Doctor of Public Administration
Request InformationSolve critical social problems—and make a tangible impact for your organization and constituents—with Walden’s DPA degree program.
- Course-Based Courses with a set schedule May 30, 2022
- Up to 44 Credits
Become an public service leader with a DPA degree from Walden.
Are you ready to further your passion for public service? Deepen your influence and create the change you want to see with a Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) degree from Walden. This program prepares students to pursue executive leadership roles in all levels of government, public, and nonprofit organizations as well as private consulting practice.
Why Choose Walden?
Our DPA degree program is grounded in real-world experience and preparation. Add immediate value with skills relevant to advanced practice in public organizations, such as evidence-based decision making.
The DPA curriculum includes courses on applied analytics in the public sector, helping you understand the science and strategy of making data-driven decisions.
Your second residency is a charrette-style experience, where you apply what you’ve learned to a real-life business problem and recommend practical solutions.
Your DPA capstone writing project involves producing a professional consulting product for the government client presented in your residency.
PROGRAM SAVINGS
Receive up to a $5,000 Grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on May 30, 2022. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowProgram Details
Curriculum
Minimum Degree Requirements
- Doctoral Writing Assessment (0 cr.)
- Foundation course (3 cr.)
- Core courses (40 cr.)
- Research courses (10 cr.)
- Completion of the Doctoral Capstone
- Doctoral Capstone writing courses (continuous enrollment in 5 cr. per term for a minimum of 4 terms until completion)
- Two face-to-face residencies (available virtually until further notice)
Walden students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension.
In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation/doctoral study course shell.
To complete a doctoral dissertation/doctoral study, students must obtain the academic approval of several independent evaluators including their committee, the University Research Reviewer, and the Institutional Review Board; pass the Form and Style Review; gain approval at the oral defense stage; and gain final approval by the Chief Academic Officer. Students must also publish their dissertation on ProQuest before their degree is conferred. Learn more about the dissertation/doctoral study process in the Dissertation Guidebook.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-797-9416.
Courses
| Course Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
Doctoral Writing Assessment |
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| DRWA 8880G |
Doctoral Writing Assessment
This course is part of Walden's commitment to help prepare students to meet the university's expectations for writing in courses at the doctoral level. In this course, students write a short academic essay that will be scored by a team of writing assessors. Based on the essay score, students will complete or be exempted from additional required writing support needed to meet writing proficiency standards. This required assessment course is free. Students will be enrolled automatically in it at the beginning of their doctoral program. |
(0 cr.) |
Foundation Course |
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Choose one course from the following courses:
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| DDPA 8003 |
Foundations in Doctoral Studies
Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online doctoral program and learning environment. Students work toward building a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. They assess the relationship of mission and vision to professional goals and develop best practices and strategies for online success. Students also explore resources used throughout the program, such as the online Walden University Library, the Writing Center, and other Walden academic centers. Students engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of scholarly and professional writing, critical thinking, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence as they relate to practice in public policy and administration. |
(3 cr.) |
| OR | ||
| DDPA 8003I |
Foundations in Doctoral Studies
Students in this course are introduced to Walden University and to the requirements for successful participation in an online doctoral program and learning environment. Students work toward building a foundation for academic and professional success as scholar-practitioners and social change agents. They assess the relationship of mission and vision to professional goals and develop best practices and strategies for online success. Students also explore resources used throughout the program, such as the online Walden University Library, the Writing Center, and other Walden academic centers. Students engage in course assignments focused on the practical application of scholarly and professional writing, critical thinking, and the promotion of professional and academic excellence as they relate to practice in public policy and administration. |
(3 cr.) |
Core Courses |
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| DDPA 8405 |
Ethics and Social Justice
Ethics is a foundational element of leadership. In this course, students examine the philosophy of ethics as well as responsibility and social justice—basic tenets of public service. Students explore the complex social, political, and related ethical challenges leaders face as they seek to meet the needs of diverse constituents. They examine ethics and social justice related to economic disparity, power, and privilege. Students also assess demographic data and current social trends and themes to understand, analyze, and address ethical and social justice issues that impact service delivery in a global community. Applying concepts presented in the course, students engage in an in-depth assessment of an emerging or persistent ethical or social justice issue, through which they demonstrate their ability to make recommendations for improvement or change. Prerequisites
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(5 cr.) |
| DDPA 8390 |
Strategic Context of Public Management and Leadership
Students in this course engage in a collaborative study of the changing strategic context of public administration. Students apply a systems perspective to construct a public enterprise "mental" model of a public organization to understand the strategic context for practical action and the stakeholder relations involved. Students demonstrate their knowledge of the interrelated flows of money, knowledge, and influence as they weave these elements in their model. They engage in readings and practical assignments that emphasize management and leadership in a time of unprecedented and unpredictable change. Students also work toward developing professional-action habits for pragmatic action-learning in the practice of public administration. |
(5 cr.) |
| DDPA 8382 |
Public Policy and Finance
Public policymakers often rely on microeconomic and macroeconomic models to formulate new policies and reevaluate existing polices. In this course, students examine the use of such models in the public policy setting and assess how public finance influences policy choices as well as implementation alternatives. Through weekly analytical writing assignments and peer discussions, students explore tax policies and tax incentive models; budgeting; public/private models; market influences on policy; the impact of government expenditures on income redistribution; and economic considerations of welfare, food stamps, workers' compensation, Social Security, and outsourcing of public programs. Synthesizing course content and applying critical-thinking skills, students assess a local government jurisdiction, examine the decisions of policymakers, and recommend improvements based on economic models. |
(5 cr.) |
| DDPA 8200 |
Management Techniques for the Public Sector
Students in this course are introduced to evidence-based practices and analytic techniques for decision making in the public sector. Learning focuses on building a tool kit of analytic methods related to budgeting, problem solving, and utilization of data to inform leaders of areas for improvement in the delivery of public goods and services. |
(5 cr.) |
| DDPA 8111 |
Leadership and Organizational Change
Successful organizations in a rapidly changing and complex world require leaders who embrace change and are able to engage others in change. In this course, students use traditional literature, current articles, and interactive media to explore the qualities, characteristics, and skills of effective leaders as well as the theories, models, and relationships between leadership and organizational change. They assess the ethical issues and standards as well as the opportunities and challenges related to leading diverse organizations through change. Students also examine how current leaders employ leadership and organizational change to contribute to social change, and they consider how to use these lessons to make further positive changes within an organization or their own community. |
(5 cr.) |
| DDPA 8112 |
Governance and Public Policy
Students in this course engage in an in-depth analysis of how societies are governed and how public policies are formulated, evaluated, adjudicated, and implemented. Students examine governance and public policy from theoretical and practical perspectives using ancient and classical voices as well as more modern and critical literature. Advanced techniques and research tools for policy analysis are used to illustrate various contemporary policy issues. With the aid of these techniques and research tools, students develop a policy plan to address a significant public policy concern or social issue of personal interest. Students also explore their future role in the field of public policy and administration. |
(5 cr.) |
| DDPA 8210 |
Analytics for Evidence-Based Decision-Making
Analytics, as used by government and public administrators, is the practice of using statistics and computer analysis together to manipulate and gain insight from very large datasets. Analytic processes addressed in this course include data mining, machine learning, the use of neural networks as a decision-making tool, and exploration into computer-simulated and generated models for public decision-making. Analytics are used to understand past events and predict future events. This course emphasizes the development of critical thinking and data literacy skills for public administrators. Students will further develop the capability to communicate the results of analytics to various stakeholders. Prerequisites
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(5 cr.) |
| DDPA 8300 |
Writing Applied Research and Funding Proposals
Students in this course propose an applied research project related to a specific field of study. Students focus on two objectives: first, to draft a Prospectus Form for the doctoral Professional Administrative Study (PAS); and second, to explore how research can be applied to solve problems in the practice of public administration. Students further gain exposure to funding opportunities to support public and nonprofit organizations. Prerequisites
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(5 cr.) |
Research Courses |
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| RSCH 8110 |
Research Theory, Design, and Methods
In this research course, students are provided with core knowledge and skills for understanding, analyzing, and designing research at the graduate level. Students explore the philosophy of science, the role of theory, and research processes. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research designs and data collection methods are introduced. The alignment of research components is emphasized. Students also explore ethical and social change implications of designing and conducting research. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing an annotated bibliography. Prerequisites |
(5 cr.) |
| RSCH 8210 |
Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
In this research course, students are provided with the opportunity to develop core knowledge and skills for designing and carrying out quantitative research at the doctoral level, including the application of statistical concepts and techniques. Students explore classical common statistical tests, the importance of the logic of inference, and social change implications of conducting quantitative research and producing knowledge. Students approach statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting appropriate statistical tests for a research design. Students use statistical software to derive statistics from quantitative data and interpret and present results. Prerequisites Doctor of Social Work
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
PhD in Social Work
All Other Programs
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(5 cr.) |
Completion of Doctoral Capstone |
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| DDPA 8400 |
Professional Administrative Study
The Professional Administrative Study (PAS) results in a formal manuscript designed and written to address a problem in public administration practice. Each DPA student is required to complete a PAS. The PAS involves students completing an applied research study that addresses an actual administrative problem or need faced by a client organization. Students complete the PAS independently, with the guidance of a supervisory committee chair, a committee member, and a University Research Reviewer (URR). Students complete a prospectus, proposal, research ethics review, and a final written PAS. Oral presentations are required both after the proposal and final projects are approved by the committee. The PAS paper takes the format of a consulting report and, at a minimum, includes the following sections:AbstractIntroduction to the ProblemConceptual Approach and BackgroundData Collection Process and AnalysisEvaluation and RecommendationsDissemination Plan Prerequisites
Note: Students take this course for a minimum of four quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their doctoral study with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval. |
(5 cr. per term for a minimum of four terms until completion) |
| VIEW ALL COURSES | ||
Admission Requirements
To be considered for this doctoral program, you must have a master’s degree from an accredited college or university and meet the general admissions requirements. All applicants must submit a completed online application and transcripts. Depending on program specialization, additional requirements may apply. More information for international applicants.
At Walden, we’ll guide you every step of the way with a comprehensive suite of support resources designed to help you confidently pursue the finish line, including our Doctoral Degree CoachTM. Are you ready to reach a higher level in your field?
A Personalized Guide to Completing Your Doctorate
Earning your online Doctor of Public Administration requires commitment, perseverance, and hard work. You can do it, and Walden is here to help—with our Doctoral Degree Coach™.
- Map and Track Milestones: Break your research down into manageable, sequential steps. See where you are, what’s ahead, and what you’ve already accomplished—all in one place.
- Meet Weekly Targets: No more guesswork. Set prompts based on your to-do list and receive reminders and updates directly to your inbox.
- Connect With Faculty: Stay on the same page and keep your progress on track. With shared access to your dashboard, your chair can easily guide you through your checklists, goals, and timelines.
- Access Helpful Resources: Quickly find support from the right person at the right time. Our comprehensive resource guide points you in the right direction—no more frustrating searches.
Residencies
Two academic residencies support your progress at key points in your doctoral journey. Work with faculty and peers as you strengthen your scholarly and professional connections and prepare for your capstone. The first residency provides a hands-on, charrette-style experience, where you apply what you’ve learned to a real-life business problem and recommend practical solutions.
Tuition and Fees
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 53 quarter credits | $646 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $34,238^ | |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20-125† quarter credits | $646 per quarter hour for doctoral study/project credits | $12,920–$80,750* | |
| Technology Fee | $165 per quarter | $1,650–$5,280* | ||
| Residency Fee | Two Residencies |
$1,375 (virtual) |
$2,750–$2,950 | |
| Estimated Range: | 2.5-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $51,558 |
$123,218*+ |
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| (assuming completion in a 2.5-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.
† Based on a 2.5-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-768-0109.
FINANCIAL AID
Many Walden degree-seeking students—67%—receive some form of financial aid.* Create a customized plan that makes sense for you.
*Source: Walden University’s Office of Financial Aid. Data reports as of 2018.
Find Ways to SavePROGRAM SAVINGS
Receive up to a $5,000 Grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on May 30, 2022. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowGrow as a Public Sector Leader
In Walden’s DPA degree program, you will learn to think and work like an executive and broaden your leadership skills. Gain focused insights into creating strategies for success in public administration and nonprofit leadership. Develop contemporary skills you can apply in today’s public sector organizations, including evidence-based decision-making, basic grant writing, and data analytics.
What’s the Career Impact of Earning a Doctor of Public Administration?
Lead the Way to a Brighter Tomorrow
Today more than ever, communities need strong, civic-minded leaders to keep our nation moving forward. Additionally, as governments utilize evidence-based decision-making, managers and leaders with analytical skills will be in demand. Gain the insights you need to open new doors and increase your impact with a DPA degree.
What Can I Do With a DPA Degree?
DPA degrees are designed to prepare students to pursue careers as senior-level practitioners. A DPA gives you a distinctive credential and a competitive edge in pursuing senior and leadership roles in government and nonprofit organizations.
A Doctor of Public Administration degree program can prepare you to work in settings such as:
- Local and national government agencies
- Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs)
- Community organizations
- Schools
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
15%
through 2030.1Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of Walden’s online Doctor of Public Administration program, you will be prepared to:
- Evaluate effective leadership/management principles (including theory, concepts, and practices) utilized in the public sector.
- Evaluate solutions to practical problems in public administration using evidence-based practices and research.
- Apply ethical concepts of public administration within organizations.
- Apply culturally sensitive public administration research to meet the needs of diverse populations at local, state, national, and international levels of government.
- Utilize analytic methods in making decisions related to public administration that contributes to positive social change.
- Engage in scientific inquiry to advance practice in the field of public administration.
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Shana Garrett
DeanDr. Garrett has more than 20 years of administrator and teaching experience in both postsecondary education institutions and the North Central Texas Council of Governments – Regional Police Academy. She presents nationally and internationally on topics related to authentic leadership, academic readiness, and student success.
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Rebecca Stout
Program DirectorDr. Stout joined Walden’s School of Human Services in 2017 as the research coordinator. In 2019, she became program director for the MPA, overseeing this and the MS in Nonprofit Management and Leadership program. Dr. Stout became the program director for the School of Public Policy and Administration in 2020.
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Mark Gordon
Contributing FacultyDr. Gordon is a graduate of Walden. His career spans several national and local nonprofit organizations, including the American Cancer Society and the Arthritis Foundation. He is a consultant for a variety of organizations in the areas of corporate social responsibility and leadership development.
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Amin Asfari
Contributing FacultyDr. Asfari is an interdisciplinary researcher whose areas of expertise include public policy, criminal justice reform, prejudice, and race, with an emphasis on Islamophobia. His research contributes to the empirical understanding of American Muslims, a historically understudied group.
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A DPA degree program is focused on developing advanced practitioners and researchers in pursuit of social change through public administration, criminal justice, and nonprofit management. If you have a mind for—and an interest in—research and data analysis, a DPA can help you learn how to use statistics and analytics to address real-world issues and problems. A PhD in Public Policy and Administration is a leadership-focused program designed to help you gain a detailed understanding of public policy theory, research, ethics, and practice in a global context. It’s the right degree if you want to take an academic approach to developing sustainable solutions that improve people’s quality of life.
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One of the greatest advantages of an online Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) program is the flexibility you have in choosing when and where you complete your coursework. This allows you to continue working full time as you pursue your degree. Reputable online universities will also have expert faculty members and top-notch support teams to guide and assist you throughout your program. When earning a DPA degree online from a university such as Walden, you’ll attend two 4-day residencies with faculty and fellow students where you’ll focus on applied problem-solving.
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As a doctoral student, you will learn research methods, plan and design your research, and present your findings in a scholarly paper called a doctoral study. The study’s purpose is to make an original contribution to your field by creating a practical solution to a real problem. In a doctoral study, you will identify a problem, present your methodology, describe your project, make observations about your findings, and present your practical solution. The doctoral study’s components demonstrate your competence in research and research design, your subject matter expertise, and your command of critical thinking and academic writing.
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Walden’s Doctor of Public Administration program requires you to complete a doctoral capstone. The capstone consists of:
- Creating a proposal for a doctoral study that describes the problem you want to solve; the purpose of the study; and your research questions, methodology, and design.
- Presenting an oral defense of your research proposal to the doctoral committee (a 20-minute presentation followed by a question-and-answer session).
- Collecting data and writing the findings.
- Presenting a final oral defense of your research findings to the doctoral committee.
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In addition to relevant skills, knowledge, and experience, the top qualities of a good public administrator include:
- A desire to help others
- An ability to think long-term
- Plenty of patience
- Collaboration.
- Strong ethics
- A creative mind
- A love of learning
Questions about our Doctor of Public Administration?
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