PhD in Public Policy

by Frank Hilley

Searching for a PhD in Public Policy?

Politics and policy go hand and hand. If you are looking to take your career in government to the next level, you may want to consider earning a PhD in public policy. There are many online and campus based programs to choose from. Some are even accelerated!

Walden University

PhD in Public Policy

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of The North Central Association.

Students with political inclination will have the chance to enhance their knowledge with Walden University’s Public Policy program:

  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Criminal Justice
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – General
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – International Non Governmental Organizations
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Law and Public Policy
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Local Government Management for Sustainable Communities
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Nonprofit Management and Leadership
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Public Management and Leadership
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Public Policy
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Course-based – Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Criminal Justice
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Emergency Management
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – General
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Homeland Security Policy and Coordination
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Interdisciplinary Policy Studies
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – International Non Governmental Organizations
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Law and Public Policy
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Local Government Management for Sustainable Communities
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Mixed-Model – Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Nonprofit Management and Leadership
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Policy Analysis
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Public Management and Leadership
  • Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration – Terrorism, Mediation, and Peace

Venture into the world of politics fully equipped with the theory and practices of political systems and behavior. And in keeping with the latest national political state, Walden ensures its students with the best and updated analysis through the efforts of its academe.
Read more or get a program guide from Walden University.

PhD in Public Policy

What is Public Policy?

Public policy is the action the government takes to address an issue. This can involve implementing new legislation, laws, or regulations.  With a degree in public policy, students can work as legislators for their state or municipality. However, they can also work as lobbyists, advocates, and with special interest groups. These are the groups that work to influence the government and public policy.

What to Expect

PhD in public policy programs combine many of the social science fields into one program. These can include economics, sociology, policy analysis, and public management. The specifics for each school will vary. However, most programs will take 3-5 years to complete depending on how much time a student has to devote to their studies. The first two years typically consist of coursework and seminars. At the end of the coursework students will often have to pass a comprehensive written or oral exam. In addition, they will have to submit their prospectus for their dissertation.  The remaining years will be spent researching and writing the dissertation as well as some field work or internship. Dissertation findings will have to be defended orally in front of a university panel or board.

Summary

A degree in public policy can lead to many exciting and rewarding careers. You can help to shape the way our society runs and influence the government in the creation of different policies and laws. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the local, state, and national governments are the largest employers in the economy, and job options will continue to grow well within the next decade.