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You are here, apply to the yale physics phd program.

The Yale Department of Physics welcomes applications to our matriculating graduate class of 2024 beginning around August 15th, 2024. The General GRE and Physics GRE scores are Optional for applications received by the December 15, 2023, submission deadline.

We recognize the continuing disruption caused by COVID-19 and that the hardship of taking GREs falls unequally on individual students. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment for all; therefore, we do not require these standardized tests for admission to our program. All applications are reviewed holistically, and preference will not be given to students who do or do not submit GRE scores.

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• Application Procedures

Prospective applicants can apply to the Ph.D. Program in Economics using the following options that can be found on the  Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences  website.  Please be aware the application deadline for the Economics Department Ph.D. program is December 1, 2023.

• On-line applications are accepted by the Yale Graduate School
• Paper copy of the application is no longer available

All information regarding the Graduate Program in Economics is available on this web site. Hard copy of materials will not be mailed.

Note: Do not request materials from this email site. Please see  Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

Official score reports must be submitted for all required examinations. Ask the Educational Testing Service (ETS) to report your scores to the Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, code 3987.

Graduate Record Examination (GRE).  The General Test is required of all applicants. Applicants should take the GRE no later than November. Applicants are strongly encouraged to register early to schedule test dates and times. For registration forms, test dates, test centers, and general information contact  www.gre.org(link is external) . 

Test of English as a Foreign Language.  The TOEFL is required of all applicants whose native language is not English.  This requirement is waived only for applicants who have received a baccalaureate degree, or its foreign equivalent, prior to matriculation at Yale, from a college or university where English is the primary language of instruction. NOTE:  1 or 2 year MA degree does not qualify for the waiver.  If you do not qualify for a waiver but have taken the TOEFL within the last two years you will need to have your TOEFL scores released to us (code 3987). If your scores can no longer be released, you will need to take the test. The test should be taken as early as possible to ensure that your scores are received in time to be incorporated in your file.  Normally TOEFL scores will not be released if they are older than two years. If you took the TOEFL before and ETS will release those scores then you should no have to retake the examination.

International English Language Test System (IELTS).  You may substitute IELTS for TOEFL. 

If you are still not sure if you must submit TOEFL scores, please review this flowchart:  Is English Language Testing Required for My Application?  (start with the question “Is your native language English?”)

For additional information and the latest updates on the TOEFL and TSE, please visit the ETS website:  www.toefl.org(link is external) .

Test of Spoken English (TSE).  All international applicants who accept offers of admission to the Ph.D. program and whose native language is not English are strongly encouraged to present scores on the Test of Spoken English by the time of enrollment in the fall. The TSE is administered in the United States and abroad. For further information check the  www.toefl.org(link is external)  web site. Students who do not demonstrate sufficient proficiency in English may be retested and/or asked to take courses in English for speakers of other languages. A high level of proficiency is required for students to serve as teaching fellows.

More information about  TOEFL and IELTS tests  can be found on the Yale Graduate School website.

Doctoral and master’s degrees. Students may enter the Graduate Economics Program after earning a bachelors degree (or the equivalent) or a master’s degree. The Master of Philosophy is awarded to students who complete all requirements for the Ph.D. except the dissertation. The Doctor of Philosophy is awarded upon acceptance of the doctoral dissertation. The Economics Department does not accept students into a terminal master’s program. The Economic Growth Center offers a one-year MA program in International and Development Economics.

Full-time and Part-time Study.  Doctoral students are expected to devote their full energies to course work and preparation for the qualifying examinations in the first years, and dissertation research and writing in the final years of graduate study. There is no part-time study available to applicants to the Department of Economics.

Nondegree Study.  Qualified individuals who wish to study at the graduate level but not pursue a degree may be admitted to the Division of Special Registration (DSR) as “special students.” Admission to this program is for one term or one year only and carries with it no commitment for further study. These students are not eligible for financial aid or loans. Applicants interested should apply in the same fashion as for full-time study.

Interdisciplinary Study.  Students may apply for admission to only one department or program within the Graduate School per year. Students may take one or more courses in a related department, and are often advised by faculty members from more than one department during their dissertation research. Students in the Graduate School, may, with permission, take advantage of course or research opportunities in Yale College and in the professional schools.

Joint-degree Programs.  The Department of Economics offers a joint J.D./Ph.D. degree with the Yale Law School. Students must apply to and be admitted to the Yale Law School independently of the Graduate School. Applicants may apply to both schools at the same time or they may enter one school and apply to the second during their first year of study. A separate application is required for each school, and each makes its own admission decision. Students who apply simultaneously to two schools should indicate that they are doing so on both applications. For information on the Yale Law School see the following web site:  www.law.yale.edu/yls/admis-jdindex.htm .

Transfer Students.  The Yale Graduate School does not admit transfer students. The presumption is that students who receive a Yale doctoral degree do their studies at Yale. Students currently enrolled in a doctoral program elsewhere who wish to apply to a Yale doctoral program may do so through the normal admissions procedure. They must meet all the application requirements, including the deadline for submission. Some very successful students have entered the Yale program in this way. Such students may petition the Economics Department and Graduate School to waive a portion of the Ph.D. course requirement (normally a maximum of three courses) in recognition of previous graduate-level work done at Yale or elsewhere. All other requirements, including the comprehensive examination, the economic history requirement, the oral examination, and the econometrics paper, must be completed at Yale. Students who enter the program from another doctoral program receive the full six-year financial aid package.

Those interested in transferring to Yale might consider the Exchange Scholars Program as an alternative. At participating institutions, students may petition their own schools to enroll full-time at Yale for a term or for an academic year as exchange scholars. Participating universities include Berkeley, Brown, Chicago, Columbia, Cornell, Harvard, MIT, Pennsylvania, Princeton, and Stanford.

Further Graduate School Information.  A comprehensive description of academic rules and regulations of the Yale Graduate School will be made available to students when they are registered. The Programs and Policies booklet may be found on the Internet at the  Graduate School  website.

Length of Study.  Students are expected to complete the requirements for the degree in six years of registration. The first two years are generally spent taking courses full time; the third is spent preparing a dissertation prospectus within workshops and completing all requirements except the dissertation; the remaining years are spent pursuing and writing up a work of original research. The average length of time required to complete the program is five years. A small percentage finish in four years, although students are guaranteed registration for 6 years in which to finish their degree.

Residency Requirement.  Doctoral students in this program are required to be in residence in New Haven for at least three years.

Dissertation.  The doctoral dissertation is the climax of the graduate school experience. Every dissertation makes an original contribution to a student’s field of study by discovering significant new information, achieving a new synthesis of ideas, developing new methods or hypotheses, or applying established methods to new materials. A dissertation also demonstrates the student’s mastery of relevant resources and methods. Students work with two advisers throughout this process.

In the academic year 2023-24 tuition for full-time study is $48,300. This rate is expected to increase in subsequent years. Ph.D. candidates are charged four years of full tuition. Thereafter students are charged a modest continuing registration fee each term until the dissertation is submitted or the terminal date is passed.  For the 2023-24 academic year this fee is $790 per semester.

The Graduate School provides full tuition, health insurance and stipend fellowship for the first six years of study. Normally the Department of Economics provides additional stipend support. There is a combined award policy that applies to students who obtain outside fellowships. This policy gives students a financial incentive to obtain outside awards.

Teaching Fellowships.  Because the faculty considers teaching to be essential to the professional teaching of all doctoral students, they serve as teaching assistants in the third and fourth years of study.

Research Fellowships.  Department faculty often hire students as research assistants either part-time or full-time.  During this academic year there are seven students supported as full-time research assistants where this funding replaces the need to serve as a teaching fellow.  In the summer of 2020, twenty-five students were supported as part-time research assistants for faculty. 

Outside Fellowships.  All applicants for admission are strongly urged to compete for outside fellowships which can be used at Yale. These fellowships are sponsored by both public and private agencies and are often more generous than those awarded by the University. In addition to their financial advantages, distinction is conferred on a student who wins an award. The  McDougal Graduate School Center  maintains a library of fellowship information; incoming students seeking external aid are advised to consult it on arrival in New Haven.

Federal and Non-Federal Student Loans.  Loans administered by the University are available to citizens and permanent residents of the U.S. The types of loans and amounts a student is eligible to borrow are based entirely on financial need as determined by federal formula.

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Doctoral Admissions

Our doctoral program offers scholars from diverse backgrounds the opportunity to pursue a highly individualized area of inquiry under the mentorship of a YSE faculty member. The research conducted by YSE PhD candidates spans global and disciplinary boundaries — and what’s more, it is fully funded. Learn more about how to join this vibrant and dynamic intellectual community.

On This Page

Faculty Who May Take on Doctoral Students

All applicants must identify and contact one or two faculty members who they think could serve as their major advisor.

How to Apply

The application deadline for admission to the fall class in a given year is typically the preceding January 2 of that year. Applications are submitted through the Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS) website.

Why YSE Doctoral Programs?

Research Independence and Funding

Doctoral students at YSE receive five years of guaranteed funding , independent of any faculty research grants, allowing doctoral students the intellectual freedom to explore the environmental issues that most inspire them.

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Acclaimed Faculty

Working closely with some of the top experts in their fields is one of the advantages of a YSE doctoral degree. Our faculty are committed to mentoring the next generation of environmental leaders to tackle the world’s most urgent problems.

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Student and Alumni Spotlights

Stewarding Forests in the Face of Climate Change 

Forests help mitigate climate change because of their ability to remove and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, but they become carbon emitters during wildfires. PhD student Reid Lewis '20 MF is researching how satellite data and machine learning models can help fire-prone forests become more resilient.

“When we make these forests more fire resilient, we can not only store more carbon, we can also help protect human communities, foster wildlife habitat, safeguard watersheds, and can use the process of restoration to partner with and empower Indigenous nations,” says Lewis.

• Master of Forestry — MF
• Doctor of Philosophy — PhD

Tracking Big Cats in the Sierra Madres Mountains

Siria Gámez tracks big cats — all the way up 80-foot trees.  A doctoral student in YSE's Applied Wildlife Ecology lab, Gámez had special training to set up camera traps in the tree canopy of the El Triunfo Biosphere to examine how jaguars, pumas, and other carnivores use vertical spaces in the Sierra Madre de Chiapas mountains in Mexico.

“This particular region of Mexico is quite understudied,” says Gámez. “We’re exploring how these animals survive in this three-dimensional forest structure.”

• Doctor of Philosophy — PhD Program

Investing in Urban Forests

As the state of Connecticut’s urban forester, Danica Doroski ’21 PhD is working with municipalities, nonprofits, and residents to grow and maintain urban forests. 

“Investments in urban tree cover is a vital environmental justice issue,” Doroski says. “Urban areas with fewer trees can be as much as 20 degrees hotter than surrounding rural areas. By increasing tree cover, we can keep our cities cooler, which translates to both health and energy benefits.”

• Doctor of Philosophy - PhD

Redefining Human-Wildlife Conflict

In the Tibetan Plateau, Yufang Gao ’14 MESc, ’23 PhD interviews, observes, and travels with Tibetan herders and Buddhist monks. He sets up camera traps and collects scat to analyze the diet of snow leopards. And he has hiked a mountainside 15,000 feet above sea level — all in pursuit of data for his dissertation focused on the quest for harmonious coexistence between people and large carnivores. What is needed for human-wildlife coexistence is a different perspective about conflict, Gao says. “Conflict,” he has found, “is part of coexistence.”

• Master of Environmental Science - MESc

Tracking Environmental and Infrastructure Damage in Ukraine

As co-leader of Black Marble, NASA’s light dataset, Eleanor Stokes '18 PhD is currently tracking the effects of Russian military strikes on Ukraine’s infrastructure and climate-induced natural disasters across the world. NASA’s Black Marble science team, which uses data from the Visible Infrared Imaging Radiometer Suite aboard NASA’s Suomi NPP satellite spacecraft  to map  disaster impacts in vulnerable communities , was awarded the 2020 NASA Group Achievement Award for helping realize the vision of the  NASA-ESA-JAXA COVID dashboard  and enabling international partnership in a time of need.  “Humanity is facing major global risks from extreme weather and rising sea levels,” Stokes says. “It’s very important to have a satellite record that can speak to the human piece of the puzzle.

Tracking Forest Inventory

Richard Guldin ’76 MFS, ’79 PhD  has helped reinvent the U.S. Forest Service’s Forest Inventory and Analysis (FIA) program by integrating new sampling designs, field procedures, and innovative software to create an annual inventory that has become a global model. His work earned him the Society of American Foresters’ Sir William Schlich Award.

• Master of Forest Science — MFS

In the News

Class of 2024: “You Will Be Leaders for Change”

YSE Class of ’24: Aishwarya Iyer Focuses on Underrepresented Voices in Energy Usage

Unique Research on Calving Impacts on Nutrient Cycle Earns 2024 Bormann Prize

Contact the doctoral program.

Elisabeth Barsa is the contact for students interested in the YSE doctoral program.

Elisabeth Barsa

Doctoral Program Coordinator

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PhD in Biostatistics

Biostatistics involves the development and application of sound statistical and mathematical principles to research in the health sciences. Because original theoretical research in biostatistics flows from medical research, the foundations of methodological development must be firmly grounded in sound principles of statistical inference and a thorough knowledge of the substantive area that provides the source of the medical questions being addressed. Thus, the Department of Biostatistics encourages excellent methodological work that is motivated by sound science that includes but is not limited to active collaborations with other investigators.

Students will be able to choose either the Standard Biostatistics Pathway or the newly created Implementation and Prevention Science Methods Pathway , directed by Professor Donna Spiegelman, director of the Center for Methods in Implementation and Prevention Science . The rigorous training in the theory of and methods of biostatistics, with a specialization in implementation and prevention science methods promotes the adoption and integration of evidence-based practices, interventions and policies into routine health care and public health settings to improve the impact on population health.

Research collaborations for biostatisticians take place both within and across departments in the School of Public Health, as well as with other departments in the School of Medicine and the University at large. Areas of current research include the development of general methods that have wide applicability across different areas of health research, as well as more specific techniques for dealing with the underlying processes that give rise to the data of interest. A broad range of health topics addressed by students in this department includes chronic diseases such as cancer, genetic epidemiology, clinical research, and mathematical models for infectious diseases.

Graduates of the doctoral program in Biostatistics are employed in universities throughout the country, as well as in such dedicated research institutions such as the National Institutes of Health. In addition, graduates have pursued careers in the pharmaceutical industry, in which they are actively involved in the evaluation of new therapeutic strategies.

This program requires General GRE test scores. Please send them to institution code 3987 (there is no department code).

More on Implementation and Prevention Science Methods Pathway

Yale’s new pathway is the first degree program to provide rigorous training in implementation and prevention science methods , including training in the development of new methods to advance the field. Other programs, importantly but quite differently, focus on the practice of implementation science and are targeted to those with subject matter expertise (e.g., in mental health or cancer prevention). Yale’s new program, by contrast, targets those wishing to develop scholarly methodological expertise.

If you plan to attend Yale, you will be able to choose this pathway or the Standard Biostatistics Pathway . You will have until the beginning of the spring term to decide which pathway you wish to follow.

2023 Biostatistics Information Session for the MPH, MS and PhD programs

Biostatistics Information Session for the MPH, MS and PhD programs.

November 16, 2023

• Shuangge (Steven) Ma -Department Chair and Professor of Biostatistics
• Mary Keefe - Director of Admissions
• Lisa Calvocoressi - Research Scientist in Biostatistics
• Michael Kane - Assistant Professor of Biostatistics
• Donna Spiegelman - Susan Dwight Bliss Professor of Biostatistics and Professor of Cardiovascular Medicine
• Kei-Hoi Cheung - Professor of Biomedical Informatics & Data Science; Professor of Biostatistics
• Katie Doucet - Assistant Director, Student Affairs

Learn more about the Department of Biostatistics

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Joint Programs

A Cross-Yale Education

Yale offers the opportunity to pursue an MBA in combination with a degree from Yale Law School, Yale School of Medicine, Yale School of the Environment, Yale School of Architecture, or another of the University's world-class graduate programs. Yale's joint-degree programs are intended to prepare leaders who will bring a broad understanding and analytical thinking to whatever industry they work in.

In most Yale joint-degree programs, students spend one year enrolled full-time at Yale SOM, during which they complete the integrated MBA core curriculum; one or more years enrolled in the other program; and one year taking courses in both programs.

The two degrees are usually completed in one year less than if they were taken sequentially. Both degrees are awarded at the end of the entire course of study.

During the full year that joint-degree students spend at Yale SOM, they participate fully in the Career Development Office's workshops, recruiting events, and training sessions, and the CDO's resources are available to them thereafter.

Joint-degree applicants must apply to and be admitted to both programs independently. In general, we recommend applying to both programs simultaneously in order to have a more integrated learning experience throughout both programs. In some cases, applicants may also apply to another graduate program during their first year at Yale SOM, or apply to Yale SOM during their first year in another graduate program (or during the second year of a four-year program). Please review the requirements for the specific program you are interested in, as they vary.

Joint-Degree Programs

MBA/Master's Degree in Asset Management

MBA/JD with Yale Law School

MBA/MEM or MF with Yale School of the Environment

MBA/MPP in Global Affairs with the Jackson Institute for Global Affairs

MBA/MD with Yale School of Medicine

MBA/MPH with Yale School of Public Health (Two-Year or Three-Year)  

MBA/MARCH with Yale School of Architecture

MBA/MFA with Yale School of Drama

MBA/MDIV or MAR with Yale Divinity School

MBA/PhD with Yale Graduate School of Arts and Sciences

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Addiction Medicine Grand Rounds: Research Updates on Kratom

The Yale Program in Addiction Medicine is pleased to welcome Marek Chawarski, PhD, as guest speaker for Addiction Medicine Grand Rounds on June 11, 2024.

This event will be held in a virtual format.

Topic: Research Updates on Kratom

Title: Forthcoming

Learning Objectives:

Forthcoming

Addiction Medicine Rounds are CME accredited. Each session will be assigned 1 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits TM.

• Marek Chawarski, PhD Professor of Psychiatry and Emergency Medicine; Affiliated Faculty, Yale Institute for Global Health

Host Organization

• Program in Addiction Medicine

Registration Info

Admission criteria for graduate psychology programs are changing

There’s less emphasis on standardized testing and more on applicants’ lived experiences

Vol. 55 No. 4 Print version: page 23

Over the last few years, graduate psychology degree programs, both at the master’s and doctoral levels, have shifted their admission criteria from an emphasis on standardized testing to components that reflect applicants’ experiences. According to the most recent edition of Graduate Study in Psychology , 1 for 2022–23 applications, doctoral programs placed the highest importance on letters of recommendation (85%), personal statements (84%), and interviews (74%). Master’s psychology programs, by contrast, placed the highest importance on undergraduate GPAs (72%), letters of recommendation (71%), and statements of goals and objectives (68%).

In general, large percentages of graduate psychology programs reported that the GRE Verbal, Quantitative, Writing, and Subject scores were not criteria used in the admissions process for the 2022–23 admissions cycle. This represents a continuation of the trend of graduate psychology programs prioritizing criteria other than GRE scores in an attempt to remove potential systemic barriers and create a more equitable admissions process. 2, 3

View a full-size version with a detailed description of the importance of admission criteria for psychology doctoral programs infographic

View a full-size version with a detailed description of the importance of admission criteria for psychology Master's programs infographic

1 Data is from Graduate Study in Psychology , an annual survey conducted by APA’s Education Directorate. For the 2022–23 cycle, a total of 332 departments and schools in the United States and Canada provided responses on 893 graduate programs in psychology.

2 Assefa, M., et al. (2023, March). How the pandemic has impacted psychology graduate programs . Monitor on Psychology , 54 (2), 20.

3 Assefa, M., et al. (2024, January). Masters’ and doctoral program applications increase as GRE requirements drop . Monitor on Psychology , 55 (1), 26.

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Related and recent.

40 Students and Graduates Receive Public Interest Fellowships

Yale Law School announced that 40 public interest postgraduate fellowships were awarded for 2024–2025 and 2024–2026.

Of this number, 24 fellowships were awarded directly by the Law School, while 16 were awarded by external fellowship programs.

The postgraduate fellowships offered by the Law School and outside organizations support one to two years of work in public interest law, jumpstarting the careers of Yale Law School graduates while serving the legal needs of underserved members of society.

The Law School funds significantly more postgraduate fellowships per student than any other law school in the country — an average of 34 per year. Nearly $2 million in annual fellowship funding benefits both students and the organizations they serve.

This year’s recipients will be working at organizations that include the NAACP Legal Defense Fund, the MacArthur Justice Center, the White House Office of Domestic Climate Policy, The National Veteran Legal Services Program, and the European Court of Human Rights, among many others.

Fellowship recipients will undertake work serving communities throughout the country, in states including Alaska, California, Illinois, New Mexico, and New York, and internationally, in the Netherlands, Nepal, France, and elsewhere.

The full list of recipients follows.

Fellowships Sponsored by Yale Law School

Arthur liman public interest fellowship.

• Ryanne Bamieh ’23 – Santa Barbara Public Defender (Santa Barbara, CA) 
• Gregory Briker ’24 – Institute for Constitutional Advocacy and Protection (Washington, D.C.)
• Nathan Cummings ’23 – Shriver Center on Poverty Law (Chicago, IL) 
• Ellie Driscoll ’23 – Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs (Washington, D.C.) 
• Jonathan Gibson ’24 – MacArthur Justice Center, Supreme Court & Appellate Program (Washington, D.C.) 
• Charlie Jiang ’24 – Asian American Legal Defense and Education Fund (AALDEF) (Boston, MA)
• Zoe Kreitenberg ’24 – ACLU of Massachusetts (Boston, MA)
• Terin Patel–Wilson ’24 – NAACP Legal Defense Fund (LDF) (New York, NY)

Gruber Fellowship in Global Justice and Women’s Rights

• Kee Chong LLM ’24 – Human Trafficking Legal Center (Washington, D.C.)

Heyman Federal Public Service Fellowship

• Nathan Chael ’24 – White House Office of Domestic Climate Policy (Washington, D.C.) 
• Oluwalani Oisaghie ’24 – White House Domestic Policy Counsel (Washington, D.C.) 
• Brianna Yang ’24 – White House Gender Policy Council (Washington, D.C.)

International Court of Justice Fellowship

• Alaa Hachem ’24 – International Court of Justice Judicial Fellowship Programme (The Hague, The Netherlands)

Robert L. Bernstein Fellowship in International Human Rights

• Al Brady ’24 – International Refugee Assistance Project, Climate Fellow (New York, NY)
• Anuj Chand ’23 – Informal Sector Service Centre (Kathmandu, Nepal) 
• Jonathan Epps ’24 – Clooney Foundation for Justice’s Docket Initiative

Robina Foundation Human Rights Fellowship

• Medha Damojipurapu LLM ’24 – International Committee of the Red Cross and the Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect (Geneva, Switzerland/New York, NY) 
• Akriti Gaur JSD ’27 – European Court of Human Rights (Strasbourg, France)

YLS Permanent Court of Arbitration Fellowship

• Kate Yoon ’24 

YLS Public Interest Fellowship

• Melissa Kay ’24 – Earth Rights International (Washington, D.C.)
• Emma Kromm ’24 – U.S. Senate Committee on the Judiciary, Office of Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (Washington, D.C.)

Yale Law Journal Fellowship

• Sarah Baer ’24 – Jane Matilda Bolin Fellow– Center for Biological Diversity (Albuquerque, NM) 
• Leighton Fernando Cook ’24 – Justine Wise Polier Fellow– Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDEF) (Washington, D.C.) 
• Sarah Tseggay ’24 – Shirley Adelson Siegel Fellow– Law Center for Better Housing (Chicago, IL)

Non–Yale Law School Funded Fellowships

Contra costa county public defenders’ fellowship.

• Yixuan Liu ’24 – Contra Costa County Public Defender’s Office (Martinez/Richmond, CA)

Equal Justice Works Fellowship

• Hannah Eichner ’24 – Bread for the City (Washington, D.C.)

Justice Catalyst Fellowship

• Ezra Ritchin ’23 – Freedom Community Center (St. Louis, MO)
• Poonam Daryani ’23 – Pregnancy Justice (New York, NY)
• Leah Fessler ’24 – MacArthur Justice Center (St. Louis, MO)

Douglas T. Kendall Fellowship

• Nargis Aslami ’24 – Constitutional Accountability Center (Washington, D.C.)

Independence Foundation Public Interest Law Foundation Fellowship

• Solveig Olson–Strom ’24 – Justice at Work Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA)

Skadden Fellowship

• Grace Choi ’22 – ACLU Immigrants’ Rights Project (New York, NY) 
• Diego Fernandez–Pages ’24 – Make the Road New York (New York, NY)
• Rebecca Harris ’24 – National Veteran Legal Services Program (Arlington, VA)
• Alexandra Johnson ’24 – ACLU, LGBTQ & HIV Project (New York, NY)
• Helen Malley ’24 – ACLU of Alaska (Anchorage, AK) 
• Shyamala Ramakrishna ’24 – A Better Balance (New York, NY)
• Benjamin Rodgers ’24 – Central West Justice Center, Seasonal & Migrant Farmworker Project (Springfield, MA)
• Isir Said ’22 – CAIR Legal Defense Fund (Washington, D.C.)

Natural Resources Defense Council/Yale Law School Environmental Law Fellowship

• Jane Jacoby ’24 – Natural Resources Defense Council – Yale (New York, NY/New Haven, CT)

Reported as of May 31, 2024

In the Press

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8 Most Affordable Online College Degrees to Pursue in 2024 

Updated: June 6, 2024

Published: June 5, 2024

As the cost of traditional higher education soars, the search for accessible and affordable education solutions has become more urgent than ever. Online college degrees present a cost-effective alternative attracting increasing attention. These programs offer the potential for individuals to advance their careers and enhance their knowledge without the substantial financial burden often associated with on-campus education.

But why are affordable online degrees becoming so vital in today’s educational landscape? They meet the growing demand for flexible learning options and allow students from diverse backgrounds to access quality education, ensuring that more people can pursue their professional and personal development goals.

This article explores some of the most affordable online college degrees available in 2024, highlighting how they cater to the needs of prospective students looking to maximize their education investment.

Are Online Colleges as Good as Traditional Ones?

The evolving educational landscape has sparked a debate about the value of online colleges compared to traditional institutions. Are online colleges as strong and credible as their brick-and-mortar counterparts? The answer increasingly leans towards yes, thanks to significant technological advancements that enhance the online learning experience.

Online education offers unparalleled flexibility and accessibility, allowing students to learn from anywhere and manage their studies around other life commitments. Of course, it has its potential drawbacks, such as the lack of face-to-face interaction. and the need for solid self-discipline and time management skills.

Despite these challenges, the gap between online and traditional education quality is narrowing, with so many online programs providing dynamic, interactive learning environments supported by the latest technological tools. This ensures that students receive a comprehensive education that can rival on-campus offerings.

Are Affordable Online Colleges Accredited?

When considering affordable online colleges, the question of accreditation is probably the most important one to consider. Accreditation is a crucial marker of quality and credibility in education, ensuring that institutions meet specific academic standards. Why does this matter? Accredited online colleges are recognized for their academic integrity, essential for the transferability of credits and recognition by employers.

You should thoroughly research the accreditation status of any online college to avoid potential credit transfer issues and enhance your employability post-graduation. Reputable accrediting agencies play a critical role in this process, providing a seal of approval that assures students and employers alike of the educational quality.

Thus, making sure that an affordable online college is accredited is a big step in the decision-making process, showing the institution’s adherence to high academic standards and its commitment to providing valuable, quality educational offerings.

What Are the 8 Most Affordable Online Degree Programs in 2024?

As the demand for affordable online education continues to grow, certain programs stand out for their cost-effectiveness and the career opportunities they offer. Here’s a look at some of the most affordable online degree programs available in 2024:

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

Pursuing a BBA online offers a versatile education in business fundamentals at a fraction of the cost of traditional programs. Students should compare the affordability of online BBA programs to in-person options, considering the broad career opportunities available in business management and entrepreneurship.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

An online degree in Computer Science provides essential skills for the tech industry, including software development and systems analysis. The affordability and relevance of this degree make it a smart choice for those looking to enter the high-demand field of technology.

Bachelor of Education in Elementary Education

For aspiring educators, an online Bachelor of Education focuses on teaching methods and educational theory—with the added convenience and lower cost of online study. Prospective students should examine accreditation closely, ensuring the program meets licensure requirements in their state.

Associate of Science in Engineering Technology

This degree offers foundational engineering knowledge with the flexibility of online learning. Students must consider the program’s alignment with industry standards and the potential for credit transfer to four-year degrees.

Associate of Applied Science in Nursing

An online Associate in Nursing can be a cost-effective route to entering the nursing profession. Students must thoroughly review accreditation and licensing requirements to ensure the program qualifies them for nursing licensure.

Associate Degree in Information Technology

Offering a gateway to the IT industry, this degree focuses on network administration, cybersecurity, and database management. Students should assess how well the online program prepares them for industry certifications and career advancement.

Bachelor of Science in Public Health

An online degree in Public Health prepares students for roles in healthcare policy, community health, and epidemiology, with the affordability of online education allowing for broader access to this field.

Associate of Science in Biology

This degree is ideal for students interested in science or pre-medical tracks, providing a flexible and affordable foundation that can lead to further study or various science-related careers. Potential students should investigate the transfer options to four-year programs to maximize their investment.

These programs are designed to provide accessible, high-quality education that prepares students for successful careers in their chosen fields without the financial burden often associated with higher education.

How to Find the Best Affordable College for Your Needs

Choosing the right affordable online college requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure the best fit for your educational and career goals. Here’s how you can find the best affordable college for your needs:

Determine Career Goals: Start by clearly defining your career objectives. What do you hope to achieve professionally, and which degree program will best help you get there? Align your academic pursuits with your long-term career plans.

Read Student Testimonials: Gather insights from current and former students about their experiences with the college. Look for feedback on the quality of education, the support services provided, and the overall student satisfaction. These testimonials can often be found on college websites, forums, or social media platforms.

Compare Accredited Programs: Ensuring that the college and its programs are properly accredited is crucial. Use resources provided by accrediting agencies to compare different programs’ accreditation status, which confirms that they meet national education standards.

By following these steps, you can decide which affordable online college offers the best opportunities to meet your educational needs while staying within your budget. This approach ensures that you save on costs and invest in a quality education that will support your career ambitions.

Tips for Making Online College More Affordable

Pursuing higher education online can already offer significant cost savings compared to traditional on-campus programs, but there are additional strategies to make online college even more affordable. Here are practical ways to reduce the financial burden of your education:

Scholarships and Grants: Many online colleges offer scholarships for online students. Research and apply for these opportunities to reduce tuition costs without the need to repay.

Tuition Assistance Programs: Check if your employer offers tuition reimbursement or assistance programs. Many organizations invest in their employees’ education, which can cover a portion or even all of your tuition fees.

Credit by Examination: Programs like CLEP (College Level Examination Program) allow you to earn college credit by passing exams in various subjects. This can significantly reduce the credits you need to earn through courses, lowering overall tuition costs.

Budgeting and Financial Planning: Develop a detailed budget for all your educational expenses, including books, software, and additional fees. Sticking to a budget can help you manage costs effectively and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Use Free Resources: Take advantage of free educational resources and materials often provided by online colleges or available through various online platforms. This can help reduce the cost of textbooks and other course materials.

By employing these strategies, students can maximize their financial resources and make pursuing an online degree more accessible and affordable.

What Is the Cheapest Online College Degree You Can Get?

Finding the cheapest online college degree requires a multi-faceted approach, considering both direct and indirect costs associated with obtaining an education. When searching for the most affordable degree options, you should begin by comparing tuition rates across various institutions. Community colleges and public universities frequently provide some of the most budget-friendly choices, particularly for in-state students, due to their lower tuition costs compared to private institutions.

Beyond just looking at tuition, it’s essential to assess the overall financial aid package available, including scholarships, grants, and federal student aid, which can significantly reduce the price of education. Also, the structure of the program plays a crucial role in affordability. For example, programs that offer accelerated paths or credit for previous experiences can reduce the time and money needed to complete a degree. Considering any potential residency requirements that could incur additional costs is beneficial. Programs that minimize or eliminate such requirements or that offer flat-rate tuition for all online students often end up being more cost-effective. Careful consideration of these factors will help identify the most economical online degree programs that do not compromise on quality or credibility.

Are You Ready to Enroll in an Affordable Online College this Year?

As you think about enrolling in an affordable online college, it’s important to consider how the insights and strategies discussed align with your educational needs and financial circumstances. Have you thought about which degree will best serve your career goals? Do the affordable online programs you are considering offer the flexibility, resources, and support needed to succeed? Ensuring the college’s accreditation, comparing the cost-effectiveness of different programs, and planning financially are important steps.

2024 presents a unique opportunity to take advantage of the growing availability of high-quality, affordable online education. You can invest wisely in your future by carefully researching and selecting a program that aligns with your career aspirations and budget. Enrolling in an affordable online college can be a transformative step towards achieving your personal and professional goals with the proper preparation and commitment. Are you ready to take that step and advance your education in a financially sustainable way?

What are the top affordable online degree options in 2024?

In 2024, some of the top affordable online degree options include Business Administration, Computer Science, Education, Engineering Technology, Nursing, Information Technology, Public Health, and Biology programs. These programs offer excellent value, combining lower costs with solid career prospects.

How do online college costs compare to traditional colleges?

Online colleges often provide a more affordable alternative to traditional colleges, mainly due to lower tuition rates and eliminating costs associated with on-campus accommodations and commuting. However, it’s important to consider additional fees and the cost of technological resources when comparing overall expenses.

What are the best affordable online college programs?

The best affordable online college programs offer a combination of low tuition costs, comprehensive academic resources, and robust support services. Accredited programs with a strong reputation for student success in the job market are particularly advantageous.

How do affordable online colleges maintain quality education standards?

Affordable online colleges maintain quality education standards by adhering to traditional colleges’ accreditation requirements. This ensures that they meet rigorous academic standards and provide a quality education that employers and other institutions respect.

What factors contribute to the affordability of online colleges?

Several factors contribute to the affordability of online colleges, including lower operational costs for the institution, the ability to enroll students from a wider geographical area, and the efficiency of delivering course materials digitally. Additionally, the flexibility of online programs allows students to continue working while studying, which can offset the cost of tuition.

Can I negotiate tuition rates with affordable online colleges?

While tuition rates at online colleges are generally not negotiable, many institutions offer scholarships, grants, and financial aid options that can effectively reduce the cost of attendance. It’s advisable to contact the college’s financial aid office to explore what financial support may be available.

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Harvard tops fortune mba rankings in 2024.

Harvard Business School tops Fortune's list of the best MBAs in the USA | © Harvard Business School

The 2024 Fortune MBA rankings place big-brand business schools including Harvard, Stanford, and Wharton at the top of the list. Here’s what you need to know

Tue Jun 4 2024

Like the US News MBA rankings , it focuses on business schools within the United States, ranking them based on MBA graduates’ starting salaries, the brand recognition of the business school, and alumni career outcomes.

The list of the Best MBA Programs for 2024 ranks a total of 80 programs, with the somewhat predictable trio of Harvard Business School, Stanford Graduate School of Business, and The Wharton School in first, second, and third place respectively.

Here’s what you need to know about the Fortune MBA rankings and how to use them in your business school search.

Fortune MBA Rankings 2024: The Top 10

The Fortune MBA rankings broadly follow the trends seen in other US MBA rankings, with the famed M7 business schools making up the majority of the top 10.

This is no doubt thanks to the rankings’ focus on starting salaries and school reputation, both of which are strong at the M7 schools. The lowest starting salary in the top 10 is over $160,000.

The non-M7 schools that made it into the top are Yale School of Management in fourth place, NYU Stern School of Business in ninth, and University of Michigan Ross School of Business in 10th.

The 10 best MBA programs in the US, according to the Fortune MBA rankings 2024

How are the fortune mba rankings decided.

The Fortune MBA rankings give schools a score in three key areas:

⇨ Outcomes Score (65%)

⇨ Brand Score (25%)

⇨ Fortune 1000 Score (10%)

The Outcomes Score makes up the majority of the overall ranking and is based primarily on graduates’ weighted mean and median base salaries directly after graduating. This does not include additional pay like signing bonuses.

The Outcomes score also incorporates the percentage of new graduates who accepted roles within three months of graduating.

A school’s Brand Score makes up a quarter of its overall grade. In partnership with Ipsos, Fortune surveyed thousands of professionals and hiring managers to evaluate the strength of different business schools’ brands among employers.

The rationale behind this score is that the better a school’s brand, the more willing hiring managers are to recruit its graduates, and therefore, the better career prospects it can offer.

Finally, the Fortune 1000 Score aims to assess which schools are creating the “future leaders of business.” To calculate this, Fortune looks at the number of MBA alumni from each school who are C-suite executives at Fortune 1000 companies. The higher the C-level placement, the higher the score.

This is quite a different system to an MBA ranking like the Financial Times , which examines numerous factors including alumni salary three years after graduation.

So, what does this mean for the usefulness of this MBA ranking?

Should I choose my MBA based on the Fortune MBA rankings?

MBA rankings like this one can be helpful when choosing an MBA because they give you an idea of a school’s reputation and often show you a lot of data to help you compare different schools. However, no MBA ranking is one-size-fits-all.

In the case of the Fortune MBA rankings, the methodology’s strong focus on starting salaries, reputation, and graduates’ C-suite success may limit how useful it is to certain aspiring B-school students.

For example, if you are an entrepreneur hoping to launch your own business straight out of business school, these metrics may not help you find the right program. This is because you are not looking for corporate employment and your starting salary will likely be small. The same may apply if you want to work in the nonprofit sector or government.

It also doesn’t account for career growth after graduation. You may start on a high salary but not progress very fast; by contrast, rankings that include average salaries three years after graduation do measure this.

This doesn’t necessarily mean the results are inaccurate: the Fortune MBA rankings are not drastically different to other US rankings out there. However, it does limit their usefulness as a research tool.

The Fortune MBA rankings are useful if you:

⇨ Want to study and work in the USA

⇨ Are targeting a corporate career with a Fortune-listed company, for instance, in one of the “big three” MBA sectors of finance, technology, or consulting

⇨ Want to earn a high salary immediately after the MBA

If you are more invested in other factors – for instance, having startup incubators on campus, a strong sustainability curriculum, or exposure to international business contexts – you should widen your research to include:

⇨ Our “Best Business Schools For…” lists

⇨ The curriculum pages of different programs

⇨ Meeting and networking with schools in person at MBA tours

⇨ Talking to alumni on LinkedIn or at on-campus events

⇨ Individual schools’ employment reports

• MBA Rankings

You might like:

US News MBA Ranking Places Stanford & Wharton On Top For 2024

LinkedIn Launches New MBA Ranking Focused On Graduate Careers

10 Best MBA Programs In the US Revealed | Financial Times MBA Ranking

Best Business Schools In The World | Financial Times MBA Ranking

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