phd student finance

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

• Education and learning
• Student finance

Doctoral Loan

A Postgraduate Doctoral Loan can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate doctoral course, such as a PhD.

There’s different funding if you normally live in Wales . Moving somewhere to study does not count as normally living there.

You can also get extra support if you have a disability .

You will not be eligible for an Adult Dependants’ Grant, a Childcare Grant or Parents’ Learning Allowance from Student Finance if you’re studying a doctoral course.

When you can apply

You can now apply for funding for the 2023 to 2024 academic year.

When you repay your loan

You’ll have to start repaying your loan when your income is over a certain amount (the ‘threshold’ amount).

You’ll be charged interest from the day you get the first payment.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. We’ll send you a link to a feedback form. It will take only 2 minutes to fill in. Don’t worry we won’t send you spam or share your email address with anyone.

• Youth Program
• Wharton Online

PhD Program

• Program of Study

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Course Descriptions
• Course Schedule
• Dissertation Committee and Proposal Defense
• Meet our PhD Students
• Visiting Scholars

More Information

• Apply to Wharton
• Doctoral Inside: Resources for Current PhD Students
• Wharton Doctoral Program Policies
• Transfer of Credit
• Research Fellowship

About / Departments

Finance Department | PhD Program

Phd program.

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

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

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

Holger Mueller , Finance PhD coordinator

More information on the Finance PhD

Download the Finance PhD poster (PDF)

Explore Stern PhD

• Meet with Us

• Youth Program
• Wharton Online

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

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

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

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

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

For information on courses and sample plan of study, please visit the University Graduate Catalog .

Get the Details.

Visit the Finance website for details on program requirements and courses. Read faculty and student research and bios to see what you can do with a Finance PhD.

Finance Doctoral Coordinator Prof. Luke Taylor John B. Neff Associate Professor in Finance, Professor of Finance Co-Director, Rodney L. White Center for Financial Research Email: [email protected] Phone: (215) 898-4802

About Stanford GSB

• The Leadership
• Dean’s Updates
• School News & History
• Commencement
• Business, Government & Society
• Centers & Institutes
• Center for Entrepreneurial Studies
• Center for Social Innovation
• Stanford Seed

About the Experience

• Learning at Stanford GSB
• Experiential Learning
• Guest Speakers
• Entrepreneurship
• Social Innovation
• Communication
• Life at Stanford GSB
• Collaborative Environment
• Activities & Organizations
• Student Services
• Housing Options
• International Students

Full-Time Degree Programs

• Why Stanford MBA
• Academic Experience
• Financial Aid
• Why Stanford MSx
• Research Fellows Program
• See All Programs

Non-Degree & Certificate Programs

• Executive Education
• Stanford Executive Program
• Programs for Organizations
• The Difference
• Online Programs
• Stanford LEAD
• Seed Transformation Program
• Aspire Program
• Seed Spark Program
• Faculty Profiles
• Academic Areas
• Awards & Honors
• Conferences

Faculty Research

• Publications
• Working Papers
• Case Studies

Research Hub

• Research Labs & Initiatives
• Business Library
• Data, Analytics & Research Computing
• Behavioral Lab

Research Labs

• Cities, Housing & Society Lab
• Golub Capital Social Impact Lab

Research Initiatives

• Corporate Governance Research Initiative
• Corporations and Society Initiative
• Policy and Innovation Initiative
• Rapid Decarbonization Initiative
• Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative
• Value Chain Innovation Initiative
• Venture Capital Initiative
• Career & Success
• Climate & Sustainability
• Corporate Governance
• Culture & Society
• Finance & Investing
• Government & Politics
• Leadership & Management
• Markets & Trade
• Operations & Logistics
• Opportunity & Access
• Organizational Behavior
• Political Economy
• Social Impact
• Technology & AI
• Opinion & Analysis
• Email Newsletter

Welcome, Alumni

• Communities
• Digital Communities & Tools
• Regional Chapters
• Women’s Programs
• Identity Chapters
• Find Your Reunion
• Career Resources
• Job Search Resources
• Career & Life Transitions
• Programs & Services
• Career Video Library
• Alumni Education
• Research Resources
• Volunteering
• Alumni News
• Class Notes
• Alumni Voices
• Contact Alumni Relations
• Upcoming Events

Admission Events & Information Sessions

• MBA Program
• MSx Program
• PhD Program
• Alumni Events
• All Other Events
• Requirements
• Requirements: Behavioral
• Requirements: Quantitative
• Requirements: Macro
• Requirements: Micro
• Annual Evaluations
• Field Examination
• Research Activities
• Research Papers
• Dissertation
• Oral Examination
• Current Students
• Entering Class Profile
• Education & CV
• GMAT & GRE
• International Applicants
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendation
• Reapplicants
• Application Fee Waiver
• Deadline & Decisions
• Job Market Candidates
• Academic Placements
• Stay in Touch
• Fields of Study
• Student Life

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

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

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

Preparation and Qualifications

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

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

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

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

Faculty in Finance

Anat r. admati, juliane begenau, jonathan b. berk, greg buchak, antonio coppola, peter m. demarzo, darrell duffie, steven grenadier, benjamin hébert, arvind krishnamurthy, hanno lustig, matteo maggiori, paul pfleiderer, joshua d. rauh, claudia robles-garcia, ilya a. strebulaev, vikrant vig, jeffrey zwiebel, emeriti faculty, robert l. joss, george g.c. parker, myron s. scholes, william f. sharpe, kenneth j. singleton, james c. van horne, recent publications in finance, behavioral responses to state income taxation of high earners: evidence from california, beyond the balance sheet model of banking: implications for bank regulation and monetary policy, fee variation in private equity, recent insights by stanford business, cashless: is digital currency the future of finance, nine stories to get you through tax season, “geoeconomics” explains how countries flex their financial muscles.

• Priorities for the GSB's Future
• See the Current DEI Report
• Supporting Data
• Research & Insights
• Share Your Thoughts
• Search Fund Primer
• Teaching & Curriculum
• Affiliated Faculty
• Faculty Advisors
• Louis W. Foster Resource Center
• Defining Social Innovation
• Impact Compass
• Global Health Innovation Insights
• Faculty Affiliates
• Student Awards & Certificates
• Changemakers
• Dean Jonathan Levin
• Dean Garth Saloner
• Dean Robert Joss
• Dean Michael Spence
• Dean Robert Jaedicke
• Dean Rene McPherson
• Dean Arjay Miller
• Dean Ernest Arbuckle
• Dean Jacob Hugh Jackson
• Dean Willard Hotchkiss
• Faculty in Memoriam
• Stanford GSB Firsts
• Certificate & Award Recipients
• Teaching Approach
• Analysis and Measurement of Impact
• The Corporate Entrepreneur: Startup in a Grown-Up Enterprise
• Data-Driven Impact
• Designing Experiments for Impact
• Digital Business Transformation
• The Founder’s Right Hand
• Marketing for Measurable Change
• Product Management
• Public Policy Lab: Financial Challenges Facing US Cities
• Public Policy Lab: Homelessness in California
• Lab Features
• Curricular Integration
• View From The Top
• Formation of New Ventures
• Managing Growing Enterprises
• Startup Garage
• Explore Beyond the Classroom
• Stanford Venture Studio
• Summer Program
• Workshops & Events
• The Five Lenses of Entrepreneurship
• Leadership Labs
• Executive Challenge
• Arbuckle Leadership Fellows Program
• Selection Process
• Training Schedule
• Time Commitment
• Learning Expectations
• Post-Training Opportunities
• Who Should Apply
• Introductory T-Groups
• Leadership for Society Program
• Certificate
• 2023 Awardees
• 2022 Awardees
• 2021 Awardees
• 2020 Awardees
• 2019 Awardees
• 2018 Awardees
• Social Management Immersion Fund
• Stanford Impact Founder Fellowships and Prizes
• Stanford Impact Leader Prizes
• Social Entrepreneurship
• Stanford GSB Impact Fund
• Economic Development
• Energy & Environment
• Stanford GSB Residences
• Environmental Leadership
• Stanford GSB Artwork
• A Closer Look
• California & the Bay Area
• Voices of Stanford GSB
• Business & Beneficial Technology
• Business & Sustainability
• Business & Free Markets
• Business, Government, and Society Forum
• Get Involved
• Second Year
• Global Experiences
• JD/MBA Joint Degree
• MA Education/MBA Joint Degree
• MD/MBA Dual Degree
• MPP/MBA Joint Degree
• MS Computer Science/MBA Joint Degree
• MS Electrical Engineering/MBA Joint Degree
• MS Environment and Resources (E-IPER)/MBA Joint Degree
• Academic Calendar
• Clubs & Activities
• LGBTQ+ Students
• Military Veterans
• Minorities & People of Color
• Partners & Families
• Students with Disabilities
• Student Support
• Residential Life
• Student Voices
• MBA Alumni Voices
• A Week in the Life
• Career Support
• Employment Outcomes
• Cost of Attendance
• Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program
• Yellow Ribbon Program
• BOLD Fellows Fund
• Application Process
• Loan Forgiveness
• Contact the Financial Aid Office
• Evaluation Criteria
• English Language Proficiency
• Personal Information, Activities & Awards
• Professional Experience
• Optional Short Answer Questions
• Application Fee
• Reapplication
• Deferred Enrollment
• Joint & Dual Degrees
• Event Schedule
• Ambassadors
• New & Noteworthy
• Ask a Question
• See Why Stanford MSx
• Is MSx Right for You?
• MSx Stories
• Leadership Development
• Career Advancement
• Career Change
• How You Will Learn
• Admission Events
• Personal Information
• Information for Recommenders
• GMAT, GRE & EA
• English Proficiency Tests
• After You’re Admitted
• Daycare, Schools & Camps
• U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents
• Faculty Mentors
• Current Fellows
• Standard Track
• Fellowship & Benefits
• Group Enrollment
• Program Formats
• Developing a Program
• Diversity & Inclusion
• Strategic Transformation
• Program Experience
• Contact Client Services
• Campus Experience
• Live Online Experience
• Silicon Valley & Bay Area
• Digital Credentials
• Faculty Spotlights
• Participant Spotlights
• Eligibility
• International Participants
• Stanford Ignite
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Operations, Information & Technology
• Classical Liberalism
• The Eddie Lunch
• Accounting Summer Camp
• Videos, Code & Data
• California Econometrics Conference
• California Quantitative Marketing PhD Conference
• California School Conference
• China India Insights Conference
• Homo economicus, Evolving
• Political Economics (2023–24)
• Scaling Geologic Storage of CO2 (2023–24)
• A Resilient Pacific: Building Connections, Envisioning Solutions
• Adaptation and Innovation
• Changing Climate
• Civil Society
• Climate Impact Summit
• Climate Science
• Corporate Carbon Disclosures
• Earth’s Seafloor
• Environmental Justice
• Operations and Information Technology
• Organizations
• Sustainability Reporting and Control
• Taking the Pulse of the Planet
• Urban Infrastructure
• Watershed Restoration
• Junior Faculty Workshop on Financial Regulation and Banking
• Ken Singleton Celebration
• Marketing Camp
• Quantitative Marketing PhD Alumni Conference
• Presentations
• Theory and Inference in Accounting Research
• Stanford Closer Look Series
• Quick Guides
• Core Concepts
• Journal Articles
• Glossary of Terms
• Faculty & Staff
• Researchers & Students
• Research Approach
• Charitable Giving
• Financial Health
• Government Services
• Workers & Careers
• Short Course
• Adaptive & Iterative Experimentation
• Incentive Design
• Social Sciences & Behavioral Nudges
• Bandit Experiment Application
• Conferences & Events
• Reading Materials
• Energy Entrepreneurship
• Faculty & Affiliates
• SOLE Report
• Responsible Supply Chains
• Current Study Usage
• Pre-Registration Information
• Participate in a Study
• Founding Donors
• Location Information
• Participant Profile
• Network Membership
• Program Impact
• Collaborators
• Entrepreneur Profiles
• Company Spotlights
• Seed Transformation Network
• Responsibilities
• Current Coaches
• How to Apply
• Meet the Consultants
• Meet the Interns
• Intern Profiles
• Collaborate
• Research Library
• News & Insights
• Program Contacts
• Databases & Datasets
• Research Guides
• Consultations
• Research Workshops
• Career Research
• Research Data Services
• Course Reserves
• Course Research Guides
• Material Loan Periods
• Fines & Other Charges
• Document Delivery
• Interlibrary Loan
• Equipment Checkout
• Print & Scan
• MBA & MSx Students
• PhD Students
• Other Stanford Students
• Faculty Assistants
• Research Assistants
• Stanford GSB Alumni
• Telling Our Story
• Staff Directory
• Site Registration
• Alumni Directory
• Alumni Email
• Privacy Settings & My Profile
• Success Stories
• The Story of Circles
• Support Women’s Circles
• Stanford Women on Boards Initiative
• Alumnae Spotlights
• Insights & Research
• Industry & Professional
• Entrepreneurial Commitment Group
• Recent Alumni
• Half-Century Club
• Fall Reunions
• Spring Reunions
• MBA 25th Reunion
• Half-Century Club Reunion
• Faculty Lectures
• Ernest C. Arbuckle Award
• Alison Elliott Exceptional Achievement Award
• ENCORE Award
• Excellence in Leadership Award
• John W. Gardner Volunteer Leadership Award
• Robert K. Jaedicke Faculty Award
• Jack McDonald Military Service Appreciation Award
• Jerry I. Porras Latino Leadership Award
• Tapestry Award
• Student & Alumni Events
• Executive Recruiters
• Interviewing
• Land the Perfect Job with LinkedIn
• Negotiating
• Elevator Pitch
• Email Best Practices
• Resumes & Cover Letters
• Self-Assessment
• Whitney Birdwell Ball
• Margaret Brooks
• Bryn Panee Burkhart
• Margaret Chan
• Ricki Frankel
• Peter Gandolfo
• Cindy W. Greig
• Natalie Guillen
• Carly Janson
• Sloan Klein
• Sherri Appel Lassila
• Stuart Meyer
• Tanisha Parrish
• Virginia Roberson
• Philippe Taieb
• Michael Takagawa
• Terra Winston
• Johanna Wise
• Debbie Wolter
• Rebecca Zucker
• Complimentary Coaching
• Changing Careers
• Work-Life Integration
• Career Breaks
• Flexible Work
• Encore Careers
• D&B Hoovers
• Data Axle (ReferenceUSA)
• EBSCO Business Source
• Global Newsstream
• Market Share Reporter
• ProQuest One Business
• Student Clubs
• Entrepreneurial Students
• Stanford GSB Trust
• Alumni Community
• How to Volunteer
• Springboard Sessions
• Consulting Projects
• 2020 – 2029
• 2010 – 2019
• 2000 – 2009
• 1990 – 1999
• 1980 – 1989
• 1970 – 1979
• 1960 – 1969
• 1950 – 1959
• 1940 – 1949
• Service Areas
• ACT History
• ACT Awards Celebration
• ACT Governance Structure
• Building Leadership for ACT
• Individual Leadership Positions
• Leadership Role Overview
• Purpose of the ACT Management Board
• Contact ACT
• Business & Nonprofit Communities
• Reunion Volunteers
• Ways to Give
• Fiscal Year Report
• Business School Fund Leadership Council
• Planned Giving Options
• Planned Giving Benefits
• Planned Gifts and Reunions
• Legacy Partners
• Giving News & Stories
• Giving Deadlines
• Development Staff
• Submit Class Notes
• Class Secretaries
• Board of Directors
• Health Care
• Sustainability
• Class Takeaways
• All Else Equal: Making Better Decisions
• If/Then: Business, Leadership, Society
• Grit & Growth
• Think Fast, Talk Smart
• Spring 2022
• Spring 2021
• Autumn 2020
• Summer 2020
• Winter 2020
• In the Media
• For Journalists
• DCI Fellows
• Other Auditors
• Academic Calendar & Deadlines
• Course Materials
• Entrepreneurial Resources
• Campus Drive Grove
• Campus Drive Lawn
• CEMEX Auditorium
• King Community Court
• Seawell Family Boardroom
• Stanford GSB Bowl
• Stanford Investors Common
• Town Square
• Vidalakis Courtyard
• Vidalakis Dining Hall
• Catering Services
• Policies & Guidelines
• Reservations
• Contact Faculty Recruiting
• Lecturer Positions
• Postdoctoral Positions
• Accommodations
• CMC-Managed Interviews
• Recruiter-Managed Interviews
• Virtual Interviews
• Campus & Virtual
• Search for Candidates
• Think Globally
• Recruiting Calendar
• Recruiting Policies
• Full-Time Employment
• Summer Employment
• Entrepreneurial Summer Program
• Global Management Immersion Experience
• Social-Purpose Summer Internships
• Process Overview
• Project Types
• Client Eligibility Criteria
• Client Screening
• ACT Leadership
• Social Innovation & Nonprofit Management Resources
• Develop Your Organization’s Talent
• Centers & Initiatives
• Student Fellowships

This website uses cookies to ensure the best user experience. Privacy & Cookies Notice Accept Cookies

Manage My Cookies

Manage Cookie Preferences

Confirm My Selections

• Dissertation Areas and Joint PhD Programs
• PhD Career Outcomes
• PhD Proposals and Defenses
• PhD Job Market Candidates
• PhD Research Community
• 100 Years of Pioneering Research
• Rising Scholars Conference
• Yiran Fan Memorial Conference
• Frequently Asked Questions
• PhD in Accounting
• PhD in Behavioral Science
• PhD in Econometrics and Statistics
• PhD in Economics

PhD in Finance

• PhD in Management Science and Operations Management
• PhD in Marketing
• Joint Program in Financial Economics
• Joint Program in Psychology and Business
• Joint PhD/JD Program

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

Associate Professor of Finance and MV Advisors Faculty Fellow

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

Associate 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 Associate 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

Constantine Yannelis

Associate Professor of Finance and FMC Faculty Scholar

Anthony Lee Zhang

Assistant Professor of Finance

Luigi Zingales

Robert C. McCormack Distinguished Service Professor of Entrepreneurship 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.

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.

Initiative on Global Markets Enhancing the understanding of business and financial market globalization, the IGM 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

Rahul Chauhan Ching-Tse Chen Aditya Dhar Mihir Gandhi  Huan (Bianca) He Agustin Hurtado Young Soo Jang Piotr Langer Jessica Li Edoardo Marchesi Rayhan Momin Lauren Mostrom Meichen Qian Francisco Ruela Sixun Tang Hui (Judy) Yue

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

Program Expectations and Requirements

The Stevens Program at 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!

The Experience

• Inclusion and Belonging
• Global Opportunities
• Career Impact
• History & Legacy
• Kellogg Convocation

Degree Programs

• Full-Time MBA
• Evening & Weekend MBA
• Executive MBA
• Master in Management
• Certificate Program for Undergraduates
• Which Program is Right for Me?
• Academic Calendars

Executive Education

• Online Programs
• Programs for Individuals
• Nonprofit Programs
• Programs for Groups
• The Kellogg Advantage
• Contact Executive Education
• Request a Brochure
• Find a Program

News + Stories

• Alumni Network
• Applying to Kellogg
• Career Journeys
• Global Impact
• Inclusion & Belonging
• Student Stories
• Kellogg Magazine
• Kellogg Insight
• See All News + Stories

Academics + Research

• Faculty Directory
• Academic Departments
• Research Centers
• Research + Books
• Case Studies
• Faculty Recruiting
• Faculty Teaching Awards
• Data Analytics
• Entrepreneurship
• Family Business
• Leadership & Organizations
• Social Impact
• Full-Time MBA Admissions
• Evening & Weekend MBA Admissions
• Executive MBA Admissions
• Master in Management Admissions
• PhD / Doctoral Admissions
• Undergraduate Certificate Admissions
• Admissions Events
• Financial Aid Office
• Log into my account portal
• Companies + Recruiters
• keep in contact
• Attend an Event

Take Action

Kellogg Opens Its Global Hub

• Accounting Information & Management
• Financial Economics
• Management & Organizations
• Management & Organizations & Sociology
• Managerial Economics & Strategy
• Operations Management
• Academic Experience
• Student Life
• 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.

• JOB MARKET CANDIDATES
• JOB PLACEMENT

Our Current PhD Students

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

• 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

• Undergraduate
• Master of Accounting
• Full Time MBA
• Evening Executive MBA
• Weekend Executive MBA
• Charlotte Executive MBA

PhD in Finance

Finance and real estate finance.

Our finance group conducts high-impact and high-quality research in corporate finance, asset pricing, macro-finance, real estate, labor and finance, household finance and neuroeconomics. Our mission is to create knowledge that advances our understanding of the economic decisions made by investors, consumers, firms and policymakers. We also offer a specialized program in real estate finance.

Our program is quantitative in nature and students typically have a background in economics, engineering, mathematics or statistics. We value past experience in research related to finance or economics and some students already have completed graduate work, but we don’t require either.

Students in the Finance PhD Program benefit enormously from working with our world-class faculty who value working with PhD students and have designed many courses to specifically meet your needs.

We are committed to providing you with the benefits of training and true mentorship in our collaborative environment. You will have a faculty mentor assigned to you, and you will learn the research process as you work closely finance professors on their current research. Close collaboration your classmates offers additional mentoring opportunities.

With the knowledge, skills and network you develop at UNC Kenan-Flagler, we expect you to graduate ready to succeed as a researcher at a top business school.

Typical Finance PhD Curriculum Path

During the first two years of the PhD program, you focus on developing the tools you need to produce high-quality research.

By the end of you second year, you take a comprehensive exam. It consists of a written exam covering all of the Finance courses you took during your first two years and an oral presentation of your current research.

After passing the comprehensive exam, you begin the second part of the program where you spend the majority of your time working on research.

In the third year, you focus most of your time on your dissertation. During this process, you will collaborate closely with faculty members and present your work during faculty research seminars.

You spend the rest of the program finishing the dissertation and preparing for the job market.

Upon successful completion of the program, your receive a PhD in Business Administration.

• You may take any elective offered by UNC Kenan-Flagler, other UNC or Duke departments with guidance from your advisor.
• You are invited to participate in all finance and real estate-related research seminars and guest speakers at UNC Kenan-Flagler. Guest speakers regularly include faculty members from other top business schools such as Chicago, Columbia, Duke, Harvard, NYU and Wharton.

Fellowships in Finance

All admitted students are considered for financial support from UNC Kenan-Flagler or University fellowships. Fellowships typically require you to conduct research and teach during the academic year.

The finance area also provides special fellowships in two research areas.

Private Equity

The UAI Foundation Fellowship in Private Equity Research is available to students with a demonstrated research interest and expertise in the field of private equity and venture capital. If you would like to be considered for this fellowship, note your interest as part of your research statement in your application.

Real Estate

Thanks to generous funding from The Leonard W. Wood Center for Real Estate Studies , we support students specializing in real-estate finance. This specialized program is unique in the academic world. In addition to fulfilling the finance requirements, students complete rigorous training to prepare them to teach and research issues in commercial real estate.

Our aim is dual. Our graduates will be highly qualified academics capable of producing research published in the best journals in economics and finance. They also develop the skills to teach institutionally detailed courses in commercial real estate finance.

View our current Finance PhD students .

Related Research

The impact of quantum computing.

Eric Ghysels said the new technology is a “paradigm shift” that will impact financial decision-making and internet security.

Black Friday: Behind the scenes

On Black Friday, there’s a lot more going on than great sales. Here’s what happens behind the scenes as retailers prepare for one of the busiest shopping d...

The opioid crisis hurts firm growth

The toll of the U.S. opioid crisis extends to companies, UNC Kenan-Flagler researchers show.

This website uses cookies and similar technologies to understand visitor experiences. By using this website, you consent to UNC-Chapel Hill's cookie usage in accordance with their Privacy Notice .

PhD Program

In the last decade, the academic study of finance has experienced an infusion of new concepts and quantitative methodologies that place it among the most sophisticated and dynamic areas of business and economics. New developments in the traditional areas of finance-theory of rational investor portfolio choice, interpretation and determination of security prices, and efficient corporate decision-making have been approached from the perspective of a single integrating paradigm derived from economic theory. This has led to extensive joint teaching and research between the finance, applied economics, and accounting faculties at Berkeley. Academic contributions are having profound effects on financial practice.

Program Overview

A Haas PhD student interested in finance needs a strong course background in mathematics and statistics. This is a prerequisite to the sequence of doctoral seminars in finance (PHDBA 239 A-D and PHDBA 229C).

Students also attend frequent seminars to gain exposure to ongoing research, with speakers featured from other universities throughout the world. These seminars provide a forum for doctoral students to assess the relevance of academic research in their fields.

Current student profiles

Dissertations & placements.

Next: Management of Organizations

main-jindal-menu

Engage-menu, finance and managerial economics programs at ut dallas.

Master the specialized training and skills for your finance career.

Finance is a growing field with a need for specialized training and skills. In this fast-paced career, you need technical and decision-making skills to gather and evaluate information in a rapidly-changing business environment.

post-footer

Bachelor’s, master’s or phd in finance, bachelor’s degree program.

Build the skills to do rigorous analysis of financial information through various courses in managerial economics and financial analysis. These skills are in high demand across the corporate world and prized in government and not-for-profit sectors.

Master’s Degree Programs

Find the finance graduate degree that matches your interests. See a brief summary of each degree or click a program below for more information.

PhD Concentration in Finance

Develop strong research skills that are especially relevant for students interested in an academic career. Research seminars are held weekly, and each year the finance area sponsors a speaker series to bring researchers from other universities to UT Dallas.

Finance Area Master’s Degrees

All Finance Area master’s degrees are STEM-certified.

Master’s in Finance

The Master’s in Finance is offered for graduate students who have an interest in such areas as corporate finance, investment banking, financial analysis, private equity or real estate. Students can select alternatives designed to meet the educational requirements for the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA®) or the CCIM designation.

Master’s in Finance Technology and Analytics

The Master’s in Finance Technology and Analytics (FTEC) is for graduate students who have an interest in financial technology (fintech) and financial data analytics.

Master’s in Energy Management

The Master’s in Energy Management is for graduate students who have an interest in such areas as energy economics and finance, operations across energy sectors and other energy issues. Students can prepare for the Energy Risk Professional (ERP) examinations.

Finance Area Faculty

The Finance and Managerial Economics faculty bring state-of-the-art knowledge to the classroom and are actively engaged in research. Currently, they are studying:

• Asset Pricing and investment performance
• Financial markets
• Corporate financing
• The economics of intellectual property and information goods
• Experimental and behavioral economics

Faculty research has been published in leading academic and practitioner journals including: Journal of Finance , Journal of Financial Economics , Review of Financial Studies , American Economic Review , Journal of Political Economy , Journal of Portfolio Management and Journal of Derivatives .

View Finance Area Faculty

Student Experiences

Ankita’s Internship at KPMG in the Tax Department

Ankita Kapoor, a junior accounting and finance major at the Jindal School, recently interned with the tax department at KPMG, an international audit, tax and advisory company, to learn more about the work and see if it was right for her. In her interview, Ankita discusses the importance of an internship in ensuring your field is right for you before you graduate

Learning From Site Visits to Solar and Coal Plants

We saw solar plants, coal plants, and we actually got lectures from people who are there inside. And you got a very good idea about how they run and a very practical approach, which was very important.

Policentric Revolutionizes Democratic Participation

Kamiar Kordi hopes to revolutionize politics by increasing awareness and connection between constituents and their representatives. In his interview, Kamiar shares how UT Dallas helped him reach for success and make a change.

My Path To Success in MS Finance

Jiaojiao Li, Class of 2020

Looking back, the most important thing I want to share with you is: Be open-minded, reach out to veteran students, your professors, your program advisors and the Career Management Center. Be proactive.

Everything I Needed From a Master’s in Finance

Hui (Vivienne) Zhi, Class of 2020

The job market in the DFW area is growing rapidly, and the area was ranked No. 1 Best City for Jobs by Forbes in 2020. The job opportunities are always out there if you are ready with the necessary skill set.

How a CEO Pitched to Wall Street Added Value to My Degree

As part of my degree, one of the electives that I took was energy economics. We got to see different CEOs and CFOs Wall Street pitch. We got to see their whole process.

Inspired to Pursue a Second Master’s

I am an electrical engineer and worked as an assistant professor for six-plus years. While working as a professor, I felt that it is equally important to learn the business side of the industry. And that thought inspired me to pursue my second master’s in energy management.

Takeaways From the Master’s in Finance Program

Nidhi Khetan, Class of 2020

As a child, I grew up listening to dinner-table conversations between my father, uncle and grandfather, discussing strategies to expand our business and overcome financial hurdles along the way. This struck a spark in me to understand how business and finance work.

Fernanda Muñoz’s Internship at Top Golf International

Fernanda Muñoz, a global business and finance student at the Jindal School of Management, accepted an internship at Top Golf International to dive into the field of finance. In this interview, Fernanda shares details of her experience, including how essential it is to network.

Dapo Ogunfeitimi’s Summer Internship at Ernst & Young

As an accounting and finance major at the Naveen Jindal School of Management, Dapo Ogunfeitimi landed a summer internship to gain experience in the field. In this interview, Dapo doesn’t leave out any details of his summer-long experience — even if it means revealing some embarrassing information.

What Does a Master’s in Finance Teach You?

Noah Harness, Class of 2020

My biggest takeaway from the MSF program is my improved knowledge of statistical and quantitative methods and their applications to solving business and financial problems.

A Petroleum Engineer Who Found a New Path in Energy Management

We learned from the energy management course that a lot of economic things in finance about contracts and some technologies are related to the energy industry, including the solar, wind, oil and gas — even the nuclear energy.

Finance Articles

Benefits of Having Faculty With Industry Experience

Written by Stephen Molina

Texas boasts some of the largest energy-related companies in the world. The MS in Energy Management curriculum offers a practical learning component through projects developed by industry members.

10 Reasons to Study Real Estate!

Working in real estate is a satisfying, enjoyable, rewarding, hands-on career option. Individuals and businesses are buying, selling and leasing property every day and they need well-educated, out-going professionals to help them meet their goals.

Why Get a Master’s in Energy Management?

The energy and power industries are global businesses with strategic assets in both developed and developing countries, and they require an international approach.

Why a Global Perspective Is Important

We strive to prepare our graduates to work for private energy companies and in governments to manage their assets.

Professional Development Opportunities in Energy Management

Written by Dan Sibley

The program provides professional development opportunities through the student-run clubs, the Energy Association and the Association of International Petroleum Negotiators, and through a mentor program.

Working Full-Time While in the MS in Energy Management Program

The program requires completion of 36 semester credit hours. The curriculum was designed to be completed in as little as 12 months (four courses per semester, including the summer semester).

Finance Blogs & News

Panelists Share Messages of Empowerment, Support in Women to Women Event

Three female executives sharing stories at a Women to Women event hosted by the Jindal School’s Career Management Center encouraged audience members to speak up, find a mentor and support other professionals in their workplace in order to thrive.

Jindal School Assistant Dean Awarded Congressional Veteran Commendation

The head of the Jindal School’s Career Management Center has been recognized for his service in the military and as a veteran. Assistant Dean Tom Kim earned a commendation from the Texas 26th Congressional District, where he grew up and now resides.

Strategic Management Online Contest Grows in Popularity, Gains No. 4 Winner

Efforts to get more Jindal School undergraduate and graduate students to enter an online contest based on their strategic management course yielded more entrants and more top finishers. One Jindal School student finished No. 4 in the world.

Restaurateur Talks About Successful Entrepreneurship at Weitzman Institute Event

The Herbert D. Weitzman Institute for Real Estate at the Jindal School hosted restaurateur Phil Romano at a special event. Romano, creator of EatZi’s, Trinity Groves and other eateries, spoke about his new book and his journey as an entrepreneur.

A Message from Jindal School Dean Hasan Pirkul

Jindal School Dean Hasan Pirkul reaches out to students, faculty, staff, alumni and supporters with an update on the state of the school as classes resume following spring break and during the coronavirus outbreak.

UT Dallas Excels at DECA Conference—With Freshmen Leading the Way

Freshmen members of the UT Dallas DECA chapter won all the first-, second- and third-place prizes the chapter earned at the 2019 DECA International Career Development Conference in Orlando, Fla. In all, 34 UT Dallas students competed at the event.

Disruptive Digital Technologies Drive the Need for Innovation

Recent disruptive digital innovations have changed the relative cost calculus and thus the best business structures and best business models in most industries. Digital transformation is underway.

Dallas ISD Students Commit to UT Dallas and the Jindal School on ‘Signing Day’

Four seniors from the Dallas ISD became the initial cohort of the Jindal Young Scholars Program on May 4, 2018 when they visited UT Dallas for “Signing Day” activities in which they committed to enroll in the Jindal School of Management.

Jindal School Inaugurates Undergraduate Deans Conference

The Jindal School recently held a new conference convening assistant and associate deans of undergraduate business school programs. More than 80 universities were represented, and the deans discussed ways to improve programs and student experiences.

Real Estate Luminaries Bestow Legacy Gift on Jindal School

North Texas real estate icon Herb Weitzman and his wife, Donna, have given the Jindal School a $3 million gift that will be used to established the Herbert D. Weitzman Institute for Real Estate. The gift was announced at JSOM’s Scholarship Breakfast.

Real Estate Event Describes Evolving Industry Pre- and Post-Pandemic

A symposium hosted by the Herbert D. Weitzman Institute for Real Estate featured a Federal Reserve expert and explored the DFW economy in general and commercial real estate in particular, with key takeaways on the accelerated pace of change.

Risk Management in Action: COVID-19 Provides Students Valuable Experience

The COVID-19 pandemic has taken the studies of risk management and insurance students from theory to reality. “We have completely rewritten our lesson plans,” RMI Director Debra Richardson said.

Fall Finance Conference Gaining Momentum

Interest and participation in the Jindal School’s annual Fall Finance Conference are growing. The academic gathering this year attracted about 70 conferees and 200 research paper submissions.

UT Dallas, Jindal School Featured Prominently on List of Young Innovators

A Jindal School graduate and two current students have been named to 2019NTX Inno Under 25, a list of young leaders and entrepreneurs in North Texas under the age of 25. In all, nine of the 14 honorees have UT Dallas ties.

Leadership, Debt and ‘Trumponomics’ Top Topics at IECG Conference

Headliners at JSOM’s Institute for Excellence in Corporate Governance annual conference included former Hewlett-Packard CEO Carly Fiorina and Federal Reserve Board nominee Stephen Moore.

$3 Million Gift Establishes Herbert D. Weitzman Institute for Real Estate at JSOM

North Texas real estate luminaries Donna and Herb Weitzman have given the Jindal School a $3 million gift that will establish the Herbert D. Weitzman Institute for Real Estate. JSOM Dean Hasan Pirkul announced the gift at the Scholarship Breakfast.

CAFÉ Film Screening Ties Tiananmen Square Past to Hong Kong Present

Filmmaker Robert Anthony Peters screened his movie about the Tiananmen Square protests,Tank Man, at an event hosted by the Jindal School’s Colloquium to Advance Free-Enterprise Education. Peters compared the 1989 protests to recent ones in Hong Kong.

Experts Explain How North Texas Can Become Epicenter of Fintech Disruption

New financial technologies — fintech — are reordering the financial services industry. Professionals schooled in the changes made a case for Dallas and the surrounding region’s competitive advantage at a recent NTX Disruptors event at JSOM.

Jindal School Students Earn Scholar Award for ‘Rolling with the Punches’

Three Jindal School students have been named recipients of $15,000 Texas Business Hall of Fame Foundation Scholarships.The students as well as the foundation have had to make pandemic-related adjustments to doing business.

Finance Program Resources

Finance program resources at the jindal school, academic programs – primary.

The finance area offers on bachelor’s, three master’s and one PhD program.

• Bachelor’s in Finance
• Master’s in Finance (STEM)
• Master’s in Finance Technology and Analytics (STEM)
• Master’s in Energy Management (STEM)
• PhD in Finance Concentration

Academic Programs – Additional

The finance area also offers accelerated pathways to adding more degrees as well as areas of concentration.

• Professional Program in Finance (PPF)
• Risk Management and Cyber Security Concentration
• Real Estate Concentration
• Undergraduate Real Estate
• Graduate Real Estate
• MBA Real Estate

Faculty and Community Activity

Discover how finance faculty are researching, publishing, speaking and engaging in the business community.

• Fall Finance Conference
• Advisory Board
• Newsletters
• Centers of Excellence
• Center and Laboratory for Behavioral Operations and Economics (LBOE)
• Center for Analysis of Property Rights and Innovation (CAPRI)
• Center for Finance Strategy Innovation (CFSI)

Career, Certificates and CFA Exam Prep

Find out about the career resources available to you as a finance student and learn more about the CFA exam and how the Jindal School prepares you for it. There are also two academic certificates for graduate students that anyone can apply for.

• Careers in Finance
• Certificate in Financial Data Science
• Certificate in FinTech

Back to Top

Ph.D. Finance

The Ph.D. in Business Administration – Finance offers students a rigorous course of work and the chance to conduct cutting-edge research under the guidance of Mays’ faculty, including some of the world’s leading scholars in their respective fields. The program prepares students for successful careers as academics, industry researchers and/or business consultants.

How To Apply

Areas of Expertise

Academic Overview

Our Ph.D. in Business Administration – Finance program provides rigorous coursework and research activities for an in-depth understanding of the theoretical, conceptual, and managerial foundations of finance.

Degree Details

Duration: 5 years

Class Type: In-Person

Location: College Station

Tuition Calculator

Financial Aid

Request Information 

Below is a list of application requirements and information for pre-requisites for each applicant.

• Completed Online Application in BusinesCAS
• Completed Essay Questions
• Three Letters of Recommendation
• GMAT/GRE scores
• TOEFL or IELTS (International Candidates)

Contact Our Team 

Over the course of the program, candidates will aim to develop an extensive repertoire of research, coursework, and publications. We offer a number of resources to aid students in their work such as the workshop program.

Faculty Experts 

Apply To Mays

Applications Are Closed

Contact Admissions 

Develop advanced competencies for conducting quality research, directing research of others and communicating research findings through teaching and writing. Learn from our renowned scholars represent thought leaders in; corporate banking, investment banking and banking.

Develop advanced competencies for conducting quality research, directing research of others and communicating research findings through teaching and writing. Learn from our renowned scholars represent thought leaders in; macroeconomics, urban economics, information economics and more.

Real Estate

Develop advanced competencies for conducting quality research, directing research of others and communicating research findings through teaching and writing. Learn from our renowned scholars represent thought leaders in Real Estate.

Develop advanced competencies for conducting quality research, directing research of others and communicating research findings through teaching and writing. Learn from our renowned scholars represent thought leaders in FinTech.

The Adam C. Sinn ’00 Department of Finance

As one of the country’s top finance departments, our goal is to provide students with the theoretical and empirical tools necessary to achieve high levels of expertise in all areas of finance. Our graduates are well prepared to work in both private and public sectors.

Get prepared for the exciting world of Finance. From Wall Street to Main Street, our programs and strong corporate relationships will provide you with knowledge, skills, and experience for a successful career. Join one of our many programs and become an exceptional candidate, highly sought after by a wide range of firms nationwide.

Adam C. Sinn ’00 Department of Finance 

Ph.D. in Finance

Our Ph.D. in Business Administration offers students a rigorous course of work and the chance to conduct cutting-edge research under the guidance of Mays’ faculty, including some of the world’s leading scholars in their respective fields. The program prepares students for successful careers as academics, industry researchers and/or business consultants.

Go to the Ph.D. Series →

Current PhD Students

Duke's Fuqua School of Business

PhD Students

Prodigy Student Loans Review 2024: Education Financing for International Students

Prodigy student loans.

Vault Verified

Expert Take

Prodigy Finance offers attainable student loans for promising, international students pursuing graduate programs. Prodigy student loans don’t require collateral or a co-signer, but they’re only available to international graduate students who attend certain schools.

• Geared specifically toward international students
• No co-signer or collateral requirements
• Flexible repayment terms
• No fixed interest rates
• Only for graduate students
• Not available in every state or school

Vault’s Viewpoint on Prodigy Student Loans

Prodigy offers live weekly webinars and supports international students with admissions, visas, funding, and other aspects of studying abroad. However, it can be difficult for Prodigy students to budget for their repayments in advance since its variable rates are relatively high and there are no fixed rate options.

The lender depends on a number of sources to fund its loans, but there is no guarantee that you’ll get approved. Borrowers must be matched with an investor first, and matching rounds happen on a weekly basis. If you don’t get matched, you’ll be placed on a waitlist and be considered for matching in a future round, so you might qualify eventually.

About Prodigy Student Loans

Founded in 2007 by MBA students, Prodigy Finance is a U.K-based company that offers international student loans for graduate students. Its loans are funded by investors who hope to make education more accessible to international students. 

Since its inception, Prodigy Finance has provided more than $2 billion in loans to over 40,000 students. These students have pursued master’s degrees at top universities in the U.S. , Canada, United Kingdom and other parts of the world.

When reviewing eligibility, Prodigy Finance focuses on future earning potential instead of solely on your credit score. That’s why students can get approved for a student loan even if they don’t have collateral or a creditworthy co-signer.

Who Are Prodigy Student Loans Best For?

International students who need money for graduate school may benefit from a Prodigy student loan. Since they may not qualify for federal student loans , they can apply with Prodigy and potentially get matched to an investor who is willing to lend to them. They won’t have to worry about finding collateral or a co-signer and can receive financial support for their study abroad journey. 

To get approved for Prodigy student loans, you must be from an eligible country and planning to study abroad in one of 18 eligible countries. The lender also requires that you’re accepted into a qualifying school and graduate program. Prodigy offers a prequalification tool, so it may be worth it to check potential offers to determine whether the lender is a good fit.

Who Should Consider an Alternative to a Prodigy Student Loan?

While Prodigy student loans don’t have a collateral or co-signer requirement, international students who prefer a low, predictable interest rate would likely be better off choosing a different lender. Compared to other lenders with competitive, fixed rates , Prodigy offers higher, variable rates that may increase over time.

The lender also charges an origination fee of 5% of the total loan balance, so it may not make sense for those who prioritize low to no fees. Plus, Prodigy only offers international graduate student loans , so it isn’t an option for undergraduates or non-international graduate students. Unless you’re an international student studying at one of the 1,600+ schools Prodigy supports, you’ll need to look elsewhere to fund your education. 

How Do Prodigy Student Loans Stack Up to Competitors?

As you search for private student loans , you’ll find that they vary greatly. Before you commit to a Prodigy student loan, you may want to consider these alternatives. 

Prodigy Student Loans vs. MPOWER

Like Prodigy, MPOWER specializes in private student loans for international students without requiring collateral or a co-signer. Both lenders also offer a six-month grace period and charge an origination fee of 5% of the total loan amount. But MPOWER differs from Prodigy in that its loans come with fixed interest rates that make it easy to budget for repayments in advance. Loans are also available for undergraduate students, not just graduate students.

MPOWER also provides free career services guidance and visa support. Where MPOWER falls short, however, is its lack of repayment flexibility. While Prodigy student loans come with terms between seven to 20 years, MPOWER only offers one option—a 10-year repayment term.

Prodigy Student Loans vs. Earnest

Prodigy student loans are only for international graduate students, whereas Earnest student loans cater to a variety of students—including U.S. undergraduate and international graduate students. With Earnest, borrowers can enjoy a generous nine-month grace period, compared to Prodigy’s six-month grace period, which is typical among private student loan lenders. 

Plus, unlike Prodigy, Earnest doesn’t charge origination fees. However, international graduate student loans are only available to students from a few select countries. Additionally, Earnest, looks for a credit score of at least 600 for an independent loan or a score of 650 for a co-signed loan. This can be difficult for international students to obtain. For this reason, a Prodigy student loan, which prioritizes future earning potential over credit may be more attainable. 

Prodigy Student Loans vs. Ascent

Similar to Prodigy, Ascent provides student loans to international students. But while Prodigy focuses on international graduate students, Ascent serves various international students as well as U.S. students. Ascent’s grace period is nine months for most types of loans, whereas Prodigy only offers six months.

Ascent is also unique in that it offers free success coaching for undergraduate borrowers and a 1% cash back graduation reward. In addition, Ascent supports students with hardship by offering 24 months of forbearance. While international students will likely find more perks with Prodigy, they may have to settle for higher rates. With that said, Ascent does require all international student loan applicants to have a creditworthy co-signer who lives in the United States, while Prodigy does not.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prodigy student loans legit.

Yes, Prodigy Finance is a legitimate lender that offers student loans to international graduate students. They have helped over 40,000 students from around the world gain access to more than $2 billion in student loans toward their graduate studies abroad.

Does Prodigy Require a Co-Signer?

Prodigy does not require a co-signer for its international student loans. However, you may land a lower interest rate if you do apply with a creditworthy co-signer.

Can Prodigy Student Loans Be Forgiven?

Like most private student loans, Prodigy student loans can’t be forgiven. Unfortunately, they are not eligible for student loan forgiveness programs such as the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) Program or the Teacher Loan Forgiveness (TLF) Program.

The post Prodigy Student Loans Review 2024: Education Financing for International Students first appeared on Newsweek Vault .

Knauss School of Business

Shape a better business world. Explore our programs.

GETTING STARTED

• Majors and Minors
• Graduate Programs

Explore the Knauss student experience.

• Knauss Student Success Center
• Current Students
• Business Student Organizations
• Global Opportunities
• Declare Your Major

How to apply and fund your education.

• Graduate Admissions
• Graduate Admissions Events
• Tuition and Scholarships
• Military Resources

Meet distinguished researchers and industry experts.

• Faculty & Staff Resources
• Faculty Directory
• Adjunct Faculty
• Business Insights

• Accountancy Institute
• Ahlers Center for International Business
• Burnham-Moores Center for Real Estate
• Free Enterprise Institute
• Supply Chain Management Institute

Your VIP pass to skills and business connections.

• Leadership Team
• Knauss Center for Business Education
• News Center

Information for

TORERO RESOURCES

TOP SEARCH RESULTS

The Thoughtful Leader

For the next wave of graduate business students, the value of a master’s degree in finance: is it worth it.

Written By Knauss Admissions Team

It’s no secret that a master’s degree can lead to career advancement, salary increases and long-term success. In competitive and rapidly evolving fields like finance, a master’s degree demonstrates that you have a strong foundation of knowledge and the specialized skills you need to excel, making graduates highly sought by employers.  However, considering whether a master’s degree in finance is the right choice, it’s important to look beyond the financial and career return on investment (ROI). While a higher salary and better job prospects are certainly enticing factors, they’re not the only benefits of pursuing a master’s degree in finance.  To truly stand out in today’s dynamic job market, finance professionals must have advanced competencies and an in-depth understanding of industry trends.

Advancing Your Career with a Master’s Program in Finance

Not only can a master’s degree in finance equip you to advance in your career, but it also allows you to take a more meaningful stance on issues you care about. Investing in more experience through your education allows you to make positive social and environmental impacts since you’ll have a more robust understanding of the industry, its history, and your place in it.  By learning more about the industry, you’ll be better equipped to be a changemaker within the field. You can work to advance sustainable financial practices like:

Impact investing 

Instead of investing for your gain or the financial growth of your clients, impact investing allows you to make positive, measurable social and environmental impacts while still seeing significant financial returns. This market helps fund sustainability efforts like sustainable agriculture, renewable energy, affordable and accessible housing, and more. 

Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Integration 

Rather than leaving the effects of your business choices as an afterthought, ESG integration allows financial professionals to consider the cost of their actions from the start and help to increase their long-term investment performance and sustainability. By approaching finance with the environmental, social, and governance implications top of mind, you can assist in harm reduction and exploitation at every level of finance.

Socially Responsible Investing

Investing in companies with positive social impacts helps you make the most of your money, both personally and through the causes you care most about. In this type of investing, you can put your action and resources behind what you care about socially and politically, enacting real change and improvements in your community. Choosing a master’s program that prioritizes doing business for good gives you a seamless transition from your studies into your career. With a Master’s degree in finance that considers the social and environmental impact of business and the economy, you’ll be equipped to participate in the good work that socially responsible businesses already do in their local communities. 

Access to Specialized Knowledge and Skill Development

A Master’s degree in finance gives students an easy way to apply their learning to ethical and sustainable financial career practices. In a graduate program, students engage deeply with sustainable investment strategies and green finance. The Master of Science in Finance at the University of San Diego’s Knauss School of Business is comprehensive and progressive, helping graduates navigate the financial landscape through a lens of social responsibility.  Some of the courses central to the Master of Science in Finance program that highlight ethical financial practices are: 

MFIN 505 - Ethics: This course provides insights into ethical considerations integral to financial decision-making.  MFIN 510 - International Finance: This course allows students to examine sustainable investment strategies on a global scale and explore how world economies work together to promote long-term, environmentally friendly economic growth. 

The Knauss School of Business also offers dual degrees and MBA concentrations for finance students to hone their gifts and passions and do the most good with their finance degree.  This degree allows students to develop skills directly applicable to socially responsible investing. The in-depth knowledge acquired during study informs graduates' capacities to contribute meaningfully to initiatives aimed at realizing a sustainable and ethical financial future. Implementing what they acquire from courses such as "Financial Econometrics" (MFIN 514) and "Advanced Fixed Income and Structured Finance" (MFIN 517), graduates of USD’s program can address complex financial issues with data-backed insights. Using detailed financial analysis and strategic financial management skills, they can identify sustainable investment opportunities more efficiently and help drive "business for good" initiatives.

Networking and Industry Connections

Networking is especially important in finance. It opens doors to connections with professionals and organizations deeply engaged in sustainable finance initiatives and “business for good” organizations.  Rather than trying to find these connections on your own, a graduate program gives you the advantage of trusted connections and long-term professional relationships your school has already established. These robust networks can redefine a graduate’s career trajectory, embedding them in spaces that uphold their values and commitment to positively impacting society.  For those committed to a more sustainable and equitable world, strategic networking is a crucial tool for seeking connections with organizations committed to “business for good.” As graduates immerse themselves in a community of like-minded professionals, they can take their learning beyond academics and glean practical insights into driving positive change and effectively measuring impact.  Networking also brings collaboration between like-minded organizations through shared projects, mentorships, brainstorming sessions, resource sharing, and more. These exchanges are fueled by a shared commitment to sustainability and impact that can help drive innovation in the sustainable finance industry. 

Competitive Advantage in the Job Market 

More than ever, companies and organizations acknowledge the need for financial decisions considering ethical and sustainability factors. There's an increasing awareness that financial performance and societal impact aren't mutually exclusive but can and should go hand in hand.  In the evolving landscape of today's job market, a Master's Degree in Finance offers a competitive advantage to graduates. With the growing awareness of the importance of sustainable finance comes a need for more professionals trained in advancing the field. Those who earn a Master of Finance focusing on socially responsible practices have an edge in their professional pursuits.  While a degree in Finance builds a strong foundation in business and finance, a specialized Master's in Finance goes deeper into specific finance topics and principles. This comprehensive knowledge base bridges the gap between finance and business in organizations and makes graduates more marketable. By mastering complex and nuanced financial concepts, they're better equipped to fulfill the pressing needs of modern organizations.

What can you do with a Master’s in Finance?

A Master's in Finance opens numerous doors in ethical and sustainable finance. Graduates can find work in impact investing firms, take up challenging roles in sustainable finance departments within banks, or focus on ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) integration across various industries.  These roles offer unique opportunities to contribute to "business for good" strategies and to become changemakers in the financial industry.

Is a Master’s in Finance Worth It? 

Yes. Choosing a master’s degree that integrates sustainability into financial analysis and decision-making processes is more crucial than ever. The Master of Science in Finance from USD’s Knauss School of Business provides graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute to the growing field. Our program takes just ten months to complete, so it’s a viable option for professionals looking to jumpstart their careers in finance quickly. Despite its relatively fast pace, the master's program doesn't compromise on quality or depth, offering specialized coursework that goes deep into the core areas of finance, sustainability, and ethics. 

Choose The University of San Diego’s Knauss School of Business for Your Master of Finance

In a rapidly evolving financial landscape, a Master's degree in Finance from the University of San Diego offers a vibrant mix of career advancement opportunities, specialized knowledge acquisition, extensive networking potential, and strong industry recognition.

Deeply rooted in sustainable finance principles, this degree cultivates an understanding of ethical practices and "business for good" initiatives. It stands at the intersection of financial profitability and social responsibility, shaping graduates who can manage both concerns effectively. 

This knowledge equips graduates to participate in and contribute meaningfully to responsible and sustainable finance practices, which profoundly impact financial performance and social and environmental outcomes.

Understanding sustainable finance and the principles of "business for good" enables graduates to move beyond traditional financial roles and contribute significantly to a more equitable and sustainable world. A Master's in Finance represents an investment in personal career growth and a goal of reshaping the world through sustainable financial practices. It serves those who dare to envision a better, more equitable world and equips them with the knowledge, skills, and connections to turn that vision into reality.

To learn more about the Master of Finance from USD, download our guide . 

Or, you can request more information about our programs today. 

There's More

Recommended Posts

Striking the perfect balance: managing work and mba studies.

Back to Blog

A Gen Xer who got $250,000 in student loans forgiven said he can now finally start saving for retirement — and consider his dream of studying in India

• Joel Lambdin, 49, received $250,000 in student-loan forgiveness in January.
• It's a result of the Education Department's one-time account adjustments.
• Lambdin said the relief would allow him to save for retirement and consider long-term dreams.

Joel Lambdin finished graduate school in 1998 — but as a professional musician, he was hardly making enough money to pay off his student loans and other bills.

So Lambdin, now 49, said his only option to make ends meet was to put his student loans in forbearance — in which he was not making payments but interest was still accumulating .

"It was just so that I could subsist, so that I could survive," Lambdin told Business Insider. "With the hope that at some point, I would be making enough money that I would be able to take them out of forbearance and start paying them down."

But he grew to realize that the only way he could make a significant dent in his student loans was by switching careers. He didn't want to do that because he loved working in music, so he decided to keep his larger student loan in forbearance and begin paying off his smaller loan with a lower monthly payment.

He continued making those payments until the pandemic pause on student-loan payments , at which point he and his wife started making a plan of action to tackle the larger debt once the pause ended. That led them to discover the Education Department's initiative allowing some borrowers a one-time account adjustment . It lets the department evaluate borrowers' accounts and update payment progress toward forgiveness on income-driven repayment plans and Public Service Loan Forgiveness, including any payments made during a forbearance period.

That account adjustment led to a letter Lambdin received on January 31, reviewed by BI, from his student-loan servicer Aidvantage. It said: "Congratulations! The Biden-Harris Administration has forgiven your federal student loan(s) listed below with Aidvantage in full."

For Lambdin, that letter meant his $249,255 outstanding student-loan balance was effectively wiped out.

"It had started to feel like my fate was being decided for me by the cold hand of finance," Lambdin said, "and that was a weight that I didn't realize was there until it wasn't there."

He added: "The feeling was much more like putting down a backpack that was really full of books that you got used to. And then you put it down, and you're like, 'Oh, man, that feels so much better.' It's more like that, rather than sort of a jump-for-joy kind of situation."

While Lambdin is still working to determine what exactly the relief will mean for him and his wife, he said, discussing retirement is "a much more present conversation now" because contributing to savings is viable after the relief. He can also begin to look into buying a home.

Related stories

The Education Department continues to cancel student debt through its one-time account adjustments, a process it plans to complete this summer. Most recently, the department wiped out $7.4 billion in student debt for 277,000 borrowers , some of whom benefited from the adjustments.

Beyond financial goals, Lambdin said the relief was also allowing him the freedom to pursue some of his long-term dreams, including taking a sabbatical to study with his meditation teacher in India.

"It's something that I wouldn't have been able to even consider doing if we had to pay off student loans, but without them, it's something that I can really seriously consider doing," he said. "And so those are the kinds of things that I think get really lost in the monetary side of the conversation about debt relief."

'I've been really lucky'

While Lambdin said he felt as though he earned the relief given his decades of payments, he recognized that it's not that easy for many other borrowers.

For example, as BI has previously reported , some borrowers who might qualify for relief through different repayment programs may not have gotten it yet because of paperwork backlogs and administrative errors. On top of that, funding for federal student-loan servicers is strained — meaning many borrowers face hourslong hold times and cannot get clear answers from customer service regarding their payment progress.

"There are some real horror stories out there, and I've been really lucky in that I haven't experienced the kinds of shenanigans that other people have experienced," Lambdin said. "So I actually feel very lucky that things have transpired the way they have."

Some of those horror stories include inaccurate payment projections and delayed billing statements . When it comes to student-loan forgiveness, some borrowers told BI that their servicer made a mistake with the forgiveness , reinstating their payments months later.

The Education Department has said it's aware of the challenges borrowers face and has established an accountability framework to punish servicers when they fail to fulfill their contractual obligations.

The department is also in the process of crafting its new plan for student-loan forgiveness — it recently released the draft text of the rules , which included relief for borrowers with unpaid interest and those who have been in repayment for at least 20 years.

As for Lambdin, he's still figuring out how to approach life without student debt hanging over his head. But now he can consider various options, and he can thank the loan forgiveness for that freedom.

"There's a certain amount of waiting for the other shoe to drop because it's not that I don't trust that it's happening but just that the debt has been with me for so long, and then it's not there," Lambdin said. "And it's something that I think really takes some getting used to."

Watch: Biden announces who can have $10,000 erased in student loans

• Main content

• Updated Terms of Use
• New Privacy Policy
• Your Privacy Choices
• Closed Captioning Policy

Quotes displayed in real-time or delayed by at least 15 minutes. Market data provided by  Factset . Powered and implemented by  FactSet Digital Solutions .  Legal Statement .

This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. ©2024 FOX News Network, LLC. All rights reserved. FAQ - New Privacy Policy

Private student loan interest rates continue upward surge

The latest private student loan interest rates from the Credible marketplace, updated weekly. ( iStock )

During the week of Apr. 15, 2024, average private student loan rates increased for borrowers with credit scores of 720 or higher who used the Credible marketplace to take out 10-year fixed-rate loans and 5-year variable-rate loans.

• 10-year fixed rate: 10.45%, up from 9.40% the week before, +1.05
• 5-year variable rate: 7.75%, up from 7.39% the week before, +0.36

Through Credible, you can compare private student loan rates from multiple lenders.

For 10-year fixed private student loans, interest rates rose by over a full percentage point, while 5-year variable student loan interest ticked up by more than a third of a percentage point.

Borrowers with good credit may find a lower rate with a private student loan than with some federal loans. For the 2023-24 academic school year, federal student loan rates will range from 5.50% to 8.05%. Private student loan rates for borrowers with good to excellent credit can be lower right now.

Because federal loans come with certain benefits, like access to income-driven repayment plans, you should always exhaust federal student loan options first before turning to private student loans to cover any funding gaps. Private lenders such as banks, credit unions, and online lenders provide private student loans. You can use private loans to pay for education costs and living expenses, which might not be covered by your federal education loans. 

Interest rates and terms on private student loans can vary depending on your financial situation, credit history, and the lender you choose.

Take a look at Credible partner lenders’ rates for borrowers who used the Credible marketplace to select a lender during the week of April 15:

Private student loan rates (graduate and undergraduate)

Who sets federal and private interest rates?

Congress sets federal student loan interest rates each year. These fixed interest rates depend on the type of federal loan you take out, your dependency status and your year in school.

Private student loan interest rates can be fixed or variable and depend on your credit, repayment term and other factors. As a general rule, the better your credit score, the lower your interest rate is likely to be.  

You can compare rates from multiple student loan lenders using Credible.

How does student loan interest work?

An interest rate is a percentage of the loan periodically tacked onto your balance — essentially the cost of borrowing money. Interest is one way lenders can make money from loans. Your monthly payment often pays interest first, with the rest going to the amount you initially borrowed (the principal). 

Getting a low interest rate could help you save money over the life of the loan and pay off your debt faster.

What is a fixed- vs. variable-rate loan?

Here’s the difference between a fixed and variable rate:

• With a fixed rate, your monthly payment amount will stay the same over the course of your loan term.
• With a variable rate, your payments might rise or fall based on changing interest rates.

Comparison shopping for private student loan rates is easy when you use Credible.

Calculate your savings

Using a student loan interest calculator will help you estimate your monthly payments and the total amount you’ll owe over the life of your federal or private student loans.

Once you enter your information, you’ll be able to see what your estimated monthly payment will be, the total you’ll pay in interest over the life of the loan and the total amount you’ll pay back. 

About Credible

Credible is a multi-lender marketplace that empowers consumers to discover financial products that are the best fit for their unique circumstances. Credible’s integrations with leading lenders and credit bureaus allow consumers to quickly compare accurate, personalized loan options – without putting their personal information at risk or affecting their credit score. The Credible marketplace provides an unrivaled customer experience, as reflected by over 4,300 positive Trustpilot reviews and a TrustScore of 4.7/5.

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Balance transfer cards
• Cash back cards
• Rewards cards
• Travel cards
• Online checking
• High-yield savings
• Money market
• Home equity loan
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Options pit
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Local student graduates college at 17

Apr. 26—ASHTABULA — Selinda Floss, a recent graduate of Edgewood High School, took an unconventional route and found herself without the typical pressure to choose a college.

Floss, 17, already has an Associate of Arts degree from Lakeland Community College and is set to graduate from Kent State Ashtabula in May.

A guidance counselor told her about the College Credit Plus (CCP) program in middle school. Under the program, the Buckeye Local Schools pays for students to take college courses.

Floss, wanting more challenging coursework, started taking CCP classes in eighth grade.

But how manageable are college courses at such a young age?

"Interestingly enough, the college classes were actually a little easier to manage than my middle school and high school classes," Floss said.

She wanted to get an early start on her future.

"It's difficult to think that I didn't get all of these typical high school experiences," Floss said. "This is the path God laid out for me. I learned my passion by going to college."

The faculty at Edgewood are glad that she took advantage of the program.

"This accomplishment is a result of her hard work and determination to excel academically," said Edgewood High School Principal Michael Notar. "There is no doubt she is going to be successful as she continues her higher education studies."

"Selinda has an incredibly focused mind and will continue to excel in her future endeavors," said Superintendent Patrick Colucci. "We are all so very proud of her."

Two professors have stood out to Floss during her time studying at Kent State Ashtabula.

Adjunct professor Richard Dana taught three of her criminal justice classes.

"I remember everything from his classes based solely off the way that he teaches," Floss said. "He forced us to think. He kept his beliefs very separate from class and didn't allow his biases to get in the way of his teaching."

A final exam for her Rules of Evidence and Court Procedures class involved Floss presenting a case in court before a real judge and mock jury that consisted of criminal justice professionals throughout the area.

"Even out in the hallway, waiting for this 'case' to be called, personnel around the courthouse believed that Selinda was an actual attorney presenting a case that day," Dana said. "Participants at this 'trial' were equally impressed with her knowledge in presenting a case that included complex legal issues."

Floss said that her English professor, Deborah Bice, covered topics that are not talked about often.

"She brought up uncomfortable topics and this helped us talk about it more comfortably," Floss said. "This helped me formulate my thoughts in a more mindful way while discussing the uglier topics of the world."

"It's always rewarding when a student succeeds," Bice said. "Especially when that student is so young. Kudos Selinda Floss for your commitment to learning. I wish you all the best."

Ashtabula County Common Pleas Court Marianne Sezon — Dana's wife — has become a mentor to Floss.

"She's let me sit in the courtroom during jury selection," Floss said. "I was able to sit and take notes and speak with her bailiff, Diana Perry."

Floss wants to go on to study law next spring at the University of Alabama. After that, she'd like to return to Ohio to study at the School of Law at Case Western Reserve University or Cleveland-Marshall Law School at Cleveland State.

Floss plans to join in the fight against human trafficking when she's done with law school.

She has younger siblings and has strong feelings on the subject.

"How can you take an innocent soul and hurt them like that?" Floss said. "It's more valuable than drugs. You can sell the same child ten times in one day, but can only sell a bag of coke once. The atrocity needs to be stopped. So many people avoid it because it's an ugly topic."

ASHTABULA —

Recommended Stories

During 2024 nfl draft coverage, nick saban admits alabama wanted toledo cb quinyon mitchell to transfer to the tide.

Mitchell went No. 22 to the Philadelphia Eagles.

Kansas adds to offseason transfer haul with former Alabama guard Rylan Griffen

The Jayhawks have added four top-100 transfers so far this offseason.

Lancia concepts sweep Stellantis Drive for Design contest

Stellantis' Drive for Design contest asked for concepts for any Stellantis brand. Winners Rohan Sieber, Ryan Panizzoli and Owen Bronson chose Lancia.

Stock market today: Stocks jump, fueled by stellar Alphabet, Microsoft earnings

Stellar earnings from the 'Magnificent Seven' duo have reignited optimism for a rally, but the PCE inflation print could put a spoke in the wheel.

Bentley previews another limited-edition W12-powered model

Bentley's third modern-day coachbuilt car will make its debut on May 7 with a W12 engine. It could be a convertible version of the Batur.

Dell XPS 13 and XPS 14 review (2024): Gorgeous laptops with usability quirks

Dell’s XPS 13 and 14 are stylish, portable and powerful. You’ll have to get used to some of its design quirks, though, and it’s far pricier than older models.

Houston Astros vs. Colorado Rockies: How to watch the MLB Mexico City Series games

It's time for the 2024 MLB Mexico City Series. Here's how to watch the Astros vs. Rockies two-game event.

James Franklin makes 57-mile trip to celebrations for both of Penn State's 1st-round NFL Draft picks

Olu Fashanu went 11th overall to the Jets and Chop Robinson was selected 21st by the Dolphins.

The Falcons surprisingly select Michael Penix Jr. and the best 2024 NFL Draft picks

Dan Wetzel, Ross Dellenger, and SI's Pat Forde react the best, worst, and most surprising picks in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Chevron, Exxon profits expected to drop despite rising oil prices

Chevron and ExxonMobil are expected to report a year-over-year decline in earnings per share.

NBA playoffs: Joel Embiid, reportedly with a mild case of Bell's palsy, scores 50 to lead 76ers past Knicks in Game 3

Joel Embiid dropped 50 points on Thursday night, but he easily could have drawn an ejection for this play early.

NFL Draft: Record 275,000 fans swarm downtown Detroit to witness first round

Detroit's revival as a football city was on full display Thursday night.

NFL Draft fashion: Caleb Williams, Malik Nabers dressed to impress, but Marvin Harrison Jr.'s medallion stole the show

Every player was dressed to impress at the 2024 NFL Draft.

Pro-Palestinian protests spread as hundreds arrested at Emory University, Emerson College and elsewhere across the U.S. Here's what's happening.

Pro-Palestinian protests and encampments are springing up at numerous colleges, leading to arrests and heightened security concerns. Here’s what's happening.

NFL Draft: Bill Belichick sounds lukewarm on Patriots' pick of Drake Maye

"Drake compares himself a lot to Josh Allen, he's been doing that for quite a while. We'll see about that."

The FTC's ban on noncompete clauses could be good for startups. But it also might be struck down.

The Federal Trade Commission voted 3-2 to ban the use of most noncompete agreements on Tuesday. This ruling means companies can't require employees who aren't senior executives to wait a set amount of time before joining a competitor or launching their own company in the same category. While the FTC's ruling will impact industries like financial services and hedge funds the most, due to the prevalence of such agreements in those industries, it could also impact startups.

Norwest Venture Partners raises $3B for 17th vehicle, maintaining fund size despite market downturn

Jeff Crowe, a senior managing partner, admitted that the investment rate in venture and certain sectors is slower than it was several years ago, but he said that dealmaking in certain strategies, sectors and geographies, such as growth equity, healthcare and India, is as robust as it was before the downturn. "We've kept a very steady pace and have delivered a number of nice exits," Crowe told TechCrunch. Not all exits were great outcomes for the firm (NVP's portfolio company VanMoof filed for bankruptcy protection), but returns from certain exits greatly outweighed the losses, according to Crowe.

Reggie Bush celebrates return of Heisman Trophy, calls out NCAA with defamation suit still pending: 'I never once cheated'

Reggie Bush took a victory lap at the Los Angeles Coliseum Thursday while delivering a message to the NCAA.

Warriors' Stephen Curry wins NBA Clutch Player of the Year award

Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry won the NBA Clutch Player of the Year award for the 2023-24 season.

Boeing's Starliner set to fly astronauts for the first time on May 6

Boeing’s Starliner is a go for launch. Leaders from NASA and Boeing told reporters that the first crewed Starliner mission, which will see the capsule carry two astronauts to the International Space Station, is moving ahead toward its historic May 6 launch date. NASA and Boeing concluded that the capsule is ready for launch after completing a critical flight test review on Thursday.