Ever wondered which Ph.D. programs have produced the most billionaires? Discover the top 15 in our latest blog post!
When we think of billionaires, we often think of savvy businesspeople or innovative tech entrepreneurs like Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and Elon Musk. However, some of the world’s wealthiest individuals have earned their fortunes with a strong foundation in academia.
In this blog post, we’ve reviewed the Ph.D. programs that have produced the most billionaires using reliable data from reputable sources such as the US Bureau of Labor Statistics website, Forbes, and the World Report Survey.
Table of Contents
#1. Electrical Engineering
Which billionaire studied electrical engineering?
Peggy Cherng is our case study. She is the co-founder and co-CEO of Panda Express, a popular American fast-food restaurant chain specializing in Chinese cuisine.
Peggy was born in Myanmar (formerly Burma) and later moved to the United States, where she pursued her education and career.
How did Peggy Cherng become a billionaire?
Peggy earned her Bachelor’s degree in applied mathematics from Oregon State University and later completed her Master’s and Ph.D. in electrical engineering from the University of Missouri. She then worked as a software developer for McDonnell Douglas, an aerospace manufacturer and defense contractor.
In 1983, Peggy and her husband, Andrew Cherng, opened their first Panda Express in Glendale, California. With Peggy’s background in electrical engineering and software development, she played a critical role in developing the company’s point-of-sale system and streamlining its operations.
Today, Panda Express has grown into a global brand with over 2,200 locations and an estimated annual revenue of $3 billion.
Which are the best schools for electrical engineering in the US
There are numerous prestigious institutions in the United States offering top-notch electrical engineering programs. Here are some of the best engineering schools in the US:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- University of California–Berkeley
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- University of Illinois–Urbana-Champaign
What does the electrical engineering program entail?
Electrical engineering is a field that deals with the study, design, and application of electrical and electronic systems, devices, and technologies. The program typically covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Circuit analysis and design
- Electromagnetic fields and waves
- Digital and analog electronics
- Signal processing and communication systems
- Power systems and energy conversion
- Control systems and robotics
- Microelectronics and integrated circuits
- Computer engineering and networking
What are the quotes or remarks by Peggy Cherng about her education?
Peggy Cherng has credited her engineering background for her success, stating, “My engineering background helped me to be a better problem solver and to think more logically.” Peggy Cherng’s favorite quote is “A Ph.D. opens doors but it does not define your success.”
#2. Computer Science
Which billionaire studied computer science?
- Charles Simonyi
He is a Hungarian-American computer programmer, software developer, and entrepreneur.
Simonyi is best known for his work at Microsoft, where he led the development of Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel, two of the most widely used software applications in the world.
How did Charles Simonyi become a billionaire?
Charles Simonyi earned his Bachelor’s degree in engineering mathematics from the University of California, Berkeley, and later completed his Ph.D. in computer science from Stanford University.
After completing his Ph.D., Simonyi joined Xerox PARC, a research center where he contributed to the development of the first personal computer, the Xerox Alto.
In 1981, Simonyi joined Microsoft as its 40th employee. At Microsoft, he played a crucial role in creating and developing the company’s flagship products, Microsoft Word and Microsoft Excel. His work contributed significantly to the success of Microsoft and the personal computer revolution.
In 2002, Simonyi left Microsoft and founded his own company, Intentional Software, which focused on developing advanced software development tools. In 2017, Microsoft acquired Intentional Software, further contributing to Simonyi’s wealth.
Which are the best schools for computer science in the US?
The United States is home to numerous prestigious institutions that offer top-quality computer science programs. Some of the best computer science schools in the US include:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- University of California–Berkeley
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Carnegie Mellon University
What does the computer science program entail?
Computer science is a field that deals with the study, design, and application of computer systems and software. The program typically covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Algorithms and data structures
- Programming languages and paradigms
- Computer architecture and organization
- Operating systems and networks
- Databases and information retrieval
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Human-computer interaction and computer graphics
- Software engineering and development methodologies
What are the quotes or remarks by Charles Simonyi about his education?
In an interview, Charles Simonyi once said, “The strong theoretical foundations I gained during my studies in computer science have been invaluable throughout my career.
They have allowed me to approach problem-solving in a systematic and innovative way, which has been key to my success in creating popular software like Word and Excel.”
#3. Biochemistry
Which billionaire studied biochemistry?
Art Levinson, a billionaire with a background in biochemistry, serves as a shining example of how this field can lead to immense success.
As a prominent American molecular biologist and businessman, Levinson is best known for his tenure as the CEO of Genentech, a leading biotechnology company, and his current role as the Chairman of Apple Inc. and CEO of Calico, an Alphabet Inc. subsidiary focused on aging and age-related diseases.
How did Art Levinson become a billionaire?
Art Levinson earned his Bachelor’s degree in molecular biology from the University of Washington and later completed his Ph.D. in biochemistry from Princeton University.
After completing his Ph.D., Levinson joined Genentech, where he held various research and management positions, eventually becoming the CEO in 1995.
Under Levinson’s leadership, Genentech developed numerous groundbreaking drugs, such as Avastin, a cancer treatment, and Herceptin, a breast cancer therapy. These innovations significantly impacted the biotechnology industry and led to Genentech’s acquisition by Roche in 2009 for $46.8 billion, contributing to Levinson’s wealth.
In addition to his work at Genentech, Levinson has been the Chairman of Apple Inc. since 2011, succeeding Steve Jobs. In 2013, he became the CEO of Calico, a company focused on understanding aging and developing therapies to extend human health and lifespan.
Which are the best schools for biochemistry in the US?
The United States boasts numerous prestigious institutions that offer top-quality biochemistry programs. Here are the best biochemistry schools in the US:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- Harvard University (boasts most billionaire alumni with over 26 billionaire graduates)
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- University of California–Berkeley
What does the biochemistry program entail?
Biochemistry is a branch of science that explores the chemical processes and substances occurring within living organisms. The program typically covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Structure and function of biomolecules
- Metabolism and energy production
- Molecular genetics and genomics
- Enzymology and enzyme regulation
- Signal transduction and cellular communication
- Protein folding and molecular interactions
- Gene expression and regulation
- Biotechnology and drug discovery
What are the quotes or remarks by Art Levinson about his education?
Art Levinson has spoken about the importance of his private ivy league education in interviews, saying, “The rigorous training I received during my Ph.D. program at Princeton University not only equipped me with a deep understanding of biological principles but also taught me how to think critically and ask the right questions.”
#4. Finance
Which billionaire studied finance?
Cliff Asness exemplifies the immense success that can result from expertise in this field. As an American hedge fund manager, Asness is best known as the co-founder and Chief Investment Officer of AQR Capital Management, a global investment management firm that focuses on quantitative investing strategies.
How did Cliff Asness become a billionaire?
Cliff Asness earned his Bachelor’s degree in economics from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and later completed his MBA and Ph.D. in finance from the University of Chicago.
During his time at Chicago, Asness studied under Nobel laureate Eugene Fama, who is renowned for his work on portfolio theory and asset pricing.
After completing his Ph.D., Asness joined Goldman Sachs as a managing director and later co-founded AQR Capital Management in 1998.
AQR has since grown into one of the world’s largest hedge funds, with over $140 billion in assets under management. Asness’s wealth has significantly increased due to the success of AQR and the innovative quantitative investment strategies it employs.
Which are the best schools for finance in the US?
The United States is home to numerous prestigious institutions that offer top-quality finance programs. The following are some of the best business schools in the US:
- University of Pennsylvania (Wharton)
- University of Chicago (Booth)
- New York University (Stern)
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Sloan)
- Columbia University (Columbia Business School)
What does the finance program entail?
Finance is a field that deals with the study, management, and allocation of resources, particularly money, within various markets and institutions. The program typically covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Corporate finance and capital structure
- Investments and portfolio management
- Financial markets and institutions
- Risk management and derivatives
- Asset pricing and valuation
- International finance and exchange rates
- Behavioral finance and decision-making
- Quantitative methods and financial econometrics
What are the quotes or remarks by Cliff Asness about his education?
In a conversation about his career, Cliff Asness remarked, “My education in finance has been a cornerstone of my success.
The knowledge I gained in understanding financial markets, risk, and investment strategies has enabled me to identify opportunities and navigate the complexities of the investing world. I am grateful for the strong foundation my education has provided me.”
#5. Chemistry
Which billionaire studied chemistry?
Chemistry, the study of matter and its interactions, has played a significant role in the life of Ge Li, a Chinese billionaire who founded WuXi AppTec.
How did Ge Li become a billionaire?
Ge Li is a Chinese billionaire who holds a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from Columbia University. He is the co-founder, chairman, and CEO of WuXi AppTec, a leading global pharmaceutical and medical device open-access capability and technology platform company.
Under his leadership, WuXi AppTec has grown into a company with a market capitalization of over $20 billion, providing integrated services in the pharmaceutical and medical device industries.
Ge Li’s journey began with his passion for chemistry, which led him to pursue a Ph.D. at Columbia University. After completing his doctorate, he worked in the pharmaceutical industry, gaining valuable experience and insights.
In 2000, he founded WuXi AppTec with the vision of creating a world-class platform for pharmaceutical research and development services.
Over the years, WuXi AppTec has expanded its service offerings, including drug discovery, development, and manufacturing services. The company has also formed partnerships with numerous pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies around the world, helping them bring innovative medicines to the market.
Which are the best schools for chemistry programs in the US?
For those interested in following in Ge Li’s footsteps and pursuing a PhD in Chemistry, there are several prestigious institutions (including Ivy league schools) in the United States that offer top-notch programs. Some of the best chemistry schools include:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Harvard University (has the highest number of billionaire undergraduate alumni)
- Stanford University
- University of Southern California
These schools are renowned for their cutting-edge research, state-of-the-art facilities, and collaborations with industry partners, which can help students gain valuable experience and connections in the field of chemistry.
What does a chemistry program entail?
A Ph.D. in Chemistry typically involves extensive coursework, research, and teaching responsibilities. Students can expect to study various sub-disciplines of chemistry, such as organic, inorganic, physical, analytical, and biochemistry.
They will also develop a deep understanding of the theories and principles that govern chemical reactions and molecular structures.
As part of their research, students will work closely with their advisors to develop and execute independent research projects. These projects often involve designing and conducting experiments, analyzing data, and presenting findings at conferences and in peer-reviewed publications.
Additionally, many PhD programs require students to teach undergraduate courses, providing valuable experience in education and communication.
What are the quotes or remarks by Ge Li about their education?
Ge Li and his wife Ning Zhao (notable alumni of Columbia University), have both emphasized the importance of their chemistry education, with Get Li stating “Our background in chemistry has been instrumental in understanding the complexities of pharmaceutical manufacturing and driving innovations in the field.”
#6. Social Policy
Which billionaire studied social policy?
One such billionaire who studied Social Policy is Jeffrey Lurie, the owner of the Philadelphia Eagles, an NFL team. Lurie earned his PhD in Social Policy from Brandeis University, where he focused on the entertainment industry and its influence on society.
How did Jeffrey Lurie become a billionaire?
Before purchasing the Philadelphia Eagles in 1994 for $195 million, Lurie was involved in the film industry. He founded Chestnut Hill Productions in 1985, which produced a number of successful films and television shows.
Lurie’s wealth can also be attributed to his family’s fortune, as they were the founders of the General Cinema Corporation, a major movie theater chain.
Since acquiring the Philadelphia Eagles, the team’s value has skyrocketed, with Forbes estimating its worth at $4.9 billion in 2022. Lurie’s successful management of the team, including a Super Bowl win in 2018, has played a significant role in his billionaire status.
Which are the best schools for social policy programs in the US?
While Jeffrey Lurie pursued his Ph.D. in Social Policy at Brandeis University, there are several other prestigious institutions in the United States that offer top-notch programs in this field. Some of the best schools for Social Policy programs include:
- Harvard University
- Princeton University
- Stanford University
- University of Chicago
- Columbia University
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Yale University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Michigan
- Duke University
What does a social policy program entail?
A Social Policy program typically involves the study of the social, economic, and political factors that influence the well-being of individuals and communities. Students in this field learn to analyze and evaluate public policies, as well as develop and implement new strategies to address societal issues.
Some of the key areas of focus within Social Policy programs include:
- Poverty and inequality
- Education and healthcare
- Labor markets and employment
- Social welfare and assistance programs
- Criminal justice and public safety
- Environmental and urban policy
- Immigration and integration
What are the quotes or remarks by Jeffrey Lurie about his education?
Jeffrey Lurie has credited his education in social policy for his success in managing the Philadelphia Eagles, saying, “My degree in social policy has given me a unique perspective on leadership and decision-making, which has been invaluable in running an NFL team.”
#7. Physics
Which billionaire studied physics?
Fisk Johnson III, the CEO and Chairman of SC Johnson, is one such billionaire with a background in physics. Born into the fifth generation of the Johnson family, Fisk has overseen the growth and expansion of the family’s consumer goods empire, which includes brands such as Glade, Pledge, and Windex.
Fisk Johnson didn’t rely solely on his family lineage to succeed in business; he pursued a rigorous academic path, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry and Physics, followed by an MBA, and finally, a Ph.D. in Physics from Cornell.
Under Fisk’s leadership, SC Johnson has become a global powerhouse, with operations in more than 70 countries and sales exceeding $10 billion. His background in physics has likely contributed to his ability to think critically, solve complex problems, and navigate the ever-changing business landscape.
Which are the best schools for physics programs in the US?
For aspiring physicists looking to follow in Fisk Johnson’s footsteps, there are several prestigious institutions in the United States that offer top-notch physics Ph.D. programs. Some of the best physics schools include:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Stanford University
- Harvard University
- Cornell University
What does a physics program entail?
A Ph.D. program in physics typically involves several years of coursework, research, and teaching assistantships. Students are expected to gain a deep understanding of core physics principles, as well as specialized knowledge in their chosen research area.
Throughout the program, students work closely with faculty advisors to develop their research projects and ultimately produce a dissertation that makes a significant contribution to the field.
In addition to their research, physics Ph.D. students often gain valuable experience teaching undergraduate courses and presenting their work at conferences.
What are the quotes or remarks by Fisk Johnson III about his education?
Fisk Johnson III has praised his physics education, stating, “Studying physics has provided me with a solid foundation in critical thinking and problem-solving, which has been essential in my career as a business leader.”
#8. Chemical Engineering
Which billionaire studied computer science?
William Ingraham Koch is a notable billionaire who studied Chemistry Engineering. Born in 1940, Koch is an American businessman, sailor, and collector.
He is the founder and president of Oxbow Group, a diversified energy company that specializes in the production and marketing of coal, natural gas, and petroleum coke.
How did William Koch become a billionaire?
Koch’s journey to becoming a billionaire began with his education in Chemistry Engineering.
He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Chemical Engineering from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1962, followed by a Master’s degree in Chemical Engineering Practice in 1963. In 1971, he completed his PhD in Chemical Engineering, also at MIT.
Koch’s wealth accumulation began with his involvement in the family business, Koch Industries. He later left the company after a power struggle with his brothers.
In 1983, he founded the Oxbow Group, which has since grown into a multi-billion-dollar company. Today, William Koch’s estimated net worth is $1.5 billion.
Which are the best schools for chemistry engineering in the US?
For students aspiring to follow in the footsteps of William Koch, there are several prestigious institutions in the United States that offer top-notch Chemistry Engineering programs. Some of the best chemical engineering schools are:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Minnesota, Twin Cities
What does the chemistry engineering program entail?
Chemistry Engineering, also known as Chemical Engineering, is a multidisciplinary field that combines the principles of chemistry, physics, mathematics, and biology to design, develop, and produce various chemicals, materials, and products. This program typically entails the study of:
- Chemical reaction engineering
- Transport phenomena
- Thermodynamics
- Process control
- Separation processes
- Materials science
- Biochemical engineering
- Environmental engineering
What are the quotes or remarks by William Ingraham Koch about his education?
William Ingraham Koch has expressed gratitude for his chemical engineering education, saying, “My degree from MIT has been instrumental in my success in the energy industry, providing me with the knowledge and skills necessary to innovate and excel.”
#9. Statistics
Which billionaire studied statistics?
One notable billionaire who studied statistics is James Goodnight, the co-founder and CEO of SAS Institute, a leading analytics software provider. Goodnight holds a Ph.D. in statistics from North Carolina State University, and his expertise in the field has played a significant role in his success.
Goodnight co-founded SAS Institute in 1976, and the company has since grown into a global powerhouse in the world of analytics, data management, and business intelligence.
With a net worth estimated at over $8 billion, Goodnight’s success can be attributed to his deep understanding of statistics and its applications in the business world.
Which are the best schools for statistics programs in the US?
If you’re considering pursuing a Ph.D. in statistics, there are several prestigious schools in the US that offer top-notch programs. Some of the best schools for this program include:
- Stanford University
- Harvard University
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of Chicago
- North Carolina State University (James’ alma mater)
These schools are renowned for their rigorous programs, exceptional faculty, and strong focus on research and innovation.
What does a program in statistics entail?
A Ph.D. program in statistics involves advanced study in the field of statistical theory, methodology, and applications. Students in these programs are typically required to complete coursework in areas such as probability theory, statistical inference, linear models, and experimental design.
Additionally, students must conduct original research and complete a dissertation, which contributes new knowledge to the field of statistics.
During their studies, Ph.D. students in statistics have the opportunity to collaborate with researchers in other disciplines, such as economics, biology, and engineering.
This interdisciplinary approach allows them to apply statistical methods to a wide range of real-world problems and develop innovative solutions.
What are the quotes or remarks by James Goodnight about his education?
James Goodnight has credited his statistics education for his success, stating, “My Ph.D. in statistics has given me the tools and knowledge necessary to create innovative analytics software and build a successful company.”
#10. Operations Research
Which billionaire studied operations research?
John Malone, also known as the “Cable Cowboy,” is an American billionaire who made his fortune in the telecommunications and media industries. Born in 1941, Malone earned his bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering and Economics from Yale University.
He then went on to receive his Master of Science in Industrial Management from Johns Hopkins University and, finally, his PhD in Operations Research from Johns Hopkins University.
How did John Malone become a billionaire?
Malone’s career took off when he joined Tele-Communications Inc. (TCI) in 1973. Under his leadership as CEO, TCI became the largest cable company in the US. In 1999, TCI was acquired by AT&T for $48 billion, and Malone’s wealth skyrocketed. Today, Malone’s net worth is estimated to be around $9.1 billion.
Which are the best schools for operations research in the US?
If you’re interested in following in Malone’s footsteps and pursuing a Ph.D. in Operations Research, there are several top-notch schools in the US that offer this program. Some of the best institutions for this field include:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- Columbia University
- University of Michigan
What does an operations research program entail?
Operations Research is an interdisciplinary field that focuses on using advanced analytical methods to make better decisions and optimize complex systems. It combines mathematical modeling, statistical analysis, and computational algorithms to solve problems in various industries, such as logistics, manufacturing, finance, healthcare, and telecommunications.
A typical PhD program in Operations Research will cover topics such as linear programming, integer programming, network optimization, stochastic processes, simulation, game theory, and decision analysis. Students will also learn how to use specialized software and programming languages, such as Python, R, and MATLAB, to develop and implement their models.
What are the quotes or remarks by John Malone about his education?
John Malone has acknowledged the importance of his operations research education, stating, “The skills I learned during my Ph.D. program have been invaluable in my career as a media executive, enabling me to make strategic decisions and drive innovation in the industry.”
Last but not least… Computer Engineering
Which billionaire studied computer engineering?
In today’s technology-driven world, it’s no surprise that computer engineering is a field that has produced several billionaires.
Eric Schmidt is an American businessman and software engineer who has a net worth of over $17 billion. He is best known for his tenure as the CEO of Google from 2001 to 2011, and later as the executive chairman of Alphabet Inc., Google’s parent company.
Schmidt earned his Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Princeton University and later pursued his Master’s degree and Ph.D. in computer engineering from the University of California, Berkeley. His doctoral thesis focused on the management of distributed software development and the use of computer networks.
After completing his Ph.D., the former CEO of Google held various positions at tech companies such as Bell Labs, Xerox PARC, and Sun Microsystems. In 2001, he was appointed CEO of Google, where he played a significant role in the company’s rapid growth and success.
Under his leadership, Google expanded its product portfolio, went public, and became one of the world’s most valuable companies.
Which are the best schools for computer engineering in the US?
If you’re interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in computer engineering and potentially following in the footsteps of Eric Schmidt, here are some of the best schools in the US for this program:
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
- Stanford University
- University of California, Berkeley
- California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
- University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
What does a computer engineering program entail?
A Ph.D. program in computer engineering typically covers advanced topics in both computer science and electrical engineering. Students learn about the design, development, and optimization of computer systems and software, as well as the underlying hardware and networking components.
Some of the key areas of study in a computer engineering Ph.D. program include:
- Computer architecture and organization
- VLSI design and fabrication
- Embedded systems
- Operating systems
- Parallel and distributed computing
- Computer networks and security
- Machine learning and artificial intelligence
- Software engineering and development methodologies
- Human-computer interaction
What are the quotes or remarks by Eric Schmidt about his education?
Eric Schmidt has credited his computer engineering education for his success, saying, “My time at UC Berkeley provided me with a strong foundation in computer engineering, which has been essential in my career as a technology executive and leader.”
Conclusion
Prestigious Ph.D. programs have played a significant role in shaping the success of numerous billionaires. These programs foster a unique environment that nurtures innovation and critical thinking.
The billionaire alumni of these top programs are testament to the power of a great education and how it can shape your future.
Now that you know this, consider the potential impact of pursuing a similar path on your own career trajectory. Don’t hesitate to explore these exceptional programs and take the first step towards unlocking your full potential by furthering your education.
