The first-year research paper is due at the beginning of the fall term of the second year in the program. This paper gives students the opportunity to do independent research at the beginning of the doctoral program. In addition, the paper helps students identify specialized interests, develop writing and research skills and offers them the chance to interact with faculty. The student submits a short proposal spring quarter and a faculty advisor is assigned at that time. Most of the work on this project is completed during the summer following the first year.
Students present the results of their research during the second year of the program.
The second research paper is due six months after passing the qualifying examination in finance. Students present the second research paper to the faculty and other Ph.D. students. The thesis is an original project that adheres to high standards of exposition, contributes to knowledge in the field of financial economics and demonstrates an ability to conduct independent research. Students are responsible for identifying their area of research and work informally with faculty in developing their topic and project. When the project is well-defined, the student forms a thesis committee that typically consists of a faculty advisor, two other faculty from the Lundquist College and one faculty from another college of the university.