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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, michael blank, greg buchak, antonio coppola, darrell duffie, steven grenadier, benjamin hébert, arvind krishnamurthy, hanno lustig, matteo maggiori, paul pfleiderer, joshua d. rauh, 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, dollar safety and the global financial cycle, monetary tightening and u.s. bank fragility in 2023: mark-to-market losses and uninsured depositor runs, global capital allocation, recent insights by stanford business, a “grumpy economist” weighs in on inflation’s causes — and its cures, the surprising economic upside to money in u.s. politics, your summer 2024 podcast playlist.

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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 )

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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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

Download the Finance PhD poster (PDF)

Explore Stern PhD

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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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Best Online Ph.D. In Finance Programs

Best Online Ph.D. In Finance Programs Of 2024

Updated: Mar 28, 2024, 12:10pm

A Ph.D. in finance can prepare you for various specialized, high-level roles in financial management , business management, financial analysis and academia. Schools of business often offer finance as a concentration within a broader business management or business administration doctoral program .

Finance doctoral programs explore investment analysis, strategic financial planning, advanced accounting and corporate finance. In addition to coursework, students must research, write and defend a dissertation.

This page lists all four schools that meet our ranking criteria and offer online Ph.D. in finance programs. Learn how to choose and what to expect from a Ph.D. in finance program.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

Over 3,868 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked four accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online Ph.D. in finance programs in the U.S. using 14 data points in the categories of student experience, credibility, student outcomes and affordability. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of February 2024. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Experience :

Student-to-faculty ratio
Socioeconomic diversity
Availability of online coursework
Total number of graduate assistants
Portion of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility :

Fully accredited
Programmatic accreditation status
Nonprofit status

Student Outcomes :

Overall graduation rate
Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability :

In-state graduate student tuition and fees
Alternative tuition plans offered
Median federal student loan debt
Student loan default rate

We listed all four schools that met our ranking criteria.

Best Online Accounting Degrees
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Online Ph.D. in Finance Options

How to find the right online finance ph.d. program for you, should you enroll in an online ph.d. in finance program, accreditation for online ph.d.s in finance, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online ph.d.s in finance, university of the cumberlands, texas tech university, kansas state university, national university.

Program Tuition Rate

$749/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

The University of the Cumberlands in Williamsburg, Kentucky, offers a hybrid executive Ph.D. in business with a specialty in finance. Learners develop leadership, research and teaching skills that can help them excel in business.

The curriculum includes core, professional research and specialty area coursework. The program also requires an applied learning practicum every semester, which lets students apply knowledge in real-world settings and gain professional experience. Learners must also attend an intensive in-person residency weekend each semester.

Admission requirements include a minimum 3.0 GPA and a master’s degree in a relevant field.

Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
School Type: Private
Application Fee: $30
Degree Credit Requirements: 66 credits
Program Enrollment Options: Full-time
Notable Major-Specific Courses: Managerial ethics and social responsibility, comparative economics
Concentrations Available: N/A
In-Person Requirements: Yes, for residency weekends and applied learning practicums

$9,518/year (in-state)

Texas Tech University claims to offer the first Ph.D. in financial planning, a 60-credit program that equips students for careers in financial planning research and academia. Texas Tech delivers the Ph.D. both on campus and online.

Students in the program must complete a dissertation in addition to 60 credits of graduate coursework. The degree prepares students to become Certified Financial Planners™ (CFPs), and learners who have not yet completed a CFP board-registered financial planning program may have to complete additional classes. The degree program requires an entrance exam and field experience.

Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
School Type: Public
Application Fee: $75
Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
Example Major-Specific Courses: Security industry essentials for financial planning professionals, legal and regulatory aspects of personal financial planning
In-Person Requirements: Yes, for field experience

$661/credit

Kansas State University features a Ph.D. in personal financial planning available in a hybrid format, with some degree requirements taking place on the school’s Manhattan, Kansas, campus. K-State claims to offer the first predominantly online personal financial planning doctorate, one of only three programs registered with the CFP Board. The program is designed with working professionals in mind.

Learners take online courses during the winter and spring semesters. During summer terms, students complete residency sessions and 10-day intensives on campus. The final summer term involves international travel to explore how global markets impact financial planning in the United States.

Application Fee: $65
Degree Credit Requirements: 90 credits
Example Major-Specific Courses: Retirement planning for families, introduction to financial therapy
In-Person Requirements: Yes, for on-campus residencies and cohort travel

$442/quarter credit

You can earn a fully online Ph.D. in business administration degree with a concentration in financial management from National University , based in San Diego, California. The program explores financial analysis, strategic planning, and research and development. Coursework focuses on international financial issues, accounting for nonprofit organizations and investment analysis. Students also complete dissertation research.

You can start working on your degree whenever it’s most convenient for you, with start dates every Monday. The program requires 20 courses and takes 40 months to complete. For direct entry into the program, you’ll need a master’s degree in a general business area or a master’s in any field and an undergraduate business degree.

Application Fee: Free
Degree Credit Requirements: 60 quarter credits
Notable Major-Specific Courses: Investment portfolio analysis, advanced financial statement analysis
In-Person Requirements: No

Not sure where to start in your college search? Let’s explore your options.

Consider Your Future Goals

An online doctorate in finance can help you obtain the knowledge and credentials you need to qualify for an advanced, research-based career in finance . But each program is unique, so you’ll need to do some research to find the one that best matches your career goals.

For example, find out if your prospective online Ph.D. in finance requires an internship or another form of field experience. Real-world experience can round out your education and help you make valuable connections for when you graduate. However, it can also add time to your degree and make it more difficult to work your learning around a full-time job.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Our guide includes four online Ph.D. in finance programs. Though tuition rates vary widely among programs, total tuition for the best online Ph.D. in finance programs on our list averages around $45,000.

To help fund your degree, you can apply for federal student aid, including scholarships, grants and loans, by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid . You can also ask about funding opportunities like scholarships, grants, fellowships, and graduate research and teaching assistantships offered directly by your university or department.

Online learning can make a graduate-level education more accessible in many ways, but distance learning doesn’t necessarily work for everyone. Weigh the following when deciding whether to enroll in an in-person or online finance Ph.D.

What’s your learning style? Online programs work best for students who don’t have a problem staying on task, managing deadlines and motivating themselves. If you think you’d do better with the structure and support that comes with attending scheduled in-person classes, consider an on-campus program.
What’s your budget? If you’re looking to earn your Ph.D. in finance at a lower cost, online programs can provide savings. While out-of-state students usually pay higher tuition rates to attend in-person programs at public universities, online learners often receive discounted rates regardless of where they live. Distance learners can also save money by avoiding high costs associated with relocation, housing and transportation.
What’s your schedule? If you need flexibility to manage a job or other time-consuming responsibilities while in school, an online program might be your best bet. Asynchronous programs in particular allow you to complete coursework on your schedule through pre-recorded lectures and online discussion boards.

Any school you consider for your online finance Ph.D. should hold institutional accreditation. You’ll need to attend an accredited school if you want to qualify for federal financial aid. Plus, employers and credentialing bodies often recognize degrees only from accredited institutions.

Institutional accreditation comes from third-party agencies that assess colleges to ensure they meet minimum quality standards related to faculty, academic programs, student outcomes and educational resources.

Accrediting bodies in the U.S. receive approval from the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.

Programmatic accreditation offers a similar stamp of approval for individual degree programs or departments within universities. You may need a programmatically accredited degree to qualify for certain jobs and professional certifications.

An online Ph.D. in finance might hold programmatic accreditation from an accrediting agency that evaluates business-related programs, such as the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs, the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.

You can look up school and program accreditation information on CHEA’s website .

What is a Ph.D. in finance?

A Ph.D. in finance is a terminal business degree that develops advanced knowledge and skills in investing, corporate finance and economics. This diploma can prepare for finance-related roles in research and academia.

How long is a Ph.D. in finance?

The time it takes to earn a Ph.D. in finance varies depending on your program and enrollment status. It typically takes four to eight years to complete a doctorate, but you may be able to graduate from an online finance Ph.D. program in a little less than four years.

Is a Ph.D. worth it financially?

It depends on how much your degree costs and how much you can expect to make after you graduate, but a doctoral degree in finance can be well worth the investment. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that workers employed in business and financial occupations earned a median annual wage of $76,850 in May 2022. If you pursue one of the higher-paying roles in this field, like financial analyst, you can earn a median salary of $96,220 per year.

How much does a Ph.D. in finance make in the U.S.?

How much you can expect to make with a Ph.D. in finance depends on your job, employer, geographic location and experience level. Ph.D. holders commonly work in academia; the BLS reports that business professors, including finance professors, earn a median annual salary of $88,790.

Liz Simmons has been writing for various online publications about career development, higher education and college affordability for nearly a decade. Her articles demystify the college application process and help prospective students figure out how to choose a major or career path.

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From the Finance Ph.D. Liaison

“Welcome to UCLA Anderson’s Finance area, long recognized as one of the world’s top programs. Our Ph.D. students work with renowned faculty whose expertise covers corporate finance, macroeconomics, asset pricing, derivatives, investments and behavioral finance. The UCLA Anderson Doctoral Program is highly selective. We expect you to develop a passion and tenacity for excellent research in finance and, through mentorship and collaboration, we prepare you for a distinguished academic career. We look forward to receiving your application.”

Barney Hartman-Glaser Professor of Finance

Explore the Program

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Alumni Success

Robert Richmond (’16)

First academic placement: NYU Stern

In 2016, Robert Richmond earned the Conference on International Finance Best Paper Award (2016), the Cubist Systematic Strategies Ph.D. Candidate Award for Outstanding Research and the Xavier Drèze award for most outstanding Ph.D. research paper. His current research uncovers an economic source of exposure to global risk that drives international asset prices.

Mindy Xiaolan Zhang (’14)

First academic placement: UT Austin

Mindy Zhang is recipient of the 2014 Trefftzs Award for Best Student Paper, WFA; and the 2014 Yihong Xia Best Paper Award, CICF. She conducts research on macro finance, equilibrium asset pricing, dynamic contracting, dynamic corporate theory, labor and finance.

Tobias J. Moskowitz (’98)

First academic placement: University of Chicago Booth School of Business

Recipient of numerous honors and awards, Tobias "Toby" Moskowitz is one of UCLA Anderson's Inspirational 100 alumni. Moskowitz was named the inaugural Dean Takahashi '80 B.A., '83 M.P.P.M. Professor of Finance at Yale School of Management in 2016. He was previously the Fama Family Professor of Finance at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, where he had taught since 1998. In 2011, he co-authored the best-selling book Scorecasting , which uses economic principles to explain the hidden side of sports.

Joshua D. Coval (’97)

First academic placement: University of Michigan Business School

Joshua Coval's current research investigates the structured finance market and how investor reliance on ratings and unsound pricing models led to the spectacular rise and collapse thereof. His research awards include the 2000 and 2005 Smith-Breeden Prize for the best paper in the Journal of Finance . His research has been featured in The Economist, the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times, the Chicago Tribune, Time, Money Magazine and Financial Times .

William F. Sharpe (’61)

Winner of the 1990 Nobel Prize in Economic Science, William Sharpe was mentored at UCLA by the late Professor J. Fred Weston. Sharpe was one of the originators of the Capital Asset Pricing Model and developed the Sharpe Ratio for investment performance analysis. He co-founded the independent investment advisory firm Financial Engines.

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Chicago Booth has long been recognized for its PhD in finance. Our finance faculty—which includes Nobel laureates Douglas W. Diamond, Eugene F. Fama, and Lars P. Hansen—sets the course for research in all areas of the field.

As a finance PhD student at Chicago Booth, you’ll join a community that encourages you to think independently.

Taking courses at Booth and in the university’s Kenneth C. Griffin Department of Economics, you will gain a solid foundation in all aspects of economics and finance--from the factors that determine asset prices to how firms and individuals make financial decisions. Following your coursework, you will develop your research in close collaboration with faculty and your fellow students. Reading groups and workshops with faculty, student-led brown-bag seminars, and conferences provide many opportunities to learn from others.

The Finance PhD Program also offers the Joint Program in Financial Economics , which is run by Chicago Booth and the Department of Economics in the Division of the Social Sciences at the University of Chicago.

Our Distinguished Finance Faculty

Chicago Booth finance faculty are leading researchers who also build strong relationships with doctoral students, collaborate on new ideas, and connect students with powerful career opportunities.

Francesca Bastianello

Assistant Professor of Finance and Liew Family Junior Faculty Fellow, Fama Faculty Fellow

Emanuele Colonnelli

Professor of Finance and Entrepreneurship

George M. Constantinides

Leo Melamed Professor of Finance

Douglas W. Diamond

Merton H. Miller Distinguished Service Professor of Finance

Eugene F. Fama

Robert R. McCormick Distinguished Service Professor of Finance

Niels Gormsen

Neubauer Family Associate Professor of Finance and Fama Faculty Fellow

Lars Hansen

David Rockefeller Distinguished Service Professor The University of Chicago Departments of Economics, Statistics and the Booth School of Business

John C. Heaton

Joseph L. Gidwitz Professor of Finance

Steven Neil Kaplan

Neubauer Family Distinguished Service Professor of Entrepreneurship and Finance and Kessenich E.P. Faculty Director at the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Anil Kashyap

Stevens Distinguished Service Professor of Economics and Finance

Ralph S.J. Koijen

AQR Capital Management Distinguished Service Professor of Finance and Fama Faculty Fellow

Professor of Finance and Fama Faculty Fellow

Stefan Nagel

Fama Family Distinguished Service Professor of Finance

Scott Nelson

Assistant Professor of Finance and Cohen and Keenoy Faculty Scholar

Pascal Noel

Neubauer Family Professor of Finance and Kathryn and Grant Swick Faculty Scholar

Lubos Pastor

Charles P. McQuaid Distinguished Service Professor of Finance and Robert King Steel Faculty Fellow

Raghuram G. Rajan

Katherine Dusak Miller Distinguished Service Professor of Finance

Bruce Lindsay Distinguished Service Professor of Economics and Public Policy

Quentin Vandeweyer

Assistant Professor of Finance and Fama Faculty Fellow

Pietro Veronesi

Deputy Dean for Faculty and Chicago Board of Trade Professor of Finance

Robert W. Vishny

Myron S. Scholes Distinguished Service Professor of Finance and Neubauer Faculty Director of the Davis Center

Michael Weber

Associate Professor of Finance

Anthony Lee Zhang

Luigi Zingales

Robert C. McCormack Distinguished Service Professor of Entrepreneurship and Finance

Professor of Economics and Finance

Alumni Success

Graduates of the Stevens Doctoral Program go on to successful careers in prominent institutions of higher learning, leading financial institutions, government, and beyond.

Sangmin (Simon) Oh, PhD '24

Assistant Professor of Business, Finance Division Columbia Business School, Columbia University Simon's research interests are asset pricing, investments, and insurance. He studies how institutional frictions impact the pricing of risk, focusing on market dynamics and investor behavior and often leveraging machine learning tools. Simon's dissertation area is in financial economics.

Shohini Kundu, MBA '20, PhD '21

Assistant Professor of Finance UCLA Anderson School of Management, University of California, Los Angeles Shohini Kundu's research lies in financial intermediation and macroeconomics, security design and externalities of financial contracts, and emerging market finance. Her dissertation area is in finance.

Jane (Jian) Li, PhD '21

Assistant Professor of Business, Finance Division Columbia Business School, Columbia University Jane's research lies at the intersection of macroeconomics and finance. She is particularly interested in how financial intermediaries affect the real economy and how different types of financial institutions can contribute to financial instability. Her dissertation area is in financial economics.

Spotlight on Research

The pages of Chicago Booth Review regularly highlight the research findings of finance faculty and PhD students.

A Brief History of Finance and My Life at Chicago

Chicago Booth’s Eugene F. Fama describes the serendipitous events that led him to Chicago, and into his monumental career in academic finance.

Climate-Policy Pronouncements Boost 'Brown' Stocks

It was a dramatic example of how White House communications on climate policy can affect asset prices, according to Washington University in St. Louis’s William Cassidy, a recent graduate of Booth’s PhD Program.

With Business Loans Harder to Get, Private Debt Funds Are Stepping In

It’s become harder for many prospective borrowers to access capital. But private debt funds have stepped in to fill the gap, according to Joern Block (Trier University), Booth PhD candidate Young Soo Jang, Booth’s Steve Kaplan, and Trier’s Anna Schulze.

Too Many 'Shadow Banks' Can Limit Overall Access to Credit

While go-betweens can benefit the broader economy by smoothing the flow of credit, there are now probably too many links in the credit chain, argue Zhiguo He and Jian Li (Booth PhD graduate).

A Network of Support

Chicago Booth is home to several interdisciplinary research centers that offer funding for student work, host workshops and conferences, and foster a strong research community.

Fama-Miller Center for Research in Finance Tasked with pushing the boundaries of research in finance, the Fama-Miller Center provides institutional structure and support for researchers in the field.

Becker Friedman Institute for Economics Bringing together researchers from the entire Chicago economics community, the Becker Friedman Institute fosters novel insights on the world’s most difficult economic problems.

Center for Research in Security Prices CRSP maintains one of the world’s largest and most comprehensive stock market databases. Since 1963, it has been a valued resource for businesses, government, and scholars.

Kent A. Clark Center for Global Markets Enhancing the understanding of business and financial market globalization, the Clark Center positions Chicago Booth as a thought leader in the understanding of ever-changing markets and improves financial and economic decision-making around the world.

George J. Stigler Center for the Study of the Economy and the State Dedicated to examining issues at the intersection of politics and the economy, the Stigler Center supports research by PhD students and others who are interested in the political, economic, and cultural obstacles to better working markets.

Rustandy Center for Social Sector Innovation Committed to making the world more equitable and sustainable, the Rustandy Center works to solve complex social and environmental problems. The center’s student support includes fellowships, research funding, and networking opportunities.

The PhD Experience at Booth

For Itzhak Ben-David, PhD ’08, the PhD Program in Finance was an exploratory journey.

Video Transcript

Itzhak Ben-David, ’08: 00:03 For me, the PhD Program was an exploratory journey. It was about discovering what was interesting for me, what will be interesting for other economists. It was about discovering something new about the world. Much of the PhD Program experience is to explore and to wonder a bit and to just think and expose yourself to new ideas and new disciplines. Back then, this was 2006, I found a billboard that said, "If you buy this house, we're going to give you a free car or $20,000 in cash." And this seemed really odd to me. What I realized that was going on, that this was part of a borrower fraud and the idea was that seller and the buyer will agree on a higher price on a house and the lender would be under the impression that the collateral worth more than it really is.

Itzhak Ben-David, ’08: 00:58 So I started to investigate other parts of the real estate food chain. What I saw is that in many parts of this chain, there were incentives in place pushing the intermediaries or the different economic agents to inflate prices. It's not always a bubble, but oftentimes it points out behavior that is not consistent with our textbook behavior. I had the dream team of advisors, Toby Moskowitz, Dick Taylor, Steve Levitt, and Erik Hurst. Each one of them contributed in different way to my dissertation and brought different ideas, brought different aspects. There is no better place of doing research than in Booth. It's really a hub of academic activity. There is no important work that doesn't pass at Chicago before being published. It's really an intellectual home. When you meet people and you know that they are from Booth, you can see the difference in their thinking.

Current Finance Students

PhD students in finance study a wide range of topics, including the behavior and determinants of security prices, the financing and investment decisions of firms, corporate governance, and the management and regulation of financial institutions. They go on to careers at prestigious institutions, from Yale University to the International Monetary Fund.

Current Students

Ching-Tse Chen Natalia Corado Mihir Gandhi Huan (Bianca) He Jessica Li Edoardo Marchesi Alexa Marciano Rayhan Momin Lauren Mostrom Meichen Qian Francisco Ruela

Booth also offers joint degrees. Learn more about the current students in our Joint Program in Financial Economics .

Program Expectations and Requirements

The Stevens Doctoral Program at Chicago Booth is a full-time program. Students generally complete the majority of coursework and examination requirements within the first two years of studies and begin work on their dissertation during the third year. For details, see General Examination Requirements by Area in the Stevens Program Guidebook below.

Download the 2023-2024 Guidebook!

Doctoral Programs

Financial economics encompasses a broad area of topics and issues, including corporate investments and financing policy, security valuation, portfolio management, the behavior of prices in speculative markets, financial institutions, and intermediation.

The PhD specialization in finance is designed to give the student a strong background for study and research in both theoretical and empirical work in finance and related areas. Emphasis is placed on understanding the important concepts and models. Students normally take several graduate courses in the Department of Economics, particularly in microeconomics and macroeconomic theory, the economics of uncertainty, and econometrics.

The program offers two courses specifically in financial theory and its applications. In addition, the faculty and doctoral students attend a seminar that features speakers from around the country. However, the specialization is built primarily around individual study and research under the guidance of the faculty.

Examples of potential areas of research for the financial economics dissertation:

Principal-agent relationships
Financial intermediation
Efficiency of markets
Portfolio selection

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

The Finance doctoral program provides students with rigorous training in finance, economics, mathematics and statistics. These tools, plus opportunities for supervised independent research, enable students to make their own contributions to the understanding of financial markets and institutions that lead to productive research careers. The Finance doctoral program trains students to apply empirical methods and theoretical tools to advance our understanding of how financial markets and institutions work, and how they may contribute to economic development. The program aims to produce scholars who develop rigorous and creative research in finance and economics. Students are exposed to a variety of research methods in their coursework, and interact closely with faculty as they develop their own research projects. A distinctive characteristic of our program is its close ties with the Department of Economics, which are fostered by joint seminars, mutual advising of students, and frequent collaboration on research projects. The academic interests of the finance faculty also span a very broad range of topics in finance, from the role of culture and trust in financial markets to the identification of jump risk premiums. The breadth of knowledge and interests of our faculty create an environment that encourages students to conduct advanced research in novel aspects of the field.

Active Research Areas : Current theoretical and empirical research in Finance spans the areas of asset pricing and corporate finance. Research topics include corporate governance, household financial decisions, macro-finance, financial crises, the pricing of securities in financial markets, international finance, financial history, development economics, market microstructure, regulation, and financial econometrics. Please note: Applicants to economics-based PhD programs, such as Finance, may opt-in to have their application considered by Weinberg's Economics PhD program. More information about this option is available on The Graduate School website .

Finance faculty members include scholars who are fellows of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the National Bureau of Economics Research, and the Society for Financial Econometrics, as well as recipients of the Smith Breeden Prize from the American Finance Association and other top paper awards. Several faculty serve/served in editorial positions at leading journals, such as the Journal of Finance, Journal of Monetary Economics, and Econometrica , and as directors of the American Finance Association and past-presidents of the Western Finance Association. Recent publications within top economics and finance journals include American Economic Review , Econometrica , Journal of Finance , Journal of Financial Economics, and Journal of Political Economy.

What We Are Looking for in Applicants

We seek students with strong training in mathematics and statistics and a solid background in economics, either through prior study or through work and research experience. Recommended coursework at an advanced level includes calculus, linear algebra, optimization, probability and statistics. Although a master’s degree is not required, about half of our incoming class has a graduate degree. Prior research experience is not required.

Program Requirements

In years one and two, students take three or four courses each quarter (fall, winter, spring). The first-year students complete the three core sequences in Microeconomics, Macroeconomics and Econometrics. In year two, students enroll in the 3-course sequences in asset pricing and corporate finance, plus an additional course/elective – preferably from the Economics Department. Students must maintain a minimum 3.0 grade point average (GPA). Qualifying Exam At the end of year one, students are required to establish competence in the Economics course sequences: Microeconomics, Macroeconomics and Econometrics. This competence is satisfied by achieving a 3.0 grade point average (GPA) across the nine required courses in the sequence.

During the summer following the student’s second year of study, students must pass a comprehensive qualifying exam designed to measure competence in both asset pricing and corporate finance or they must demonstrate competence by maintaining a 3.6 GPA average across both course sequences.

Candidacy As students transition from coursework to research, they are required to write an original research paper in the summer of their second year supervised by a faculty advisor. Students present their completed research project to the department in September following the summer quarter of their second year. At that time their performance is reviewed by the Finance faculty, and upon successfully completing their coursework, passing their qualifying exam and second-year paper, students are admitted to candidacy.

Fourth Year Paper At the end of the fall quarter of the fourth year, students are required to pass the dissertation proposal requirement by presenting a completed research paper to the department. The research paper has to be sufficiently advanced to be part of the student's dissertation. Students who do not pass the dissertation proposal at that stage have an additional opportunity to do so by the end of the spring quarter of the fourth year.

Research, Proposal & Dissertation The main activity in years three and four is research toward a thesis of publishable quality, under the direction of one or more faculty advisors. During the third year, students are required to present their work in progress to the department. A thesis proposal must be presented to the Finance faculty by the end of fall quarter of their fourth year. In their final year in the program, each candidate must complete a dissertation demonstrating original and significant research and must pass a final oral examination (“defense”) on the dissertation.

Teaching Requirement To promote engagement with faculty and integration with the intellectual life of the department, students serve as research assistants and teaching assistants during years two, three, and four. Research assistantships (RAs) are an excellent lead-in to research; teaching assistantships (TAs) prepare students for teaching after obtaining the PhD.

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Learn more about our faculty, faculty journal publications & books.

PhD in Financial Technology (FinTech)

Photo of student in front of computer screen with a finance and tech graphic overlay

Drive Innovation at the Intersection of Finance and Technology

The future of finance is here and it’s unfolding at an unprecedented pace. In an era marked by rapid technological advancements, the finance industry is undergoing a transformative shift, necessitating a new breed of professionals. Our program is dedicated to cultivating leaders who will pioneer the next wave of innovation in the financial sector.

Value Proposition Description

Why FinTech?

The fusion of finance and technology, known as FinTech, represents one of the fastest-growing industry sectors globally. With a market capitalization exceeding $550 billion and more than 272 fintech unicorns, the potential for groundbreaking work in this field is vast. The rise of digital payments, mobile banking, cryptocurrencies, and beyond has reshaped the landscape of financial services, making FinTech an essential area of study and innovation.

A Multidisciplinary Approach

WPI’s FinTech PhD program is uniquely positioned to offer a comprehensive, multidisciplinary education that bridges finance, technology, computer science, and ethics. Leveraging the expertise of our distinguished faculty and the resources of our state-of-the-art FinTech Innovation Hub, students engage in cutting-edge research and practical applications of their studies.

Curriculum for PhD in Financial Technology (FinTech)

The FinTech PhD program offers a rigorous curriculum designed to equip students with an in-depth understanding of both the technological and financial aspects of this evolving field. Our program emphasizes:

Covering blockchain technology, Asset Pricing, Price Theory, Econometrics, Macroeconomics, digital payments, AI, and machine learning, our courses are tailored to meet the demands of the FinTech industry.

By working closely with regional FinTech firms and departments across the university, students gain a well-rounded perspective on the technical, regulatory, and business dimensions of FinTech. The collaboration with Worcester Polytechnic Institute's (WPI) world-renowned faculty presents a unique and invaluable opportunity for scholars to engage in cutting-edge research in the field of finance. WPI's faculty are leaders in their disciplines, known for their innovative approaches and contributions to technology and finance.

Collaborating with world-renowned faculty at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) significantly benefits students, especially in refining their research for publication in top finance journals. Working alongside leading academics offers students unparalleled access to advanced methodologies and insights into the finance field. This mentorship helps students navigate the complexities of research and publication, ensuring their work meets the high standards of prestigious journals. Such collaboration not only boosts students' academic profiles but also contributes valuable insights to the finance community.

The benefits of this scholarly collaboration extend beyond individual achievements, contributing to the broader academic and professional communities by setting new benchmarks in finance research.

Our curriculum incorporates discussions on ethics, data privacy, and financial inclusion to prepare students for the ethical challenges they may face in their careers.

Graduates of our program are poised to make significant contributions to the FinTech sector, whether in academia, industry research, or leading their own innovative startups. Our alumni network spans the globe, with members holding pivotal positions in major financial hubs and pioneering the development of new technologies and business models.

Important Dates

Next Start: August 22, 2024

Application Deadline: Apply by May 1st

FinTech Education at WPI: An Interdisciplinary Approach

Dean Debora Jackson and Professors Kwamie Dunbar, Joseph Sarkis, and Robert Sarnie of the WPI Business School discuss how the university’s cross-disciplinary experiential learning and collaboration make it the ideal place to study FinTech.

WPI Business School Dean Debora Jackson stands with the organizers of the FFEA conference.

FinTech for Inclusivity, Growth, and the Future

In partnership with Flame University, Boston Blockchain Association (BBA), and the Massachusetts High Technology Council, the WPI Business School and the Future Finance and Economics Association (FFEA) hosted their inaugural conference in October 2023—the first such FFEA event in the United States.

WPI & Flame University FinTech Lab

In partnership with Flame University, WPI’s FinTech Lab recognizes the critical role of adept individuals in driving this transformation. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, it cultivates a dynamic environment where experts from finance, technology, data science, and entrepreneurship converge to develop cutting-edge solutions.

Similar Majors

Dr. Dunbar is currently a tenured Associate Professor of Finance at WPI. In addition to his extensive experience in teaching and research, he has a wealth of industry experience working with several fortune 500 companies in various capacities.

Professor Dunbar's research has appeared in leading economics and finance journals such as Quantitative Finance, Economic Modeling, International Review of Financial Analysis, and Research in International Business and Finance, amongst others. His [...]

Joseph Sarkis is a Professor of Management within Worcester Polytechnic Institute's Business School. He previously served as a faculty member at Clark University and the University of Texas at Arlington. His teaching and research interests are in the fields of environmental sustainability, operations and supply chain management. He is the author or co-author of over 600 publications. His research is widely cited and earned the designation of highly cited researcher for eight years from&n [...]

Rob joins WPI from Fidelity Investments, where he spent 23 years in the finance industry, holding multiple executive leadership positions including VP of Strategy and Planning, VP Human Resource Systems, and VP Finance, Procurement, and Accounting Systems. Rob also previously held positions in both the public and private sectors for companies in the manufacturing and nonprofit industries.

At Fidelity, Rob exercised his passion for coaching and mentoring by leading multiple mentoring pro [...]

Take the First Step Today

Prepare to be a research or industry leader in the rapidly growing world of FinTech.

Finance PhD Specialization

General information.

Finance is the study of investment and financing decisions by firms, the portfolio decisions of individual investors, and the implications of those decisions for the pricing of capital assets. Finance includes the study of corporate financial decisions, corporate control, the role and management of financial institutions, new venture financing, mutual funds and other investment vehicles, market microstructure, asset pricing and portfolio choice, international finance, and the behavior of interest rates and foreign exchange rates.

The Finance department at the Foster School has a long and distinguished record of excellence. It is the birthplace of the Capital Asset Pricing Model (CAPM), the Western Finance Association (WFA), and the Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis (JFQA) . The finance department is the longtime home of the JFQA, widely regarded as one of the four leading journals in Finance. Our faculty serve as editors and associate editors at all four of the top journals in finance – at the Journal of Finance, the Journal of Financial Economics, the Review of Financial Studies, and the Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis – and at other leading finance journals.

The main objective of the finance PhD program is to produce outstanding researchers who can be placed in the world’s top academic finance departments. Our faculty are open to a large variety of research styles and methods. At the same time, we have a strong department identity, which stresses the joint application of equilibrium reasoning and empirical analysis to understanding financial economics. We have a very active seminar and summer visitor program which attracts leading academics to Seattle and provides many opportunities for interaction. Our heavy representation at top journals ensures that PhD students will be exposed to cutting edge research and will have the opportunity to learn first-hand how leading journals evaluate papers submitted for publication.

Course work in the area of finance covers the basic tools, theory, and empirical evidence necessary to give students a solid foundation upon which to generate and disseminate new knowledge throughout their careers. Students regularly enter into research projects jointly with faculty in addition to the dissertation requirement. Students also obtain valuable teaching experience during their Ph.D. program of studies at the University of Washington.

Admission Requirements

Course requirements for finance major.

The following courses are required for all finance majors. The number of credits for each course is indicated in parentheses after the course number.


FIN 580 (4)	Corporate Finance I
FIN 585 (4)	Empirical Methods in Finance
FIN 589 (4)	Advanced Topics in Finance
FIN 590 (4)	Asset Pricing I
FIN 591 (4)	Corporate Finance II
FIN 592 (4)	Asset Pricing II

Finance majors are also expected to register for and attend the Finance Research Workshop (FIN 599) each quarter of the regular academic year in which they are enrolled in residence.

Research Methods Minor Area Requirements

Finance students are strongly encouraged to take Econometrics as their research methods minor. An Econometrics minor consists of the following courses at a minimum:

Econometrics

ECON 580 (4)	Applied Econometrics I
ECON 581 (4)	Applied Econometrics II
ECON 582 (4)	Applied Econometrics III

Other Minor Area Requirements

In addition to the finance area, all students majoring in finance are required to choose three support areas. Both research methods and microeconomics are required minor areas for finance majors. The third minor area depends upon the student’s interest. However, students are strongly recommended to take macroeconomics their third minor area of study. Other popular minor areas include, accounting, math, statistics, psychology, and computer science.

The microeconomics minor area must include the following three course sequence:

ECON 500 (4)	Microeconomic Analysis I
ECON 501 (4)	Microeconomic Analysis II
ECON 508 (4)	Microeconomic Analysis III

The macroeconomics minor area must include the following three course sequence:

ECON 502 (4)	Macroeconomic Analysis I
ECON 503 (4)	Macroeconomic Analysis II
ECON 509 (4)	Macroeconomic Analysis III

A Typical Course Schedule


ECON 500 Microeconomic Analysis I	ECON 501 Microeconomic Analysis I	ECON 508 Microeconomic Analysis III	FIN 600 Independent Study
FIN 590 Asset Pricing I	FIN 580 Corporate Finance I	FIN 585 Empirical Methods in Finance	Tools Examination
ECON 580 Econometrics I	ECON 581 Econometrics II	ECON 582 Econometrics III	1 year Summer Paper and Presentation
FIN 599 Doctoral Seminar	FIN 599 Doctoral Seminar	FIN 599 Doctoral Seminar	FIN 599 Doctoral Seminar
Teaching Effectiveness Seminar

Second Year


FIN 591 Corporate Finance II	FIN 592 Asset Pricing II	FIN 589 Advanced Topics in Finance	FIN 600 Independent Study
Elective	Elective	Elective	2nd Year Summer paper and Presentation
Elective	Elective	Elective	Area Examination
FIN 599 Doctoral Seminar	FIN 599 Doctoral Seminar	FIN 599 Doctoral Seminar

All finance students are encouraged to take the year-long macroeconomics sequence from the economics department if it fits with their research interests.

Other Requirements

First-Year Paper Students create and present a research paper during their first summer under the guidance of their advisor. The paper may be an original idea or an extension of existing work, recognizing that original ideas are more likely to subsequently become working papers or dissertations, while extensions allow those struggling to find executable ideas a way to build their toolbox in a structured manner. This paper will be due for a last set of comments at the end of August and presented in mid-September.

Basic Tools Exam The basic tools exam for finance majors is administered near the end of the Summer Quarter at the end of the first year of study. The exam is designed primarily to test the student’s understanding of microeconomic analysis, as covered in the economics core sequence ECON 500, 501, and 508. It is administered by the Economics department. Previous examples of the Tools Examination can be obtained in the School’s Doctoral Program Office.

Major Area Examination The finance major area exam is administered near the beginning of a student’s second Summer Quarter. The exam tests a student’s understanding and knowledge of the entire field of finance. Previous examples of the Area Examination can be obtained in the School’s Doctoral Program Office.

Summer Research Project After completing the Major Area Examination, students complete an original research paper under the guidance of a faculty advisor. This project is to be independent research on a topic and issue selected by the student. Students present their work in a workshop setting in Fall Quarter.

General Examination After successfully completing the previous exams and research papers, the student will propose a dissertation. The proposal should demonstrate through existing work that a student has the capacity to complete a thesis. Members of the Supervisory Committee, a representative of the Graduate School, and any other interested faculty attend the proposal.

Dissertation and Final Examination After passing the general exam, students complete the proposed research and write the dissertation guided by a reading committee. The reading committee may consist entirely of members of the supervisory committee or may include one or more members not previously on the supervisory committee. The supervisory committee administers the final defense of the dissertation.

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Ph.D. in Business with a Finance Area of Focus

Learn about the program's curriculum and comprehensive examination requirement.

Learn More About the Program & Curriculum

Admission and Financial Aid

Learn about admissions and the costs of pursuing a Ph.D. in finance, and explore a variety of resources available to help finance your degree.

Learn More About Admission and Financial Aid

An overview of the research activities of our students and faculty.

Learn More About Program Research

The Ph.D. in Business with a Finance Area of Focus prepares students for future academic and research-oriented careers by providing them a solid foundation in both theoretical and empirical financial research. Students take courses that cover asset pricing, continuous time models, corporate finance, corporate governance, macro-financial issues, investment, banking, politics and finance, and real estate. GW faculty have a strong research profile in both theoretical and empirical research, covering a wide area of research including asset pricing, banking, corporate finance, international finance, corporate governance, credit risk and real estate.

The program seeks intellectual and curious students with a strong dedication to high-quality research. Prospective students are expected to have strong analytical skills and be ready to start independent work pursuing scholarly research. The faculty works closely with students to develop research and is dedicated to help them succeed in obtaining placements at high-quality research institutions.

The strength of the program is complemented by the ability to leverage resources across top policy and research organizations such as the International Monetary Fund, the Federal Reserve Board, World Bank, SEC, CFTC and FDIC. The GW finance Ph.D. program is in the center of one of the most vibrant intellectual centers in the world. As a result, faculty and students find many ways to utilize synergies with these institutions such as research collaborations, exchanging ideas, and joint seminars.

PhD in Finance

Annette Poulsen teaching in small classroom

Program Overview

The PhD in Business Administration with a focus in Finance prepares students for careers in research and teaching in academic or government research institutions. The program provides a strong foundation in financial and economic theory and the methodological skills needed to execute research projects. Graduates come to understand the fundamental concepts of finance, the workings of financial markets and financial intermediaries, and corporate financial decision-making. Faculty members work closely with PhD students and provide a stimulating intellectual environment that fosters collaboration. Graduates are placed at major research and teaching universities in the U.S. and overseas as well as in finance positions in private and public sector organizations.

Faculty Reputation

Terry’s Finance Department’s research publication record in the leading finance journals ranks in the top 20 of finance departments at public universities. Faculty members have received best paper awards from leading academic journals and conferences and have been invited to be keynote speakers at major conferences.

Collaborative Research Environment

Faculty members frequently co-author with current and former PhD students. Those articles were published in the top finance journals such as the Journal of Finance , Journal of Financial Economics , Review of Financial Studies , and Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis .

Research Topics

Corporate governance, fintech, household finance, mergers and acquisitions, financial institutions, impact of asymmetric information on corporate finance, market microstructure, causes of major market movements, and the impact of analysts’ guidance.

Prerequisites

The program is highly quantitative, and entering PhD students should have strong quantitative aptitude. Academic preparation in economics, engineering, mathematics, or statistics is helpful. Students not having sufficient background in integral and differential calculus or linear algebra are encouraged to enroll in review courses before arriving on campus.

Preferred deadline: January 4

Gregory Eaton is an associate professor at UGA's Terry College of Business

Bradford McFadden Professor of Personal Financial Management and Associate Professor , Department of Finance

Typical Course Sequence

FINA 7990 Research Methodology
ECON 8000 Mathematical Analysis for Economists
FINA 9210 Seminar in Investments ‪[2]
ECON 8010 Microeconomic Theory I
Elective(s) [1]
FINA 9200 Theory of Finance
FINA 9130 Seminar in Corporate Finance and Research Methods [2]
FINA 9230 Seminar on Topics in Finance [2]
ECON 8020 Microeconomic Theory II
ECON 8080 Intro to Econometrics
ECON 8110 Econometrics I
ECON 8120 Econometrics II

Year 3 and Beyond

FINA 9300 Doctoral Dissertation
Electives [1]
Electives include ACCT 9120: Capital Markets Accounting Seminar, ACCT 9140: Capital Markets Accounting II Seminar, ECON 8040: Macroeconomic Theory I, ECON 8050: Macroeconomic Theory II, REAL 9910: Real Estate I Seminar, REAL 9920: Real Estate II Seminar, RMIN 9450: Property and Liability Seminar , and other courses in computer science, economics, psychology, statistics, etc. as approved by the PhD coordinator.
Some PhD seminars may not be offered every year. Thus, you will take some in your first year and some in your second year, not necessarily in the order listed in this sample plan of study.

Recent finance PhD graduates were placed or have held tenure-track positions at institutions such as:

Auburn University
Clemson University
George Mason University
George Washington University
Iowa State University
Louisiana State University
Oklahoma State University
Singapore Management University
Texas A&M University
Texas Tech University
University of Alabama
University of Georgia
University of Kansas
University of Missouri
University of Nebraska
University of South Florida
University of Tennessee
Washington State University

Departments and Program Offices

PhD Program Office
Department of Finance

UGA Resources

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Additional Information

Current PhDs
Faculty Research

PhD in Finance

The Department of Finance, Real Estate, and Insurance and Risk Management at the Carl H. Lindner College of Business offers a rigorous doctoral program designed to prepare students for successful careers at leading academic institutions. Our world-class faculty, who hold PhDs in finance and economics from prestigious universities, are committed to providing the highest level of mentorship and training.

As a PhD student in our program, you will engage in rigorous coursework and research seminars in finance, economics and quantitative methods during your first two years. This foundational training equips you with the theoretical knowledge and analytical tools essential for conducting high-level research. Following this period, you will embark on original research under the guidance of our experienced faculty, honing the skills necessary for a successful academic career. Our program offers unique opportunities to collaborate with leading scholars in finance, real estate, and insurance and risk management, setting the stage for your future success in academia.

Faculty Research

The department currently has 13 tenured or tenure-track faculty conducting research on a wide range of empirical and theoretical topics:

Corporate Finance
Behavioral Finance
Market Microstructure
Financial Institutions
Asset Management
Machine Learning and FinTech

Real Estate

Real Estate Economics
Real Estate Finance and Investment
Urban Economics
Public Policy
Social Innovation

Insurance and Risk Management

Risk Economics
Risk Management
Insurance Markets
Risk Leadership
Risk Literacy
Innovation in Managing Risk

Our faculty publish regularly in prestigious journals including the Journal of Finance , Journal of Financial Economics , Review of Financial Studies , Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis , Management Science , Real Estate Economics , Journal of Urban Economics , Journal of Risk and Insurance , and Journal of Risk and Uncertainty . As of August 2024, our faculty's research has been cited more than 23,000 times according to Google Scholar.

The department also hosts a regular seminar series featuring leading national and international scholars in finance, real estate and insurance and risk management. These seminars provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and dissemination of cutting-edge knowledge between our faculty and experts from other academic institutions and research organizations.

The curriculum consists of five components: required courses, first-year literature review paper, comprehensive exam, second-year research paper and dissertation.

Students are required to complete courses that build competency in three key areas: quantitative methods, economics and finance. The course requirements are tailored to each student's educational background. Typically, students entering with a master’s degree must complete 48 credit hours, while those without a master’s degree must complete 60 credit hours. The required courses include:

Introduction to Research and Teaching (3 credit hours)
Core Statistics (6 credit hours)
Additional Research Methods (6 credit hours)
Finance Seminars (18 credit hours)
Support Area (15 credit hours)
Business Core (8 credit hours) — for students entering without a business degree
Additional Electives (up to 12 credit hours) — for students entering without a master’s degree

During their first summer, students are required to complete a literature review paper. They may choose a research topic from a list provided by the finance faculty or propose their own topic, subject to faculty approval. The paper will be evaluated by the finance faculty at the end of the summer. The expectation is that students will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of both foundational studies and cutting-edge research related to their chosen topic by conducting extensive reading throughout the summer. Additionally, students are strongly encouraged to develop original research ideas based on their literature review. A satisfactory performance on the first-year literature review paper is essential for students to maintain a good standing in the program.

The comprehensive examination is designed to assess a student's in-depth knowledge in finance, economics and quantitative methods. It encompasses four finance seminars: Corporate Finance Theory, Empirical Studies in Corporate Finance, Asset Pricing Theory, and Empirical Studies in Asset Pricing. Typically taken during the second summer, this exam is a crucial milestone for doctoral students, signifying their transition from coursework to full-time thesis research and advancing them to candidacy.

During their second summer, students are expected to develop an independent, original research idea under the guidance of one or more faculty mentors. They will conduct all necessary theoretical and empirical analyses to transform their research question into a complete original paper. By the end of the summer, students must submit a complete paper and present it during the fall semester of their third year. The faculty will evaluate the paper based on the originality and significance of the research idea, the quality of its execution and writing, and the student’s ability to effectively communicate the paper’s concepts and findings during the presentation. Successfully passing the second-year paper is another crucial requirement for advancing to PhD candidacy.

The doctoral dissertation is expected to be a substantial, significant and original contribution to the field of knowledge. It is developed under the guidance of a thesis committee consisting of three or more faculty members, including at least one from outside the finance department, chosen by the candidate in consultation with their thesis advisor. Early in the process, the candidate submits a thesis proposal, which is then presented in a seminar attended by finance faculty and doctoral students. This presentation provides the student with valuable feedback while the research plan is still in its formative stages. Upon completion of the research, a thesis-defense seminar, open to the entire University of Cincinnati academic community, is conducted to evaluate the dissertation.

Our PhD student placements include:

Concordia University (Canada)
Drake University
Erasmus University (Netherlands)
Miami University
Michigan Technological University
Northern Illinois University
Oregon State University
SUNY Buffalo
University of Akron
University of Guelph (Canada)
University of Manitoba (Canada)
University of Toledo
University of Wisconsin - Eau Claire
University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
Federal Home Loan Bank
Office of the Comptroller of the Currency

Publications

Selected joint publications of our PhD graduates (in bold) with faculty members (in red):

Guo, Hui , Qian Lin, and Yu-Jou Pai , 2023, A Tale of Fear and Euphoria in the Stock Market, forthcoming, Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis .
Guo, Hui , and Buihui Qiu , 2022, Conditional Equity Premium and Aggregate Corporate Investment, Journal of Money, Credit, and Banking .
Bond, Shaun , Hui Guo , and Changyu Yang , 2022, Systematic Mispricing: Evidence from Real Estate Markets, Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics .
DeLisle, Jared, Michael Ferguson , Haimanot Kassa , and Gulnara Zaynutdinova, 2021, Hazard Stocks and Expected Returns, Journal of Banking and Finance .
Qiu, Buhui , and Steve Slezak , 2019, The Equilibrium Relationships between Performance-Based Pay, Performance, and the Commission and Detection of Fraudulent Misreporting, The Accounting Review .
Bond, Shaun , Yu-Jou Pai , Peng Wang, and Suyan Zheng , 2019, The Impact of Dividend Reinvestment Plans on Firm Payout ChoicesEvidence from Real Estate Investment Trusts, Real Estate Economics .
Chichernea , Doina C. , Haimanot Kassa , and Steve Slezak , 2019, Lottery Preferences and the Idiosyncratic Volatility Puzzle, European Financial Management .
Guo, Hui , and Buhui Qiu , 2016, A Better Measure of Institutional Informed Trading, Contemporary Accounting Research .
Bond, Shaun , and Avis Devine , 2016, Incentivizing Green Single-Family Construction: Identifying Effective Government Policies and Their Features, Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics .
Bond, Shaun , and Avis Devine , 2016, Certification Matters: Is Green Talk Cheap Talk? Journal of Real Estate Finance and Economics .
Chichernea , Doina C. , Michael Ferguson , and Haimanot Kassa , 2015, Idiosyncratic Risk, Investor Base and Returns, Financial Management .
Guo, Hui , Michael Ferguson , and Haimanot Kassa , 2014, On the Relation between EGARCH Idiosyncratic Volatility and Expected Stock Returns, Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis .
Guo, Hui , and Buhui Qiu , 2014, Options-implied variance and future stock returns, Journal of Banking & Finance .

Youth Program
Wharton Online

PhD Course Descriptions

Fnce9110 - financial economics (course syllabus).

The objective of this course is to undertake a rigorous study of the theoretical foundations of modern financial economics. The course will cover the central themes of modern finance including individual investment decisions under uncertainty, stochastic dominance, mean variance theory, capital market equilibrium and asset valuation, arbitrage pricing theory, option pricing, and incomplete markets, and the potential application of these themes. Upon completion of this course, students should acquire a clear understanding of the major theoretical results concerning individuals' consumption and portfolio decisions under uncertainty and their implications for the valuation of securities.

Prerequisites: ECON 6100 OR ECON 7100

FNCE9120 - Corp Fnce and Fin Instit (Course Syllabus)

This course provides students with an overview of the basic contributions in the modern theory of corporate finance and financial institutions. The course is methodology oriented in that students are required to master necessary technical tools for each topic. The topics covered may include capital structure, distribution policy, financial intermediation, incomplete financial contracting, initial and seasoned public offerings, market for corporate control, product market corporate finance interactions, corporate reorganization and bankruptcy, financing in imperfect markets, security design under adverse selection and moral hazard, and some selected topics.

FNCE9210 - Intro Empir Methods Fin (Course Syllabus)

This course is an introduction to empirical methods commonly employed in finance. It provides the background for FNCE 934, Empirical Research in Finance. The course is organized around empirical papers with an emphasis on econometric methods. A heavy reliance will be placed on analysis of financial data.

Prerequisites: FNCE 9110 AND STAT 5100 AND STAT 5110

FNCE9220 - Continuous-Time Fin Econ (Course Syllabus)

This course covers some advanced material on the theory of financial markets developed over the last two decades. The emphasis is on dynamic asset pricing and consumption choices in a continuous time setting. The articles discussed include many classical papers in the field as well as some of the most recent developments. The lectures will emphasize the concepts and technical tools needed to understand the articles.

Prerequisites: FNCE 9110 AND ECON 7100 AND 7110

FNCE9230 - Fin Econ Under Imp Info (Course Syllabus)

This course covers general equilibrium and rational expectations, foundations of the theory of information; learning from prices in rational expectations equilibrium models, moral hazard, adverse selection, and signaling bidding theories.

Prerequisites: FNCE 9220

FNCE9240 - Intertemporal Macro Fin (Course Syllabus)

This is a doctoral level course on macroeconomics, with special emphasis on intertemporal choice under uncertainty and topics related to finance. Topics include: optimal consumption and saving, the stochastic growth model, q-theory of investment, (incomplete) risk sharing and asset pricing. The course will cover and apply techniques, including dynamic programming, to solve dynamic optimization problems under uncertainty. Numerical solution methods are also discussed.

FNCE9250 - Topics in Asset Pricing (Course Syllabus)

This course exposes student to recent development in the asset pricing literature. The starting point for the course is the standard neo-classical rational expectations framework. We will then investigate where this frameworkhas succeeded and where it has not. Recently documented deviations from the framework in the literature are discussed and placed in context. The course will also focus on hypothesis development, recent research methods, and research writing. The ultimate objective is for students to develop their own hyoptheses and research ideas, resulting in a paper.

FNCE9260 - Empirical Meth Corp Fn (Course Syllabus)

The course will cover a variety of micro-econometric models and methods including panel data models, program evaluation methods e.g. difference in differences, matching techniques, regression discontinuity design, instrumental variables, duration models, structural estimation, simulated methods of moments. The structure of the course consists of lectures, student presentations, and empirical exercises. Published studies will be utilized in a variety of fields such as corporate finance, labor economics, and industrial organization to illustrate the various techniques. The goal of the course is to provide students with a working knowledge of various econometric techniques that they can apply in their own research. As such, the emphasis of the course is on applications, not theory. Students are required to have taken a graduate sequence in Econometrics, you should be comfortable with econometrics at the level of William Green's "Econometric Analysis of Cross-Section and Panel Data".

Prerequisites: STAT 5210

FNCE9320 - Topics in Corp Finance (Course Syllabus)

This course covers advanced theory and empirical investigations; financial decisions of the firm, dividends, capital structure, mergers, and takeovers.

FNCE9330 - International Finance (Course Syllabus)

To provide an understanding of selected topics of current academic research in the areas of international finance and its intersection with international macroeconomics; to teach interested students the tools for conducting research in this field. Each topic will be developed beginning with early classic papers and then updated through the current status of the profession. The typical target audience comprises students in their second year or later. Prerequisite: Completion of first year course requirements

FNCE9340 - Empirical Meth in Asset (Course Syllabus)

This course has three main objectives: The first object is to introduce students to the fundamental works and the frontier of research in dynamic asset pricing. We will cover recent models that have been proposed to shed light on intreguing and important empirical patterns in the cross section and in the time series. Topics include non-separable utilities, market incompleteness, learning, uncertainty, differences of opionions, ex-ante and ex-post asymmetric information, ambiguity and Knightian uncertainty. The second objective is to teach students how to think of asset pricing research under a bigger or richer framework. We shall focus on the interactions between asset pricing and other fields such as macroeconomics, corporate finance, financial institutions, and international finance. The goal of inventigating the joint dynamics is not only to better understand how asset prices are determined, but also (maybe more importantly) how would asset pricing dynamics affect other important economic vaiables such as investment, corporate payout and financing, unemployment, risk sharing, and international capital flows. Students will learn production-based asset pricing models, particularly the asset pricing models with investment-specific technology shocks, risk shocks, financial friction, searching frictions and information frictions. Of course, the advanced solution methods will focus too. The third objective is to introduce advanced empirical methods to analyze the data and the quantitative dynamic models. It includes how to estimate structural dynamic models, how evaluate structural models beyond goodness-of-fit tests, how confront the models predictions with empirical data by simulation and re-sampling techniques, and how to efficiently test models and explore new patterns using asset pricing and macro data.

Prerequisites: FNCE 9110 AND FNCE 9210

FNCE9360 - Household Finance (Course Syllabus)

The primary goal of this 0.5cu course is to introduce students to the main areas of research in household finance. The emphasis will be on discussing papers on the research frontier on topics such as consumption, portfolio choices, housing, inequality and entrepreneurship. This course complements REAL 9480, Advanced Topics in Urban Economics: Household Real Estate Decisions-Making. Students are encouraged to take REAL 9480 in the first half of the spring semester and FNCE 9360 in the second half of that semester.

FNCE9370 - Topics in Macro Finance (Course Syllabus)

This is an advanced course in quantitative theory applied to macro and finance models. It is intended for doctoral students in finance, economics and related fields. The course focuses on four broad theoretical literatures: (i) firm investment and growth; (ii) corporate, household and sovereign debt; (iii) asset pricing in general equilibrium; and (iv) equilibrium macro models with a financial sector. My approach is to develop and discuss in detail a unified framework that is suited to address most topics, usually covering a few central topics and the core papers. We then discuss the more recent literature, highlighting how authors combine and expand upon the core ideas. This part of the course usually relies on regular student presentations.

Prerequisites: FNCE 9110

FNCE9500 - Research Seminar in Fin (Course Syllabus)

This course may be offered (and taken by a student) several times a year with varying topics.

PhD Program

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Harvard Business School →
Doctoral Programs →

PhD Programs

Accounting & Management
Business Economics
Health Policy (Management)
Organizational Behavior
Technology & Operations Management

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 four areas of study: Accounting and 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) , marketing , organizational behavior , strategy , technology & operations management .

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PhD in Business Administration with a Specialization in Finance

You are here.

The Finance PhD program prepares students to engage in original research on financial markets and decision-making. Students acquire critical technical skills in economic theory, finance theory, data analysis and coding. They also learn to identify promising ideas, write compelling papers and present effectively. Contribute to leading edge research

Our faculty’s research interests and technical approaches are broad, with particular strength in fields and methods such as:

Corporate finance
Household finance
Labor and finance
Social impact investing
Textual analysis
Theoretical modeling

Work with top thought leaders

Because the Finance PhD program is small, students benefit from broad access to faculty as co-authors, advisors and mentors. Students also have direct access to leading scholars within professional associations, including five members of the Finance Theory Group, five members (including one founder) of the Labor and

Additional information about our Finance faculty can be found here

General details about the curriculum, requirements, and structure of the program can be found here . Please be aware this document is not an exhaustive list of the requirements for the Program.

How to Apply

PhD in Finance Program Flyer

PhD Graduates' Publications

ETF Arbitrage, Non-Fundamental Demand, and Return Predictability (2021) Review of Finance David C. Brown (PhD 2014) Shaun William Davies Matthew Ringgenberg

Financing Efficiency of Securities-Based Crowdfunding (2020) Review of Financial Studies (Editor's Choice as Lead Article) David C. Brown (PhD 2014) Shaun William Davies

Learning by Owning in a Lemons Market (2022) Journal of Finance Jordan Martel (PhD 2018) Brian Waters Kenneth Mirkin

A Theory of Financial Media (2022) Journal of Financial Economics Eitan Goldman Jordan Martel (PhD 2018) Jan Schneemier

A Text-based Analysis of Corporate Innovation (2021) Management Science Gustaf Bellstam (PhD 2018) Sanjai Bhagat J. Anthony Cookson

Rival Growth Prospects & Equity Prices: Evidence from Mass Layoff Announcements (2021) Journal of Money, Credit and Banking Adam Bordeman (PhD 2015 Accounting) Bharadwaj Kannan (PhD 2016) Roberto Pinheiro

Employment, corporate investment and cash flow uncertainty (2018) Journal of Financial & Quantitative Analysis Saad Alnahdeh (PhD 2017) Sanjai Bhagat, Iulian Obreja – U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission

Tax uncertainty and retirement savings diversification (2017) Journal of Financial Economics David C. Brown (PhD 2014) Scott Cederburg Michael S O'Doherty

Moral hazard in active asset management (2017) Journal of Financial Economics David C. Brown (PhD 2014) Shaun William Davies
Size, leverage, and risk-taking of financial institutions (2015) Journal of Banking and Finance Sanjai Bhagat Brian Bolton (PhD 2006) Jun Lu - Central University of Finance and Economics, Beijing (PhD 2011)
Financial crisis and bank executive incentive compensation (2014) Journal of Corporate Finance Sanjai Bhagat Brian Bolton (PhD 2006)
Director ownership, governance and performance (2013) Journal of Financial & Quantitative Analysis Sanjai Bhagat Brian Bolton (PhD 2006)
Manager characteristics and capital structure: Theory and evidence (2012) Journal of Financial & Quantitative Analysis Sanjai Bhagat Brian Bolton (PhD 2006) Ajay Subramanian
PhD in Accounting
PhD in Finance
PhD in Information Systems
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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.

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

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Ph.D. Programs

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Ph.D. in Finance

An international reputation for academic excellence.

Faculty in the Seidner Department of Finance are experts in their disciplines and globally acclaimed for their scholarship, research, and mentorship. In our collegial environment, students typically collaborate with one another and with faculty to produce groundbreaking research.

The academic program begins with systematic, rigorous training in quantitative methods, economics, and finance. In addition, students complete a major research project, serve as research and teaching assistants, and write a doctoral dissertation.

Academic Program
Class Profile

Doctoral students in finance at Boston College complete a program of study that leads to competency in three areas: quantitative methods, economics, and finance. The program begins with course work in quantitative methods, economics, and finance. In the third year, students complete a major research project designed to develop their ability to do original research. Through hands-on experience as teaching assistants, students gain important pedagogical experience. Finally, each student completes a doctoral dissertation that contributes substantial, original work to the field of finance.

Students must complete a program of study that leads to competency in three areas: quantitative methods, economics and finance. The requirements of the program of study are typically satisfied by completing 14 courses in the first two years in the program. In some cases, course work prior to entering the program or successful performance on waiver examinations may be substituted for required courses. However, each student must complete a minimum of 12 courses while in the Program.

Comprehensive Examination

Satisfactory performance on a comprehensive examination marks the student’s transition from course work to full-time thesis research. The examination is intended to allow the student to demonstrate substantial knowledge of the literature and theory of finance and economics and competence in the area of quantitative methods. The examination consists of two steps.

Step 1: Students take an exam at the end of the second year in the program (late May). The exam covers all Finance Ph.D. classes taken during the first and the second year in the program. Whereas some of the questions will be specific and will test a particular topic, other questions will focus on broader understanding of the literature. Each student will be notified on their exam performance, immediately after it has been graded. There will be no second attempt to take the exam. If a student fails the exam, the only way to get admitted into “Ph.D. candidacy” would be to perform exceptionally well in Step 2.
Step 2: Students submit independent research proposals by the end of the summer of the second year in the program (late August) to their faculty advisors. Students present research papers at the end of the third Fall semester (early December). Ph.D. committee members will attend the presentation and will jointly evaluate the proposal. Students will be evaluated based on their performance in the exam (step 1) and the quality of research paper presentation (step 2).

Doctoral students are expected to engage early in research. The culmination of the program is the doctoral dissertation, a substantial, significant, and original contribution to the field that is prepared under the guidance of a thesis committee of three or more faculty members. When the research is complete, students present a thesis-defense seminar that is open to the Boston College community.

Research and Teaching Assistant Requirement

Doctoral students at the Carroll School are expected to serve as research assistants, teaching assistants, and/or instructors throughout their studies. Students work for a set number of hours per week, throughout the duration of their Ph.D. programs. In exchange, the Carroll School provides financial support for doctoral students in the form of a stipend and tuition remission.

Sample Course Sequence

Course Descriptions

Microeconomic Theory I
Statistics
Ph.D. Seminar: Advanced Topics in Capital Markets

Microeconomic Theory II
Econometric Methods
Macroeconomic Theory II
Ph.D. Seminar: Corporate Finance
RA/TA Work

Ph.D. Seminar: Asset Pricing
Ph.D. Seminar: Advanced Topics in Corporate Finance
Ph.D. Seminar: Topics in Empirical Corporate Finance
RA/TA Work

Ph.D. Seminar: Advanced Topics in Asset Pricing
Ph.D. Seminar: Research Topics in Finance
Ph.D. Seminar: Research Topics in Behavioral Finance
RA/TA Work

Research Paper
Research Paper Defense
RA/TA Work

Dissertation
RA/TA Work

Dissertation
Dissertation Proposal Defense
RA/TA Work

Dissertation Research and Writing
RA/TA Work

Dissertation Research and Writing
Dissertation Defense
RA/TA Work

The Ph.D. Program in Finance at the Carroll School attracts applicants from all over the world and from a wide array of backgrounds. While notable for the diversity of their individual achievements, our students typically share a track record of leadership, a strong commitment to research and teaching, and a desire to make a difference in the world.

Note: The following information reflects data for the entering classes of 2020–2024. Updated September 10, 2024.

Year	Class Size
2020	4
2021	4
2022	4
2023	4
2024	4
Overall Selectivity	7.7%

Demographics

Item	Data
Average Age	29
Age Range	23–38
Women	25%
International Students	60%

Academic & Professional Profile

Metric	Data
Average GMAT (10th Edition) Score	740
GMAT (10th Edition) 80th Percentile Range	730–748
Average GRE Score	327
GRE 80th Percentile Range	315–334
Average Undergraduate GPA	3.71
Average Full-Time Work Experience	2.7 years
Students Holding Master's Degree	35%

Where do our graduates work?

Our students and recent graduates are also prolific scholars and writers, publishing regularly in top economic and finance journals such as the American Economic Review, Journal of Finance, Journal of Financial Economics, Review of Financial Studies, and the Journal of Financial and Quantitative Analysis.

American University

Arizona State University

Baruch College (City University of New York)

Bocconi University

DePaul University

Fordham University

George Washington University

Indiana University

Lehigh University

Louisiana State University

Michigan State University

National University of Singapore

Texas A&M University

The College of William and Mary

University of Alberta

University of Arizona

University of Georgia

University of Minnesota

University of New South Wales

University of Notre Dame

University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)

University of Virginia (Darden School)

University of Hong Kong

Villanova University

Virginia Tech University

Meet Our Students

Learn more about current Ph.D. in Finance candidates.

Finance Faculty

Faculty take an active role connecting students with exceptional career opportunities.

Ph.D. Admission FAQ

Application link & deadlines.

Application Deadline: The deadline to apply for Fall 2025 is January 7, 2025.

Application Fee: All applicants are required to pay a nonrefundable application fee of $100 USD.

Interviews: If selected, applicants will be invited to interview in early spring.

Admission Decisions: Applications are generally reviewed after the final deadline has passed. There is no specific decision notification date for Ph.D. programs. Final decisions are typically available by mid-spring.

CV and Resume

Your current curriculum vitae should include your education, research, and professional information.

We also require a separate Employment History, using the form provided within the online application.

Recommendations

Recommendations from two individuals who can provide an objective appraisal of your capacity for intensive graduate study and potential for professional success.

Transcripts

All applicants must possess a four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. You must submit transcripts from every institution where you were enrolled in a degree-granting program. At the time of application, only a self-reported transcript is required but if you are admitted, we will require an official transcript sent directly from your degree-granting institution. Transcripts should include:

Course names

All grades received (including transfer credits and study abroad programs)

Cumulative GPA

Degree conferral information

Graduates of non-U.S. institutions must possess a college or university degree equivalent to a four-year U.S. bachelor’s degree. If admitted, international students are required to submit an official English translation of all academic credentials, along with a third-party degree verification from an agency such as SpanTran/TEC or World Education Services (WES) .

GMAT or GRE Scores

Applicants must submit GMAT or GRE scores from within the past five years. We accept both the GMAT Exam and GMAT Focus Edition. Our test codes are:

GMAT school code: 44x-J5-96
GRE school code: 3033

While Graduate Admissions does not have a preference between the GMAT or GRE, we encourage you to consult class profile data for average test scores in order to gauge where you stand.

English Proficiency

If you are not a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you are required to submit an English language proficiency exam score with your application. We accept TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores. We do not accept the Duolingo English Test.

Scores must be from within the past two years, and applicants must meet the following minimum scores:

TOEFL, iBT, and TOEFL iBT Home Edition: 100

You are eligible to waive the language test requirement if you meet either of the following criteria:

You have completed a four-year bachelor’s degree or a two-year master’s degree (or higher) at an institution where the medium language of instruction is English. You must have completed your degree in its entirety at the English-medium institution. The medium language of instruction must be indicated on your transcript or verified in an official letter from the institution.

You have worked in a full-time, post-degree position for at least two years in the United States or a country where English is an official language. NOTE: Working for a company that conducts its business in English in a country where English is not an official language will not qualify you for a language test waiver.

If you are eligible to waive the language test requirement, you do not need to submit a waiver request beforehand and can simply move forward with your application.

Required & Optional Essays

Applicants must submit a required essay discussing their research interests and career objectives. You may also submit an optional essay that addresses aspects of your candidacy that have not already been covered in other parts of the application.

If you have any further questions, please email us at bcmba@bc.edu , or schedule a phone call or Zoom appointment with a member of the Graduate Admission team.

Quick Links

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Phd in finance: requirements, salary, jobs, & career growth, what is phd in finance.

A PhD in Finance is a doctoral-level academic degree program in finance that focuses on advanced research and theoretical study. It is intended for people who want to work in academia, research, or advanced positions in the financial industry.

A PhD in Finance usually entails extensive training in finance, economics, statistics, and research methods. It also necessitates the completion of a substantial research project, frequently in the form of a dissertation, in which the student conducts original research and contributes to the body of knowledge in finance.

A PhD in Finance program’s curriculum may include financial theory, investments, corporate finance, financial econometrics, risk management, asset pricing, derivatives, and other specific fields of finance. Quantitative research approaches, such as econometrics, statistical modeling, and data analysis, may also be emphasized in the program.

How much money do people make with a PhD in Finance?

Individuals with a PhD in Finance can earn a wide range of salaries depending on criteria such as their years of experience, location, company, and job duties. PhD holders in Finance typically earn better income than people with less schooling in the industry, as their postgraduate degree denotes knowledge and specialization.

PhD holders in Finance may work in academia as professors or researchers in universities or business schools. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual income for postsecondary business teachers (including finance professors) was $83,960 in May 2020.

Salaries, on the other hand, can range from $50,000 to far over $150,000 or more, depending on factors such as rank, experience, and location.

Individuals with a PhD in Finance may work in the private sector as financial analysts, quantitative researchers, risk managers, investment managers, or consultants, among other positions. Salaries in the private sector can vary greatly depending on job title, level of responsibility, and business size and location.

According to Glassdoor data, the average annual pay for a financial analyst with a PhD in Finance in the United States in 2021 was roughly $102,000, while a quantitative researcher with a PhD in Finance may earn $150,000 or more per year.

What is expected job growth with PhD in Finance?

As businesses and organizations rely on financial skills to manage their operations, investments, and risk, the field of finance is projected to evolve and flourish.

Finance experts with extensive education and specialized knowledge, such as those with a PhD in Finance, may be in high demand in academic and research contexts, as well as professions requiring advanced quantitative and analytical skills.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of postsecondary teachers, particularly business teachers (such as finance professors), is expected to expand 9 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the national average. The need for higher education, as well as the ongoing demand for research and education, are driving this predicted growth.

What can you do with a PhD in Finance?

A PhD in Finance can lead to a variety of professional prospects in a variety of fields. Individuals with a PhD in Finance may pursue the following professional paths:

1. Academia: Many PhDs in Finance go on to become professors or researchers at universities or business schools. They may teach finance classes, conduct research, publish scholarly articles, and contribute to the progress of financial knowledge through their research findings. In addition, they may mentor and advise students, oversee dissertations, and attend academic conferences and seminars.

2. Research: PhD holders in Finance may work in research-related positions in university institutions, government agencies, or private research enterprises. They may perform novel research on financial markets, investments, risk management, corporate finance, or other finance-related topics. Their discoveries can help to build financial theories, models, and regulations, and they may have practical implications in the financial business.

3. Financial Services: PhD holders in Finance may work as financial analysts, quantitative researchers, risk managers, or investment managers in the financial services industry. They may evaluate financial data, design investment plans, manage risks, and provide strategic financial advise to customers or organizations using their sophisticated knowledge of finance and mathematical skills.

4. Consulting: PhD holders in Finance may operate as financial consultants, providing clients with specific experience in areas such as investment management, risk management, financial analysis, or corporate finance. They may operate in consulting firms, financial advisory firms, or specialist consulting practices within bigger corporations, advising clients on strategic financial matters.

5. Policymaking and government: Finance PhD holders may work in government agencies, international organizations, or policy-making institutions, providing knowledge in financial policy, regulations, or economic analysis. They may be involved in the development of financial policies, the assessment of the impact of financial legislation, or the provision of strategic financial advice to government agencies or policymakers.

6. Corporate Finance: PhD holders in Finance may work in corporations, particularly in financial strategy, capital budgeting, risk management, or financial analysis areas. They may offer financial advice in strategic decision-making, financial planning and analysis, investment analysis, or corporate valuation, assisting firms in improving their financial performance.

7. Entrepreneurship and Innovation: PhD holders in Finance may apply their financial skills to entrepreneurial initiatives or professions requiring innovation. They may work at start-ups, venture capital companies, or innovation-focused organizations, where they evaluate business models, assess investment opportunities, manage financial risks, and provide strategic financial advise to assist entrepreneurial activities.

What are the requirements for a PhD in Finance?

The particular criteria for a PhD in Finance can differ depending on the university or educational institution that offers the program, as well as the country or location in which the program is located. However, some common PhD in Finance requirements often include:

1. Educational Qualifications: Most PhD programs in Finance require applicants to have a solid educational background, often a master’s degree in a relevant topic such as finance, economics, business, or a comparable quantitative study. Some schools may accept applicants with a bachelor’s degree, however this is uncommon and sometimes necessitates additional requirements or experience.

2. Graduate Admissions examinations: Applicants to PhD programs in Finance may be required to submit results from standardized graduate admissions examinations such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT). (GMAT). These assessments measure applicants’ abilities in areas such as verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing.

3. Research Proposal: Because the PhD in Finance program is research-intensive, applicants may be required to submit a research proposal explaining their intended study topic or research interests. Typically, this proposal comprises a summary of the research issue, study aims, methodology, and predicted contributions to the subject of finance.

4. Academic Transcripts: Typically, applicants must produce official transcripts from their previous undergraduate and graduate degrees, demonstrating their academic record and achievements.

5. Letters of Recommendation: Applicants may be expected to present letters of recommendation from academic or professional sources who can speak to their abilities, skills, and prospects for success in a PhD program.

6. Statement of Purpose: Applicants are often required to provide a statement of purpose explaining their rationale for obtaining a PhD in Finance, as well as their professional objectives and research interests. This statement assists the admissions committee in determining the applicant’s fit with the program and their likelihood of success.

7. English Language Proficiency: Many PhD programs in Finance may demand confirmation of English language proficiency for applicants whose native language is not English, such as scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System. (IELTS).

8. Interviews: As part of the admissions process, several PhD programs in Finance may ask applicants to engage in an interview. This interview may take place in person, over the phone, or via video conference, and it will assess the applicant’s research interests, academic abilities, and enthusiasm for pursuing a PhD in Finance.

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How long does it take to get a phd in finance.

The time it takes to earn a PhD in Finance depends on a number of factors, including the program structure, the student’s progress, and the individual’s dedication to their study. However, it usually takes 4 to 5 years of full-time study to get a PhD in Finance.

The completion of a PhD in Finance can be divided into many stages, which may differ based on the program and the individual’s progress:

1. Coursework: During the first year of a PhD in Finance program, students often do coursework to provide a solid foundation in finance theory, research methods, and other related fields. Coursework time varies, but it normally takes 1 to 2 years to finish.

2. Comprehensive Exams: Some PhD programs in Finance require students to complete comprehensive exams after completing courses to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in the discipline. Depending on the program’s requirements, comprehensive exam preparation and completion can take several months to a year.

3. Research Proposal: After passing the comprehensive tests, students usually work on writing and defending a research proposal outlining their desired study topic, methodology, and expected contributions to the discipline. The development and defense of the research proposal might take several months to a year or more, depending on the complexity of the research and the student’s progress.

4. Dissertation Research: Following the successful defense of the research proposal, students begin their dissertation research, which is the capstone of their PhD program. The dissertation research stage’s time might vary greatly based on the research topic, methodology, data gathering, and analysis needs. The dissertation research and writing process normally takes two to three years or more.

5. Dissertation Defense: After completing their dissertation, students usually defend their research findings in front of a committee of faculty members. The time it takes to schedule and complete the dissertation defense can vary, although it normally takes several months to a year or more, depending on committee member availability and other practical concerns.

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Do you need a masters in finance to get a phd in finance.

A Master’s degree in Finance or a similar discipline is not always required for entrance to a PhD program in Finance. However, admission requirements may differ based on the program and institution.

Some PhD programs in Finance may require applicants to have a Master’s degree in a relevant discipline, whereas others may allow applicants with only a Bachelor’s degree provided they have additional qualifications or experience.

A Master’s degree in Finance or a closely related discipline can provide a solid foundation in finance theory, research methodologies, and mathematical skills, which can be useful for PhD study in Finance.

It can also reflect a greater degree of academic preparation and may assist applicants in standing out during the difficult admissions process.

Some PhD programs in Finance, however, may provide a combined Master’s and PhD program in which students acquire a Master’s degree while pursuing their PhD. In such instances, admittance may not require a separate Master’s degree.

What are the Best PhD in Finance Degree programs?

1. massachusetts institute of technology (mit) – phd in finance 2. stanford university – phd in finance 3. university of chicago – phd in finance 4. columbia university – phd in finance and economics 5. new york university (nyu) – phd in finance 6. university of pennsylvania (wharton) – phd in finance 7. harvard university – phd in business economics (with a concentration in finance) 8. university of california, berkeley (haas) – phd in finance 9. princeton university – phd in finance 10. northwestern university (kellogg) – phd in finance, leave a comment cancel reply.

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Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Finance

The Department of Finance provides a first-class research environment, equipping students with the resources necessary to excel in their academic pursuits. Each doctoral candidate is allocated:

A dedicated office workspace
Advanced computing facilities
A supportive community of fellow PhD researchers
Personalized regular guidance through meetings with your two dedicated supervisors
Comprehensive research methods training

Additional support

St Leonard's Postgraduate College at the University of St Andrews offers supplementary resources and support services, enhancing the overall postgraduate experience.

Academic engagement opportunities

Seminar series.

External Speaker Series : Regular presentations by renowned scholars in the field
Brown Bag Series : Weekly staff seminars promoting internal knowledge sharing

Reading groups

These sessions provide a platform for:

Staff and PhD students to present work-in-progress
Informal exchange of research ideas
Constructive feedback from faculty members in a supportive environment

Annual PhD conference

This flagship event is a mandatory doctoral seminar where:

Students showcase their research progress
The entire Business School community engages with ongoing projects
Valuable presentation experience is gained in a professional setting

Cultivating excellence

Through this comprehensive approach, the Department of Finance creates an intellectually stimulating atmosphere that nurtures academic growth, fosters innovation, and equips you with the skills and knowledge to excel in both academia and industry .

For ideas about research interests in the Department, you can view the latest published research output of our staff on the research portal .

Programme structure

The typical PhD roadmap has the following checkpoints:

During this year you will usually take some modules to complete your training. The specific modules you take will depend on your individual background and will be decided by your potential supervisor and the Director of Postgraduate Research Students .

You will meet regularly with your supervisor and start work on your research. You will contribute to and present your work at the research students’ PhD workshop in May.

Before the end of your first nine months in the programme, you will have a progress review. This review should be based on research completed to date and should include a plan of your work for the remainder of your first year, and for your second and third years. After submitting your written work, you will have a meeting with two reviewers (from the Business School) which will complete your review process.

You may have the opportunity to take part in masterclasses or short training courses on topics or software in other universities, depending on funding. This will increase your knowledge of these topics and allow you to interact with other scholars working in your areas at other universities.

The Easter Training School is intended primarily for advanced postgraduate students doing doctoral research.

You may be asked to take part in tutorial teaching for sub-honours classes (first and second year students), which will give you experience and increase your skill set for future employability.

You will be in a more intensive stage of your course, carrying out the necessary research, modelling and empirical studies required for the second and third parts of your thesis. You will be expected to send drafts of your papers to be considered for presentation at PhD student workshops and other conferences.

You will contribute to and present your work at the research students’ PhD workshop in May.

End of second year review: this will be similar to your first year progress review.

You will spend this year trying to complete the research for your thesis and focus on submitting the final draft and having your viva defence.

You may continue to carry out undergraduate tutorial teaching and increase your experience as a tutor.

You will be in an intensive stage of your course, carrying out the necessary research, modelling and empirical studies required for the final parts of your thesis. You will be expected to send drafts of your papers to be considered for presentation at PhD student workshops and other conferences. It would also be good to try and complete a draft of a journal article to submit to a reputable refereed journal. All of these are opportunities for valuable feedback on your work before your final submission.

You will complete and submit a final draft of your thesis and have your viva defence. During the year you will continue working on publications, conferences and even applications for funding, as you will now be ready to enter the job market.

Research methods training

In the first year of the programme, depending on your background, you may be asked to take some modules from taught MSc programmes. These modules will most likely be from the MSc in Economics , MSc in Finance and Economics degree, or from the modules taught as part of the Scottish Graduate Programme in Economics , either at an MSc or at a PhD level.

Other training options

Enhance your training through masterclasses led by visiting academics or offered by other Scottish economics departments. Additionally, the University of St Andrews provides further development opportunities for PhD students through GRADskills and other programs offered by the Centre for Educational Enhancement and Development ( CEED ) training unit.

Theses and dissertations

The Department of Finance maintains a repository of PhD theses for viewing. The list of recent submissions offers a partial collection of completed and examined theses from doctoral candidates within the Business School Please note that some print theses may not be available digitally.

COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY IN THE CITY OF NEW YORK

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Director of Finance Operations and Budget Management

Graduate School of Arts & Sciences
Morningside
Opening on: Sep 25 2024
Job Type: Officer of Administration
Bargaining Unit:
Regular/Temporary: Regular
End Date if Temporary:
Hours Per Week: 35
Standard Work Schedule:
Salary Range: $115,000 - $135,000

Position Summary

Reporting to the Dean of Finance and Operations, the Director provides operational guidance and transactional oversight for the Financial Operations and Budget Management functions of the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS). The Director manages the annual budget as well as long-term forecast and model; designs and develops ad hoc financial analyses to support goals and objectives. In this role, the Director will:

Manage and oversee a well-structured Finance office for GSAS, including budget management, reporting, and day-to-day running of financial operations.
Provide guidance and direction on complex transactional issues involving the financial operations of their unit.
Participate and support initiatives to streamline and improve the efficiency of financial management and quarterly closing processes in GSAS.
Collaborate closely with the Dean of Finance and Operations to make recommendations and effect changes to university financial policies, procedures, and systems, acting as an advocate to make sure that the needs of GSAS are being met.
Be a key collaborator on university committees and initiatives as directed by the Dean of Finance and Operations.
Provide guidance and direction to roles supporting financial workflows within GSAS. Works closely with the Dean’s Office to prepare, adjust, and manage the school’s annual budget as well as long-term forecast and model; designs and develops ad hoc financial analyses to support the school’s goals and objectives.

To be successful in this role, the Director should have a track record of effectively applying their expertise in financial and budget transactions, policies and procedures, financial systems and technology, compliance and best practices in financial operations.

Responsibilities

Finance Operations - 40%

Execute day-to-day management of GSAS financial operation functions, including all matters related to Accounts Payable, Procurement, Vendor Management, and general ledger activities. Ensure the accurate and prompt processing of payments for invoices, reimbursements, and honoraria, as well as the preparation and submission of requisitions, purchase orders, change orders, and service agreements.
Review and approve financial transactions including invoice payments, requisitions, check requests, purchase orders, service agreements, journal entries, and pcard reconciliations.
Review and approve staff and student travel and business expense reimbursement requests (Concur) for policy adherence.
Intercede with Accounts Payable and Procurement on behalf of GSAS vendors; resolve payment and contracting issues.
Ensure compliance with all University policies and procedures and adherence to all University deadlines.
Provide financial reporting and analysis, ensuring that the Dean’s Office and GSAS departments receive the data needed for their financial management on a quarterly and year-end basis.
Escalate complex financial transaction issues to appropriate University financial offices to resolve policy issues as needed.
Ensure appropriateness and consistency of financial systems security access for all employees in GSAS departments, institutes, and centers.
Review and ensure consistency for all aspects of the GSAS chart of accounts structure; create chart fields as needed for GSAS departments, ensuring the integrity of all attributes.

Budget Development and Management – 40%

Create, test, and maintain budget and other financial planning models and tools needed to accurately and efficiently forecast and record the annual and long-range GSAS administrative and financial aid forecasts. Prepare quantitative and qualitative analyses to support the budget submission and update processes.
Enter, analyze, and reconcile approved entries in the University’s budget and payroll tools. Reconcile budgets against actuals, review financial and budgetary reports, and identify key drivers for variance analyses. Prepare detailed narratives about specific areas of variances and describe budget assumptions, actual trends, and variances between fiscal years and budget iterations for senior GSAS and Arts and Sciences administrators as well as central University finance offices.
Conceptualize the design as well as the implementation of tracking sheets, templates, and process enhancements to improve efficiency and meet reporting needs. Document budget decisions. Work with administrators to improve budget and forecasting accuracy; identify ways to best use resources to support strategic goals; escalate important issues for discussion and decision-making as necessary.
Prepare, maintain, and disseminate a standardized set of dashboards on revenues and expenses against budget for GSAS department heads and senior management. Generate reports, tables, and graphs from the University's financial data stores and other sources for the purposes of preparing budgets and reconciling actuals against budgets.
Prepares budget templates for GSAS departments and programs in a timely manner to meet internal GSAS, A&S, and University budget deadlines. Coordinates quarterly meetings with various GSAS stakeholders for budget submission reviews and year-end budget reviews. Ensure annual expense projections for each GSAS program and department are established and approved by the Dean.
Work closely with the Dean of Finance and Operations to develop assumptions about long-term planning parameters and incorporate those assumptions into financial planning documents.
Ensure the realization of on-target financial performance through effective budget management and accounting operations.
Provide successful and on-time month-, quarter-, and year-end closing of the budget in line with the University policies and procedures.

Training and Compliance – 15%

Review all GSAS-funded programs, make recommendations, and implement new programs and policies as needed.
Ensure appropriate controls and compliance for all financial transactions under their purview.
Make recommendations for internal control protocols, financial and administrative procedures, and process improvements for GSAS departments.
Ensure effective communication of existing University financial policies to all GSAS departments, as well as changes to those policies, to make sure that all compliance requirements are being met.
Work closely with the Dean of Finance and Operations to develop and continuously improve reporting and audit tools used by GSAS. Responsible for meeting all audit requirements and/or reviews for purchasing cards.
Collaborate with central administrative and academic offices across the University to make sure that the needs of GSAS are addressed and satisfied with respect to the increasing complexity of processes, technologies, and policies.
Create training materials and improve support. Collaborate with central University financial offices to design training sessions that are specific to the operations of GSAS. Provide one-on-one training to staff as needed.
Work with the Dean of Finance and Operations to develop and implement recommendations that enhance and/or streamline financial policies and practices with GSAS and that are consistent with University guidelines for financial activities.
Supervise the Financial Operations Specialist.
Perform related duties as required or requested.

Minimum Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree required.
A minimum of 5 years of related experience in accounting, finance, business administration, or a related field.
Expertise in financial management principles and practices. Demonstrate a high level of integrity and dependability with a strong sense of urgency and results orientation.
Capacity to work with a high degree of independence and successfully within a deadline-driven, multi-tasking environment. Ability to handle multiple projects at high levels of complexity and demonstrate sound judgment in managing time, prioritizing, and decision-making. Ability to mentor others in time management and prioritization.
Strong critical thinking and analytical skills, and ability to mentor others in these skills.
Advanced Excel skills, including proficiency with the creation and use of complex pivot tables, lookup functions, and other features for formatting, manipulating, and analyzing data. Ability to leverage and analyze data to contribute to team initiatives and projects. Ability and willingness to learn new systems and programs.
Excellent oral and written communication skills. Ability to communicate clearly and accurately with a range of constituencies, including administrators, school leadership, and students. Ability to communicate effectively on a technical level with personnel in central offices and department leads.
Strong interpersonal and emotional intelligence skills focused on establishing and maintaining productive relationships with faculty, peers, leadership, and other stakeholders. Demonstrated ability to exercise sound judgment and tact, as well as maintain confidentiality when dealing with sensitive and confidential matters.
This role will supervise direct reports and provide direction to financial staff throughout the organization. Candidate must demonstrate the ability to manage and address the development needs of team members. Foster a collaborative and supportive team environment.
Ability to adapt to meet the needs of GSAS, manage challenging situations, and mentor others in fiscal and operational management.
Candidate must be well-organized and be able to manage a demanding, varied workload. Ability to manage multiple concurrent assignments, set and meet deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications

Master's degree in a related field such as higher education administration, financial or business administration preferred.
Experience working with senior-ranking members of a management team is strongly preferred.
Demonstrated growth in progressively responsible financial leadership roles.
Knowledge of Columbia University's financial systems.

Equal Opportunity Employer / Disability / Veteran

Columbia University is committed to the hiring of qualified local residents.

Commitment to Diversity

Columbia university is dedicated to increasing diversity in its workforce, its student body, and its educational programs. achieving continued academic excellence and creating a vibrant university community require nothing less. in fulfilling its mission to advance diversity at the university, columbia seeks to hire, retain, and promote exceptionally talented individuals from diverse backgrounds. , share this job.

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Entrada Therapeutics Promotes Natarajan Sethuraman, PhD, to President of Research and Development

In this article:.

BOSTON, Sept. 24, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Entrada Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: TRDA) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company aiming to transform the lives of patients by establishing intracellular Endosomal Escape Vehicle (EEV™)-therapeutics as a new class of medicines. Today, the Company announced that Natarajan Sethuraman, PhD, currently its Chief Scientific Officer, has been promoted to President of Research and Development, effective immediately.

“Natarajan has been with Entrada since our inception and his leadership has been invaluable in the research and clinical development of the company’s diverse pipeline of proprietary intracellular therapeutics,” said Dipal Doshi, Chief Executive Officer at Entrada Therapeutics. “His deep and broad experience in end-to-end therapeutics development has helped advance our ENTR-601-44 program into the clinic, build our pipeline, and establish a dedicated team driven by intellectual curiosity, teamwork and a commitment to patients and their families.”

"From the moment I joined Entrada, I have been excited by the versatility of our differentiated approach to intracellular therapeutics, and the potential to reach targets that have long been considered inaccessible,” said Dr. Sethuraman. “I am tremendously proud of the amazing progress of our team and look forward to advancing our clinical pipeline to positively impact the lives of patients and their families."

Dr. Sethuraman joined Entrada Therapeutics as Chief Scientific Officer in 2017 and leads global research and clinical development. He brings deep experience in drug discovery and development across multiple modalities including oligonucleotides, antibodies, therapeutic enzymes, and peptides. Under his leadership, Entrada has built an R&D team that is advancing an expansive portfolio of proprietary programs from discovery through clinical development. Prior to Entrada, Dr. Sethuraman was at Merck & Co., Inc. where he led the GlycoFi site as well as the research and development of novel biologics following Merck’s acquisition of GlycoFi in 2006. He holds a PhD in Entomology, Molecular Biology and Biochemistry from the Indian Agricultural Research Institute, a BSc from Tamil Nadu Agricultural University and completed his post-doctoral training at Duke University.

About Entrada Therapeutics Entrada Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company aiming to transform the lives of patients by establishing a new class of medicines that engage intracellular targets that have long been considered inaccessible. The Company’s Endosomal Escape Vehicle (EEV™)-therapeutics are designed to enable the efficient intracellular delivery of a wide range of therapeutics into a variety of organs and tissues, resulting in an improved therapeutic index. Through this proprietary, versatile and modular approach, Entrada is advancing a robust development portfolio of RNA-, antibody- and enzyme-based programs for the potential treatment of neuromuscular, ocular, metabolic and immunological diseases, among others. The Company’s lead oligonucleotide programs are in development for the potential treatment of people living with Duchenne who are exon 44, 45 and 50 skipping amenable. Entrada has partnered to develop a clinical-stage program, VX-670, for myotonic dystrophy type 1.

For more information about Entrada, please visit our website, www.entradatx.com , and follow us on LinkedIn .

Investor and Media Contact Karla MacDonald Chief Corporate Affairs Officer [email protected]

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/4db2ccbc-a23f-48bd-bed9-edd834037fa6

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