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The 10 Best PhD Programs in Finance

In essence, finance is the study of economics and the claims on resources. The best PhD programs in finance help you develop professionally so you can make difficult decisions around fund allocation, financial planning, and corporate financial management. This qualification will also equip you for a career in teaching or research at top universities.

Which of the 10 best finance PhDs is best for you?

Read on to learn everything you need to know.

Table of Contents

Why Get a Doctorate in Finance?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), finance managerial professionals have an average salary of $131,710  per year, and jobs are estimated to grow by 17%  from 2020 to 2030. This is much more than the average across all occupations. With a PhD in finance, you may work as a finance manager or even become a CEO of a large corporation.

Jobs and Salaries for Doctors of Finance

After earning a PhD in finance, you can find well-paid jobs as a professor or in various corporate finance roles.

Here are some of the most common finance professions with the average annual salaries for each:

• Financial Manager ( $96,255 )
• Financial Analyst ( $63,295 )
• Finance Professor ( $73,776 )
• Chief Financial Officer ( $140,694 )
• Investment Analyst ( $67,730 )

Read More:   The Highest Paying PhD Programs

What’s the average cost of a phd program in finance.

The tuition for a PhD in finance can vary depending on the university, with public institutions generally being much more affordable than private ones.

Across all schools, the average tuition is around $30,000 per year.

However, on top of this, you need to factor in other expenses, which could add up to another $30,000 a year. Some top universities offer full funding, including tuition and a stipend for all students who are successfully admitted to the program.

Read Next: The Average Cost of a Master’s Degree in Finance

Top finance phd programs and schools, stanford university, graduate school of business.

PhD in Finance

Stanford University is one of the most prestigious business schools in the world. Its PhD in finance programs has an emphasis on theoretical modeling and empirical testing of financial and economic principles.

• Courses include: Financial markets, empirical asset pricing, macroeconomics, and financial markets.
• Duration: 5 years
• Tuition : Full funding
• Financial aid: Research & teaching assistantship, grants, outside employment, and outside support.
• Delivery: On-campus
• Acceptance rate: 5%
• Location: Stanford, California

The University of Pennsylvania, The Wharton School

The University of Pennsylvania’s renowned Wharton School of Business is home to faculty who are well-known in the field of business research. The school boasts a low student-faculty ratio in an atmosphere that allows you to work with faculty members as peers. This doctor of finance program emphasizes subjects like asset pricing, corporate finance, and portfolio management. This helps students become experts in research and teaching in these areas.

• Courses include: Topics in asset pricing, financial economics, and international finance.
• Credits: 18 courses
• Financial aid: Fellowships, grants, student employment, health insurance, stipend, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 9%
• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

The University of Chicago, Booth School of Business

Booth School of Business is a major center for finance education because its faculty includes Eugene F. Fama, Nobel laureate and the father of modern empirical finance. This finance doctoral degree has an option for a joint PhD in collaboration with the university’s economics department.

• Courses: Financial economics, financial markets in the macroeconomy, and behavioral finance.
• Tuition : Refer tuition page
• Financial aid: Grants, stipends, health insurance, scholarships, fellowships, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 7%
• Location: Chicago, Illinois

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Gies College of Business

The University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign is one of the best places for studying and conducting research in finance. Its finance research faculty was ranked #4  in the UTD Top 100 Business School Research Rankings between 2016-2019. In this PhD in finance program, students can take the qualifying examination at the end of the first year and, if successful. They’ll be able to start their research project earlier and complete the degree sooner.

• Courses include: Empirical analysis in finance, corporate finance, and statistics & probability.
• Duration: 4-5 years
• Financial aid: Full tuition waiver, stipends, scholarships, grants, student employment, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 63%
• Location: Champaign, Illinois

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Sloan School of Management

The Sloan School is one of the top research centers in the world, which aims to transform students into experts who can handle real-world problems in a wide range of spheres, from business and healthcare to climate change. This PhD program in finance gives students the flexibility to choose between a wide range of electives and even study some courses at Harvard.

• Courses include: Current research in financial economics, statistics/applied econometrics, and corporate finance.
• Duration: 6 years
• Financial aid: Full tuition, stipend, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, health insurance, fellowships, scholarships, and loans.
• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management

The Kellogg School of Management allows students to conduct independent research under the supervision of faculty who’ve made significant contributions to the field and have earned numerous prestigious awards. This doctorate of finance program’s admission process has a dual application option. You can also apply to the Economics PhD simultaneously, so if you are not selected for the finance program, you may be considered for economics.

• Courses include: Econometrics, corporate finance, and asset pricing.
• Duration: 5.5 years
• Financial aid: Tuition scholarship, stipends, health insurance, moving allowance, and subsidies.
• Location: Evanston, Illinois

The University of California Berkeley, Haas School of Business

The Haas School of Business in Berkeley is an innovative institution that questions the status quo, takes intelligent risks, and accepts sensible failures in its path to progress. This finance PhD program offers students opportunities to learn about cutting-edge research from faculty from around the world.

• Courses include: Corporate finance theory, stochastic calculus, and applications of psychology & economics.
• Tuition : Refer cost page
• Financial aid: Fellowships, grants, tuition allowance, stipends, teaching assistantships, and research assistantships.
• Acceptance rate: 17%
• Location: Berkeley, California

The University of Texas at San Antonio, Alvarez College of Business

The Alvarez College of Business is one of the forty largest business schools in the USA. It follows a comprehensive and practical approach to education that allows students to apply the knowledge they gain directly in the workplace. This PhD in finance encourages students to do collaborative research with the faculty, which helps them publish their own academic papers before they even complete the program.

• Courses include: Corporate finance, international financial markets, and microeconomic theory.
• Credits: 84 (post-bachelors)
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, work-study, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, research fellowships, and loans.
• Acceptance rate: 84%
• Location: San Antonio, Texas

Liberty University, School of Business

Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Finance

Liberty University is a non-profit institution among the top five online schools in the USA and has been offering fixed tuition fees for the past seven years. This is one of the best PhD in Finance programs you can do completely online. It aims to prepare students to address issues in business finance through research, best practices, and relevant literature.

• Courses: Managerial Finance, Investments & Derivatives, Business Valuation, etc.
• Credits: 60
• Duration: 3 years average
• Tuition : $595 per credit
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, work-study, veteran benefits, and loans.
• Delivery: Online
• Acceptance rate: 50%
• Location: Lynchburg, Virginia

Northcentral University

PhD in Business Administration (PhD-BA) – Finance Management

Northcentral University was founded with the objective of offering flexible, fully-online programs to working professionals around the world. This doctorate degree in finance online is flexible and allows you to design your own schedule. You will also get one-on-one personal mentoring from qualified faculty.

• Courses include: Business financial systems, business statistics, and business leadership & strategy.
• Duration: 84 months average
• Tuition: $1,105 per credit
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, and military scholarships.
• Acceptance rate: NA
• Location: Scottsdale, Arizona

Things To Consider When Choosing a Finance PhD Program

The right PhD program for you is a very personal decision and will depend on several individual factors.

However, these general questions will help you to make the right choice:

• Is the university properly accredited?
• Does the university conduct innovative and cutting-edge research?
• Are there renowned faculty members who you’ll want to work with?
• Do they offer subjects or specializations that match your career goals?
• What is the school’s placement history?
• What are the tuition fees, costs, and options for scholarships and financial aid?
• Does the program offer online study options?

It’s also important to consider if you want to pursue a career in academia or work in organizations as a senior finance professional. A PhD degree will generally set you up for a career in research or academia, while a DBA is more suited to a career in business or government.

Preparing for a Finance Doctorate Program

It’s important to start preparing early if you want to be selected for one of the best finance PhD programs.

These handy tips can help you put your best foot forward:

• Research the requirements of the best universities offering PhD in finance degrees, including pre-requisite subjects and qualifying grades. Keep these in mind when completing your bachelor’s or master’s degree.
• Understand your strengths and weaknesses in relation to the program’s requirements. Work on your weaknesses and continue to hone relevant skills.
• Read extensively in the field and keep up-to-date on regional and global developments.
• Join communities of finance professionals to build your network and be exposed to the latest knowledge in the discipline.

Skills You Gain from Earning a PhD in Finance

The most important skills you learn as a doctor of finance include:

• Communication skills, including writing and presentation skills
• Data analytical skills
• Economics and accounting skills
• Critical thinking skills
• Mathematical skills
• Analytical software skills
• Management and leadership skills
• Problem-solving skills

PhD Programs in Finance FAQs

How long does a phd in finance take.

PhD programs in finance usually take between three and eight years to complete.

Is It Worth Getting a PhD in Finance?

A PhD in Finance is a qualification that’s in high demand today. It is a terminal degree and can help you get top-level jobs with lucrative salaries in corporate or large organizations.

How Much Can You Make With a PhD in Finance?

With a finance doctorate, you can expect to earn a salary anywhere from around $45,000 to $150,000, depending on your experience, role, and the organization you work for. According to the BLS, the average salary for finance PhD holders is $131,710 .

What Do You Need To Get a PhD in Finance?

The admissions requirements vary depending on the program, but you’ll typically need a bachelor’s or master’s degree in finance. The programs can take three to eight years of coursework and research.

To apply, you’ll usually need to submit:

• Application
• Academic resume
• Academic transcripts
• Recommendation letters
• GRE or GMAT score
• Personal essay

Final Thoughts

With a doctorate in finance, you can build a rewarding career in academia, research, or the business sector. Like any doctorate, these programs ask for dedication and hard work. By planning early, you’ll set yourself up to pursue one of the best PhD programs in finance.

For more on how to build your career in the field, take a look at our guides to the best master’s degree in finance , the highest paying PhDs , and fully-funded PhD programs .

Lisa Marlin

Lisa is a full-time writer specializing in career advice, further education, and personal development. She works from all over the world, and when not writing you'll find her hiking, practicing yoga, or enjoying a glass of Malbec.

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PhD Program

• Program of Study

Wharton’s PhD program in Finance provides students with a solid foundation in the theoretical and empirical tools of modern finance, drawing heavily on the discipline of economics.

The department prepares students for careers in research and teaching at the world’s leading academic institutions, focusing on Asset Pricing and Portfolio Management, Corporate Finance, International Finance, Financial Institutions and Macroeconomics.

Wharton’s Finance faculty, widely recognized as the finest in the world, has been at the forefront of several areas of research. For example, members of the faculty have led modern innovations in theories of portfolio choice and savings behavior, which have significantly impacted the asset pricing techniques used by researchers, practitioners, and policymakers. Another example is the contribution by faculty members to the analysis of financial institutions and markets, which is fundamental to our understanding of the trade-offs between economic systems and their implications for financial fragility and crises.

Faculty research, both empirical and theoretical, includes such areas as:

• Structure of financial markets
• Formation and behavior of financial asset prices
• Banking and monetary systems
• Corporate control and capital structure
• Saving and capital formation
• International financial markets

Candidates with undergraduate training in economics, mathematics, engineering, statistics, and other quantitative disciplines have an ideal background for doctoral studies in this field.

Effective 2023, The Wharton Finance PhD Program is now STEM certified.

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Doctor of Finance Programs in America

1-17 of 17 results

Wharton School

Philadelphia, PA •

University of Pennsylvania •

Graduate School

• • Rating 4.67 out of 5   15 reviews

Master's Student: Intensive but interesting. Great people, but professor quality varied. Lectures tend to be very interesting, but are high level in some cases. Coming from an engineering background, this felt "easy", but it is a different type of learning- more focused on the concepts than proving theories and underlying complexities. TAs are great and there is a lot of effort put towards making students understand the material. Since there isn't a sink or swim culture, I think it incentivizes learning for the sake of learning rather than curving to a "B". Professors are very friendly and actually enjoy getting to know their students. ... Read 15 reviews

University of Pennsylvania ,

Graduate School ,

PHILADELPHIA, PA ,

15 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Intensive but interesting. Great people, but professor quality varied. Lectures tend to be very interesting, but are high level in some cases. Coming from an engineering background, this felt "easy",... Professors are very friendly and actually enjoy getting to know their students. .

Read 15 reviews.

Kellogg School of Management

Evanston, IL •

Northwestern University •

• • Rating 4.83 out of 5   18 reviews

Master's Student: Kellogg's MBA program at Northwestern University stands out for its collaborative environment, rigorous curriculum, and emphasis on experiential learning. With a focus on teamwork and diverse perspectives, students engage in group projects and case competitions to develop essential leadership skills. The curriculum offers customization options through electives and experiential opportunities, including internships and global immersion trips. Kellogg's strong alumni network and industry connections provide valuable career support, ensuring students are well-prepared for success in their chosen fields. Overall, Kellogg offers a dynamic and immersive MBA experience that equips students to excel as future business leaders. ... Read 18 reviews

Northwestern University ,

EVANSTON, IL ,

18 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Kellogg's MBA program at Northwestern University stands out for its collaborative environment, rigorous curriculum, and emphasis on experiential learning. With a focus on teamwork and diverse... .

Read 18 reviews.

Tepper School of Business

Pittsburgh, PA •

Carnegie Mellon University •

• • Rating 4.73 out of 5   11 reviews

Master's Student: Embarking on Carnegie Mellon's Master in Business Analytics promises unparalleled growth. Its esteemed reputation in academia assures an intellectually stimulating environment, fostering collaboration and innovation. The meticulously crafted curriculum equips students with advanced analytical skills and a deep understanding of business dynamics. Beyond coursework, experiential learning opportunities abound, from hackathons to industry partnerships. Moreover, the vibrant community fosters inclusivity and camaraderie, enriching the overall experience. With each lecture and interaction, I anticipate expanding my knowledge, honing my skills, and becoming a catalyst for positive change. Carnegie Mellon's program is not just an education; it's a transformative journey toward personal and professional excellence. ... Read 11 reviews

Blue checkmark.

Carnegie Mellon University ,

PITTSBURGH, PA ,

11 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Embarking on Carnegie Mellon's Master in Business Analytics promises unparalleled growth. Its esteemed reputation in academia assures an intellectually stimulating environment, fostering... .

Read 11 reviews.

Leonard N. Stern School of Business

New York, NY •

New York University •

• • Rating 4.82 out of 5   28 reviews

Master's Student: As a part-time MBA candidate at NYU Stern, I'm deeply impressed by the program's blend of academic rigor and practical application. The faculty, industry leaders in their own right, provide invaluable insights, fostering a rich learning environment. The diversity among my peers enhances our discussions, offering varied perspectives on business challenges. Stern's location in NYC is ideal for networking and accessing career opportunities, which is crucial for a working professional like me. The flexibility of evening and weekend classes allows me to balance my professional and academic commitments effectively. Stern equips students with advanced business knowledge and fosters personal and professional growth, making it an exceptional choice for anyone aspiring to excel in the business world. ... Read 28 reviews

New York University ,

NEW YORK, NY ,

28 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says As a part-time MBA candidate at NYU Stern, I'm deeply impressed by the program's blend of academic rigor and practical application. The faculty, industry leaders in their own right, provide... .

Read 28 reviews.

Carroll School of Management

Chestnut Hill, MA •

Boston College •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   2 reviews

Master's Student: I am currently enrolled in the part time, professional evening MBA program. So far it has brought me to communicate with like minded individuals and the professors truly want to see you succeed so they will go out of their way to connect with you and help you. ... Read 2 reviews

Boston College ,

CHESTNUT HILL, MA ,

2 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am currently enrolled in the part time, professional evening MBA program. So far it has brought me to communicate with like minded individuals and the professors truly want to see you succeed so... .

Read 2 reviews.

McCombs School of Business

Austin, TX •

University of Texas - Austin •

• • Rating 4.69 out of 5   13 reviews

Master's Student: Being in the accounting program at UT Austin has been a remarkable opportunity for me. The best part of being an accounting major at McCombs is the diverse set of classes that students can utilize to explore different interests within business and broaden their career opportunities. The worst part of being at McCombs is the competitive environment, although it incentivizes students to work harder, it can be mentally draining to constantly try to outperform one's peers. ... Read 13 reviews

University of Texas - Austin ,

AUSTIN, TX ,

13 Niche users give it an average review of 4.7 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says Being in the accounting program at UT Austin has been a remarkable opportunity for me. The best part of being an accounting major at McCombs is the diverse set of classes that students can utilize to... .

Read 13 reviews.

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Mays Business School

College Station, TX •

Texas A&M University •

• • Rating 2 out of 5   3 reviews

Graduate Student: Im starting in the summer and my experience has been great. I will be entering as an MD/MBA student starting with the MBA. ... Read 3 reviews

Texas A&M University ,

COLLEGE STATION, TX ,

3 Niche users give it an average review of 2 stars.

Featured Review: Graduate Student says Im starting in the summer and my experience has been great. I will be entering as an MD/MBA student starting with the MBA. .

Read 3 reviews.

Eli Broad College of Business

East Lansing, MI •

Michigan State University •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   1 review

Current Master's student: The program has exelcent professors and organization which is appreciated since I am attending the EMBA program and do not want to waste time. ... Read 1 review

Michigan State University ,

EAST LANSING, MI ,

1 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Master's student says The program has exelcent professors and organization which is appreciated since I am attending the EMBA program and do not want to waste time. .

Read 1 reviews.

Culverhouse College of Business

Tuscaloosa, AL •

The University of Alabama •

The University of Alabama ,

TUSCALOOSA, AL ,

University of Connecticut School of Business

Storrs, CT •

University of Connecticut •

• • Rating 4.8 out of 5   10 reviews

Other: Absolutely! Beyond the academics, UConn Waterbury offered a vibrant campus life. From clubs and organizations to cultural events and sports, there was always something exciting happening. The sense of community was palpable, making it easy to forge lifelong friendships and professional connections. Plus, the campus's central location provided ample opportunities for internships and job placements in nearby cities like Hartford and New Haven. Overall, my experience at UConn Waterbury was not just about earning a degree; it was about personal growth, exploration, and building a solid foundation for a fulfilling career and life ahead. ... Read 10 reviews

University of Connecticut ,

STORRS, CT ,

10 Niche users give it an average review of 4.8 stars.

Featured Review: Other says Absolutely! Beyond the academics, UConn Waterbury offered a vibrant campus life. From clubs and organizations to cultural events and sports, there was always something exciting happening. The sense... .

Read 10 reviews.

Charles H. Lundquist College of Business

Eugene, OR •

University of Oregon •

• • Rating 5 out of 5   6 reviews

Master's Student: This is my first year, but all the information I have received and the "pre classes" I have attended have been excellent. ... Read 6 reviews

University of Oregon ,

EUGENE, OR ,

6 Niche users give it an average review of 5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says This is my first year, but all the information I have received and the "pre classes" I have attended have been excellent. .

Read 6 reviews.

Louisiana State University - College of Science

Baton Rouge, LA •

Louisiana State University •

Louisiana State University ,

BATON ROUGE, LA ,

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J. Mack Robinson College of Business

Atlanta, GA •

Georgia State University •

• • Rating 3.5 out of 5   6 reviews

Master's Student: I am a student at Robinson college of business at Georgia State University. The courses are excellent and provide you with a great opportunity to enhance your knowledge. Most of the professors at RCB are good, and they use multiple ways to evaluate students. ... Read 6 reviews

Georgia State University ,

ATLANTA, GA ,

6 Niche users give it an average review of 3.5 stars.

Featured Review: Master's Student says I am a student at Robinson college of business at Georgia State University. The courses are excellent and provide you with a great opportunity to enhance your knowledge. Most of the professors at RCB... .

College of Business - University of Texas - San Antonio

San Antonio, TX •

The University of Texas at San Antonio •

Master's Student: I first attended UTSA in 2007 and graduated with my bachelors in 2009. My education opened up opportunities for me in the healthcare field. While at UTSA I felt the environment was conducive to learning and there were resources available to me to help me succeed. I've worked my way through school as an undergraduate and will do so as a graduate student. UTSA has classes available to fit my schedule and it is affordable. I hope attending graduate school will open up new opportunities for me and help me to fulfil my dreams of becoming a hospital executive. ... Read 1 review

The University of Texas at San Antonio ,

SAN ANTONIO, TX ,

Featured Review: Master's Student says I first attended UTSA in 2007 and graduated with my bachelors in 2009. My education opened up opportunities for me in the healthcare field. While at UTSA I felt the environment was conducive to... .

Falls School of Business

Anderson, IN •

Anderson University - Indiana •

Anderson University - Indiana ,

ANDERSON, IN ,

Capella University

Minneapolis, MN •

• • Rating 4.61 out of 5   982 reviews

Doctoral Student: Capella University offers comprehensive online programs for adult learners, focusing on academic excellence and practical skills. The university's flexible learning environment enables students to juggle their studies with work and family obligations. Students are prepared by the university's emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications. The faculty is supportive and responsive, and Capella's innovative use of technology provides an interactive learning experience. As a leader in online education, I believe it's an excellent choice for those balancing education with their lifestyle. I started at Capella University when I decided to further my education and change my field from pharmacy technician to healthcare administrator. I finished my bachelor's and master's of healthcare administration from Capella University. I am so happy with my achievements and would like to pursue my doctoral degree in healthcare administration to advance in my job. ... Read 982 reviews

MINNEAPOLIS, MN ,

982 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says Capella University offers comprehensive online programs for adult learners, focusing on academic excellence and practical skills. The university's flexible learning environment enables students to... .

Read 982 reviews.

Inter American University of Puerto Rico

San Juan, PR •

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   5 reviews

Doctoral Student: I am grateful that I have professors working hard every day to make the experience of online classes, less tedious and more active and entertaining. Therefore, it helps me go through classes more smoothly and more openminded about the current situation we are all going through right now. I honestly cant be more grateful about my professors work and resilience. They are a very good example for us all. ... Read 5 reviews

SAN JUAN, PR ,

5 Niche users give it an average review of 4.6 stars.

Featured Review: Doctoral Student says I am grateful that I have professors working hard every day to make the experience of online classes, less tedious and more active and entertaining. Therefore, it helps me go through classes more... .

Read 5 reviews.

Showing results 1 through 17 of 17

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The field of finance covers the economics of claims on resources. Financial economists study the valuation of these claims, the markets in which they are traded, and their use by individuals, corporations, and the society at large.

At Stanford GSB, finance faculty and doctoral students study a wide spectrum of financial topics, including the pricing and valuation of assets, the behavior of financial markets, and the structure and financial decision-making of firms and financial intermediaries.

Investigation of issues arising in these areas is pursued both through the development of theoretical models and through the empirical testing of those models. The PhD Program is designed to give students a good understanding of the methods used in theoretical modeling and empirical testing.

Preparation and Qualifications

All students are required to have, or to obtain during their first year, mathematical skills at the level of one year of calculus and one course each in linear algebra and matrix theory, theory of probability, and statistical inference.

Students are expected to have familiarity with programming and data analysis using tools and software such as MATLAB, Stata, R, Python, or Julia, or to correct any deficiencies before enrolling at Stanford.

The PhD program in finance involves a great deal of very hard work, and there is keen competition for admission. For both these reasons, the faculty is selective in offering admission. Prospective applicants must have an aptitude for quantitative work and be at ease in handling formal models. A strong background in economics and college-level mathematics is desirable.

It is particularly important to realize that a PhD in finance is not a higher-level MBA, but an advanced, academically oriented degree in financial economics, with a reflective and analytical, rather than operational, viewpoint.

Faculty in Finance

Anat r. admati, juliane begenau, jonathan b. berk, greg buchak, antonio coppola, peter m. demarzo, darrell duffie, steven grenadier, benjamin hébert, arvind krishnamurthy, hanno lustig, matteo maggiori, paul pfleiderer, joshua d. rauh, claudia robles-garcia, ilya a. strebulaev, vikrant vig, jeffrey zwiebel, emeriti faculty, robert l. joss, george g.c. parker, myron s. scholes, william f. sharpe, kenneth j. singleton, james c. van horne, recent publications in finance, financial inclusion, economic development, and inequality: evidence from brazil, make decisions with a vc mindset, spending less after (seemingly) bad news, recent insights by stanford business, why the “venture mindset” is not just for tech investors, how to: reject pitches like a venture capitalist, when the export-import bank closed up, u.s. companies saw global sales plummet.

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Designed for aspiring academic professionals, the PhD program in Finance will provide you the personalized mentorship and rigorous educational platform from which to launch a successful career at a research-oriented university.

By exposing you to foundational theoretical models and cutting edge empirical methodologies, our world-renowned faculty will help you conduct exciting and impactful research, embrace innovative teaching, and engage in broader conversations on the role of finance in modern economies. We believe it is critical to build your research skills from the outset of your time in our program such that your research record stands out in a highly competitive academic job market.

Our faculty’s positions on the editorial boards of top academic journals, including Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis and Journal of Financial Intermediation , further help students learn how to publish their research in top journals.

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Most Trusted #4

Morning Consult, 2022

Best Value School #7

The Wall Street Journal / Times Higher Education, 2022

Most Innovative School in the U.S. Top 10

US News and World Report, 2023

Want to Learn More?

If you would like to receive more information about doctoral study in Finance, please fill out the form and an Admissions Specialist will be in touch to connect you with a department representative!

Contact us for more information. [email protected]

Program Details

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Combine an international MBA with a deep dive into management science. A special opportunity for partner and affiliate schools only.

A doctoral program that produces outstanding scholars who are leading in their fields of research.

Bring a business perspective to your technical and quantitative expertise with a bachelor’s degree in management, business analytics, or finance.

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PhD Program in Finance

2023-24 curriculum outline.

The MIT Sloan Finance Group offers a doctoral program specialization in Finance for students interested in research careers in academic finance. The requirements of the program may be loosely divided into five categories: coursework, the Finance Seminar, the general examination, the research paper, and the dissertation. Attendance at the weekly Finance Seminar is mandatory in the second year and beyond and is encouraged in the first year.  During the first two years, students are engaged primarily in coursework, taking both required and elective courses in preparation for their general examination at the end of the second year.  Students are required to complete a research paper by the end of their fifth semester, present it in front of the faculty committee and receive a passing grade.  After that, students are required to find a formal thesis advisor and form a thesis committee by the end of their eighth semester. The Thesis Committee should consist of at least one tenured faculty from the MIT Sloan Finance Group.

Required Courses

The following set of required courses is designed to furnish each student with a sound and well-rounded understanding of the theoretical and empirical foundations of finance, as well as the tools necessary to make original contributions in each of these areas. Finance PhD courses (15.470, 15.471, 15.472, 15.473, 15.474) in which the student does not receive a grade of B or higher must be retaken.

First Year - Summer

Math Camp begins on the second Monday in August. 

First Year - Fall Semester

14.121/14.122 Micro Theory I/II

14.451/14.452 Macro Theory I/II ( strongly recommended)

14.380/14.381 — Statistics/Applied Econometrics

15.470 — Asset Pricing

First Year - Spring Semester

14.123/14.124 Micro Theory III/IV

14.453/14.454 Macro Theory III/IV (strongly recommended)

14.382 – Econometrics

15.471 – Corporate Finance

Second Year - Fall Semester

15.472 — Advanced Asset Pricing

  14.384 — Time-Series Analysis or  14.385 — Nonlinear Econometric Analysis  (Enrolled students receive a one-semester waiver from attending the Finance Seminar due to a scheduling conflict)

15.475 — Current Research in Financial Economics

Second Year - Spring Semester

15.473 — Advanced Corporate Finance

 15.474 — Current Topics in Finance (strongly encouraged to take multiple times)

15.475 — Current Research in Financial Economics

Recommended Elective Courses

Beyond these required courses, students are expected to enroll in elective courses determined by their primary area of interest. There are two informal “tracks” in Financial Economics: Corporate Finance and Asset Pricing. Recommended electives are designed to deepen the student's grasp of material that will be central to the writing of his/her dissertation. Students also have the opportunity to take courses at Harvard University. There is no formal requirement to select one track or another, and students are free to take any of the electives.

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PhD Programs

• Accounting & Management
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Students in our PhD programs are encouraged from day one to think of this experience as their first job in business academia—a training ground for a challenging and rewarding career generating rigorous, relevant research that influences practice.

Our doctoral students work with faculty and access resources throughout HBS and Harvard University. The PhD program curriculum requires coursework at HBS and other Harvard discipline departments, and with HBS and Harvard faculty on advisory committees. Faculty throughout Harvard guide the programs through their participation on advisory committees.

How do I know which program is right for me?

There are many paths, but we are one HBS. Our PhD students draw on diverse personal and professional backgrounds to pursue an ever-expanding range of research topics. Explore more here about each program’s requirements & curriculum, read student profiles for each discipline as well as student research , and placement information.

The PhD in Business Administration grounds students in the disciplinary theories and research methods that form the foundation of an academic career. Jointly administered by HBS and GSAS, the program has five areas of study: Accounting and Management , Management , Marketing , Strategy , and Technology and Operations Management . All areas of study involve roughly two years of coursework culminating in a field exam. The remaining years of the program are spent conducting independent research, working on co-authored publications, and writing the dissertation. Students join these programs from a wide range of backgrounds, from consulting to engineering. Many applicants possess liberal arts degrees, as there is not a requirement to possess a business degree before joining the program

The PhD in Business Economics provides students the opportunity to study in both Harvard’s world-class Economics Department and Harvard Business School. Throughout the program, coursework includes exploration of microeconomic theory, macroeconomic theory, probability and statistics, and econometrics. While some students join the Business Economics program directly from undergraduate or masters programs, others have worked in economic consulting firms or as research assistants at universities or intergovernmental organizations.

The PhD program in Health Policy (Management) is rooted in data-driven research on the managerial, operational, and strategic issues facing a wide range of organizations. Coursework includes the study of microeconomic theory, management, research methods, and statistics. The backgrounds of students in this program are quite varied, with some coming from public health or the healthcare industry, while others arrive at the program with a background in disciplinary research

The PhD program in Organizational Behavior offers two tracks: either a micro or macro approach. In the micro track, students focus on the study of interpersonal relationships within organizations and the effects that groups have on individuals. Students in the macro track use sociological methods to examine organizations, groups, and markets as a whole, including topics such as the influence of individuals on organizational change, or the relationship between social missions and financial objectives. Jointly administered by HBS and GSAS, the program includes core disciplinary training in sociology or psychology, as well as additional coursework in organizational behavior.

Accounting & Management  

Business economics  , health policy (management)  , management  , marketing  , organizational behavior  , strategy  , technology & operations management  .

About / Departments

Finance Department | PhD Program

Phd program.

Our faculty, ranked #1 worldwide based on publications in top finance journals (ASU Finance Rankings), consists of more than 30 researchers who study all major areas of finance, making it one of the largest finance faculty in the country. Stern’s finance faculty is highly rated in terms of research output, and faculty members sit on the editorial boards of all major finance journals.

The finance department offers an exceptionally large range of courses devoted exclusively to PhD students. Apart from core PhD courses in asset pricing and corporate finance, students can choose from a range of electives such as household finance, macro-finance, and financial intermediation. PhD students also enjoy the benefits of Stern’s economics department, NYU’s economics department in the Graduate School of Arts and Science (GSAS), and the Courant Institute of Mathematics.

Graduates of Stern’s Finance PhD program have been placed at leading research institutions such as Harvard, MIT, Chicago, Stanford, Wharton, Yale, and UCLA.

Holger Mueller , Finance PhD coordinator

More information on the Finance PhD

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PhD in Finance

Prepare for a distinguished scholarly career with a Gies PhD in Finance

Bring your interest in an academic career in finance to Gies, and you’ll leave prepared to teach and publish research at the top business schools. Our students complete a career path toward academia by entering this intellectually-stimulating environment and learning from the best in the field.

The research emphasis for our Finance PhD program is built on a close collaboration between faculty and students, stemming from the fact that we keep total enrollment around 15 students. During a typical week, the Finance Department hosts three seminars: two when faculty from other universities present research and the other when the Department’s PhD students and faculty present their work in progress. This lively research environment leads to active, intellectual discussions and is a major factor behind the Department’s prolific research output. Not only do we excel at research, but our faculty and doctoral students win more than their share of teaching awards.

Your success will stem from an academic program that first immerses the student in rigorous financial training. Small class sizes equate to close collaboration in the classroom. This consistently produces opportunities to co-author on leading-edge research published in the top finance and economics journals.

"With over 20 tenure-stream faculty specializing in a diverse set of fields and less than 15 PhD students, our program provides students with the opportunity to explore a range of research areas and receive personalized mentoring from faculty members. The collaborative and productive environment has helped our students to launch successful careers in research and teaching at the world’s leading academic institutions."

Jiekun Huang Director of the Finance PhD Program Professor of Finance and Vernon Zimmerman Faculty Fellow

Establish your expertise, learn to build research the right way

When you immerse yourself in PhD coursework for Finance , you will encounter a rigorous curriculum covering the core elements of finance, economics, and statistics. Delving further into aspects of finance, you will learn about asset pricing, investments, corporate finance, and financial intermediation. Additionally, you can choose from concentrations in real estate or insurance. By establishing your area of interest, you will build the knowledge necessary to form a future in research and teaching.

Designed for completion in four to five years, this program allows you to begin the research process as quickly as possible. Classroom instruction will lead you to confidently take on a qualifying exam at the end of your first year. Next, students pass a formal review of their second year paper. This leaves the remaining time available for you to truly delve into dissertation research.

As you build an expertise around the research you’re passionate about, interactions with our top faculty leave you prepared to express this newfound knowledge to a future classroom of your own students.

Research that begins here changes the world

At Gies, the resources are here for you to come into our Finance program and deliver groundbreaking research to the world. As you work closely with the Finance faculty , your research will benefit from our connections with top-tier journals, editorial boards, and leadership positions throughout academic societies.

PhD students have the opportunity to work alongside faculty like Mao Ye , Associate Professor of Finance, who are making a difference around the globe. Ye’s work will include investigation with the National Center for Supercomputing Applications to lay the groundwork for future public policy as it relates to cyber-traders in an era of big data. To spur this effort forward, Ye received a grant from the National Science Foundation awarding more than $400,000 over the next four years. As he progresses, the research will impact experts and policy-makers who need to understand the full spectrum of cyber-trading.

Make your mark at Gies, make a difference for future students

Completion of the PhD program in Finance puts you in a position to succeed in the world of academic research.

The vast majority of graduates choose a future in academics, and we are proud that they have landed careers with institutions including Boston College, Case Western Reserve University, London Business School, Michigan State University, the University of Amsterdam, the University of Notre Dame, and many more.

“High-quality doctoral coursework, weekly seminars by leading scholars, and easy access to world-renowned faculty members make the Illinois Finance PhD program truly great. Now that I’ve accepted a position with Southern Methodist University as an Assistant Professor of Finance, there is no doubt that my experience at Gies put me in position to capitalize on any opportunity.”

Ruidi Huang, Class of 2019

Gies News and Events

Alum shares ROI story from his Gies online MBA

Gies iMBA alumnus Rory Camangian recently was promoted from lead product marketing manager to principal of business strategy of AT&T Mass Markets’ Generative AI team.

Pairing Your Passion: From devoted fan to part of the team

Gies College of Business Master of Science in Management alum Jonathan Starks made the leap into the world of sports marketing as an Integrated Marketing Associate for the Chicago Bulls.

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Finance ph.d., earn a ph.d. in business and a major concentration in finance and learn from and work with top faculty members.

The Ph.D. in Business and a Major Concentration in Finance at Rice University prepares doctoral graduates to be superior classroom instructors and research scholars in financial economics upon graduation.

Our emphasis on research productivity, collaboration and collegiality is reflected in the students’ high completion rate in the program and the faculty’s commitment to the success of their students.

Deeply invested in the path their students take, the finance faculty believe in an open-door policy and collegial atmosphere during the program and after graduation. The essence of the finance doctoral program is the opportunity to learn from and work with top quality faculty members on a broad range of topics in modern finance. 

Interested in Rice Business?

Discussing and debating my ideas with professors at Rice Business honed the ideas into specific and testable questions. When time is a person's most precious commodity and people who give it to you believe strongly in what you are doing, you know you're in the right place. Lizzy Berger, Ph.D. in Finance '16 Assistant Professor of Finance, Johnson Graduate School of Management, Cornell University

Program Information

Rice Business offers an outstanding program for doctoral students interested in finance.

Full financial assistance will be offered to each admitted student in the Ph.D. in Finance program in the form of a research assistantship, where the student must work as a research assistant for assigned faculty members. The financial assistance is merit-based and is contingent on continued satisfactory progress (which includes prior satisfactory performance as a research assistant).

Tuition Grants

Full tuition support is available for each year of full-time study, conditional on satisfactory progress in the doctoral program.

Admitted students will be offered stipend support of $40,000 per fiscal year*. This stipend is available for each year of full-time study, conditional on satisfactory progress in the doctoral program.

Research and Academic Support

Each student will be provided with a workspace, a personal computer with office software**, including all necessary (as determined by area faculty) statistical packages and access to the Rice University network, library access, online academic journals access and e-mail. Each student will also have available $1,000 per year for miscellaneous research and academic expenses such as text books required for classes, computer upgrades, conference travel etc. Students may roll over unused monies from one year to the next.

*A condition for such stipend support is that the student must not engage in outside work for pay without prior permission from the Ph.D. program director. An incoming student bringing outside financial support in the form of a merit-based or fellowship will still be eligible to receive the stipend in full in addition to such outside support. If a student in the third year or beyond generates such outside support, the Rice Business stipend will be decreased by 50 percent of the outside support.       

**The computer will be refreshed after successful defense of the dissertation proposal. Instead, students completing their third year of study may be eligible for a computer refresh if needed and with the recommendation of their advisor.

Most coursework is completed in the first three years of the Ph.D. program. Students are expected to be in residence throughout the calendar year. Exceptions to this requirement must be approved by the student's dissertation chairperson, area advisor, and the director of the Ph.D. program.

All Ph.D. students are required to complete a doctoral dissertation and must maintain at least a 3.0 (B) grade point average. Students must defend their dissertation research proposal within a maximum of five years from the time of matriculation and defend their dissertation within a maximum of seven years from the time of matriculation.

Academic Timeline

Your coursework over the first two years, which should cover a minimum of nine courses, will be determined by you in consultation with the finance area faculty advisor.

You must defend your dissertation research proposal within a maximum of five years from the time of matriculation and defend your dissertation within a maximum of seven years from the time of matriculation.

These times represent generous upper limits. Students will be expected to complete their doctoral studies well within these stipulated deadlines.

Requirements

Course, Research Work and Dissertation Advisor

• The student’s course work must be approved by the area faculty advisor.
• The student is expected to attend all research seminars organized in the finance area during the student’s tenure in the Ph.D. program. Moreover, during each semester of the second and third years, the student must write a short summary and critical comments on two papers presented in the research seminar during the semester. These reviews are to be submitted to the area advisor and will be graded by a subset of area faculty for a Pass/Fail grade.
• Students are expected to be fully engaged in research during all the summers, including the summer of their first year, of their tenure in the Ph.D. program.
• Students must have a Rice Business finance faculty member who has agreed to serve as their dissertation advisor by January 1 of their third year in the program.

Exam Requirements

• Students must successfully pass a comprehensive exam administered by the finance faculty at the end of the fall semester of the second year. The exam will be administered and graded by finance faculty, under the supervision of the finance area advisor.  

Third-Year Research Paper Each student must write and present a sole-authored original research paper during their third year in the program. The paper must be presented by October 15 of the student's third year in the program. The specific procedures are as follows:

• By March 1 of the student’s second year in the program, two Rice Business faculty members must agree to serve as readers of the paper.
• A student must submit a detailed outline of the paper and a copy of the  Third-Year Paper Outline Approval Form , signed by the two faculty readers, to the finance area advisor by June 1 following the student's second year in the program. The outline for an empirical paper should include: (1) the research hypothesis, 2) motivation for the research hypothesis, (3) description of the data, (4) description of the empirical tests, and (5) the expected contribution to the literature. The outline for an analytical paper should include: (1) the basic phenomenon under study, (2) the economic setting, (3) the modeling approach, (4) the fundamental assumptions, and (5) the expected contribution to the literature. The outline should also include references to the related literature investigating the research topic and to any studies underpinning the analytical methods to be used.
• A student must submit a copy of the completed third-year paper to the finance faculty advisor and to the two faculty readers by September 15 of the student's third year in the program.
• A student must present the third-year paper at a research workshop at a date chosen by the faculty during the first half of October of the student's third year in the program and at least one of the faculty readers must be present and sign the  Third-Year Paper Presentation Form , stating that the presentation is acceptable.

Failure to complete the Third-Year Paper requirement, as outlined above, will mean that the student is not making satisfactory academic progress in the Ph.D. Program and is grounds for dismissal from the doctoral program.

Sample Course Sequence

The course curriculum is designed around a challenging course of study in both the theory of financial economics and in cutting edge empirical work. Here is a sample course sequence for a doctoral student in finance. BUSI 524, 525, 526, and 527 are half-semester courses on special topics in finance taught biennially. Students should consult the finance area advisor regarding whether to substitute a more advanced math course for Math 321 in the fall of the first year.

Year 1 - Summer (May 23 - August 15) Math Camp and Stat Camp

Year 1 - Fall ECON 501 - Microeconomic Theory I ECON 502 - Macroeconomics I MATH  321 Introduction to Analysis I ECON 510 - Econometrics I   Year 1 - Spring ECON 508 - Microeconomic Theory II ECON 511 Econometrics II BUSI 521 Asset Pricing Theory    Year 2 - Fall BUSI 524 or BUSI 525 BUSI 523 - Empirical Methods in Finance BUSI 522 - Corporate Finance   Year 2 - Spring BUSI 526 or BUSI 527

Year 3 - Fall BUSI 524 or BUSI 525 

Year 3 - Spring BUSI 526 or BUSI 527   Course Descriptions BUSI 521: Asset Pricing Theory This course is an introduction to portfolio choice and asset pricing theory. Topics include expected utility maximization, stochastic discount factors, arbitrage, mean-variance analysis, representative investors, and beta-pricing models. Single-period and dynamic models are studied.

BUSI 522: Corporate Finance The purpose of this course is to provide a background for understanding the major research directions in corporate finance. Topics include theory of the firm, capital structure, external financing decisions, payout policy, agency problems, corporate control and governance, investment decisions, and the role of financial institutions in corporate transactions.

BUSI 523: Empirical Methods in Finance This course is an introduction to empirical research in finance, covering the techniques most often used in the analysis and testing of financial economic theory. The course covers both time-series and cross section methods. Topics include event studies, empirical tests of asset pricing models, forecasting relationships, return predictability in the time-series and cross-section, asset pricing anomalies, and specification and identification issues in corporate finance.

BUSI 524, 525, 526, 527: Advanced Topics in Finance These are half-semester courses covering various topics in financial economics.

Certification of Candidacy indicates that a student has reached the advanced stage of the Ph.D. Program, permitting him/her to devote full time to writing a dissertation. At least eight months must elapse between admission to candidacy and conferral of the degree. The requirements for candidacy are:

• Successful completion of the course work requirements.
• Successful completion of the examination requirements.
• Seyed Mohammad Kazempour, Assistant Professor, Louisiana State University
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• Michael Dong , Assistant Professor, College of Business, California State University Long Beach
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• Morad Zeknini , Assistant Professor, Freeman School of Business, Tulane University
• Edwin Hu, Financial Economist, Office of Markets, Securities and Exchange Commission

Every year, we have a diverse group of applicants for the finance Ph.D. program. Successful applicants have been music majors, engineers, newly graduated undergraduates, MBAs, Ph.D.s in other fields, economists, finance majors, computer scientists, and financial professionals. Although applicants who have strong backgrounds in mathematics, economics, and statistics and demonstrate proficiency in spoken and written English are among the most competitive in our applicant pool, we give all applicants due consideration.

Successful candidates for admission typically have had GMAT scores between 710 and 760. Roughly half of admitted candidates take the GRE instead of the GMAT and have comparable scores. In the spring, we arrange for finalists come to campus to see the school and meet the faculty.

The business school accepts students for full-time study beginning in the fall semester each year.

International applicants whose native language is not English need to submit a TOEFL score. If you applied to Rice Business previously, we ask that you submit the complete application package again regardless of the previous decision. You will be required to use a new e-mail address to start a new application.

An applicant must declare finance as their intended area of study while applying to the Ph.D. in Finance program. Selected candidates will be notified of admission decisions via e-mail no later than April 15. Candidates who submitted an application to the doctoral program and were not offered admission may re-apply for a later year.

Unlike MBA program applicants, Ph.D. program applicants are not required to have work experience. While experience is certainly helpful, evidence of strong intellectual ability is the most important factor.

Online Application: Using the online application , you will create a user account for the creation, submission and status of your application, including receipt of your supplemental documentation.

Application Requirements:  To be considered for admission, the following documents must be received no later than the posted application deadline: 

• Completed online Ph.D. application including a Statement of Purpose and CV/Résumé.
• Three confidential recommendations (academic strongly preferred). Recommendations should be submitted using the online application recommendation feature. After entering your recommender’s contact information into your application, the application system will immediately send an electronic "Recommendation" form to that individual.
• For reviewing purposes, electronic copies of transcript(s) can be uploaded through the online application system to meet the application requirements. (If you are offered admission to Rice, official paper or electronic transcript(s) will be required and should be sent directly to the Rice Jones Graduate School of Business by the issuing institution. Official transcript(s) are required from all undergraduate and graduate schools you have attended.)
• Your official Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) score report, or GRE test score report submitted directly to us (test taker copy not acceptable). This requirement will not be waived.
• To send your official GMAT score report, log on to  http://www.mba.com/mba/ , click “The GMAT” then “GMAT Scores and Score Reports”. The “Rice University Jesse H. Jones Graduate School of Business – PhD Program” code is 3WS-WD-54.
• To send your official GRE score report, log on to  http://www.ets.org , under “Tests” click “GRE”. Under “Test Takers” click “Order Additional Score Reports”. The “Rice U Mgmt PhD Program” code is 6618.

If you did not earn your undergraduate degree in the U.S., English-speaking Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or the United Kingdom, an official score report of your TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) taken within 2 years of your application date is required (test-taker copy not acceptable). This requirement is waived for international applicants who have received a Master's degree or a Doctorate from an institution within the U.S., English-speaking Canada, Australia, New Zealand, or the United Kingdom by the application deadline.

• To send your official TOEFL score report, log on to  http://www.ets.org , under “Tests” click “TOEFL” and then “Test Scores.” The “Rice University-Management PhD Program” code is 6618. 

A non-refundable application fee of $40 payable via credit card or check. Please make checks payable to Rice University. Applications will not be processed without the required application fee.

Please note that applicants may not apply for, or be considered for, more than one program at a time within the Jones Graduate School.

Minimum GMAT/GRE Score Requirements: While our program is highly competitive, we do not have a minimum GMAT/GRE score requirement.

Supplemental Application Materials:  While most of your application materials will be submitted electronically via our online application, materials that must be mailed should be addressed to:

Melinda Pena Ph.D. Admissions / MS 531  Jones Graduate School of Business  Rice University 6100 Main Street  Houston, TX 77005  

Finance Area Advisor

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Finance concentration.

The finance concentration offers an environment for intellectual growth and challenge. The concentration is designed to develop skills needed to pursue careers in major universities and as researchers in industry and government. Students will work closely with the faculty to produce publishable research. Much of the formal curriculum is devoted to economics and to the examination of theoretical and empirical research considered seminal in the area of finance. Necessarily, the doctoral program is quite theoretical in nature, with heavy emphasis on quantitative methods used in empirical research.

To succeed in this discipline, students need excellent quantitative skills. Those who feel their quantitative skills need improvement should take refresher courses in statistics and calculus prior to applying/entering the PhD program.

Typical Timeline

In the first two years, students typically take graduate-level courses in economics and finance covering topics such as the theory of finance, corporate finance, asset pricing, econometrics, mathematical economics, and microeconomics.

In the third and fourth years, students typically focus on their dissertation.

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Application process and requirements 

Admission decisions in the PhD program are made by departmental admissions committees on a competitive basis. Those seeking admission to the PhD program should have demonstrated high levels of success in their previous academic work and on the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT). For more information on applications and the application process, please see below. 

Application Information

ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT MATTHEW HENRIKSSON, UNIVERSITY OF MISSISSIPPI

Finance concentration FAQ

How do i apply.

The application process is described here .

What are the application requirements?

Can the gre/gmat requirement be waived.

No, waving of the GRE/GMAT requirements is not possible.

Can the application fee be waived?

No. It is not possible to waive the application fee.

Is there a minimum required GRE/GMAT score?

While there is not an official minimum required GRE or GMAT score, our accepted students usually score in the 90th percentile and above on those exams.

FAQ’s about the PhD in Business Administration

FAQ’s about the PhD in business administration more broadly, as opposed to the finance concentration more specifically, can be found here .

Finance Concentration Area Coordinator: Jared Williams [email protected] 

Helpful Resources

15 Best Online PhD in Finance Programs [2024 Guide]

Looking for Online PhD in Finance Programs? Some schools have no GRE and offer accelerated courses to help you finish faster.

A doctoral degree in finance may be your ticket to the career you’ve always wanted.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

This online finance degree can help you pursue an executive role or a teaching job related to accounting, banking, asset management, or financial policymaking.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Finance Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

1. Capella University

With Capella University in Minnesota, students can study online to earn a DBA with a concentration in Accounting or a PhD in Business Management with a concentration in Accounting.

These programs are designed to help students learn about theories, methods, rules and ethical issues that influence accounting practice and consider the implications of practicing accounting within a global marketplace.

Before graduation, DBA students are expected to complete two residencies and submit a major research project. PhD students are expected to do three residencies and complete a dissertation.

Both programs use Capella’s GuidedPath format with weekly discussions and specific deadlines for submitting assignments.

• PhD in Accounting
• DBA in Accounting

Capella University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

2. City University of Seattle

When you study with City University of Seattle, you’ll have the opportunity to choose your own area of specialty for your DBA program.

Students who choose the Specialized Study concentration can submit a proposal for the graduate-level courses they would like to take as part of their studies.

If you’re interested in finance, you may be able to request courses on the topics of finance and accounting. During online classes, you’ll have opportunities to engage in live conversations with faculty.

You’ll be expected to submit a dissertation during your doctoral studies and complete three different residencies.

• DBA in Business Administration (Finance concentration)

The City University of Seattle is Accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

3. George Fox University

As you pursue a DBA with a concentration in Accounting from George Fox University, you may take classes like Advanced Applications of Ethical Reasoning and Compliance in Accounting and Advanced Topics in Accounting.

In addition, you’ll need to complete both a dissertation and a practicum for the program. During the practicum, you’ll have opportunities to try your hand at teaching or consulting.

Most of the work for this hybrid DBA program is online, but you’ll need to report to the school’s campus in Oregon a few times a year.

George Fox University  is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

4. Hampton University

If you’re interested in a PhD in Business Administration, check out Hampton University in Virginia. The program students to pursue a concentration in Accounting and Finance by taking multiple credit hours of elective courses.

These electives include classes like Financial Accounting and Reporting Research, Accounting Theory, Corporate and Financial Institutions, and Behavior Finance.

Students at this university take online courses during the traditional school year and come to campus for two summer residencies. This PhD program is appropriate for current professionals and for those straight out of a master’s program.

• PhD in Business Administration

Hampton U  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

5. Kansas State University

Do you believe that it is critical for individuals and families to have a solid financial plan for their future? If so, you may be interested in the PhD in Personal Financial Planning from Kansas State University.

You may choose to use this degree in the business world or spread your knowledge to others by working in an academic setting.

During the online doctoral program, you’ll need to come to the school’s Kansas campus for a few intensive sessions and go overseas to expand your knowledge about global markets. A dissertation is required for this program.

• Hybrid PhD in Personal Financial Planning

Kansas State University  is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

6. Liberty University

For those interested in numbers and money, Liberty University’s online DBA offers two concentration options: Accounting and Finance.

Both programs begin with the same core courses, but Accounting students take specialized classes like Accounting for Decision Making and Advanced Auditing while Finance students focus on classes like Managerial Finance and Advanced Financial Statement Analysis.

Whichever track you choose, you will need to take a comprehensive exam and complete a dissertation before graduation from this Virginia university. Accounting graduates often work as auditors or budget supervisors, and Finance graduates may choose to become treasurers or financial managers.

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

7. National University

You can pursue a DBA or a PhD in Business Administration from National University. NU is a network of nonprofit institutions headquartered in San Diego, CA.

The school encourages students of either program to pursue high-level leadership positions, but the PhD program is research-based, and the DBA involves the application of research findings that are already available.

Specialization options for both PhD and DBA students include Financial Management and Advanced Accounting. All faculty hold doctoral degrees, and many tracks can be completed fully online. Dissertations are required for PhD programs.

• PhD in Business Administration – Advanced Accounting
• DBA in Financial Management
• DBA in Advanced Accounting

National University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

8. Rutgers University

This university offers a PhD in Management; concentrations include Finance, Accounting or Accounting Information Systems. The concentration in finance offers courses like Investments, Corporate Finance, Theory of Corporate Disclosures, Control and Governance, and Econometrics.

The concentration in accounting offers courses like Current Topics in Auditing and Empirical Analysis of Financial Reporting. Students are expected to take a qualifying exam and defend a dissertation before graduating from these programs. The school recommends that students have master’s level education in mathematics, economics or computer science before applying for enrollment.

Rutgers University  is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

9. Sacred Heart University

Although Sacred Heart University does require DBA in Finance students to come to its Connecticut campus, the program is described as “low-residency,” and it is structured to fit the schedules of people who are already in the workforce.

Each student is part of a cohort that provides opportunities for networking and group projects. During the course of the program, students study topics like mathematics and global markets and choose electives like Fixed Income Securities or Portfolio Management.

Students are also required to submit a dissertation before graduation. The school’s DBA graduates often find work in government, academia, and corporations.

• DBA in Finance

SHU  is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

10. Saint Leo University

You can get an online DBA from Saint Leo University in Florida. The program offers classes like Analytics for Decision Making, Organizational Behavior and Social Responsibility, and A History of Applied Management Theory. It can help you acquire research skills and learn how to apply your findings to real-world business applications.

Before graduation, you will be expected to take a comprehensive exam, defend a dissertation and complete a practicum. This DBA course of study is particularly well-suited for students who want to go into consulting, but the school’s graduates also teach, work as CFOs, manage organizations and become investment analysts.

• Doctor of Business Administration

Saint Leo University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

11. Trident University

Whether you want to earn an online DBA or a PhD in Business Administration, you can pursue your degree from Trident University in California.

One available concentration for the PhD program is Accounting and Finance; students on that track study topics like auditing, global markets, corporation finance, and taxation.

The DBA is a generalist degree that doesn’t include specialization. If you go the PhD route, you’ll need to complete a dissertation, and if you choose a DBA, you will be expected to complete a doctoral study. To help you move through the online program, the university offers its Doctoral Positioning System tracker.

• PhD in Business Administration – Accounting

Trident University  is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.

12. University of Dallas

Students at the University of Dallas can earn a DBA through a mix of online classes and time on the school’s Texas campus.

This program is designed for those who already hold leadership positions in the business world and desire increased advancement, and its flexible nature helps working professionals earn their doctoral degrees while remaining in their current jobs.

This generalist program includes classes like Agile Organizations and Emerging Technologies. If you choose this university, you will be expected to join a colloquium and defend a dissertation and will have the option to complete a teaching practicum.

The University of Dallas  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

13. University of South Carolina

The Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina offers an on-campus program through which you can earn a PhD in Business Administration.

One available concentration for this program is Finance, and classes include Current Issues in Finance, Empirical Methods in Financial Research and Theory of Finance.

Faculty in this department have earned multiple recognitions, including the Alfred G. Smith, Jr. Excellence in Teaching Award and the Mortar Board Excellence in Teaching Award. A master’s degree is recommended before admission to the program, but it is not a requirement.

• Hybrid DBA in Business Administration – Finance

The University of South Carolina  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

14. University of the Cumberlands

The PhD in Business program at the University of the Cumberlands takes business courses ranging from comparative economic and corporate finance to managerial ethics and responsibility. Students can choose one of their specialty areas like accounting, entrepreneurship, finance, etc. The Curriculum of this program will engage students in the theories, strategies, and tactics that they need to.

• PhD in Business (Finance concentration)

The University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

15. Walden University

Whether you’re interested in DBA or a PhD, you can earn it from Walden University. The DBA program offers concentrations like Accounting and Finance. On the path to earning a DBA, you can complete a doctoral study, assemble a portfolio or take part in a consultation program in which you work with a local organization or company.

If you would prefer to earn a PhD in Management, you can select a 21st Century Finance concentration, which requires the completion of a dissertation. Both the DBA and PhD tracks can be completed through online study.

Walden  University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Online PhD in Finance Programs

If you have a particular area of interest within the world of finance, then you may want to select a corresponding degree concentration.

PhD in Finance

Phd in financial management, phd in financial planning.

A concentration can give you opportunities to take an array of courses designed to hone your knowledge on that particular topic.

If you are a numbers person, there’s a good chance that you like accounting just as much as you enjoy general financial topics. This concentration can allow you to explore both of these areas of study.

You might put this degree to work in corporate or academic settings. You may also be interested in an Online PhD in Accounting program .

Being in charge of a company’s financial resources requires a special set of managerial leadership skills. A concentration in financial management can help you gain those skills.

This concentration is designed to teach topics like building a solid financial strategy and navigating international markets.

Helping individuals do their best with their money is the goal behind a concentration in financial management.

This concentration can help train you to guide wise financial choices as you learn not only about asset management and investment growth but also about how to influence smart decision-making through relational know-how.

With a PhD Financial Planning degree, you may help others manage their money, lead a financial advisement company, or teach future finance students.

Doctorate in Finance Salary

Earning your doctoral degree in finance may open many career paths to you. Once you graduate with this degree, you may work in an academic setting, a nonprofit organization, the corporate world, or the public sector.

Here are a few jobs you may be able to look forward to, along with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics job outlook and average salary information.

Budget Analyst

Budget analysts are responsible for setting an organization’s budget and helping the company stick to it.

• Outlook for job growth: 5% increase
• Median salary per year: $78,970

This may be an enjoyable career path for those who want to understand all facets of a company – tracking and justifying where each penny goes. Budget analysts make recommendations for investment and expenditure to boost their company’s profitability.

Financial Analyst

Financial analysts are responsible for paying attention to the market in order to make recommendations on how people or businesses should invest their resources.

• Outlook for job growth: 6% increase
• Median salary per year: $83,660

Rather than monitoring their business or organization, they monitor the economy as a whole. This career may be ideal for those who find financial markets interesting and have a deep understanding of investments.

Personal Financial Advisor

Consider this career path if you want the satisfaction of knowing that you’re helping others plan for their futures.

• Median salary per year: $89,330

You might also need to have a knack for marketing and sales as you attract and welcome new clients to your firm. In this role, you might work for a successful money management company or start your own practice.

Finance Professor

You may be able to pass your knowledge onto others by teaching students at the university level.

• Outlook for job growth: 7% increase
• Median salary per year: $88,010

Like many careers, you’ll need more than knowledge of the financial sector to be successful in this position. You’ll need organization and communication skills to be able to teach effectively. You’ll also need to be willing to prove your teaching effectiveness to your department via annual reviews.

If you enjoy teaching, researching, and discussing business, you may find yourself quite at home among the faculty of a business college.

Curriculum for Finance PhD Programs

Similar to a MBA in finance or online master’s in finance , when pursuing an advanced degree in finance, you’ll likely take a variety of courses designed to equip you with a thorough understanding of financial matters and how they relate to decision-making for individuals and businesses.

Your classes may include:

• Accounting and Control for Nonprofit Organizations
• Business Ethics
• Business Valuation
• Data Analysis for Investments
• Financial Management for International Business
• Human Resource Development
• Investment Portfolio Analysis
• Managerial Finance
• Mathematical Foundations for Finance
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Money, Capital Markets & Economic Growth
• Quantitative Research Design & Methodology
• Real Estate Finance
• Real Option Valuation
• Risk Management
• Strategic Thinking for Decision-Making
• Stochastic Foundations of Finance

Since your program will likely encourage you to take a mix of both foundational classes and specialized electives, the coursework listed above includes both core classes and electives. Your PhD in finance requirements may also include a dissertation or capstone project. A growing number of doctorate programs have no dissertation required , but these tend to be professional doctorates, not PhDs.

Choose programs with a capstone project if you’d like to finish your degree faster. Dissertations can often take 2-3 years more to complete after you finish your coursework.

DBA in Finance vs. PhD in Finance

When you have your sights set on a finance degree, there are two different doctoral routes you can take. You could earn a doctorate of business administration (DBA) in finance or pursue a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in finance.

Although you can learn a great deal about numbers, money, and economics either way, the two different degrees will likely set you on divergent career tracks.

People often choose a professional doctorate, such as a DBA in Finance, if they want to put their education to work in the field — for example, working on Wall Street or in a Fortune 500 company.

A DBA in Finance:

• Is typically pursued by those who want to stay with their current company or work for another corporation.
• May involve drawing from others’ data and research for the culminating project.
• Is often pursued by those with several years of professional experience.

A PhD in finance is often pursued by people who want to work in an academic setting. You may find that a PhD program focuses more on the theoretical aspects of finance than the practical ones.

A PhD in Finance:

• Is typically pursued by people who want to conduct research, get published or teach.
• Typically requires conducting original research.
• May be good for those straight out of school, such as recent graduates of a master’s in finance or master’s in accounting program.

Think about what you want to do for your career, then choose the degree that best fits those goals.

Online vs. Traditional Finance Degree

When it comes to online versus traditional finance doctoral programs, the main difference is the format through which the material is presented. The content should remain about the same, and the rigors of the program likely will as well.

You may choose a fully online program, an on-campus one, or a hybrid mix.

Accreditation for a Doctorate in Finance Online

Universities receive accreditation as proof that their programs provide a thorough educational experience for students. Therefore, when you’re looking for a doctor of finance program, the school’s accreditation should be the first thing that you consider.

Reputable universities receive accreditation from a regional accrediting agency . These organizations give a broad stamp of approval to the entire school rather than to its individual programs. It is essential that you enroll in a school with regional accreditation.

In addition, there are several national and international organizations that provide accreditation specifically for business programs. Although this type of accreditation may not be absolutely essential, it’s certainly a valuable sign that the program is thorough, reputable, and excellent in quality.

A finance program may be accredited by:

• Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)
• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business International (AACSB)
• International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE)

The top finance PhD programs are accredited both regionally and programmatically by one of these specialty boards. You can find your chosen university’s accreditation by searching the US Department of Education’s accreditation database .

Financial Aid for a Finance Degree

As you begin looking into finance PhD programs, don’t forget to also look into financial aid opportunities. At the doctorate level, you may still be eligible for federal financial aid as well as fellowships and scholarships from universities and scholarships from private organizations.

Your employer might even have tuition assistance programs available.

Can I Get My PhD Online?

Yes, many universities offer online PhD and professional doctorate programs. This includes doctoral degrees in finance, public health, education, nursing, and organizational leadership.

This approach can help you earn your advanced degree in a format that fits your schedule.

Is an Online PhD Respected and Credible?

In an online program, you should have to work just as hard as you do in an on-campus program. Additionally, your official records are unlikely to specify how you earned your degree.

The important thing is not the format in which you completed your coursework but whether you attended an accredited university.

Are There Any Online PhD In Finance Programs?

Earning a doctoral degree in finance doesn’t have to require moving onto campus or uprooting your whole life. Rather, there are programs for a DBA or PhD in finance online.

In these programs, you can engage in a computer-based educational experience as you work toward your degree.

Getting Your PhD in Finance Online

To take your finance education to the highest level, you may want to pursue a doctoral degree in this field, whether a PhD or a DBA.

Completing your coursework online can help you receive a solid education in a format that fits your lifestyle and prepare you for the next step on your career path.

Use the above list of schools to narrow down the finance PhD programs for you.

Related Guides:

• Best Online Masters in Finance No GMAT
• Finance vs. Accounting – What’s the Difference?

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Ph.D. in Finance

Program information.

At the University of Kansas, finance doctoral students are trained to teach at the university level, to do research that is publishable in top academic journals, and to analyze questions that are important to government agencies and the private sector. Successful students develop close working relationships with the KU finance faculty, both in the classroom and on co-authored research. Many of our students publish their first research study before finishing the program, and most students accept jobs at universities rated “high” or “very high” in research activity by the Carnegie Foundation.

We emphasize rigorous training and hands-on experience. Five semesters of coursework include a firm grounding in economic theory, thorough training in statistics and econometrics, and an immersion in the most important research studies in corporate finance, investments and financial institutions.

Application deadlines

Priority: December 15, 2023

Final: January 10, 2024

• Application requirements

Students begin their own research during the first year of the program and present their first research seminar early in the second year of the program. Many of our students publish their first research study before finishing the program, and most students accept jobs at universities rated “high” or “very high” in research activity by the Carnegie Foundation.

We emphasize rigorous training and hands-on experience. Successful students develop close working relationships with the KU finance faculty, both in the classroom and on co-authored research. Students typically teach three undergraduate finance classes before graduating.

Program details

Core courses, statistical methods.

BSAN 920: Probability for Business Research OR MATH 727: Probability Theory

BSAN 921: Statistics for Business Research OR MATH 728: Statistical Theory

BSAN 922: Advanced Regression

ECON 800: Optimization Techniques I

ECON 801: Microeconomics I

ECON 802: Microeconomics II

BE 917: Advanced Managerial Economics

Concentration courses

FIN 901: Current Research in Finance

FIN 937: Seminar in Business Finance

FIN 938: Seminar in Investments

FIN 939: Seminar in Financial Institutions

Supporting courses

ECON 817: Econometrics I

ECON 818: Econometrics II

One of the three sequences below

Sequence 1: Minor in Research Methods

ECON 715: Elementary Econometrics

Advanced elective research methods course

Sequence 2: Minor in Research Methods and Financial Accounting

ACCT 928: Introduction to Accounting Research

ACCT 932: Seminar in Financial Accounting Research I

Sequence 3: Minor in Research Methods and Applied Economics

ECON 770: Economics of the Labor Market

ECON 870: Applied Microeconomics

For more information, view a detailed list of courses in the academic catalog.

A course that is not being offered within a reasonable timeframe, or a course in which a student can demonstrate competence my be, with the approval of the area group and the Ph.D. Team, replaced with another course.

Area-specific core requirements may by changed subject to the approval of the area group and the Ph.D. Team.

A minimum of 15 courses, plus BUS 902 and BUS 903 are required for completion of the degree.

Courses recommended for preparation for the qualifier assessment may not be included in the concentration or minor areas.

• Summer research
• Pass the Finance Qualifier Assessment
• Present first-year research paper
• Teach an undergraduate finance class
• Pass the Finance Comprehensive Exam
• Present second-year research paper
• Present your dissertation proposal
• Defend your dissertation proposal

Program faculty

• Associate Dean, Undergraduate Programs
• Anderson Chandler Professor
• School of Business Administration
• Dean's Office
• Finance Academic Area

• Assistant Professor
• Finance academic area

• Koch Professor in Business Economics

• Koch Distinguished Professor in Business Economics
• Harold Otto Chair of Economics

• Area Director, Finance
• O. Maurice Joy Professor

• Associate Professor
• Director, Davis Center for Figure Sense

• Capitol Federal Fellow

• Associate Dean of Graduate Programs
• Capitol Federal Professor
• School of Business administration

Finance doctoral students

• Ph.D. Student

• Ph.D. Candidate

• Graduate Programs
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• People & Research
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• Princeton University
• Master in Finance
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Ph.D. Program

• Ph.D. Student Directory
• Ph.D. Prize Winners
• Minor in Finance
• Requirements
• Career Outcomes
• Student Application
• Common Questions
• BCF Director
• Published Papers
• Working Papers
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PhD Program Overview

• The Ben Bernanke Prize in Financial and Monetary Economics

Princeton’s Bendheim Center for Finance provides a second home for Ph.D. students interested in finance and related fields.

Princeton BCF does not directly admit Ph.D. students. Typically, Ph.D. students working with Princeton BCF faculty were admitted by the Department of Economics , the Department of ORFE , or the Program in Applied and Computational Mathematics . 

In order to foster interaction and mentorship, Ph.D. students who have passed their general examination and are working with Princeton BCF faculty are provided a carrel space in close proximity to the faculty. A wee kly Student Research Seminar gives students the opportunity to present their work and receive first-hand feedback from faculty and fellow students.

Princeton BCF Ph.D. Student Directory

The Ph.D. student(s) with the best draft of a job market paper for the upcoming job market will receive at the end of April the Ben Bernanke Prize in Financial and Monetary Economics.

Ben Bernanke Prize in Financial and Monetary Economics

Finance focuses on the financial structure and problems of corporations, on the manner in which financial securities are priced, and on the organization and operation of markets and financial institutions. As a scholar in finance, you might examine how conflict of interest affects corporate financial policies, how competitive the NASDAQ trading system is, how to detect price bubbles, or how investor psychology affects asset prices in a systematic way. Our finance faculty offers strong support for such explorations of market microstructure, corporate finance, asset pricing, and international finance. The finance faculty has broad interests, and students can develop analytic or empirical interests under their guidance.

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Ming Huang Johnson School

Robert A. Jarrow Johnson School

Andrew Karolyi Johnson School

Crocker Liu Nolan School

Yifei Mao Nolan School 

Pamela C. Moulton Nolan School 

Justin Murfin Dyson School 

David Ng Dyson School 

Maureen O’Hara Johnson School 

Gideon Saar Johnson School 

Scott Yonker Dyson School

Some of Our Alumni

Gaurav Kankanhalli, Graduation Year: 2020, First Placement: University of Pittsburgh

Janet Gao, Graduation Year: 2015, First Placement: Indiana University

Amiyatosh Purnanandam, Graduation Year: 2005, First Placement: University of Michigan

Heather Tookes, Graduation Year: 2003, First Placement: Yale University

Gideon Saar, Graduation Year: 2000, First Placement:  New York University

Gustavo Grullon, Graduation Year: 1999, First Placement: Rice University

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