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Online PhD in Public Policy and Administration
Request InformationBuild your expertise in the field you’re passionate about with our PhD in Public Policy and Administration.
Next start dates
- Course-Based Courses with a set schedule December 13, 2021
Transfer Credits
- Up to 41 Credits
Choose a program that prepares you for next-level leadership.
Gain the insights to address critical challenges in your community—and the credibility to shape sustainable change—with a PhD in Public Policy and Administration from Walden. PhD programs in public policy academically prepare students to pursue careers in academia or high-level practitioner and leadership roles in government, public, and nonprofit sectors.
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granter of doctoral research degreesLearn from the No. 1 granter of doctoral research degrees in the U.S. 1 Walden has been serving the needs of doctoral learners at a distance for 50 years.
Expert Faculty
This program is taught by a distinguished faculty of scholar-practitioners, many of whom have senior-executive experience in government and public service.
Engaging Curriculum
Discover engaging classroom experiences that immerse you in a diverse and inclusive environment.
Robust Dissertation Support
Four residencies help you build skills and network with peers and faculty. Get research guidance from our Library, Writing Center, and Center for Research Quality.
BE SUPPORTED AT EACH STEP
The Walden Doctoral Degree Coach™ helps you find the right support when you need it and stay on track throughout your journey.
PROGRAM SAVINGS
Receive up to a $5,000 Grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on December 13, 2021. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowProgram Details
Curriculum
Minimum Degree Requirements
- Doctoral Writing Assessment
- Foundation course (3 cr.)
- Core courses (25 cr.)
- Research courses (20 cr.)
- Completion of the Doctoral Capstone
- Dissertation support courses (5 cr.)
- Dissertation writing courses (continuous enrollment in 5 cr. per term for a minimum of 4 terms until completion)
- Four PhD residencies
Walden students have up to eight 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 represents the minimum credit requirement for program completion. The number of credits for completion will vary by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
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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| PPPA 8004 |
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 | ||
| PPPA 8004I |
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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| PPPA 8405 |
Ethics and Social Justice
Ethics is a fundamental element of leadership. In this course, students consider some of the leading philosophical bases of ethics as well as foundational social justice themes upon which public service rests. Seminal texts and case studies used to illuminate the tasks leaders face as they seek to serve diverse constituents. Students confront the challenge of ethical decision making and moral action in a world characterized (among other things) by economic disparity, power imbalances, social privilege, and division due to race and/or religion. Applying concepts presented in the course, students engage in an in-depth assessment of emerging or persistent ethical and social justice issues, with the objective of demonstrating an ability to make recommendations which lead to positive social change. Prerequisites
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(5 cr.) |
| PPPA 8104 |
Intellectual Traditions and Theoretical Foundations of Public Policy and Administration
In this course, students explore the underlying theories, history, and literature (the "great writers") that provide a foundation for current studies in public policy and administration. In addition to providing foundational concepts, perspectives, and values that enhance critical thinking and an understanding of the field, the course content provides examples of theories that will help students identify relevant frameworks for their dissertation. Students will be exposed to classical and modern thought and events in public policy and administration that have resulted in seminal literature in the field. Topics include governance, economics, decision-making, politics, leadership, and public policy trends. In addition, students consider their roles as public administrators in promoting social responsibility. This course provides a bridge for students to the rest of their coursework in the PPPA curricula, throughout their dissertations, and into their futures as scholar-practitioners. |
(5 cr.) |
| PPPA 8431 |
Finance and Budgeting for the Public Sector
Sound financial practices are crucial to managing scarce funds in both public and nonprofit operations. Students in this course examine finance and budgeting concepts, policies, and practices related to organizations as well as the fiscal climate within which they operate. They assess theories for motivating major fiscal-policy debates, and they explore and discuss auditing practices, tax systems, financial management, budgetary reform, financial technology systems, the use of dashboards for financial reporting, and the impact of globalization on finance and budget. Students read and analyze budgets, financial statements, and reports. They contextualize their learning as they apply knowledge gained from their analysis to develop a new budget and financial plan for either a public or private organization. |
(5 cr.) |
| PPPA 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.) |
| PPPA 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.) |
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 Doctor of Social Work
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
PhD in Social Work
All Other Programs
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(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
|
(5 cr.) |
| RSCH 8310 |
Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
Students in this research course are provided with the opportunity to develop basic knowledge and skills for conducting qualitative research at the doctoral level. Students explore the nature of qualitative inquiry, how theory and theoretical and conceptual frameworks uniquely apply to qualitative research, data collection procedures and analysis strategy, and how the role of the researcher is expressed in the ethical and rigorous conduct of qualitative research. Students practice collecting, organizing, analyzing, and presenting data, and they develop a detailed research topic for conducting a qualitative study. Prerequisites Doctor of Social Work
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
PhD in Social Work
All Other Programs
|
(5 cr.) |
Choose one course from the following courses: |
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Completion of Doctoral Capstone |
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| PPPA 8115 |
Writing a Quality Prospectus
Students in this course acquaint themselves with the format and requirements of the PhD Prospectus Form and begin working on the components of their prospectus. The Prospectus Form is a formal document and is the first step in completing a dissertation. The prospectus articulates the initial plan for a proposed study and is intended to provide the dissertation committee with enough information to determine the viability of the study.The emphasis in this class is on the iterative development and alignment of all elements of the prospectus. Students explore the research literature related to their topic to distinguish between a social problem and a research problem and to identify a gap in the research literature; describe the specific research problem the proposed study will address and why it is appropriate for a dissertation; formulate a clear research question(s); and identify a study methodology and theoretical framework to ground the study.The draft Prospectus Form students produce in this course should not be considered a final product that is ready for approval. Once registered for PPPA 9000 - Dissertation Research, students work with their chair and committee member to refine and finalize the Prospectus Form. Prerequisites
Note: In addition to the prerequisites for this class, it is expected that students will have assembled and have available a list of peer-reviewed articles relevant to their potential research topic as part of their previous academic studies. Students will add to this collection as this course and all future dissertation work proceeds. |
(5 cr.) |
| PPPA 9000 |
Dissertation
Through the final dissertation, students demonstrate their scholarly ability to examine, critique, and synthesize knowledge and experience, so that new ideas can be tested; best practices identified, established, and verified; and theoretical, practice, or policy constructs evaluated and advanced. Doctoral students have the opportunity to integrate their Program of Study into an in-depth exploration of an interest area, culminating in the completion of their dissertation research study in this course. Students complete the dissertation independently, with the guidance of a supervisory committee chair and committee members. Students complete a prospectus, proposal, Institutional Review Board application, and a final oral presentation and written dissertation. Ultimately, every dissertation should make a fresh contribution to the field of public policy and administration.Students take this course for a minimum of four quarters and are continuously enrolled until completion of their dissertation with final chief academic officer (CAO) approval.To complete a dissertation, 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 process in the Dissertation Guidebook. Prerequisites
Note: When students register for PPPA 9000, they will be registered automatically each term until successful completion of the dissertation. |
(5 credits per quarter for a minimum of 4 quarters until completion) |
| VIEW ALL COURSES | ||
Admission Requirements
Program Admission Considerations: A master's degree or higher.
General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.
A Personalized Guide to Completing Your Doctorate
Earning your PhD in Public Policy and 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
Four academic residencies (face-to-face or virtual) 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 dissertation.
Tuition and Fees
| Curriculum | Requirements | Cost | Total * | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition-Coursework | 53 quarter credits | $630 per quarter hour for coursework credits | $33,390^ | |
| Tuition-Doctoral Study/Project | 20-125† quarter credits | $630 per quarter hour for doctoral study/project credits | $12,600-$78,750* | |
| Technology Fee | $160 per quarter | $1,760-$5,120* | ||
| Residency Fee | Four Residencies |
$1,375 (virtual) $1475 (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) |
$5,500-$5,900 | |
| Estimated Range: | 2.5-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $53,250 |
$122,960*+ |
|||
| (assuming completion in a 2.5-year timeframe) | (assuming completion in an 8-year timeframe) | |||
Effective February 28, 2022
| 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 | $1,815–$5,280* | ||
| Residency Fee | Four Residencies |
$1,375 (virtual) $1475 (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) |
$5,500–$5,900 | |
| Estimated Range: | 2.5-Year | 8-Year | ||
| $54,473 |
$126,168*+ |
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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 844-642-0198.
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 December 13, 2021. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Get Started NowProgram Outcomes
An Online PhD Program That Puts You at the Center
We know how important it is to find a balance between work, studies, and your personal life. That’s why we’ve created a program with busy public service professionals like you in mind. Although you’re learning online, you’re never in it alone. From early on in your program, you’ll have access to a wealth of exceptional student resources designed to move you forward. This includes everything from writing assistance to experienced faculty who are here to support you at all stages.
Earning your doctorate is the ultimate intellectual challenge, and Walden’s online learning environment is designed to help you thrive. You bring your passion, drive, and determination. We’ll provide the ongoing support, guidance, and resources to help you reach the finish line.
Solve the Nation’s Pressing Issues
From poverty to rising healthcare costs, confronting today’s critical issues requires decision-making informed by the most current thinking. Walden’s online PhD in Public Policy and Administration program academically prepares you with the skills to become an effective, skilled, and innovative public administration leader. Gain an interdisciplinary, multicultural perspective and advanced problem-solving expertise that prepare you to create and lead positive contributions to the field.
What’s the Career Impact of Earning a PhD in Public Policy and Administration?
In an era of overwhelming societal challenges and limited resources, the country needs more public policy problem-solvers. A PhD in Public Policy and Administration program can provide you with the advanced expertise to shape sustainable solutions to America’s most pressing issues.
Whether you want to pursue leadership roles, make a greater impact as a public service practitioner, or teach the next generation of public policy professionals, a PhD can academically prepare you for bold new opportunities in all levels of government and in the nonprofit sector. Help improve quality of life and ensure a better tomorrow for your community—and beyond.
What Can I Do With a PhD in Public Policy and Administration?
An online PhD in Public Policy and Administration degree can prepare you to work in a variety of settings, including:
- Nonprofit
- NGOs
- Local and National Government
- Community Organizations
- Schools
- Civic Organizations
- Healthcare
- Higher Education
- Consulting
Career options may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.
Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of Walden’s PhD in Public Policy and Administration online program, you will be prepared to:
- Discuss leadership concepts and theories that have been used to effectively lead and manage in the public sector.
- Analyze evidence-based research, theories, and models used to promote participation in public and nonprofit policy processes.
- Develop solutions for problems related to public policy and public administration using theory and research.
- Ethically apply the major theories and concepts of public policy and public administration within organizations.
- Evaluate models and best practices utilizing diverse perspectives in local, state, national, and international public agencies by using evidence-based research.
Resources
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Gregory Campbell
Core FacultyDr. Gregory Campbell is core faculty in the Public Policy and Administration Program at Walden University. He received his PhD in Management from Walden University, specializing in Leadership and Organizational Change, and holds BA and MA degrees from California State Dominquez Hills. He is a contributing author in Breakthrough Mentoring in the 21st Century by Dr. Walter McCollum.
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Anne Hacker
Senior Core FacultyDr. Anne Hacker’s formal training is in public administration and public policy where she has served in various professional capacities in the child welfare and human services systems since 1976. Dr. Hacker served as a Board Member, CEO, Case management Supervisor, Policy Advisor, and Case Manager for a variety of public and nonprofit organizations in Ohio, Michigan and Colorado. In 2006, she shifted to higher education positions.
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Rebecca Stout
Program DirectorDr. Stout joined the faculty at Walden University in the School of Human Services in 2017, serving as the research coordinator. In 2019, she accepted the position of program director for the Master of Public Administration and MS in Nonprofit Management programs. She became the program director for the School of Public Policy and Administration in 2020, working with the entire academic vertical.
Testimonials
My belief in service above self and the alignment with Walden's mission of positive social change drove my decision to choose Walden University. I hope to potentially achieve a position within the federal government and to continue influencing positive social change and servicing others to the best of my abilities.
Earl Laws Master of Public Administration (MPA) Graduate - 2020, PhD in Public Policy and Administration Student
I really enjoyed the ability to network with students and faculty from around the world at the residencies.
Demarcus Marshall PhD in Public Policy and Administration Graduate
All three advisors that I had throughout my program impacted my completion, and I will be forever grateful to them all.
Erika Jones-Dilworth PhD in Public Policy and Administration Graduate - 2018
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FAQ About Walden’s Online PhD in Public Policy and Administration Program
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Online learning can make earning your doctoral degree more possible than ever before. Unlike a PhD program at a campus-based school, an online PhD in Public Policy and Administration program allows you to complete most of your coursework from home on a flexible schedule that can enable you to continue working full time. Plus, at a top online university, you’ll be guided by industry experts and participate in in-person residencies with faculty and fellow students. When earning your PhD in Public Policy and Administration online at Walden, you’ll attend four 4-day residency sessions focused on dissertation preparation.
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There are a number of features you might want to look for when choosing a PhD in Public Policy and Administration program. Here are just a few:
- A scholar-practitioner model: A fundamental part of the Walden experience, this model teaches you to be not only a consumer of knowledge, but also a practitioner who uses your new skills and insights to effect positive social change in society. Scholar-practitioners bridge the gap between academia and the real world by applying the valuable findings of their doctoral research to address current problems in their profession.
- Academic residencies: Walden offers four in-person residences designed to enhance your understanding and accelerate your progress during your doctoral journey. In-person residencies are unique opportunities to meet with peers, staff, and faculty, helping you gain the necessary skills and experience to develop and complete your dissertation.
- A fast-track doctoral degree program: This option is for students who have completed their Master of Public Administration or MS in Nonprofit Management and Leadership from Walden. Qualifying students receive 15 credits toward their PhD in Public Policy and Administration.
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Here are two examples of online courses you might take while earning your PhD in Public Policy and Administration degree:
Ethics and Social Justice: This online course examines the philosophy of ethics, responsibility, and social justice. You will explore the complex social, political, and ethical challenges that you could face in your career as a leader in public policy and public administration. You will even get the chance to use your new skills to develop a solution to an ethical or social justice issue relevant to public policy today.
Leadership and Organizational Change: Effective leadership in public administration or public policy requires the ability to embrace and lead change. In this course, you will learn what it takes to be a strong leader in diverse organizations—especially during times of change. You’ll also learn how to apply leadership strategies to advance positive social change within your organization or community.
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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 program if you want to take an academic approach to developing sustainable solutions that improve people’s quality of life. Doctor of Public Administration degree programs are 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 program can help you learn how to use statistics and analytics to address real-world issues and problems.
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Virtually all PhD programs—regardless of the focus area—require students to complete and submit a dissertation. At Walden University, the dissertation requirement serves as the culmination of a student’s PhD in Public Policy and Administration studies. While a formidable challenge, this undertaking gives each student the opportunity to apply everything they have learned throughout the program into a research paper uniquely tailored to their interests that can make a lasting impact in the field.
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