PhD students at UCLA receive varying levels of compensation, which includes both a median average salary and a higher median estimated total pay.
The median estimated total pay for a PhD student at UCLA is approximately $132,180 per year. This comprehensive figure accounts for a broader range of financial benefits. Concurrently, the median average salary for a PhD student at UCLA is about $94,398 per year. These figures represent the midpoint of reported earnings and compensation for doctoral candidates in the UCLA, CA area.
Understanding PhD Student Compensation at UCLA
PhD student compensation often comprises more than just a base salary, reflecting a comprehensive package designed to support their research and academic pursuits. The "estimated total pay" figure, for instance, typically encompasses various components beyond direct salary or stipend, providing a more holistic view of the overall financial package.
Below is an overview of the median annual compensation figures for PhD students at UCLA:
| Compensation Type | Median Annual Amount |
|---|---|
| Estimated Total Pay | $132,180 |
| Average Salary | $94,398 |
These figures are based on recent salary data reflecting reported earnings for PhD students in the UCLA, CA area.
What Contributes to PhD Student Pay?
The total compensation for a PhD student can encompass various components beyond their direct stipend or base salary. While specific breakdowns can vary, the estimated total pay often includes:
- Base Salary or Stipend: The core payment for living expenses.
- Additional Cash Compensation: This might include performance bonuses, project-specific grants, or other supplemental payments.
- Benefits: A significant part of the total package, often including:
- Tuition Remission/Waivers: Many universities cover tuition costs for PhD students.
- Health Insurance: Subsidized or fully covered health, dental, and vision insurance.
- Retirement Contributions: In some cases, contributions to retirement plans.
- Professional Development Funds: Funding for conferences, research materials, or training.
Factors Influencing Compensation
Several factors can influence the exact compensation a PhD student receives at UCLA:
- Department and Program: Funding levels can vary significantly across different academic disciplines, with some STEM fields historically offering higher stipends or more comprehensive packages.
- Funding Source: Whether the funding originates from university fellowships, external grants (e.g., NIH, NSF), teaching assistantships (TA), or research assistantships (RA) can impact the total amount and its breakdown.
- Year in Program: Compensation might increase as students advance through their doctoral program, especially as they take on more teaching or research responsibilities.
- Assistantship Roles: The specific duties and hours associated with teaching or research assistantships can directly affect the overall compensation package.
