UMass Amherst Finance PhD Program

The Finance PhD program at the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) is a rigorous and research-oriented program designed to prepare students for successful careers in academia. Located within the Isenberg School of Management, the program emphasizes the development of strong analytical and quantitative skills necessary to conduct cutting-edge research in finance.

Curriculum & Focus Areas

The program typically takes four to five years to complete. The first two years are primarily dedicated to coursework, providing a solid foundation in core finance theories, econometrics, and quantitative methods. Required courses cover topics such as asset pricing, corporate finance, financial econometrics, and stochastic calculus. Students also have the opportunity to take elective courses in specialized areas depending on their research interests.

While the program offers a broad finance education, students are encouraged to specialize in a particular area. Common research areas within the program include:

• Asset Pricing
• Corporate Finance
• Market Microstructure
• Behavioral Finance
• Financial Econometrics

Faculty & Research

The UMass Amherst Finance PhD program boasts a faculty of experienced and active researchers with publications in leading finance journals. The faculty’s research interests span a wide range of topics, providing students with diverse perspectives and mentorship opportunities. The program emphasizes close collaboration between students and faculty, fostering a supportive environment for research development.

Students are actively involved in the research process from the early stages of the program. They are expected to develop original research ideas, conduct independent research, and present their findings at conferences and workshops. The program provides access to various databases and software, supporting students in their research endeavors.

Admissions & Requirements

Admission to the UMass Amherst Finance PhD program is highly competitive. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic record, GRE/GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose. A strong background in mathematics, statistics, and economics is highly recommended.

Ideal candidates typically have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a quantitative field, such as finance, economics, mathematics, statistics, or engineering. The program seeks individuals with a demonstrated aptitude for research and a strong commitment to pursuing an academic career.

Placement

The UMass Amherst Finance PhD program has a strong track record of placing graduates in tenure-track positions at universities and colleges. Graduates have secured positions at institutions both nationally and internationally. The program provides career guidance and support to students throughout their job search process.

Overall

The Finance PhD program at UMass Amherst offers a comprehensive and rigorous training experience for aspiring finance scholars. With its strong faculty, diverse research areas, and emphasis on student-faculty collaboration, the program provides a solid foundation for a successful academic career.