The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania today announced the launch of the Dr. Bruce I. Jacobs Master of Science in Quantitative Finance (MSQF) program, the School’s first new degree offering in 50 years. The program is funded by the generosity of philanthropist Dr. Bruce I. Jacobs G79 GRW86, whose transformational gift builds upon his longstanding support of quantitative finance initiatives at Wharton, now totaling more than $80 million. Dr. Jacobs’ latest gift of $60 million creates a new pathway for students to develop critical skills and explore career opportunities in the rapidly growing quantitative asset management industry.
The Dr. Bruce I. Jacobs Master of Science in Quantitative Finance is initially intended for Penn students with a quantitative background and career aspirations in quantitative asset management and allied fields. With just one additional year of coursework following a bachelor’s degree, students will build expertise in quantitative methods, machine learning, artificial intelligence and financial markets, preparing them to succeed in the highly competitive and demanding quantitative asset management sector. The inaugural cohort will begin their studies in fall 2026.
“Bruce’s longtime philanthropic support has been instrumental in cementing Wharton’s position as the global leader in quantitative finance research and education. We are immensely grateful for his recent gift, which will arm the next generation of finance professionals with the specialized skills needed to meet the demands of a tremendously complex and increasingly data-driven industry,” said Dean Erika James. “The Dr. Bruce I. Jacobs Master of Science in Quantitative Finance program marks an exciting new chapter of excellence in finance at Wharton. Building on our legacy as a powerhouse in the financial arena and a pioneer of the data-informed approach to learning, Wharton offers an unparalleled environment for students to explore this dynamic industry and emerge prepared to shape the future of finance.”
“When I was at the Wharton School, quantitative finance was in its infancy. Now, it is an essential discipline in this data-driven world,” said Dr. Bruce I. Jacobs. “The new Master of Science in Quantitative Finance program will offer new focused courses, internships and real-world experience alongside established opportunities in quantitative finance at the School for dissertation fellowships, a scholars program and the Jacobs Levy Center for Quantitative Financial Research. By bridging theory and practice, the MSQF program will have a lasting impact on the industry and many future generations of students, as well as ensure the Wharton School will be at the forefront of this dynamic field.”
For more, see the full press release.
