best phd 2023

U.S. News Announces 2023 Best Graduate Schools

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Mar 29, 2022, 00:01 ET

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The newest edition includes rankings in more than 200 subject areas.

WASHINGTON , March 29, 2022 /PRNewswire/ -- U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in education rankings, today unveiled the 2023 Best Graduate Schools  rankings. Designed for prospective students looking to further their education beyond college, the rankings evaluate programs in a variety of disciplines, including business , education , engineering , law , medicine , nursing  and science .

In this edition:

• For the first time, U.S. News published a ranking of the Best Biostatistics Programs , evaluating 65 programs in total.
• Within the Best Law Schools methodology , the bar passage rate indicator now accounts for bar passage performance in every state where a school's graduates first took the bar exam. Previously, this indicator only included the state with the most graduates taking the exam for the first time.
• For the second consecutive year in Best Law Schools, U.S. News included two indicators to measure graduate indebtedness: average debt incurred obtaining a J.D. at graduation and the percent of law school graduates incurring J.D. law school debt. These indicators can provide more context to prospective students, especially at a time of rising higher education costs.
• Also for the second year in a row, U.S. News published medical school rankings focused on underserved populations. Specifically, these rankings look at racial and ethnic diversity among medical school student populations, as well as which schools have the most graduates practicing in primary care, in rural areas, and in health professional shortage areas.

"U.S. News continues to update the Best Graduate Schools methodology and add new programs to keep the rankings relevant and valuable for prospective students," said Robert Morse , chief data strategist at U.S. News. "Utilizing a robust data-collection process – surveying more than 2,100 programs and more than 23,000 academics and professionals – allows us to provide students with useful, quality data to determine the best program for their individual needs."

Best Business Schools: Full-Time MBA

The University of Chicago's Booth School of Business  and the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School  tied for the top spot among full-time MBA programs. Northwestern University's Kellogg School  tied with Stanford University  at No. 3.

Best Law Schools

The No. 1 Best Law School in this year's edition is Yale University . Stanford University  and the University of Chicago  come in at No. 2 and No. 3, respectively.

Best Medical Schools: Research

The top school among Best Medical Schools: Research is Harvard University , followed by New York University  at No. 2. Tied for No. 3 are Columbia University , Johns Hopkins University  and the University of California–San Francisco .

Additional rankings were updated in this edition, including biological sciences , chemistry , computer science , earth sciences , economics , mathematics , physics , psychology , public affairs , public health , social work and statistics .

The full 2023 Best Graduate Schools rankings are available on USNews.com , with extended rankings and data exclusively in the   U.S. News Graduate School Compass . Follow U.S. News on Facebook and   Twitter for more information.

About U.S. News & World Report

U.S. News & World Report is the global leader in quality rankings that empower consumers, business leaders and policy officials to make better, more informed decisions about important issues affecting their lives. A multifaceted digital media company with Education, Health, Money, Travel, Cars, News and 360 Reviews platforms, U.S. News provides rankings, independent reporting, data journalism, consumer advice and U.S. News Live events. More than 40 million people visit USNews.com  each month for research and guidance. Founded in 1933, U.S. News is headquartered in Washington, D.C.

SOURCE U.S. News & World Report, L.P.

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The Top 10 Most Popular Fully Funded PhD Programs of 2023

At ProFellow, we are committed to making funding opportunities more accessible to diverse audiences and sharing advice on the competitive application process. We curate hundreds of fully funded PhD programs in our free database and regularly publish information on how to fully fund your PhD , including tips and interviews written by fellows who have fully funded their PhD and aim to pay it forward and inspire the next generation of applicants. We also offer the Fully Funded Course and Mentorship Program , a paid group coaching program for graduate school applicants!

This year, we’re inaugurating our Top 10 Most Popular Fully Funded PhD Programs of 2023 list! We present the most sought-after programs based on the preferences of our dynamic community, which boasts over 260,000 fellowship seekers actively exploring opportunities in our free comprehensive funding database . The programs on this list were identified based on the number of times they’ve been bookmarked by our community in 2023 and include fully funded PhD programs in public health, psychology, international affairs, education, public policy, biomedical sciences, theoretical neuroscience, and social welfare.

Congratulations to the programs that made the list! The ProFellow community thanks you for providing fully funded PhD programs so individuals can pursue the careers they want without the burden of substantial student debt.

Would you like to receive the full list of more than 1000+ fully funded programs in 60 disciplines?  Download the FREE Directory of Fully Funded Graduate Programs and Full Funding Awards !

1. University of California Berkeley Fully Funded PhD in Public Health

The University of California – Berkeley presents a fully funded PhD program in Public Health. Within Berkeley Public Health, aspiring graduate students can chart their academic journeys and emerge as trailblazing leaders in public health across six distinctive divisions. Comprehensive PhD programs are available in biostatistics, environmental health sciences, epidemiology, health policy and management, and infectious diseases and vaccinology. Typically, doctoral candidates secure funding through soft-money grants, engaging in roles like Graduate Student Researcher (GSR) or serving as a Graduate Student Instructor (GSI). Both avenues include tuition remission and a monthly stipend.

2. Princeton University Fully Funded PhD in Public and International Affairs

Princeton University, in Princeton, New Jersey, offers a fully funded PhD program in Public and International Affairs. This program aims to cultivate exceptional researchers in pivotal areas of public policy. Princeton’s commitment to full funding assures comprehensive support for all PhD students throughout their regular program tenure. This encompasses tuition coverage and stipend assistance from fellowships, assistantships, and external funding sources. Teaching responsibilities are typically integral to most PhD programs during regular enrollment, often occurring in specific study years.

3. Fordham University Fully Funded PhD in Applied Developmental Psychology

Fordham University, located in New York City, NY, provides a fully funded PhD program in Applied Developmental Psychology (ADP). The program emphasizes the study of human development across the lifespan, with a dedicated commitment to social justice and a robust foundation in developmental theories and research methodologies. Concentrations are offered in 3 distinct areas: Health, Illness, and Well-Being across the lifespan; Development in the Context of Race, Ethnicity, and Culture; and Development within Family, School, and Neighborhood Contexts. Almost every doctoral student within this program benefits from financial assistance throughout their academic journey. Financial aid typically includes a complete tuition waiver and a stipend associated with work-related responsibilities, which may involve research, teaching, administrative support, or a combination of these roles.

4. Harvard University Fully Funded PhD in Education

In Cambridge, Massachusetts, Harvard University has a fully funded PhD program in Education. As PhD candidates at Harvard, individuals benefit from unrestricted access to collaborate with scholars across all graduate schools, engaging in original interdisciplinary research. The program aims to make transformative changes in education research, policy, and practice; graduates focus their independent study on diverse domains, encompassing human development, learning and teaching, policy analysis and evaluation, institutions and society, and instructional practice. Harvard extends a guarantee of complete financial support to PhD students, covering tuition, health fees, and basic living expenses, ensuring support for a minimum duration of five years.

5. Columbia University Fully Funded JD-PhD Program

Columbia University, New York, NY, offers a fully funded JD-PhD program, encompassing participation from select GSAS (Graduate School of Arts and Sciences) departments: Biological Sciences, Economics, English and Comparative Literature, History, Political Science, Psychology, Religion, and Sociology. The JD-PhD program welcomes applicants from diverse majors and concentrations. Throughout the GSAS segment of the JD/PhD program, students are recipients of funding as GSAS doctoral students, securing multi-year support outlined in the official admission letter from the Dean. This comprehensive support comprises a blend of fellowships and teaching or research assistant roles.

6. Yale University Fully Funded PhD in Clinical Psychology

Yale University in New Haven, Connecticut, provides a specialized, fully funded PhD program in Clinical Psychology to foster research skills and offer comprehensive training in clinical science. The program aims to cultivate future leaders in exploring psychopathology and its treatment. Graduate students who maintain good standing in the PhD program receive tuition coverage and a stipend, including summer funding, for up to five years. Fellowships, primarily sourced from University funds, represent the most common form of financial assistance for students in the program.

7. University of North Carolina Fully Funded PhD in Public Policy

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte provides a fully funded PhD program in Public Policy. This interdisciplinary initiative centers on examining policy development, implementation, and evaluation. The Public Policy program is dedicated to ensuring academic year funding for all full-time students, lasting up to five years, contingent on students maintaining good standing in the program. As part of this support, students are granted a Graduate Assistantship, typically offering compensation of $18,500 for the 9-month academic year.

8. University at Buffalo Fully Funded PhD in Biomedical Sciences

The University at Buffalo, in Buffalo, New York, offers a fully funded PhD program in Biomedical Sciences. This comprehensive program serves as an entry point, offering a shared first-year curriculum that provides foundational knowledge and concepts essential for pursuing a doctoral degree in one of the program’s diverse participating disciplines. Students transition into a specific program following the first year while collaborating across various research areas. Benefits include a complete tuition scholarship, a stipend of $31,000, and inclusive medical/dental insurance

9. University College London Fully Funded PhD in Theoretical Neuroscience and Machine Learning

University College London provides a fully funded PhD in Theoretical Neuroscience and Machine Learning. This four-year doctoral program incorporates intensive courses in its initial year, delivering a thorough introduction to theoretical and systems neuroscience and machine learning. Additionally, students have the opportunity for multidisciplinary training in various neuroscience domains. Full funding is accessible to all students, irrespective of nationality. The PhD studentships cover UCL tuition fees for both domestic and international students, encompassing an annual tax-free stipend of £26,500 and a designated travel budget for participating in conferences and workshops.

10. University of California Berkeley Fully Funded PhD in Social Welfare

Berkeley Social Welfare’s PhD program cultivates independent thinkers, shaping scholars who drive social work, policy, and administration advancements. With renowned faculty, students engage in cutting-edge research. The curriculum blends research-focused seminars with theoretical, statistics, and research methods coursework. A minimum of three years is required for the program, emphasizing research mastery and interdisciplinary collaboration. A competitive funding package covers tuition and fees and provides an annual living allowance, estimated at $28,000, fostering a thriving academic community.

If you enjoyed this list, you may also want to check out the Top 10 Most Popular Fully Funded Master’s Programs of 2023 . Are you seeking support to apply to competitive programs like these this coming year? Check out ProFellow’s Fully Funded Course and Mentorship Program for graduate school applicants!

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Best PhD Programs of 2023

Written by Intelligent.com Higher Education Team

Updated: May 17, 2023

As the highest level of education available, a doctoral degree signifies expertise in an individual’s chosen field. Earning a PhD can increase earning potential, advance careers, and open up new opportunities for research and scholarship.

Compare School Options

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Why This Matters

Earn $99,000+ per year, individuals with a doctorate have the lowest unemployment rate, america needs 159,400 more college professors by 2031, our research.

This list features some of the best PhD programs at top colleges across the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.

We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, and reputation as well as the student resources provided for on-campus students. Then we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology .

Next, we compared this comprehensive list of PhD programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like the U.S. News & World Report among others to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.

The Top 49 PhD Programs

intelligent score 98.98

Award Intelligent Pick

#2 Find A Phd

School Information

Pasadena, CA

Graduation Rate: 93%

Admission Rate: 7%

Urbanicity: City

School Size: Small

The California Institute of Technology (Caltech) is one of the top schools in the world for science and engineering students. Caltech provides graduate students with a unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience in their field. Many important discoveries in modern science were made there (they helped generate the first image of a black hole, developed new ways to modify bacteria's DNA for human benefit, etc.). They also offer state-of-the-art research facilities, including NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory.

Delivery Format On-Campus

Required Credits to Graduate 45

Estimated Cost per Credit $502

accreditation Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 626-395-6341

intelligent score 97.77

Award Best in the Northeast

Cambridge, MA

Graduation Rate: 98%

Admission Rate: 5%

School Size: Medium

This Ivy League school is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States, and its alumni include more presidents and billionaires than any other college in the country. Harvard's John F. Kennedy School of Government is regarded as an exceptional program for Ph.D. in Public Policy degrees. They also offer Ph.D. degree programs for history, philosophy, music, linguistics, applied mathematics, and many other subject areas.

Required Credits to Graduate 64

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,639

accreditation New England Commission of Higher Education

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 617-495-5315

intelligent score 97.14

Award Best Computer Science Program

#3 Best Accredited Colleges #4 Find A Phd

Stanford, CA

Graduation Rate: 96%

Urbanicity: Suburban

Anyone who wants to earn a Ph.D. in Computer Science should consider attending Stanford University. Their facilities, founded in 1962, include the Stanford Artificial Intelligence Laboratory. This research center has studied AI applications for robotics, machine learning, natural language processing, and many other areas for over 50 years. This school is also home to the Stanford Theory Group, which studies topics such as cryptography and algorithmic game theory. Stanford has a student-faculty ratio of just 5:1, ensuring you'll get all the assistance you need to fully understand course materials and prepare yourself for a successful career.

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,400

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 650-723-2109

intelligent score 96.94

Award Best Nuclear Science Program

#5 Find A Phd

Graduation Rate: 95%

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is an excellent option for STEM students with its world-class faculty and research facilities. This school's most notable doctorate program is its Ph.D. in Nuclear Science and Engineering degree path, as MIT offers one of the country's most powerful university-owned nuclear reactors. MIT also provides Ph.D. programs for aeronautics, biological engineering, cognitive sciences, planetary sciences, and statistics.

Required Credits to Graduate 97

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,390

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 617-253-1000

intelligent score 96.86

Award Best Foreign Language Programs

#7 Find A Phd

Princeton, NJ

Graduation Rate: 97%

Admission Rate: 6%

Princeton University offers a strong selection of doctorate programs for foreign languages - you can earn a Ph.D. in German, French, and Italian or Spanish and Portuguese at this school. And if you would like to pursue another subject instead, there's a good chance that Princeton offers a Ph.D. program. This Ivy League institution offers Ph.D. degree paths with common majors such as English, history, psychology, and economics, as well as more niche options like plasma physics and music composition. Overall, there are more than 40 Ph.D. degree programs available at Princeton.

Required Credits to Graduate 48

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,196

accreditation Middle States Commission on Higher Education

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 609-258-3000

intelligent score 93.89

Award Best Public Institution

#4 Best Accredited Colleges #8 Find A Phd

Berkeley, CA

Admission Rate: 17%

School Size: Large

The University of California, Berkeley, stands out as the best public school in the country for earning a Ph.D. Their Goldman School of Public Policy is a top program for Ph.D. in Public Policy degrees. Berkeley is also notable for their Rausser College of Natural Resources - this is the oldest college in the University of California system. It provides Ph.D. paths for environmental science, metabolic biology, molecular toxicology, plant biology, and agricultural economics. The facilities operated by the Rausser College of Natural Resources include a cannabis research center, experimental field plots, and thousands of acres of research forests are located throughout the state.

Required Credits to Graduate 34

Estimated Cost per Credit $586

accreditation National Architectural Accrediting Board

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 510-642-5472

intelligent score 92.96

Award Best Music Program

#9 Find A Phd

New Haven, CT

There are dozens of Ph.D. programs available at Yale University. This is an especially good choice for music students, as Yale offers the world-renowned Institute of Sacred Music, a unique collection of historical instruments, and an extensive library of musical scores, recordings, books, etc. Most graduate music students at this school receive a generous stipend as well. They offer Ph.D. paths for music history, theory, and ethnomusicology.

Required Credits to Graduate 83

Estimated Cost per Credit $574

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 203-432-2771

intelligent score 91.76

Award Best in the Midwest

#10 Find A Phd

Chicago, IL

Graduation Rate: 94%

The University of Chicago offers Ph.D. programs in many fields, including biological sciences, social sciences, business, social work, and public policy. If living in a big city is important to you, then the University of Chicago should be one of the first options you consider. Their main campus is located in Chicago's Hyde Park, a bustling neighborhood that's packed with hip restaurants and shops.

Delivery Format On-Campus, Online

Required Credits to Graduate 60

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,842

accreditation Higher Learning Commission

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 773-702-1234

intelligent score 91.62

Award Best Theater Program

#11 Find A Phd

New York, NY

Columbia University is one of the best schools for students who want to earn a Ph.D. in Theater. This program takes an interdisciplinary approach to the subject, utilizing faculty members specializing in comparative literature, Germanic languages, and philosophy, as well as theater. Fellowships are available to help you cover the cost of your doctorate. It's also worth noting that Columbia is located in the middle of New York City (the legendary Broadway thoroughfare runs right through Columbia's main campus), which offers a thriving theater community and plenty of experiential learning opportunities for students in this program.

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,831

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 212-854-2522

intelligent score 90.06

Award Best Business Program

#6 Best Accredited Colleges #13 Find A Phd

Philadelphia, PA

Admission Rate: 9%

The University of Pennsylvania is an Ivy League school that Benjamin Franklin founded in 1740. They are best known for its Wharton School of Business, which offers Ph.D. programs for accounting, finance, marketing, statistics, applied economics, and several other majors. Wharton's reputation, relationships with corporate recruiters, and vast alum network will help you quickly find a good job after graduating.

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,794

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 215-898-5000

intelligent score 88.82

Baltimore, MD

Admission Rate: 11%

Required Credits to Graduate 36

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,452

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 410-516-8000

intelligent score 88.2

Los Angeles, CA

Graduation Rate: 92%

Admission Rate: 14%

Estimated Cost per Credit In-State: $1,007 Out-of-State: $1,846

accreditation Western Association of Schools and Colleges

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 310-825-3101

intelligent score 87.27

Required Credits to Graduate 19 - 27

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,092

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 607-254-4636

intelligent score 86.81

Admission Rate: 8%

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,930

accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 919-681-3257

intelligent score 85.85

Evanston, IL

Required Credits to Graduate 54

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,268

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 847-491-3741

intelligent score 85.43

Dearborn, MI

Graduation Rate: 55%

Admission Rate: 68%

Required Credits to Graduate 60 - 64

Estimated Cost per Credit In-State: $676 Out-of-State: $1,366

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 734-764-4400

intelligent score 85.11

Graduation Rate: 84%

Admission Rate: 21%

Required Credits to Graduate 32 - 72

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,856

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 212-998-0100

intelligent score 84.65

Pittsburgh, PA

Graduation Rate: 88%

Required Credits to Graduate 96

Estimated Cost per Credit $644

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 412-268-2082

intelligent score 84.11

Seattle, WA

Admission Rate: 56%

Required Credits to Graduate 60 - 90

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,054 - $1,963

accreditation Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 206-543-2100

intelligent score 83.16

La Jolla, CA

Graduation Rate: 89%

Admission Rate: 37%

Estimated Cost per Credit $584 - $650

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 858-534-3554

intelligent score 82.37

Atlanta, GA

Required Credits to Graduate 21 - 42

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 404-894-2000

intelligent score 82.01

Graduation Rate: 81%

Admission Rate: 32%

Required Credits to Graduate 39

Estimated Cost per Credit $1,412

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 512-471-5921

intelligent score 81.03

Champaign, IL

Graduation Rate: 86%

Admission Rate: 63%

Estimated Cost per Credit In-State: $732 Out-of-State: $1,581

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 217-333-0857

intelligent score 80.15

Madison, WI

Graduation Rate: 87%

Admission Rate: 57%

Required Credits to Graduate 51

Estimated Cost per Credit $600 - 675

accreditation American Psychological Association

more program information Email: [email protected] Phone: 608-400-7459

Discover More Options

What you should know about this degree.

Doctoral degrees typically fall into two categories. A Doctor of Philosophy, or PhD, is a research-focused degree, which prepares students for engaging in high-level research and scholarship in their field of study. Professional degrees, like a Doctor of Psychology or Doctor of Nursing Practice, specialize in teaching advanced professional skills for complex careers that require a significant level of training.

Depending on your career path, a doctoral degree may be optional or required. Many individuals pursue a PhD because they want to engage in research that advances their field. Others earn this type of degree because they want to teach at the university level and be eligible for tenure-track positions.

Whatever your reasons for pursuing a PhD, it’s important to note that these programs differ from bachelor’s or master’s degrees in that they are academically rigorous and typically more self-directed than other post-secondary degrees. They typically take several years to complete, including researching and writing a dissertation, and usually have a mentorship component in which students work closely with faculty. Therefore, when researching PhD programs, students should find out what kind of support and resources the school and program offers to ensure they will be positioned for success during this process.

What’s Next?

Here are some questions to ask when researching PhD programs:

• Am I eligible for this program? As the most advanced degree available, PhD and other doctoral programs typically have the most rigorous eligibility requirements. These requirements may include a master’s degree in a related field, work experience, and professional licenses or certifications. Be sure to review the program’s requirements before applying to ensure that you meet the basic eligibility qualifications.
• What type of financial support is available? Because earning a doctorate requires a significant time commitment from students while bringing prestige to universities for the research that PhD students perform, many universities offer fellowships and assistantships to help support students in these programs. This can include full or partial tuition, housing subsidies, and other benefits. In exchange, students may be required to teach courses or work as research assistants.

While researching PhD programs, take note of application requirements and deadlines. A typical PhD application packet will include transcripts for undergraduate and graduate coursework, writing samples, letters of recommendation, standardized test scores, and a resume, although specific requirements will vary by program. If you have any questions about the application process, contact a program or admissions representative.

Find out what financing options are available to you, including scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, grants, and loans. If you are employed, find out if your employer offers tuition assistance benefits.

Related Degrees

• Bachelor's Degrees and Programs
• Master's Degree

The Best PhD programs in the World 2023 – top universities and courses

In today’s competitive job market, choosing the right PhD program is more crucial than ever. Our in-depth analysis of the best PhD programs in the world for 2023 highlights the top universities and courses to help you make an informed decision.

While factors such as prestige, academic excellence, and cutting-edge research facilities are essential, it’s crucial to remember that the best degree is ultimately subjective and depends on your individual career goals and aspirations.

Choosing the best universities in the world (such as Cornell University, Harvard, Standford and Princeton University) is only the start. Choosing the best graduate school and doctoral program goes beyond the world university rankings as higher education is a tricky beast to try to understand. 

Here’s what you need to know about The Best PhD programs.

Best PhDs to get in highly ranked universities

The table presented below outlines the top four PhD degrees in 2023, considering factors such as average salary and job openings on LinkedIn.

However, it is important to remember that the “best” degree is ultimately subjective and depends on your individual career goals and aspirations. These rankings are based on data provided, but personal passion, aptitude, and lifestyle preferences should also be considered when choosing the right PhD program for you.

The top universities mentioned in the table are merely examples of prestigious institutions offering these degrees. As you evaluate your options, carefully weigh the benefits and challenges of each program to make an informed decision that aligns with your long-term objectives.

Please note that the salary and job opening numbers are approximate values and may vary depending on various factors. The top universities listed are examples and not an exhaustive list of all institutions offering these degrees.

Highest paying PhDs from any school in the world

The following table provides a comprehensive overview of the highest paying PhDs and professional degrees across various disciplines.

This information is crucial for individuals considering advanced studies and looking to maximize their earning potential.

Please note that the annual salary figures are approximate and may vary based on factors such as experience, location, and employer.

The table ranks the degrees in descending order of annual salary, also specifying the degree acronym and approximate number of graduates for each program. It is important to note that the salary figures are approximate and may vary based on factors such as experience, location, and employer.

From medical and dental degrees to computer science and engineering, this table offers valuable insights into the financial rewards associated with pursuing advanced degrees in these fields.

Best PhD Programs in the World

In 2023, the best PhD programs can be found at some of the most prestigious institutions in the world, including Harvard University, MIT, Stanford University, and the University of Oxford. These top-ranked universities, consistently featured in the QS World University Rankings, offer a wide range of PhD programs and courses for international students. Acquiring a PhD degree from one of these renowned schools is another level of educational achievement, making them a popular study destination for prospective PhD students.

Harvard University, a private institution in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is one of the best research universities worldwide. The university offers a diverse range of graduate and postgraduate degree programs, making it one of the best schools for studying a PhD. Similarly, MIT, a world-famous university in Massachusetts, is well-known for its research programs and PhD degrees in computer science, engineering, and robotics.

Stanford University, located in California, is one of the most prestigious schools in the world, offering top PhD programs in computer science, engineering, and business. Its proximity to Silicon Valley provides unparalleled access to cutting-edge technology companies and research centers. Meanwhile, the University of Oxford, one of the oldest universities in the United Kingdom, boasts a long history of academic excellence and rigorous research. It offers a wide range of PhD studies, including courses in humanities, social sciences, and STEM fields.

Other notable institutions of higher learning for pursuing a PhD include Yale University, a private institution in Connecticut, the University of Paris, and ETH Zürich, which is well-known for its architectural exchange program. Northwestern University, founded by the American Baptist Education Society, and Duke University, established by James Buchanan Duke, are also among the best universities in the world for doctoral degree programs.

The search for the best PhD program should consider factors such as program reputation, faculty expertise, research facilities, and the institution’s overall commitment to innovation and collaboration. Prospective students should reach out to current graduate students and alumni, attend open houses or virtual events, and consider studying at institutions like the Massachusetts Institute of Technology or the University of Oxford, both located in countries with a long history of student activism and scientific discovery.

The best PhD program for you is ultimately the one that aligns with your unique interests, career goals, and aspirations. By carefully exploring your options and considering top universities like Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and Oxford, you can find the perfect program to help you achieve your academic and professional goals in 2023.

Are PhDs and research programs from top universities better?

Deciding whether to pursue a PhD at a top university is a critical choice that comes with both benefits and challenges. The prestige of institutions like Oxford, Cambridge, Yale, Harvard, and MIT can certainly boost one’s academic career. There is a clear correlation between obtaining a PhD from a top university and securing academic positions worldwide.

However, the competitive environment in these universities can have negative impacts. Pressure to excel may be amplified, and competition among students could lead to unethical behavior, such as sabotaging other students’ work. Furthermore, the expectations of some professors in these universities can create unfavorable conditions for PhD students, as they may demand excessive competition and display egotistical behavior.

While prestige plays a role in the quality of a PhD, it should not be the only consideration. A well-rounded evaluation of potential universities should include factors such as the experts and resources available, the location of the institution, and the financial support offered. It is crucial to ensure that the university is well-known and respected in the specific field of study.

PhD candidates should also consider the city and country they will be living in for several years. Finding a place that offers a good work-life balance and supports mental well-being can significantly impact the success of a PhD journey.

Pursuing a PhD at a top university can be advantageous for one’s career, but it comes with increased pressure and competition. Candidates should carefully consider all aspects of their potential university, including its reputation in their field, the resources available, the location, and the financial support offered.

The decision should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of the university and how well it aligns with the candidate’s goals and personal well-being.

How to get into the world’s best PhD degrees

Securing a place in an Ivy League or top PhD program, such as Stanford University, Harvard University, or Columbia University, can be an intimidating challenge in 2023.

Nevertheless, with the proper preparation and guidance, you can successfully navigate the application process and join the ranks of some of the best universities in the world.

We’ll share invaluable insights from a recent successful applicant who gained admission to prestigious institutions like Stanford, Harvard, Columbia, and John Hopkins. These top universities consistently rank highly in the QS World University Rankings, making them highly sought-after destinations for students pursuing a doctoral degree.

As you embark on your journey towards higher education, consider exploring study abroad opportunities at other renowned institutions, such as the University of Pennsylvania, Cornell University, Princeton University, the University of Tokyo, the University of Edinburgh, and Imperial College London. By setting your sights on these esteemed universities and committing to a rigorous PhD program, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a PhD degree from a world-class institution.

• Carefully craft your personal statement: Your personal statement is an opportunity to showcase your passion for your field of study, your unique experiences, and your goals. To make it stand out, focus on a strong narrative that highlights your strengths, aspirations, and commitment to the subject. Remember to tailor your statement to each program, demonstrating your understanding of the institution and its values.
• Be strategic with recommendations: Choose recommenders who can provide a well-rounded view of your abilities and character. Ideally, select individuals from different aspects of your life, such as academic mentors, work supervisors, and community leaders. Help your recommenders by providing them with specific examples of your achievements and qualities, making it easier for them to write a compelling letter.
• Develop a strong narrative throughout your application: In addition to your personal statement, weave your story through the rest of your application. This includes short essays, resume, and any additional materials. Be consistent and authentic in presenting yourself, ensuring that the admissions committee gets a holistic picture of who you are and how you can contribute to their program.
• Plan ahead: Applying to multiple Ivy League PhD programs is time-consuming and requires exceptional organization. Create a calendar or a Gantt chart to help you keep track of deadlines and tasks. This will allow you to allocate ample time for each component of your application and seek feedback from trusted friends or mentors.
• Take advantage of early admissions: If a program offers early admissions, consider applying early to reduce the pressure of multiple deadlines. This will allow you to focus on other applications and help you manage your time more effectively.

Remember, these tips come from a successful applicant who navigated a competitive application cycle. By carefully crafting your personal statement, strategically selecting recommenders, developing a strong narrative throughout your application, planning ahead, and utilizing early admissions when possible, you’ll increase your chances of gaining admission to an Ivy League PhD program.

Stay persistent and focused, and your hard work will pay off in the end.

Ivy League Application Cheat Sheet

Use this to give an advantage over others applying for the same positions:

• Early decision may offer an advantage.
• Inquire with the specific school you’re interested in.
• Focus on authentic interests, not just box-checking.
• Communicate your passion and commitment effectively in your application.
• Crucial for confirming intangible qualities.
• Standout letters are those with genuine enthusiasm from teachers or counselors.
• Admissions officers use this document to understand your academic context.
• Advocate for yourself by explaining any discrepancies or missing information.
• Every piece of the application matters for a holistic review.
• Collaborate with other admissions officers if unsure about an application.
• Sports, legacy, and minority status may have varying levels of impact.
• Prioritize genuine interests and diversity over specific activities.
• Choose a curriculum that is appropriate for you.
• Aim for the highest grades possible in a challenging course load.
• Ask questions about the college’s investments and expansion plans.
• Pay attention to the experiences you might have on campus.
• Be thorough in explaining your school system and its unique aspects.
• Be a “squeaky wheel” – communicate your continued interest and update on your activities.
• Maintain high grades at your current college.
• Use their first name and a respectful tone.
• Consider freshman or sophomore year teacher recommendations.
• Read campus newspapers and watch YouTube channels to get insights into college life.

Remember, the key to a successful Ivy League application is authenticity, passion, and a focus on finding the right college fit for you.

Wrapping up

Selecting the ideal PhD program is a crucial step in your academic journey, and our analysis of the best PhD programs in the world for 2023 is here to guide you.

As you explore your options, remember that the ultimate choice should be based on your unique interests, goals, and aspirations.

Consider not just the rankings, but also the personal and professional connections you will forge, the resources available, and the environment you will be immersed in during your studies.

By conducting thorough research, engaging with current students and alumni, and participating in open houses or virtual events, you can make an informed decision that leads to a fulfilling and successful academic and professional future.

Dr Andrew Stapleton has a Masters and PhD in Chemistry from the UK and Australia. He has many years of research experience and has worked as a Postdoctoral Fellow and Associate at a number of Universities. Although having secured funding for his own research, he left academia to help others with his YouTube channel all about the inner workings of academia and how to make it work for you.

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UC graduate programs and schools among nation’s best in the 2023-24 U.S. News Best Graduate Schools rankings

Looking to continue your education? Across nearly any field imaginable, the University of California offers some of the best graduate schools and programs in the country, according to the 2023-24 U.S. News Best Graduate Schools rankings released this spring (April 25).

Each year, U.S. News produces the Best Graduate Schools rankings by evaluating professional school programs in business, education, engineering, law, medicine and nursing, including specialties in each area. UC’s 10 campuses earned stellar rankings across those six disciplines this year, featuring some of the country’s best programs and most highly-regarded schools. UC Davis’ veterinary school was also ranked first in a refresh of Health school rankings, continuing a 12-year tradition of being at the top.

There are over 600 graduate programs offered across the university; a new, easy-to-use degree search tool lets users find programs across the system by specialty and campus, making it simple and convenient to browse the many offerings.

Here are a few highlights from the six schools U.S. News evaluates annually in this year’s Best Graduate School rankings:

Business Schools

UC Berkeley tied for No.11 with Columbia and Duke as the best business school in the country. UC Berkeley was also top-ranked for its part-time MBA, and top 10 for MBA programs in entrepreneurship (No. 5), finance (No. 8) and marketing (No. 9).

UCLA ranked No. 19 among all business schools in the country, with particularly highly ranked MBA programs in part-time MBA (No. 5) and finance (No. 9).

Education Schools

UC also offers some of the country’s best education schools. UCLA is tied for No. 7 among schools of education with Stanford; UC Irvine is No. 11 and UC Berkeley is No. 14.

Engineering schools

UC Berkeley ranked third among engineering schools in the country, with top-ranked programs in civil engineering and environmental/environmental health engineering. Every evaluated specialty, from chemical engineering to nuclear engineering, was in the nation’s top 5.

UC San Diego ranked No. 12 for its Jacobs School of Engineering, with a rank of No. 5 in the specialty of biomedical engineering and No. 10 for computer engineering.

UCLA ranked No. 16 among engineering schools and UC Santa Barbara was at No. 27, coming in at No. 6 for materials engineering and No. 11 for chemical engineering. UC Davis and UC Irvine were tied at No. 34 among engineering schools.

Law Schools

UC Berkeley ranked as No. 10, with a wide array of top 5 rankings in concentrations including an intellectual property law program tied for first, the third-ranked environmental law program, and excellent programs in constitutional law (No. 5) and criminal law (No. 7).

UCLA’s law school is ranked No. 14 and offers the No. 9 program in business/corporate law.

UC Irvine’s law school was tied for No. 35. UC Davis and University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings) tied for No. 60.

Medical Schools

UC’s medical schools excelled across the state. UC San Francisco ranked No. 5, UC Davis ranked No. 6 and UCLA ranked No. 10 among medical schools for primary care, while UC San Diego ranked No. 30, above Stanford.

UC San Francisco also ranked No. 5 among medical schools for research, with UCLA at No. 18, UC San Diego at No. 21, UC Irvine at No. 44 and UC Davis at No. 50.

UC also has some of the most diverse medical schools in the country, with UC Davis ranked as No. 3 and UC Riverside ranked as No. 5.

Nursing Schools

UC also has a number of the best schools in the country to pursue a master’s in nursing, with UC San Francisco ranked No. 10, UCLA ranked No. 14, UC Davis ranked No. 23 and UC Irvine ranked No. 41.

For the annual rankings of these six schools, U.S. News used data from statistical surveys of 2,214 programs and from reputation surveys sent to approximately 6,300 academics and 12,690 professionals, conducted in fall 2022 and early 2023.

Periodically, U.S. News also updates rankings across the arts, humanities, social sciences and other sciences, including health. Highlights of UC’s current rankings in those programs are below.

Biological sciences

UC Berkeley ranked No. 3; UC San Francisco No. 9; UC Davis, UCLA and UC San Diego No. 17; and UC Irvine No. 32.

UC Berkeley tied for first; UCLA No. 16; UC San Diego No. 20; UC Irvine and UC Santa Barbara tied for No. 24; UC San Francisco No. 27; and UC Davis No. 38.

Computer science

UC Berkeley tied for first; UC San Diego No. 12; UCLA No. 14; UC Santa Barbara No. 24; UC Irvine No. 31; and UC Davis No. 41. 

UCLA ranked first; UC San Diego tied for No. 10; UC Berkeley and UC Davis tied for No. 15; and UC Irvine and UC Santa Barbara tied for No. 42.

UC Berkeley ranked No. 3; UC Santa Barbara No. 9; UCLA No. 17; UC San Diego No. 21; UC Irvine No. 35; UC Davis No. 38; UC Santa Cruz No. 47; UC Riverside No. 55; and UC Merced No. 113, climbing 25 spots from 138 last year.

Public health

UC Berkeley and UCLA tied for No. 9; UC Davis ranked No. 22; and UC Irvine No. 43.

Veterinary medicine

UC Davis is once again No. 1, a spot it has held over the last 12 years.

Full UC rankings across the six major disciplines evaluated by the 2023-24 Best Graduate Schools rankings below.

UC Berkeley - 11

UC Irvine - 37

UC Davis - 55

UC San Diego - 107

UC Riverside - 110

UC Irvine - 11

UC Berkeley - 14

UC Davis - 40

UC Riverside - 80

UC Santa Barbara - 80

UC San Diego - 99

UC Santa Cruz - 145

Engineering

UC Berkeley - 3

UC San Diego - 12

UC Santa Barbara - 27

UC Davis - 34

UC Irvine - 34

UC Santa Cruz - 77

UC Riverside - 90

UC Merced - 127

UC Berkeley - 10

UC Irvine - 35

UC Davis - 60

University of California College of the Law, San Francisco (formerly UC Hastings) - 60

Medicine (Research)

UC San Diego - 21

UC Irvine - 44

UC Davis - 50

UC Riverside - 96

Medicine (Primary care)

UC Davis - 6

UC San Diego - 30

UC Irvine - 67

Nursing (Master’s)

UC Davis - 23

UC Irvine - 41

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University Rankings

Times higher education, world university rankings.

The World University Rankings published by Times Higher Education is an annual ranking of higher education institutions. Every year, this list shows you which universities achieved high scores in the global rankings, helping students just like you decide where they ought to study if they want to attend one of the top universities in the world.

Ranked Universities on PhDPortal