The University of Oklahoma’s Finance PhD program is designed to train highly qualified scholars capable of producing impactful research and becoming leaders in academia. The program emphasizes rigorous theoretical foundations, advanced quantitative methods, and the development of original research ideas.
The typical program duration is four to five years, encompassing coursework, qualifying examinations, and dissertation research. The curriculum is structured to provide a strong understanding of core finance topics, including corporate finance, asset pricing, market microstructure, and behavioral finance. Students also delve into supporting disciplines like econometrics, statistics, and economics to build a robust analytical toolkit.
During the first two years, students complete intensive coursework, often including microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, and foundational finance courses. Qualifying examinations, typically taken after the second year, assess the student’s mastery of core concepts and preparedness for dissertation research. These exams are crucial for determining candidacy for the PhD degree.
Upon successful completion of the qualifying exams, students begin focusing on their dissertation. They work closely with faculty advisors to develop original research questions, conduct empirical analyses, and write their dissertation. The program encourages students to explore their interests and develop expertise in specific areas of finance. Faculty members at OU have research interests spanning a wide range of topics, providing students with diverse mentoring opportunities.
The program actively promotes research collaboration between students and faculty. Students are encouraged to present their research at academic conferences and submit their work to leading finance journals. The program provides resources and support for these activities, including travel funding and research assistantships. The goal is to equip graduates with the skills and experience necessary to succeed in competitive academic job markets.
Admission to the OU Finance PhD program is highly selective. Applicants are evaluated based on their academic record, GRE scores, letters of recommendation, and statement of purpose. A strong background in mathematics, statistics, and economics is highly desirable. The program seeks individuals with a strong aptitude for research, a passion for finance, and a commitment to academic excellence.
Graduates of the OU Finance PhD program have secured faculty positions at universities across the country and internationally. The program’s emphasis on rigorous training and research productivity has prepared them for successful careers as finance scholars. The University of Oklahoma’s Finance PhD program offers a challenging and rewarding experience for students seeking to pursue a career in academic finance.