, which will provide discretionary resources to support faculty research for the department, through the support of Kurt ’88, SM ’89, and Anne Stark Locher; and
• a gift to create the Dr. James A. Berkovec (1977) Memorial Faculty Research Fund in Economics, established by Ben Golub, ’78, SM ’82, PhD ’84.

To date, almost $30 million has been secured for these purposes, and efforts are ongoing.

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Quick links, new uw-stevens point graduate program blends business and natural resources .

Since it created the first conservation major in the nation in 1946, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point has been a leader in providing well-rounded and highly educated professionals to multi-faceted natural resources fields across the nation. 

With a newly revamped online Master of Natural Resources in Conservation and Leadership degree, UW-Stevens Point is offering natural resources professionals the opportunity to grow as a leader in their field by gaining the business management skills they need to advance while continuing to work full-time.  

This graduate program is 100 percent online and blends courses in business management with those in natural resources. Students also choose a certificate program to tailor the degree, with options such as water resources, applied management and environmental education and interpretation. 

Applications are now open for this fall. Students may begin in the fall or spring, with additional summer courses offered. Students may study part- or full-time, with courses that are asynchronous (at your own pace) and synchronous (time-based). 

The UW-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources (CNR) collaborated with the university’s Sentry School of Business and Economics to create a program that fits the needs of today’s natural resources professionals, said Brenda Lackey, associate dean for academic affairs within the CNR. 

“UW-Stevens Point’s Growth Initiative supported an analysis of those working in natural resources and found there is a need and demand for this kind of program,” said Lackey. “The overwhelming response from employees and our CNR alumni was that adding business and management courses to the degree would benefit both student and employee master’s degree candidates.” 

This program refocuses an online master of natural resources program that began in 2018. The CNR also offers an in-person, thesis-based Master of Science degree in natural resources. 

Nine business credits include courses on budget and project management and Lean Six Sigma management, while 12 natural resources credits include policy, research and ecology courses. 

“This new program is flexible for working adults looking for management skills,” said Nicholas Schultz, the graduate recruitment coordinator at UW-Stevens Point. “You don’t need to have a natural resources undergraduate degree to enter this program, so it also offers a career change for those interested in jobs with an environmental, sustainability or natural resources focus.” 

Scholarships are available, said Lackey, and additionally, the tuition is the same for in state and out-of-state residents, Lackey said. “This is a great opportunity for those living in Alaska or right here in Wisconsin.” 

Patrick Marschie, an alum of the online graduate program, credits it for helping him land his job as a cooperative forestry manager within the South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources. 

“This program opened up professional opportunities and gave me the tools to succeed,” he said. “I would not be in a natural resources management position without completing UWSP’s MNR program.” 

The program is one of the first to come out of UW-Stevens Point’s Growth Initiative, an aspect of the university’s strategic plan that has faculty working to create programming that meets the needs of today’s professionals and the global economy. 

“UW-Stevens Point is dedicated to providing vibrant programs that foster student success,” said Renee Pfeifer-Luckett, associate vice chancellor for program growth. “With the Growth Initiative, the university is extending our reach beyond our campuses by offering new online and graduate programs that cater to evolving learner needs.”

To learn more or apply for the Master of Natural Resources in Conservation and Leadership program, go to www.uwsp.edu/programs/degree/master-of-natural-resources-degree/ , attend one of the many upcoming information sessions or contact Schultz at [email protected] .