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The Best Online Doctorate in Public Policy Programs

Staff Writers

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Learn about our editorial process .

Updated October 25, 2023

thebestschools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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Online ph.d. public policy.

Students with strong analytical skills and the drive to create positive change through political action may benefit from an online doctorate in public policy. Public policy has a significant impact on people's lives. With an online Ph.D. in public policy, professionals can shape regulatory policy, research public policy impact, and train the next generation of policy advocates.

An online format makes a doctorate more accessible for working professionals and busy students. During an online public policy doctoral program, graduate students complete coursework requirements using a virtual learning platform. Enrollees must also meet practicum requirements and conduct research in their local areas.

Our list ranks the best doctoral programs in public policy that offer online enrollment options. By reviewing the rankings, prospective doctoral students can identify the programs that best fit their unique needs. This article also introduces common courses and focus areas for Ph.D. students in public policy, along with career paths and tips for choosing the right program.

We use trusted sources like Peterson's Data and the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools. TheBestSchools.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. from our partners appear among these rankings and are indicated as such.

#1 The Best Online Doctorate in Public Policy Programs

Liberty University

• Lynchburg, VA
• Online + Campus

The public policy program at Liberty University offers a doctorate in an online learning format. With its flexible format, the private university makes doctoral studies more accessible. Doctoral students receive support services like career advising and research assistance.

In the online public policy program, learners take advanced doctoral coursework. After passing comprehensive examinations, doctoral candidates choose a dissertation topic and conduct research in their specialty area. With a doctorate in public policy, professionals can work in academia, research, and leadership roles.

At the accredited institution, online doctoral students can qualify for scholarships, federal loans, and other forms of financial aid. Reach out to the program to learn more about transfer credit policies, research support, and admission requirements.

Liberty University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 78,511

Online Master's Programs: 67

Online Doctoral Programs: 9

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Graduate Tuition Rate: $7,980

#2 The Best Online Doctorate in Public Policy Programs

Old Dominion University

• Norfolk, VA

The public administration and policy program at Old Dominion University uses an online learning format. Thanks to a flexible format, the public institution makes it easier to complete a doctorate. Doctoral students benefit from support services like career advising.

The online public policy program incorporates doctoral coursework. Doctoral candidates pass comprehensive examinations and conduct research for their dissertation. As the terminal degree in public policy, the program prepares graduates for academic, research, and industry positions.

Doctoral students who attend the accredited institution in an online format qualify for several types of financial aid. Prospective applicants can contact the program to learn more about research support, financial aid opportunities, and admission requirements.

Old Dominion University at a Glance:

Online Student Enrollment: 12,854

Online Master's Programs: 16

Online Doctoral Programs: 5

Graduate Tuition Rate: $10,207

Online Doctorate in Public Policy Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools  cannot buy better rankings  at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

• Affordability
• Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The  Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System  (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's  National Center for Education Statistics  (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the  College Navigator .

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from  AcademicInfluence.com , subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About our ranking factors.

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

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Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%, online enrollment - 10%.

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through  contact page .

We thank you for your readership and trust.

Featured Online Doctorate in Public Policy Programs

What is an online ph.d. in public policy.

A Ph.D. program in public policy trains graduates to analyze proposed policies and assess the impact of existing policies. This research-based degree prepares graduates for academic, governmental, or nonprofit roles that require analytical and research skills.

During an online Ph.D. in public policy, doctoral students build strong research skills. Programs incorporate courses on both quantitative and qualitative research methods to help students become versatile researchers. Students also gain a theoretical and practical perspective on public policy . Coursework emphasizes analytical and methodological skills.

Each doctoral student chooses a research area to focus their studies. Doctoral students may focus on regulatory policy, international economic policy, social policy, or environmental policy. Depending on the program, they may also choose secondary focus areas. Candidates also conduct original research and write dissertations.

Earning a doctorate in public policy typically takes several years. Before applying to doctoral programs, applicants should ensure that they meet admission requirements. For example, a candidate may need a master's degree . Many programs also require GRE scores, course prerequisites, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

Choosing an Online Doctoral Public Policy Program

An online Ph.D. in public policy is a major commitment of time, effort, and money. As a result, prospective applicants should carefully research programs before submitting their applications.

Several factors can help applicants find the best fit to reach their goals. For example, many applicants begin by looking at the total cost of a degree, the program length, and specialization options. At the doctoral level, graduate students should also research faculty mentors to find a good fit.

Some public policy doctoral programs emphasize research, while others focus on practice. Candidates should consider which of these best suits their professional goals when applying to programs.

Accreditation for Online Public Policy Degree Programs

A prospective doctoral student should always choose an accredited university for their online Ph.D. in public policy. Regionally accredited schools meet the highest standards for academic excellence. An accredited degree also fulfills the requirements for licenses and professional certifications.

In addition to choosing an accredited university, applicants should also research accreditation for public policy programs . The Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration grants accreditation to public policy programs.

What Else Can I Expect From a Ph.D. in Public Policy Program?

A doctorate in public policy builds strong research and analytical skills. During a Ph.D. in public policy, doctoral students focus their training by choosing concentrations or specific research areas. Doctoral candidates can focus on the financial side of public policy by taking courses in budgeting, economic regulations, and public administration.

In addition to coursework, doctoral students must pass comprehensive examinations and write dissertations to earn their degrees. The training prepares graduates to work in policy-making, research, or academia.

Common Courses for an Online Doctorate in Public Policy

• Strategic Management and Planning: Coursework explores the processes and best practices involved in strategic planning, including collaboration, resource allocation, and coordination. Using real-life case studies, candidates develop strategic plans for nonprofit and public groups that align with their respective organizational missions. Lectures emphasize the importance of strong leadership skills in creating effective organizational change.
• Public Sector Budgeting: This course addresses the unique economic challenges faced by public and nonprofit organizations and presents crucial financial concepts and skills, such as budgeting and tax auditing. Enrollees use specialized technologies and software to analyze financial documents, formulate reports, and develop budgets within an organization's financial constraints.
• Ethics and Social Justice: In this course, candidates examine the relationships between leadership, power, and privilege, along with how these factors inform ethical decision-making and policy development. By examining social, economic, and demographic trends, students learn to create effective policies that meet the needs and enhance the lives of individuals in underserved communities.
• Quantitative Methods: Lectures cultivate the integral skills needed to perform doctoral-level research. Topics include statistical testing and its accompanying ethical issues, data collection methods, and the logic of inference. Learners create their own model research studies to analyze data and present the results.
• Qualitative Methods: This course introduces the qualitative research and analytical methods used in both the public sector and academic research. Exploring the theoretical and conceptual frameworks behind qualitative methodologies, each candidate creates research questions, designs and implements studies, and analyzes collected data to create a detailed analysis.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Online Doctorate in Public Policy Program?

While a full-time student can typically complete their online Ph.D. in public policy in 2-4 years, the length of an online degree depends on several factors. Residency requirements, dissertation procedures, and transfer credits all affect degree length, but program structure and format play the most significant role.

To provide maximum flexibility, many schools offer their online degrees in an asynchronous format. Featuring more relaxed deadlines and flexible coursework, asynchronous programs allow working professionals to review lectures and complete assignments at their convenience. While this format allows candidates to complete their studies quickly, it also requires strong organizational skills and personal dedication.

By comparison, cohort-based programs are highly structured, with stricter deadlines and scheduling requirements. Courses may require students to be online at specified times to complete group discussions and collaborate with cohort members and faculty. While cohort learning can be more time-consuming, it also provides more academic support and accountability.

Public Policy Jobs

In addition to strengthening a range of broadly applicable skills, an online Ph.D. in public policy allows enrollees to specialize in particular areas of interest. Individuals with strong analytical skills and the drive to create positive changes through political action can pursue diverse roles in the field. Below are a few such roles.

Political Scientist

Political scientists study the origins and development of political systems and policies. Most specialize in a particular area, such as geopolitics, political theory, or public policy. Using qualitative research methods, they collect and analyze data to develop theories and predictions for political trends, new policies, and election outcomes.

Public Relations and Fundraising Manager

Charged with positively enhancing their client's image, public relations managers develop effective media strategies by examining social and political trends, target demographics, and public opinion. While some work for private corporations, many find employment in government, nonprofit groups, or political organizations. They need excellent communication and analytical skills.

Postsecondary Teacher

Some public policy doctoral students go on to pursue careers in postsecondary teaching at colleges and universities. Aside from planning lessons, grading papers, and staying informed about their field, these teachers may advise students about how to achieve their goals in public policy.

Urban and Regional Planner

Urban and regional planners design communities and create land-use plans. They help revitalize cities and implement community development plans. Urban and regional planners typically work for local governments, where they play a role in setting public policy agendas and making sure public works align with public policy.

Social and Community Service Manager

These managers coordinate social service programs for government, private, and nonprofit agencies. They assess challenges and issues faced by particular communities or demographics to develop outreach programs, policies, and initiatives as needed. They commonly must prove the efficacy of their work by collecting statistical data from the surrounding community and presenting their findings.

Popular Questions About Public Policy Degrees

What can you do with a public policy ph.d..

Doctoral degrees in public policy prepare graduates for academic roles as professors and researchers. Professionals with doctorates in public policy may also work for nonprofit think tanks, government agencies, or other non-academic research institutions.

How Much Does a Ph.D. in Public Policy Make?

According to PayScale , professionals with a doctorate in public policy analysis earn an average salary of over $106,000 per year.

Is Public Policy a Good Career?

Public policy specialists work for legislative bodies, governmental agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Public policy professionals with doctorates can also pursue academic careers. These careers tend to be prestigious, though actual experience varies by professional.

Why Should Someone Study Public Policy?

Public policy has a significant impact on the way people live. The study of public policy trains thinkers to identify successful public policies and develop strategies for improving public life.

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2024 Best Online PhD in Public Policy Programs

If you’re interested in high-level policy work, you may consider earning a PhD in Public Policy online.

A public policy doctoral program may not only teach you the necessary skills for the field but also qualify you for employment within universities, government agencies, and research organizations.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

You may even earn your online public policy degree with self-paced or part-time courses that fit within your busy schedule.

Universities Offering Online PhD in Public Policy Degree Programs

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Liberty University

The public policy doctorate program at Liberty University consists of 60 credits. It offers specialties in social policy, education policy, economic policy, foreign policy, and more. The program usually takes 3 years to complete, and classes are available 100% online.

Liberty University  is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Old Dominion University

Old Dominion University offers a PhD in Public Administration and Policy. Students can learn how to design research studies, conduct policy evaluations, build multi-sector programs, and even teach postsecondary classes in policy.

The program requires 49 credits to graduate, with 37 credits being coursework and 12 credits being dissertation related.

Old Dominion University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Saybrook University

Rather than offering a public policy degree, Saybrook University has a transformative social change degree. It covers many of the same topics, including advocacy, public relations, and social program development, but it has a stronger emphasis on reform and research.

Classes are available online with a 5 day, in-person conference at the beginning of the semester.

Saybrook University is accredited by the Senior Commission of Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Union Institute and University

The public policy program at Union Institute and University is divided into two 6 month terms, and classes are a hybrid blend of online and in-person.

There are two residency periods in winter and summer to get hands-on experience with policy, reform, leadership, and administration. The program requires 66 credits and can be completed in as little as 3 years.

Union Institute and University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Walden University

Walden University offers a PhD in Public Policy and Administration. The school operates on a quarter credit system, and there are several tracks that you can choose from, depending on whether you’re more interested in coursework, projects, or residencies. Some elements of the program are online while others are in person.

Walden is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission.

Online Ph.D. in Public Policy Programs

An online doctorate in public policy is the highest qualification that you can obtain in the field. As such, you may encounter rigorous coursework in subjects like business, economics, civics, ethics, and public administration.

A lot of your curriculum will typically depend on your specialization. If you’re focusing on welfare reform, for example, your schedule might look very different from someone who is studying education or international politics.

Most schools require the completion of a dissertation in order to graduate with a PhD. Some might let you complete a capstone project or a certain number of fieldwork hours instead. Additionally, schools might have opportunities for internships and fellowships within public policy agencies and other relevant organizations.

After you graduate, you may pursue many different career paths, including legislator, policy analyst, political scientist, university professor, and health services manager. The direction of your career will often depend on what you studied in school and what you’re qualified to do.

The good news is that public policy is a growing field. More and more people are being hired to work in nonprofits, social service agencies, government offices, and international think tanks, among others.

While a public policy PhD isn’t a guarantee of a good job, it may help you stand out from other applicants in competitive fields. It may also provide you with the educational foundation that can help you thrive in a high-level position.

Public Policy Careers

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , the average salary for management positions is $109,760 per year. They don’t track public policy jobs specifically, but a PhD will often qualify you for managerial positions.

The following are a few careers in this field that you might consider:

These jobs range from university positions to ones within government agencies, private businesses, and even community service groups. A public policy degree can be very versatile.

Public Policy Doctoral Curriculum

Most public policy degree programs are divided into core classes and electives. The core classes will likely cover things like quantitative research methods. The electives are broader and more wide-ranging to account for different specializations, such as finance, economics, health policy, environmental policy, or international business.

You might find the following courses in a public policy doctoral program.

• Evaluating Public Policies and Programs : This is a basic, introductory-level course that will teach you how to perform evaluations and apply standard research methods to tasks and studies.
• Finance : Even if you aren’t specializing in it, it can be helpful to familiarize yourself with budgeting, accounting, and fundraising for public policy work.
• Ethics in Public Policy : Usually required as a core class, this is an ethics course with an emphasis on the challenges and moral debates surrounding both classic and contemporary issues in public policy.
• Leadership : Though they’re not exclusive to public policy programs, leadership courses can be useful for future managers and supervisors of all types. They’ll cover things like communication, delegation, organizational behavior, and strategic decision making.
• Policy Analysis : An analysis course will teach you how to approach and understand policy research and development through readings, data collections, discussion boards, collaborative projects, and more.
• Global Affairs : These classes can cover everything from foreign policy study to diversity and sensitivity training for future overseas workers.
• Economics : Economics is another subject that’s frequently considered essential for public policy students. You might be required to take microeconomics, macroeconomics, or statistical methods in economics.
• Public or Business Administration : These classes will cover the administrative side of things, like policy development and research.
• Special Topics in Public Policy : Since the field of public policy is ever-changing, it’s common to find “special topics” courses that cover current, real-world issues in the field.
• Dissertation : Your dissertation will often be the culmination of your degree, and it usually requires several semesters’ worth of drafting, writing, editing, and researching. Some schools will even have a mandatory credit requirement for dissertation preparation.

If you’re going for a PhD in Public Policy online, you may want to speak with an advisor about the face-to-face requirements of your degree. Even an online program might require in-person fieldwork with a nonprofit, government office, or social service agency.

There can be various admission requirements for a public policy PhD program, so it’s often worth looking into the specifics of your chosen school to make sure that you meet their criteria. Generally speaking, the requirements will look a little something like this:

• Test scores . While a growing number of schools are experimenting with “test optional” admission models, PhD programs may still request GMAT or GRE scores.
• Transcripts . Some grad schools will require both a bachelor’s and master’s degree for admission. Others will only require a bachelor’s degree.
• Application . In addition to personal and financial data, a typical PhD application involves a resume or CV, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose or intent.

Sometimes it can take weeks or even months to gather all of the necessary documents, submit an application, arrange for financial aid, and work out the minutiae of your schedule. Instead of waiting until the last minute to apply, you might want to give yourself plenty of time to figure things out.

Accreditation

As a prospective PhD student, you may already be familiar with accreditation and why it’s important, but it bears repeating. It’s beneficial to check the website of the U.S. Department of Education for accredited schools when looking at public policy doctoral programs.

High-level universities and government agencies are generally only going to recognize a PhD from an accredited school. Additionally, many loan and scholarship organizations require you to attend an accredited school to qualify for financial aid.

Financial Aid

Financial aid for PhD students is a little different than financial aid for undergrads. While you’ll still qualify for certain parts of the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) , including the Direct PLUS Loan for Graduate and Professional Studies, aid like the Pell Grant will no longer apply.

Instead, you may want to look at fellowships, scholarships, and assistantships that are meant specifically for PhD students. You can also see if you qualify for fully-funded or partially-funded PhD programs that may pay you a stipend in addition to covering costs of tuition and textbooks.

In addition to seeing what’s available to you as a public policy student, you can also check out financial aid for business administration and political science students. There’s often a lot of overlap in these fields, so you might find scholarships that are open to anyone within politics, economics, policy, and law (PEPL).

What Can You Do with a Ph.D. in Public Policy?

A public policy degree can help prepare you for a number of different careers. If you’re interested in politics, for example, you might pursue a career as a legislator, political scientist, policy analyst, or government program director.

If you want to make the world a better place, you might focus on education, public health, or social services work as an administrative manager. You might study or teach at universities as a researcher or professor. You may even become a fundraiser for your favorite charitable cause.

How Long Does It Take to Get a PhD in Public Policy?

It may take anywhere from 3 years to 5 years to earn a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Public Policy. It depends, though, on the required number of credits from your degree program and whether you’re studying full-time or part-time.

If you’re enrolled in a hybrid or online program that allows for extra flexibility with your classes, the trade-off might be a longer graduation time than if you’d studied on a more traditional schedule.

What Is the Difference Between Public Policy vs. Political Science?

As a subject, political science is closely related to public policy, but it’s not quite the same. Political science takes a broad, sweeping look at politics as a whole. On the other hand, public policy has a narrower, more specialized focus on public organizations and their policies and procedures.

This isn’t to say that public policy is a small field. On the contrary, it may lead to many different jobs in schools, charities, courtrooms, law firms, government agencies, and social service offices. It’s just focused exclusively on the policy work of such institutions.

What’s the Difference Between a PhD in Public Policy vs. Public Administration?

Public administration is another field with a lot of crossover into public policy. Again, the difference lies in the focus areas of the two disciplines.

Public policy is dedicated to policy: researching it, analyzing it, creating it, and reviewing it. Public administration, on the other hand, can involve policy work in addition to many other skills and subjects.

Is a Ph.D. in Public Policy Worth It?

Yes, a public policy PhD is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 5% job growth in management-level positions over the next 10 years. Common public policy careers include policy analyst, political scientist, administration manager, nonprofit director, and public relations specialist.

Maybe you’re a long-time student of public policy. Maybe you already have a background in political science or business administration, but you’re looking to specialize your focus area or qualify for higher-paying jobs within your industry.

Either way, a PhD in Public Policy may be a strategic investment for the future, and the existence of accredited online degree programs may make it more convenient for you to earn this terminal degree.

Doctorate in Public Policy Online

Staff Writers

Contributing Writer

Learn about our editorial process .

Updated September 5, 2023

AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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Degree Options & Potential Careers

As municipalities and governments grow larger and more complex, they need more experienced public policy experts. With an online public policy doctorate, current public policy professionals can enter positions with higher rates of pay and more responsibilities.

When evaluating whether to pursue a Ph.D. in public policy or a doctorate of public policy (DPP), individuals should pick the degree that leads toward their desired career. While some career outcomes for these two doctoral programs are similar, other careers — such as a college professor or public researcher — may require a Ph.D. This page outlines online public policy doctoral degrees, potential outcomes, and what these programs might look like.

Should I Earn an Online Doctorate in Public Policy?

The reasons individuals may pursue a doctorate in public policy vary. However, prospective students should begin an advanced degree with the right reasons in mind. For example, some careers either require or expect applicants to hold a Ph.D. in public policy, and a Ph.D. serves as an important prerequisite. Moreover, a Ph.D. can set holders apart in a competitive job market, even if they only need a master's degree for job entry.

Making a career change serves as another reason to earn a Ph.D. For example, those working for a city hoping to work in academia typically need a Ph.D., as it serves as the terminal degree need to research and teach. Others without a strong background in public policy may want to pursue a Ph.D. as a means of developing a better understanding of the field.

Ph.D. graduates also receive larger salaries than master's and bachelor's graduates. Those with a higher education typically receive an increase in salary. While a Ph.D. is a significant investment, the extra income generated may prove worth the tuition costs.

Lastly, some people earn a Ph.D. for personal satisfaction. If your dream is to earn a Ph.D., that serves as a good reason to earn one.

What Can I Do With an Online Doctorate in Public Policy?

Once you earn a doctorate in public policy online, you establish yourself as an expert in your field. Fortunately, many companies, colleges, non-profits, and government organizations pay experts good salaires. You could find work in nearly any field and work in almost any environment.

Because Ph.D.s are largely research-based degrees, many graduates find positions in academia — they may teach courses, conduct research, or both. The government also employs many individuals with a background in public policy, and you may find a variety of opportunities within government agencies or departments. The opportunities available to you could also depend on a specialty and your background, too.

Private organizations and corporations each benefit from research. Some third parties hire public policy experts to conduct research to help inform the public. Others may want more information from an expert before they make a business decision. Public policy doctorates may find employment at a private corporation, or they may serve as a consultant hired by an independent firm. Still other public policy consultants work for themselves or own their own firms.

Nonprofits are also a common landing spot for public policy doctorates. Because a doctoral degree implies that you can lead, nonprofits may hire you to run their entire organization. Alternatively, you could conduct relevant research for a nonprofit.

One's career also depends on their area of specialization. For example, those who focus on public economics might work for the government to create new tax laws. Those who focus on international policy, however, often find work in foreign relations.

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College Professor

Policy analyst, non-profit director, research director, public policy consultant, public policy ph.d. program overview.

As a terminal degree in the field, a Ph.D. is tougher to get into than a bachelor's or master's program. Along with stricter academic requirements, schools also require test scores, work experience, and letters of recommendation.

Most Ph.D. programs require students to complete coursework full time. Even if you choose to study online, plan to spend most of your time working on school projects and coursework. While these programs prove challenging, the potential outcomes are well worth the work.

Application Requirements and Admission Criteria

Most doctoral programs require a minimum of a master's degree with a GPA of 3.25 or higher. You also must submit GRE or GMAT test scores, and if English is not your native language, you may need to submit TOEFL scores. Prospective students also need to submit multiple letters of recommendation. Letters of recommendation usually come from academic sources, such as past professors or mentors.

A common requirement for doctoral school is a personal essay. This essay explains your academic, professional, and personal goals; why your goals align with the institution you are applying to; and why your goals align with a Ph.D. in public policy. Some online schools accept applications year-round, but others have strict deadlines you must meet.

A Ph.D. in public policy takes at least three years to complete, though some programs may take longer. Students must complete 16-30 courses, which total between 48-90 credits. Online schools often allow Ph.D. students to complete some or all of their coursework online, though some in-person seminars may be required.

Students complete the bulk of coursework in core topics. The subject matter of these classes are determined by schools, though most focus on advanced public policy topics. Those in a specialization can expect about 33% of their required courses to occur in that specialization. Those without a specialization can take elective courses that constitute the majority of their education. Some schools allow students to take elective courses on top of their specialization courses.

Nearly all Ph.D. programs require a dissertation. The dissertation is usually worth 12 credits, less than 25% of a total degree. Schools typically give students about a year to write their dissertation. Some schools also require a passing score on a comprehensive exam prior to graduation. Comprehensive exams are worth anywhere from 0-3 credits at most universities.

Program Outcomes

Aside from learning about advanced public policy theories and practices, one of the best skills students learn is advanced research. Research is a critical part of many careers Ph.D.s pursue, and a doctoral program introduces students to some of the best ways to conduct public policy research.

Leadership serves as another area of emphasis for many public policy doctoral degrees. Common career outcomes for the degree require leadership, and employers often look to Ph.D. graduates for guidance and expertise. For similar reasons, project management and critical thinking are other skills developed while earning the degree.

Lastly, the written skills you earn from a Ph.D. help with anything from drafting new laws to writing emails to coworkers. Communication proves key for leadership positions, and writing is an important and commonly used form of communication.

Accreditation for Online Public Policy Doctorate Programs

When reviewing potential schools, ensure that they hold accreditation status. Colleges and universities receive two main forms of accreditation: national and regional. Students should note that some employers prefer candidates with degrees from schools accredited by regional accrediting bodies, such as the  Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools  or the  Higher Learning Commission .

Some programs or schools within a college can also receive accreditation . However, there is no standard accrediting body for public policy degrees available. Instead, prospective students should privilege schools with regional accreditation.

Public Policy Professional Organizations

Professional organizations are excellent ways to kickstart or advance your career. These organizations cater to current college students, current public policy workers, and retired public policy workers. Most organizations provide advocacy for members and represent them on a state and national level. Other organizations emphasize member development by offering online courses or conferences.

Perhaps the best reason to join a professional organization is to find a new job. Organizations sometimes have their own job boards and only post relevant positions. Also, professional organizations are made up of public policy experts, and they could be a great way to network.

Professional organizations exist for almost every niche, so find the one that suits you best. When you do choose a professional organization, consider serving on a committee, volunteering, or becoming a board member. Not only do these look great on resumes, but you could increase your public policy clout.

American Public Works Association

American society for public administration, the association for public policy analysis & management, american evaluation association, young nonprofit professional network, popular resources.

Whether you’re looking to earn your online degree or you’re a parent looking for answers, you can find all of your questions covered here. Explore these resources to help you make informed decisions and prepare for whatever is thrown your way.

Shape your future with an online degree

Connect with a community of peers, and find a program that will allow you to continue your education in a fast and flexible way.

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Economic Analysis & Policy

Our doctoral program in the field of economic analysis and policy prepares students for research careers in economics. The program offers rigorous training and has several distinct advantages:

Low Student-to-Faculty Ratio

First, enrollment in the program is small. This encourages close faculty-student contact and allows students to become involved in research very early. Students work first as assistants on faculty research projects and, as their interests and skills develop, on their own research. Students often begin their publishing careers before completing their degrees.

Flexible and Innovative Program

Second, the program is flexible and innovative; students can draw on both the school’s and the university’s distinguished faculty. In addition to the faculty in the economics group at Stanford GSB and in the university’s economics department, students have access to faculty in political and behavioral sciences; accounting and finance; mathematics, statistics, and computer science; and many other disciplines.

A Top-Ranked School

Third, the program is part of a top-ranked professional school. This setting allows students to gain a deeper understanding of the actual processes of business decision-making and public policy formulation.

Preparation and Qualifications

Students who enroll in this program have a substantial background in economics and mathematics. They are expected to have, minimally, mathematical skills at the level of one year of advanced calculus and one course each in linear algebra, analysis, probability, optimization, and statistics.

The faculty selects students based on predicted performance in the program. Evidence of substantial background or ability in the use of mathematical reasoning and statistical methods is important. Most successful applicants had quantitative undergraduate majors in economics, mathematics, or related sciences.

In addition to evidence of ability and letters of recommendation, the faculty considers carefully the applicant’s statement of purpose for pursuing the PhD degree. The successful applicant usually has clearly defined career goals that are compatible with those of the program.

Acceptance into the program is extremely competitive. Admitted applicants compare very favorably with students enrolled in the top economics departments of major universities.

Economic Analysis & Policy Faculty

Mohammad akbarpour, claudia allende santa cruz, susan athey, lanier benkard, jeremy i. bulow, modibo khane camara, sebastian di tella, rebecca diamond, yossi feinberg, guido w. imbens, charles i. jones, michael ostrovsky, garth saloner, yuliy sannikov, kathryn shaw, andrzej skrzypacz, paulo somaini, juan carlos suárez serrato, takuo sugaya, christopher tonetti, shoshana vasserman, ali yurukoglu, weijie zhong, emeriti faculty, alain c. enthoven, robert j. flanagan, david m. kreps, peter c. reiss, john roberts, a. michael spence, robert wilson, recent publications in economic analysis & policy, adaptive novelty detection with false discovery rate guarantee, an economic framework for vaccine prioritization, pricing power in advertising markets: theory and evidence, recent insights by stanford business, nine stories to get you through tax season, a.i. can help “personalize” policies to reach the right people, stanford gsb faculty share their holiday reading lists, placement director.

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Public Administration and Policy Online (PhD)

• Doctor of Philosophy
• Strome College of Business
• School of Public Service

Why ODU for Public Administration and Policy?

Effective public administration and policy-making requires collaborative decisions and problem solving. Our PhD program takes a multi-sector approach. You'll focus on the challenges that arise where governments, nonprofits, businesses, community groups, and individuals intersect.

You will graduate with a solid grounding in the theory and issues of traditional public administration and public policy. You'll also gain the practical knowledge to influence decision makers and lead organizations involved in public service.

You will develop the skills to:

• Conduct policy analyses
• Design and conduct research studies in public administration
• Report research findings and its implications to a variety of audiences and decision-makers
• Make informed policy and administrative decisions
• Assess policy and implementation issues
• Establish, manage, and evaluate multi-sector programs and relationships
• Teach courses in public administration and policy

Whether you're new to public administration or taking your public service career to the next level, you will be able to apply your experience and education to effect change in the public sphere.

Want to learn more? Contact us!

Best Online Doctorate in Public Administration, 2023 - BestColleges.com

Most Affordable Online Doctoral Degrees, 2023 -  OnlineU.com

Required Courses

• 37 credit hours of coursework
• 12 credit hours for the dissertation

You will be taught by ODU faculty with expertise in:

• nonprofit and public management
• public-private partnerships
• public procurement and contract management
• citizen participation
• dispute resolution
• economic development
• Core Course Long Range Schedule
• View Course Details in ODU's Graduate Catalog

Online Learning Environment

Participate in live, regularly scheduled online class meetings and access course materials online from any location. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

• Taking Classes Online

Careers in Public Administration and Policy

Public administration and policy is an interdisciplinary field. With ODU's PhD, you can apply your experience and education in other fields -- like political science, criminal justice, social work, business, engineering, fine arts, education, and more -- to effect change in the public or nonprofit sphere. 

Our coursework will teach you how to create and disseminate knowledge to advance public service, whether you plan to become an instructor, conduct research, or take management positions in government or nonprofit environments.

• Explore Career Opportunities at Our Career Coach Website

Calculating Cost

Rates are effective Fall 2023 and subject to change. * In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

• ODU Tuition and Financial Aid

Meet Your Team

You'll have a dedicated academic advisor for this program.

Contact us if you have questions about admission requirements, transferring credits, or application deadlines.

Ready to get started?

How to apply.

You may be able to take up to four courses (12 credit hours) as a non-degree graduate student, before you are accepted into this specific degree program. Please contact us through the form above to learn more from our enrollment team.

Applications are accepted year-round, and new students start each fall semester. The deadline for completed applications is March 1. To apply, you will need:

• A master's degree from a regionally-accredited institution or comparable foreign institution with a minimum 3.25 GPA (4.0 scale).
• Two letters of recommendation from academic sources.
• A professional resume.
• A 3-6 page essay about your academic and professional goals and why you chose our program.
• GRE/GMAT scores at 25th percentile for verbal and quant (taken within the last five years). A GRE waiver request is available here .
• If your native language is not English and you do not have a U.S. graduate degree, a minimum score of 79 on the TOEFL, or 6.5 on the IELTS.
• Request Info

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Public Policy PhD – Foreign Policy

Transfer credits, next start date, learn to analyze and improve foreign affairs with liberty’s public and foreign policy phd.

As the influence of business and politics continues to expand globally, our country needs experts in international policy to create new opportunities for peace and prosperity through effective, sound legislation. Whether your goal is to create positive change on a local or global scale, Liberty’s online PhD in Public Policy – Foreign Policy degree can provide you with the training and advanced studies you need to pursue exciting opportunities around the world.

By earning your PhD in Public Policy degree online through Liberty University, you won’t just be able to gain an advanced understanding of policy assessment and decision-making — you can also become equipped to navigate complex global issues through the application of biblical principles. 

From economics to criminal justice to healthcare, public policy influences many aspects of how our country functions. Adding a foreign policy specialization to your degree can prove to be a valuable asset as you seek to become an informed, versatile, and effective political force.

Foreign Policy vs. International Relations

At first glance, a PhD in International Relations online and a PhD in Foreign Policy may appear to be one and the same. While the subjects are similar, there is a slight distinction between the two. 

If you were a student in an online PhD in International Relations program, your studies would likely focus on the actions of state actors with respect to one another. An international relations PhD program is very broad in scope, encompassing private and governmental practices alike. To study international relations is to study how governments, businesses, cultures, and non-business organizations interact and influence each other across borders. 

Foreign policy, which addresses a specific country’s policies relating to other nations or international organizations, is narrower in scope. American foreign policy during the Cold War, for example, was to prevent the spread of communism. In contrast, an international relations student would study how world industry, culture, and governments reacted to the Cold War. If you are interested in the specialized study of foreign affairs, such as historical approaches taken by the United States Secretary of State towards specific foreign countries, Liberty’s PhD in Public Policy – Foreign Policy online may be a great fit for you.

Why Choose Liberty’s Public Policy PhD Online – Foreign Policy?

At Liberty, you’ll benefit from nearly 40 years of learning, growing, adapting, and innovating for the distance learner — and more than a decade of researching the needs of the online student. You can be confident that we’ve taken the time to learn what’s important to you, and we look forward to working with you to accomplish your personal and career goals.

As a Christian institution of higher education, each course within our public policy doctoral program is taught from a Christian worldview. Our focus on ethics and moral decision-making as they relate to foreign and public policy development sets us apart from other universities.

Our foreign policy degree program offers far more than a surface-level overview of international studies and key world players. This degree program was designed with your success in mind. Our online PhD in Public Policy – Foreign Policy can be completed in just 3 years and has no residential courses — so you can earn a terminal degree from the comfort of your home.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a government worker, or a college professor looking to add an additional degree to your résumé, Liberty’s public policy PhD with a focus in foreign policy may be a great fit for you. Partner with us and become a true expert in public and foreign policy.

Military Tuition Discount We want to help you find the doctoral degree you want — at a price you’ve earned. As a thank-you for your military service, Liberty University offers eligible current and former service members like you or your spouse multiple pathways to earn a doctoral degree for only $300/credit hour . Find out how you can take advantage of this unique opportunity as you work towards your goal of reaching the pinnacle of your profession — for less.

What Will You Learn in Our Online Public Policy PhD – Foreign Policy Degree? 

Our online doctoral degree in foreign policy offers you advanced study in policy and government functions. This degree program also allows you to conduct in-depth, original research in preparation for your dissertation. 

In this degree program, you will study a number of topics relating to foreign and public policy — including the featured courses listed below. By combining a sound education in public policy with training in foreign relations, you can become a well-rounded scholar who is able to analyze problems and develop practical solutions to international challenges.

PhD in Public Policy Featured Courses

• PLCY 700 – Foundations of Public Policy
• PLCY 805 – Policy Analysis and Research Design
• PLCY 860 – Introduction to Foreign Policy Studies
• PLCY 861 – Research Seminar in Foreign Policy

Benefits of Choosing Liberty’s Online PhD in Public Policy – Foreign Policy

We are recognized by multiple institutions for our academic quality, affordability, and accessibility . Our commitment to excellence also helped us rank in the top 10% of Niche.com’s best online schools in America . Earning your online degree from a nonprofit university with this kind of recognition can help set you apart from others in your field.

• The majority of tuition for undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs has not increased in 9 years. While many other online colleges have raised tuition, Liberty has been able to keep costs low as a nonprofit university.
• You can complete our online PhD in Public Policy – Foreign Policy in as little as 3 years.

Potential Career Opportunities with a PhD in Public Policy

• Government leader
• International policy researcher
• Professor of political science
• Senior public policy analyst

PhD in Public Policy Program Information

• This program falls under the  Helms School of Government .
• Download and review the  Degree Completion Plan .
• View our Graduate Government Course Guides (login required) .

  Apply Now     Request Info

Admission Requirements for Liberty’s PhD in Public Policy

A regionally or nationally accredited master’s degree with a 3.0 or above GPA is required for admission in good standing. Please visit our  admission requirements page  for more detailed admissions-related information.

All applicants must submit the following:

• Admission application
• Application fee*
• Official college transcripts
• Proof of English proficiency (for applicants whose native language is other than English)

*There is no upfront application fee; however, a deferred $50 application fee will be assessed during Financial Check-In. This fee is waived for qualifying service members, veterans, and military spouses – documentation verifying military status is required.

*Some restrictions may occur for this promotion to apply. This promotion also excludes active faculty and staff, military, Non-Degree Seeking, DGIA, Continuing Education, WSB, and Certificates.

Apply FREE This Week*

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Juris Master (JM)

Juris Master: International Legal Studies

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The Brooks PhD Program in Public Policy prepares the next generation of research scholars to address pressing national and international public policy issues.

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About the PhD Program

Program details.

Each Public Policy PhD student completes a course of study designed to produce cutting-edge social science research on policy-relevant topics.

Areas of Speciality

The graduate faculty have multidisciplinary expertise in a range of policy areas, including data science and technology policy; environmental and sustainability policy; health policy; human security; inequality and social policy; the politics and economics of development; and race, racism and public policy.

Meet our Students

Our students enroll with diverse research and academic experiences. Learn about their research interests here.

I get the opportunity to interact with sociologists and political scientists and economists outside of my field who really give me an understanding and a scope well beyond what I would have gotten if I had gone to a school that didn’t have this interdisciplinary nature. The Brooks School is a perfect place for me. I can craft my research in a way that is valuable in the long term. – Shyam Raman, PhD Student

BENEFITS OF GETTING A PUBLIC POLICY PHD AT CORNELL

A multi-disciplinary phd in public policy.

The PhD in Public Policy offers training in a social science discipline (such as economics, government, and sociology), empirical methods, and a policy area of focus. First year coursework is disciplinary; subsequent coursework and research is guided by student interest and faculty expertise.

Generous support

PhD funding is guaranteed for 6 years, which includes a stipend, tuition, and health insurance. Students are funded through a combination of fellowships, research assistantships, and teaching assistantships .

Public Policy Placements

Policy PhD graduates go on to academic positions in policy schools, disciplinary departments, and interdisciplinary units; others join government agencies, consulting firms, and non-governmental organizations.

An Ivy League degree in public policy with Cornell’s resources and reputation

Cornell University is one of the world’s leading academic and research institutions and has the broadest range of programs in the Ivy League. Cornell attracts some of the world’s best researchers, thinkers, scholars, inventors, scientists, and humanitarians.

A community where you’ll feel at home within a comprehensive, world-class university

The Brooks School is a friendly, caring environment and just one community among many that you will discover. At Cornell, there’s a club, activity or group where you can meet people who share your interests. If you want to enrich your studies by pursuing social change or volunteer to make a difference, you’ll find endless opportunities. 

A vibrant, dynamic college town setting

Ithaca is home to spectacular waterfalls and lakes, organic farms and wineries, a thriving music and arts community, and an invigorating climate year-round. Located at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, Ithaca is consistently rated among the most livable cities in the United States.

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Brooks School students bring fresh perspectives to APPAM conference

Association for Public Policy Analysis and Management (AAPAM) travel fellowship helps doctoral students build national…

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Graduate Certificate in Policy Analysis

The Stanford Public Policy Program offers a graduate “Certificate in Policy Analysis” for current Stanford graduate students. This highly flexible 25-unit program is designed for students who are interested in policy but may not be able to complete a formal one or two-year policy degree. The program’s coursework provides a solid background in economics and quantitative methods, political analysis, ethics, and writing for policy audiences.  These courses will equip students with a set of skills necessary to design and evaluate policies, conduct research, and advocate policy solutions.

The certificate provides formal recognition for a coherent plan of policy studies. In addition to completing coursework, students will produce a final paper reflecting on the policy lessons from their time in the program. Upon completion of the program, a certificate is provided. Note that the certificate is not included on the diploma or transcript. Grading policy: students may take two courses for a non-letter grade, in addition to the one-unit required colloquium course. The remaining courses must be taken for a letter grade. (Note: CR grades are only accepted for those enrollments taken from Spring 2020 through Summer 2021.)

Program Learning Outcomes

• Master analytical tools for evaluating public policies and programs in terms of their absolute and comparative efficacy in achieving given social objectives.
• Participate in policy and political discussion as citizens and as professionals in a variety of fields.
• Appreciate the complexity of large organizations as it relates to the implementation of public programs.
• Understand the conflicts in ethical and value commitments that pervade public policy issues.

How to Apply

The application to the Certificate in Policy Analysis is  available here  and can be submitted at any time. Upon submission, a member of the Public Policy program staff will contact you to confirm your course plan and answer any questions you may have. You must be a currently enrolled graduate student to pursue the certificate. 

Requirements

Required courses - 13 units.

• PUBLPOL  301A  Microeconomics (Autumn, 4 units)
• PUBLPOL  303D  Applied Econometrics (or equivalent course) (Winter, 4 units)

PUBLPOL  301B  Economic Policy Analysis for Policymakers (Spring, 4 units)  or   PUBLPOL 204   Economic Policy Analysis (Winter, 4 units)

• PUBLPOL  311  Colloquium (Aut/Win/Sp, 1 unit)

Required Courses with Selection Options - 8 units

PUBLPOL  306   Writing and Rhetoric for Policy Audiences (Autumn, 4 units) or  PUBLPOL  314  Justice in Public Policy (Autumn, 4 units)

PUBLPOL  308  Political Analysis for Public Policymakers (Winter, 4 units) or  PUBLPOL  353A  Science and Technology Policy (Winter, 4 units)

Optional Course(s) - 4 units (total)

• LAW  7508   Problem Solving and Decision Making 
• PUBLPOL  302B   Economic Analysis of Law 
• PUBLPOL 206 : Law and Economics
• LAW 1043 : Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies
• LAW 1047   Business, Social Responsibility and Human Rights
• LAW 2508:  The Business of Water
• LAW 2513:  Climate: Politics, Finance and Infrastructure
• LAW 2515:  Environmental Justice 
• LAW 2519:  Water Law 
• LAW 5010 : International Human Rights
• LAW 5013 : International Law
• CSRE 175W Philosophy of Law: Protest, Punishment, and Racial Justice 
• PUBLPOL  311  Colloquium 

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Policy Analysis | Online

Tuition per credit hour.

Online mode of study: $460 for in-state & $494 for out-of-state residents. Blended mode of study: cost varies. See details and other costs

Credit hours

12 required credit hours. Most courses are equal to 3 credit hours. Browse course list

Program duration

Finish in as little as 1 year. Explore program requirements

Apply for fall, spring, or summer term. View application process & deadlines

Program Highlights

• Choose a mode of study that is blended (a mix of online and in-person courses) or fully online.
• Balance your schedule while completing your certificate: Our fully online program option allows you to complete coursework from wherever you are.
• Save money with reduced e-tuition for out-of-state students who choose to study fully online.
• Make progress toward a future graduate degree: Apply course credits from your certificate toward a USM master’s degree.
• Participate in Muskie School of Public Service extensive applied research programs that directly contribute to organizational, program, and policy innovation.

Program requirements

Our curriculum is designed for those seeking an improved understanding of public policy development, research, and evaluation — and who wish to help improve public policy outcomes.

Future degree planning

Interested in earning your Master’s degree in Policy, Planning, and Management in the future? The credits earned from this certificate program can be applied to our MPPM. Some restrictions may apply.

Research opportunities

Participate in research that is meaningful to you. The Muskie School of Public Service is nationally recognized for applying the university’s analysis and research resources to critical issues in the fields of health policy, child and family well-being, public sector management and innovation, environmental policy, and more.

Experiential learning

You’ll have the opportunity to attend, participate in, and contribute to the Muskie School’s expanding public outreach activities.

Career opportunities

Expand your career preparedness by acquiring skills that include analyzing and developing public policy and participating in and contributing to the policy process.

Faculty support

Our faculty have expertise in a wide range of fields. Nearly half of the faculty hold joint teaching and research appointments and are actively engaged in advising their students.

Applied Research and Evaluation Methods | Online

Master of policy, planning, and management (mppm) | online.

Our graduate admissions counselors are here to answer your questions about the admissions process, our academic programs, and student support services.

Admission information: Certificate of Graduate Study in Policy Analysis

Application deadlines.

We accept applications on a rolling basis and review them continuously.

Applicants are required to provide the following materials:

General requirements

• Application: Online application
• In-state, out-of-state, and Canadian applicants: Free to apply
• International applicants: Submit US $50 fee to apply
• National Association of Credential Evaluation Services (NACES)
• Association of International Credential Evaluators (AICE)
• Resume: Submit a resume or CV that outlines professional, volunteer, and community experience.
• Students whose first language is not English may be required to take one of the following: Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Pearson Test of English (PTE) or Duolingo. Applicants must submit official scores as part of the application process. See additional information regarding test scores and requirements .

Additional requirements

• Essay: In a brief essay (300-500 words), please state your reasons for pursuing a Certificate of Graduate Study in Policy Analysis, your professional goals, and how you think this program of study will contribute to these goals.

English proficiency test scores

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Where to send application materials

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Advanced Policy Analysis Certificate | Northwestern SPS - Northwestern School of Professional Studies

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Program Overview

Policy Analysis

Policy Analysis Certificate Program

Rigorous policy analysis is a highly sought after skill set in today's world of data-driven decision-making. The Policy Analysis certificate program will teach students how to analyze public policy and drive improved decision-making within the policy context. By using economic, statistical, and other quantitative analytic tools, students will learn how to model policy systems and behaviors within those systems, how to navigate and create incentive systems, and otherwise model key elements of policy systems. Applicants must possess a graduate degree in order to be considered for this program.

About the Policy Analysis Certificate Program

Policy analysis course schedule, policy analysis faculty, admission for the policy analysis certificate program, policy analysis tuition, policy analysis registration information, find out more about northwestern's policy analysis certificate program, policy analysis required courses.

The Policy Analysis Course Schedule page provides you with detailed information on the program's offerings.

You can find a full listing of our instructors in this certificate program on the Policy Analysis Faculty page.

Applicants to this certificate program must hold a graduate degree from an accredited U.S. college, university or its foreign equivalent. A competitive graduate record that indicates strong academic ability is required, though applicants need not have extensive academic experience in public policy. Work experience in the public sector is desirable but not necessary.

A list of admission requirements can be found on the Certificate of Advanced Graduate Study Admission page .

Tuition costs can vary for each of our programs. For the most up-to-date information on financial obligations, please visit our Policy Analysis Tuition page.

Our Policy Analysis Registration Information page outlines important dates and deadlines as well as the process for adding and dropping courses.

To earn a certificate, students must complete the following four courses:

• MPPA 404 Microeconomics for Public Policy and Administration
• MPPA 405 Statistics for Research
• MPPA 406 Analytic Methods for Public Policy Analysis
• MPPA 407 Scope and Theory of Public Policy

Please note that courses completed in the certificate program cannot be transferred to the corresponding graduate degree.

This certificate program can be completed on campus or online.

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• Undergraduate degree from an accredited four-year institution.

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Policy Analysis Certificate

Enhance your analytical skills to support work in politics, non-profit administration, or public policy.

The Policy Analysis graduate certificate provides the analytic skills needed to conduct or understand policy analysis and program planning. The certificate will prepare you to work in the public or not-for-profit sectors.

Why earn a graduate certificate in policy analysis?

* Priority deadline

This program’s core courses provide a solid background in research methods, policy analysis and public policy. You’ll learn how to evaluate policies, conduct research and advocate for policy solutions. Customize your certificate in Policy Analysis by selecting from a broad range of electives.

UND’s Policy Analysis certificate provides formal recognition for policy studies. You'll understand specific topics related to policy, including:

• Various approaches to analyzing political phenomena.
• Techniques of empirical research including research design, measurement, data gathering and data analysis.
• Use of empirical theory and techniques to make policy choices.
• Initiation, formulation, adoption, implementation and evaluation of American public policy.
• Contemporary structural and policy problems of state and local governments.
• Structures, processes, procedures and positions of the legislative and executive offices in government.

Certificate in Policy Analysis to M.P.A.

Apply your certificate coursework toward a Master of Public Administration degree from UND. You'll learn to confront issues such as ethics, management, leadership and public policy.

Online Policy Analysis Certificate

100% Online: You are not required to come to campus at any time. All courses are online.

Part-Time: Designed for working professionals who are unable to complete a full-time, on-campus program.

Flexible: Available online with "live" Web classes held in the evenings (typically one evening per week for 3 hours).

Policy Analysis Careers

Rigorous policy analysis is a highly sought after skill set in today's world of data-driven decision-making. With a graduate certificate in Policy Analysis, you'll have advanced analytic skills that will benefit your career in the public service or not-for-profit sector.

If you currently work in the field, the Policy Analysis graduate certificate is an ideal way for you to strengthen your skills, confidence and credentials. Even non-profit or public program managers who do not conduct research themselves must understand the information provided in research reports in order to make informed decisions.

Policy Analysis Certificate Courses

POLS 500. Research Methods. 3 Credits.

A statistics course or consent of instructor. This course will first focus on various approaches to analyzing political phenomena with the goal of developing students' ability to think analytically and to distinguish between empirical and normative analysis. The course will then introduce techniques of empirical research including research design, measurement, data gathering, and data analysis. Prerequisite: A statistics course or consent of instructor.

POLS 501. Political and Public Policy Analysis. 3 Credits.

This course focuses on the use of empirical data both to develop empirical theory and to make policy choices. Topics to be discussed include hypothesis testing, public choice, and policy evaluation. Students will be required to complete an original research project. Prerequisite: POLS 500 or consent of instructor.

POLS 502. Problems in State and Local Governments. 3 Credits.

Directed in-depth inquiry into contemporary structural and policy problems of state and local governments. During the course, each student will prepare a research paper relevant to a current problem suitable for publication and distribution to an identifiable body of public officials and citizens for problem-solving purposes. On demand.

POLS 532. Public Policy. 3 Credits.

A discussion of the initiation, formulation, adoption, implementation, and evaluation of American public policy. Various policy areas such as agriculture, education, environment, and welfare will be analyzed.

POLS 508. Legislative and Executive Processes. 3 Credits.

Description, analysis, and evaluation of the structures, processes, procedures, and positions of the legislative and executive offices in government. On demand.

POLS 552. Health Policy. 3 Credits.

This course examines historic and contemporary trends in health care delivery in the United States. Emphasis is placed on addressing health care cost-containment issues; access to health care and, recent efforts to invoke broadly based systemic reforms of the U.S. health care system.

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Live Online Policy Analysis Certificate Courses

Synchronous classes are held in real-time. If you’re the kind of learner who likes active discussion and immediate feedback through live interaction, you’ll enjoy this online course format.

Every class is different, but generally, you’ll log into a virtual classroom at scheduled times to:

• Listen to a lecture.
• Ask questions.
• Participate in class discussions.
• Conduct group activities.
• Participate in video-sharing.
• Have chat conversations.
• Use interactive whiteboards.
• Take live polls.

You should prepare for your classes by finishing any assigned readings, compiling questions for your instructor, and thinking about how to contribute to the next live class.

Leaders in Online Education

Over a third of UND's student population is exclusively online; plus, more take a combination of online and on campus classes. You can feel reassured knowing you won't be alone in your online learning journey and you'll have resources and services tailored to your needs. No matter how you customize your online experience, you’ll get the same top-quality education as any other on campus student.

• Same degree:  All online programs are fully accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) . Your transcript and diploma are exactly the same as our on-campus students.
• Same classes: You’ll take courses from UND professors, start and end the semesters at the same time and take the same classes as a student on campus.
• Real interaction:  You can ask questions, get feedback and regularly connect with your professors, peers and professionals in the field.
• Your own academic advisor:  As an invaluable go-to, they’re focused on you, your personal success and your future career.
• Free online tutoring:  We're here to help you one-on-one at no cost. Plus, get access to a variety of self-help online study resources.
• Unlimited academic coaching:  Need support to achieve your academic goals or feeling stumped by a tough course? We'll help with everything from stress and time management to improving your memory to achieve higher test scores.
• Full online access: Dig into virtual research at UND's libraries. Improve your writing skills with online help from the UND Writing Center. Get online access to career services, veteran and military services, financial services and more.
• 24/7 technical support:  UND provides free computer, email and other technical support for all online students.
• Networking opportunities: Our significant online student population means you’ll have a large pool of peers to connect with. UND has numerous online events and activities to keep you connected.

Best Online College

Our high alumni salaries and job placement rates, with affordable online tuition rates make UND a best-value university for online education. UND's breadth of online programs rivals all other nonprofit universities in the Upper Midwest making UND one of the best online schools in the region.

UND ranks among the best online colleges in the nation for:

• Affordability
• Student satisfaction (retention rate)
• Academic quality (4-year graduate rate)
• Student outcomes (20-year return on investment per Payscale.com)

Connect with faculty you'll work with at UND or discover similar graduate certificates.

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Eastern Launches 100% Online PhD in Professional Practice

St. Davids, PA: Eastern University is excited to announce it is now offering a PhD in Professional Practice , designed to provide experienced professionals from diverse career paths an opportunity to carefully examine and thoughtfully assess the outcomes and professional contributions of their careers. 

The degree program is 100% online and can be completed in 3-5 years at the affordable cost of $450 per credit, totaling only $27,360 for the entire program. Students with a theology degree may also qualify for Advanced Standing and a lighter credit requirement. The program offers individualized mentorship from a doctoral supervisor, leading students on an intellectually stimulating path that is personalized towards their own professional goals and personal development.

Housed within Eastern’s Palmer College, this unique program focuses on the scholarly analysis of work within current theoretical and theological frameworks, industry best practices, vocational understanding of professional practice, and theological reflection. The combination and integration of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise allows students to dive deeper into sectors that demand a strong sense of purpose. 

“Beyond the confines of professional disciplines, the Ph.D. in Professional Practice is a celebration of your cultivated wisdom and the legacy you're destined to leave,” says Wynand de Kock, Program Director. “Specifically designed for seasoned professionals at the pinnacle of their careers, it invites individuals who aspire to transcend their current professional boundaries and leave an indelible mark on their respective fields.”

A PhD in Professional Practice opens doors to diverse careers, including senior practitioner roles, consulting positions, academic research opportunities, teaching positions, leadership roles, and more. 

Learn more about Eastern’s PhD in Professional Practice .

About Eastern University

Eastern University is a Christian university enrolling approximately 7,500 students in its undergraduate, graduate, and seminary programs. The university’s main campus is located in St. Davids, PA, with many programs available online. Eastern’s core values of faith, reason, and justice are woven into all of its educational programs. For more information visit  eastern.edu  or contact Ally Rosario, Director of Marketing & Communications:  [email protected] .

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Master in Public Policy

Understand complex public problems and craft concrete solutions in this rigorous two-year program

Key Program Information

Program Length: Two years (varies for students pursuing joint or concurrent degrees)

Degree Awarded: Master in Public Policy

Admission Application Deadline: December 2024

Financial Aid Application Deadline: January 2025

Contact the MPP Program

79 John F. Kennedy Street Littauer Building, Room 133 Cambridge, Massachusetts 02138

Become an expert problem solver

The Master in Public Policy Program provides you with a conceptual toolkit rooted in the social sciences and adapted for action.

A defining feature of the Master in Public Policy (MPP) Program is its commitment to practice. Take what you learn here and apply it right away—through capstone exercises, case studies, experiential learning opportunities, and optional internships—to deliver lasting results.

At the heart of the program is a cross-disciplinary core curriculum that exposes you to the analytic methods, conceptual frameworks, and habits of mind that empower you to craft solutions for real-world public problems.

“At HKS, my professors taught me valuable quantitative skills, strategies on working multilaterally with different stakeholders in different sectors, the power of storytelling, and how to build an effective organization.”  —Sebastian Agignoae MPP 2022

About the MPP Program

Curriculum overview.

The MPP curriculum will broaden your perspective and sharpen skills to prepare you for a successful career in public service.

The first year of the MPP Program focuses on the cross-disciplinary fundamentals of policy design, analysis, and implementation. You will take core courses to develop professional competencies in: 

• Financial management
• Negotiation
• Policy design and delivery
• Quantitative analysis
• Applied history

Areas of Focus

As a complement to the MPP core curriculum, you will also choose a  Policy Area of Concentration (PAC)  in one of five areas: 

• Business and Government Policy
• Democracy, Politics, and Institutions
• International and Global Affairs 
• Political and Economic Development
• Social and Urban Policy 

Summer Internships

While it isn’t a formal requirement, most MPP students take on a  policy-oriented internship  during the summer after the first year. You’ll apply what you’ve learned in class to gain deeper insights; use new skills; and face challenges in different professional areas, policy fields, or parts of the world.

Core Curriculum

Most first-year MPP students take 38 credits, which consists of 18 core course credits in the fall and 16 core course credits credits in the spring. Many students also begin taking elective courses in the spring of their first year.

Required Core Courses (First Year)

• Resources, Incentives, and Choices I: Markets and Market Failures (API-101, 4 credits)
• Quantitative Analysis and Empirical Methods (API-201, 4 credits)
• Policy Design and Delivery I (API-501, 4 credits)
• Race and Racism in the Making of the United States as a Global Power (DPI-385M, 2 credits)
• Race and Racism in Public Policies, Practices, and Perspectives (DPI-386M, 2 credits)
• Fundamentals of Negotiation Analysis and Practice (MLD-220M, 2 credits)
• Resources, Incentives, and Choices II: Analysis of Public Policy (API-102, 4 credits)
• Empirical Methods II ( API-202M , 2 credits & API-203M , 2 credits)
• Politics and Ethics in Unstable Times (DPI-200, 4 credits)
• Spring Exercise (API-500M, 0 credits)

Spring Exercise

The first-year MPP curriculum culminates in the Spring Exercise, a two-week simulation that applies the tools and concepts of the first-year core to a real-world, real-time policy issue. 

During the Exercise, you are assigned to a five-person team tasked with forging solutions to a deliberately tough challenge. You’ll conduct research, attend sessions and presentations that link the topic to your core courses, and work with your team to prepare a package of policy and management recommendations. 

Required Core Courses (Second Year)

• Policy Area of Concentration year-long seminar (or “PAC Seminar”), including completion of the Policy Analysis Exercise (PAE) (4 credits)
• PAC electives (8-20 credits dependent on PAC/Concentration)

Policy Analysis Exercise

The Policy Analysis Exercise (PAE)  is the capstone of the MPP experience.

The PAC Seminars familiarize you with key issues and policy debates in your particular area and guide you through the PAE writing process. Once you declare your PAE topic, you will be assigned a faculty advisor with the expertise to help you succeed.  

During the PAE, you develop solutions for a policy or management problem that your client—a public or nonprofit organization—is grappling with. You and your client work together to scope the problem, examine the context,  gather data, formulate and evaluate options, and make actionable recommendations. The final analysis—usually around 40 pages or 10,000 words—gives you the opportunity to integrate the technical skills and specialized knowledge you have gained from the MPP curriculum while also helping your client organization create public value.

Learn more about the Policy Analysis Exercise and read past examples. 

Degree Requirements

The MPP Program consists of four semesters of full-time coursework in residence at HKS. 

To graduate, you must: 

• Earn at least 72 credits, which must include the required core curriculum, your PAC requirements, capstone experiences, and electives
• Matriculate as a full-time, in-residence student and take between 12-24 credits per semester
• Finish with a GPA of B or better
• Earn a B- or higher in all required MPP core courses, and PAC requirements, as well as a passing grade for the Spring Exercise, PAE, and PAC Seminar

Joint and Concurrent Degrees

You might consider  pursuing a second degree jointly or concurrently  if you’re interested in how the world’s challenges can be addressed at the intersection of public policy and business, law, medicine, design, or other fields.

Pursuing a joint or concurrent degree reduces coursework and residency requirements and makes it possible to earn two degrees in a shorter amount of time.

Joint Degrees

As an MPP student, you can pursue a joint degree —either an MBA at  Harvard Business School  or a JD at  Harvard Law School —that involves carefully crafted and integrated coursework.

Concurrent Degrees

You can pursue a concurrent degree in business, law, medicine, design, or another field—as long as it is:

• A professional degree (an MBA, MD, or JD; not a PhD or an academic master’s)
• At least a two-year program
• Completed at a partner school

The concurrent degree program allows you to pursue degrees at HKS and at a partner school; however, the coursework is not as closely integrated as the joint degree program. As a concurrent degree student, you are responsible for weaving together the two halves of your learning experience.

Faculty members  at HKS aren’t just teachers. They are global experts who shape public policy, advise governments, and help run major institutions in the United States and abroad. Learn more about our core MPP faculty members.

John Donahue

MPP Faculty Chair; Raymond Vernon Senior Lecturer in Public Policy

Marcella Alsan

Angelopoulos Professor of Public Policy

Desmond Ang

Assistant Professor of Public Policy

Christopher Norio Avery

Roy E. Larsen Professor of Public Policy

Gloria Ayee

Adjunct Lecturer in Public Policy

Jeeyang Rhee Baum

Jonathan Borck

Cornell Brooks

Hauser Professor of the Practice of Nonprofit Organizations; Professor of the Practice of Public Leadership 

Michela Carlana

Dara Kay Cohen

Professor of Public Policy

Suzanne Cooper

Academic Dean for Teaching and Curriculum; Edith M. Stokey Senior Lecturer in Public Policy

Justin de Benedictis-Kessner

Pınar Doğan

Senior Lecturer in Public Policy

Lecturer in Public Policy

Anthony Foxx

Emma Bloomberg Professor of the Practice of Public Leadership

Archon Fung

Winthrop Laflin McCormack Professor of Citizenship and Self-Government

Jason Furman

Aetna Professor of the Practice of Economic Policy

Sharad Goel

Yanilda Gonzlez

Juan Jimenez

Juliette Kayyem

Belfer Senior Lecturer in International Security

Robert Lawrence

Albert L. Williams Professor of International Trade and Investment

30th Anniversary Associate Professor of Health Care Policy, HMS

Elizabeth Linos

Emma Bloomberg Associate Professor of Public Policy and Management

Brian Mandell

Mohamed Kamal Senior Lecturer in Negotiation and Public Policy

Liz McKenna

Julia Minson

Associate Professor of Public Policy

Khalil Gibran Muhammad

Ford Foundation Professor of History, Race, and Public Policy

Thomas Patterson

Bradlee Professor of Government and the Press

Christopher Robichaud

Senior Lecturer in Ethics and Public Policy

Eric Rosenbach

Juan Saavedra

Benjamin Schneer

Daniel Schneider

Malcolm Wiener Professor of Social Policy, HKS; Professor of Sociology, FAS

Mark Shepard

Kathryn Sikkink

Ryan Family Professor of Human Rights Policy

Sandra Susan Smith

Daniel and Florence Guggenheim Professor of Criminal Justice, HKS; Professor of Sociology, FAS; Carol K. Pforzheimer Professor, Radcliffe

Teddy Svoronos

Charles Taylor

Stephen Walt

Robert and Renee Belfer Professor of International Affairs

Setti Warren

Mpp at a glance.

*Statistics are based on a five-year average.

Employment Snapshot: MPP Class of 2023 Employment Sectors

Featured MPP stories

A new graduate heads for u.s. space force.

Megan Cordone MPP 2023 is a rocket enthusiast who combined her strengths in physics and policy to pursue a public service career.

Strengthening public institutions

Austin Boral MPP/MBA 2023 wants public officials to retain and share what they learn tackling the most complex public problems.

Shaping AI policy

Grace Park MPP 2023 is exploring the intersection of artificial intelligence and public policy.

“I believe every public servant should be polished in a basic toolset: economics, ethics, statistics, policy analysis, negotiations, leadership. The MPP core offers that and more.” 

Hiram ríos hernández mpp 2017 , applying to the mpp program, prerequisites.

To apply to the MPP Program, you  must have:

• A bachelor’s degree with a strong academic record 
• Evidence of quantitative proficiency such as success in undergraduate-level economics, statistics, or calculus courses, regardless of your undergraduate major

Work experience is not strictly required but is an advantage for admission, and more importantly, for making the most of the MPP experience. Incoming MPP students typically have 2-3 years of professional work experience.

How to Apply

A complete application to the MPP Program includes: 

• Online application
• Three letters of recommendation
• GRE or GMAT required
• Non-native English speakers who did not earn an undergraduate degree conducted in English must submit TOEFL, IELTS, or Cambridge English exam results
• Academic transcripts
• $100 application fee or waiver

Read more about how to apply .  

The application for the 2025-2026 academic year will be available in September 2024. There is one admission application deadline and one start date for each degree program per year. You may apply to only one master's degree program per admissions cycle. 

Tuition & Fees

The cost of attendance for the 2024-2025 academic year is outlined in  Funding Your Master’s Education  to help you plan financially for our master’s degree programs. Living expense costs are based on residence in Cambridge. The 2025-2026 academic year rates will be published in March 2025. HKS tuition and fees are subject to change without notice. 

Financing your education is a partnership—we are here to help guide you. You are strongly encouraged to explore all  funding opportunities .

Learn more about the HKS community

Student life, student stories, admissions & financial aid blog.

Vanderbilt Peabody College announces new online certificate in applied behavior analysis

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May 1, 2024, 8:40 AM

Vanderbilt Peabody College of education and human development will launch a new online certificate this fall designed to meet a growing demand for Board Certified Behavior Analysts. The new program aims to equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to deliver high-quality behavioral services and make use of behavioral technology, ultimately enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities.

Peabody’s Department of Special Education , which is widely regarded as the top department in the nation, will house the new program. The online curriculum will be grounded in the latest educational research and technology and will challenge students to integrate applied behavior analysis into education practice.

“The goal of Vanderbilt’s online certificate program is to make our high-quality ABA course sequence accessible to any practitioner, regardless of their geographic location, who aspires to more effectively support the needs of individuals with disabilities,” says Johanna Staubitz , assistant professor of the practice and director of the Applied Behavior Analysis program.

Peabody also offers an on-campus master’s degree (M.Ed.) in special education with an ABA focus , and that program will continue. Students in the online program must already have earned a master’s degree.

The certificate curriculum consists of seven three-credit courses covering the experimental, theoretical and applied domains of behavior analysis.  The course sequence is approved by the Association for Behavior Analysis International (ABAI-VCS).

Recipients of the new certificate will have completed the required coursework needed to sit for the Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) examination, after finishing additional field work requirements.

Employment prospects for licensed behavior analysts have been strong. According to a report from the Behavior Analyst Certification Board, the demand for individuals with certification as either a Board Certified Behavior Analyst® or a Board Certified Behavior Analyst-Doctoral® increased every year from 2010 to 2023, including a 14 percent increase from 2022 to 2023.

The program’s reduced tuition rate aims to make this valuable education accessible to a diverse range of professionals, including those from healthcare and social sciences backgrounds. Applications for the new program are open.

Deadline for application to the inaugural cohort for the new ABA certificate is July 5, 2024. Learn more about this exciting educational opportunity by visiting the webpage here .

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Explore story topics.

• Department of Special Education
• Johanna Staubitz
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• Peabody College of Education and Human Development
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