A Historic Gift for Wharton

Bruce I. Jacobs Wharton quantitative finance gift

In September 2025, the Wharton School announced the launch of the Dr. Bruce I. Jacobs Master of Science in Quantitative Finance (Jacobs MSQF) program, the School’s first new degree offering in 50 years. The program is funded by a $60 million gift from Dr. Bruce I. Jacobs, G’79, GrW’86, whose transformational commitment builds upon his longstanding support of quantitative finance initiatives at Wharton, now totaling more than $80 million. Jacobs’ latest gift creates a new pathway for students to develop critical skills and explore career opportunities in the rapidly growing quantitative asset management industry.

“Dr. Jacobs has long been a champion for Wharton’s preeminence in this essential area, and we are deeply grateful for this historic gift,” said Penn President J. Larry Jameson, MD, PhD. “This new, innovative, hands-on graduate program will further advance our University’s strategic focus on data and AI while preparing our quantitative finance students and scholars to lead in a rapidly changing world.”

Erika James, Dean of the Wharton School, explained the program’s impact: “This marks a new chapter of excellence in finance at Wharton and offers an unparalleled environment for students to explore this dynamic industry and emerge prepared to shape the future of finance.”

Dr. Bruce I. Jacobs is principal and co-founder of Jacobs Levy Equity Management, where he serves as co-chief investment officer, portfolio manager, and co-director of research. He holds an MA in applied economics and a PhD in finance from Wharton.

When I was at the Wharton School, quantitative finance was in its infancy. Now, it is an essential discipline in this data-driven world. By bridging theory and practice, the Jacobs MSQF program will have a lasting impact on the industry and many future generations of students.”Dr. Bruce I. Jacobs, G’79, GrW’86

Learn more about the Jacobs MSQF program