What are some courses you might take in a PhD in Public Policy and Administration program

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.

What is the difference in focus between a PhD in Public Policy and Administration program and a Doctor of Public Administration (DPA) program?

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.

Why should you choose an online PhD in Public Policy and Administration program

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.

Does a PhD program in public policy and administration require a dissertation

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.

What are some key features of a high-quality PhD in Public Policy and Administration program?

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.

Online PhD in Public Policy and Administration

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Build 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 September 27, 2021

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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 prepare students to become high-level practitioners and leaders in government and nonprofit sectors.

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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.

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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.

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

Show Course Descriptions

Course Code	Title	Credits
	Doctoral Writing Assessment
DRWA 8880G	Doctoral Writing Assessment Show 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
	Choose one course from the following courses:
PPPA 8004	Foundations in Doctoral Studies Show 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 Show 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
PPPA 8405	Ethics and Social Justice Show 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.	(5 cr.)
PPPA 8104	Intellectual Traditions and Theoretical Foundations of Public Policy and Administration Show 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 Show 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 Show 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 Show 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
RSCH 8110	Research Theory, Design, and Methods Show 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 SOCW 8110 or SOCW 8110W PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision COUN 8001 COUN 8110 RESI 8801C PhD in Social Work SOCW 8110 or SOCW 8110W All Other Programs RESI 8401	(5 cr.)
RSCH 8210	Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis Show 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 RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision RSCH 8110 RESI 8801C PhD in Social Work RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W All Other Programs RSCH 8110 or RSCH 7110 or RSCH 6110 RESI 8401	(5 cr.)
RSCH 8310	Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis Show 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 RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision RSCH 8110 RESI 8801C PhD in Social Work RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W All Other Programs RSCH 8110 or RSCH 7110 or RSCH 6110 RESI 8401	(5 cr.)
	Choose one course from the following courses:
RSCH 8260	Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis Show Students in this research course build upon knowledge and skills acquired in the prerequisite quantitative reasoning course and are presented with opportunities to apply them. They are provided with more specialized knowledge and skills for conducting quantitative research at the doctoral level, including understanding multivariate data analysis and applying more advanced statistical concepts, such as factorial ANOVA, mediation, moderation, logistic regression, ANCOVA, and MANOVA. Students explore existing datasets and apply suitable statistical tests to answer research questions with social change implications. In this course, they approach statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting the appropriate statistical tests for more complex research questions and social problems. Students use statistical software to perform analyses and interpret and present results. They will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by carrying out a quantitative research project. Prerequisites Doctor of Social Work RSCH 8210K or RSCH 8310K or RSCH 8210W or RSCH 8310W PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision RSCH 8110 RSCH 8210 CPLB 802L PhD in Social Work RSCH 8210K or RSCH 8210W or RSCH 8310K or RSCH 8310W All Other Programs RESI 8402	(5 cr.)
OR
RSCH 8360	Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis Show Students build upon the knowledge and skills acquired in RSCH 8310 - Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis. and have experience applying them. Students develop a more sophisticated understanding of the theoretical antecedents and practical applications of eight contemporary qualitative approaches. Students gain experience developing qualitative interview guides, collecting data, and managing the process from transcription through analysis. The unique challenges of confidentiality and ethical issues are explored as well as implications for social change. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a qualitative research plan using a topic relevant to their capstone. Prerequisites Doctor of Social Work RSCH 8210K or RSCH 8310K or RSCH 8210W or RSCH 8310W PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision RSCH 8110 RSCH 8310 CPLB 802L PhD in Social Work RSCH 8210K or RSCH 8210W or RSCH 8310K or RSCH 8310W All Other Programs RESI 8402 Note: This course was previously RSCH 8350.	(5 cr.)
OR
RSCH 8460	Advanced Mixed-Methods Reasoning and Analysis Show Students build upon knowledge and skills acquired in RSCH 8210 - Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis and RSCH 8310 - Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis for more specialized knowledge and skills to design mixed-methods research at the doctoral level. Students are provided with more specialized knowledge and skills for designing mixed-methods research at the doctoral level. They gain an understanding of the types of mixed-methods designs and how to select the most appropriate approach for the research question(s). The emphases of this course are on integrating quantitative and qualitative elements into true mixed-methods studies, practice in data analysis, and integration of qualitative and quantitative data within a research write-up. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a mixed-methods research plan that incorporates qualitative and quantitative elements appropriately. Prerequisites PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision RSCH 8110 RSCH 8210 RSCH 8310 CPLB 802L PhD in Social Work RSCH 8210K or RSCH 8210W or RSCH 8310K or RSCH 8310W All Other Programs RSCH 8110 or RSCH 7110 or RSCH 6110 RSCH 8210 or RSCH 7210 or RSCH 6210 RSCH 8310 or RSCH 7310 or RSCH 6310 RESI 8402 Note: This course was previously RSCH 8450.	(5 cr.)
	Completion of Doctoral Capstone
PPPA 8115	Writing a Quality Prospectus Show 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 RSCH 8210P 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 Show 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 All prior coursework 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)
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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*
4-Day Residency Fee	Four Residencies (residency two and four may be virtual; additional residencies may be required or recommended)	$1,375 (travel, lodging and other expenses are additional) $1475 (virtual)	$5,700
Estimated Range:			2.5-Year Minimum	8-Year Maximum
			$53,450	*$132,410+**
			(assuming completion in a 2.5-year timeframe)	(assuming completion in a 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 Save

PROGRAM SAVINGS

Receive up to a $4,000 grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on September 27, 2021. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.

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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.

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 start to finish, get access to a wealth of exceptional student resources designed to move you forward. This includes everything from writing assistance to nurturing faculty who always have time for you.

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 equips you with the skills and credentials to become a strong, confident, and innovative public administration leader. Gain a multidisciplinary, multicultural perspective and advanced problem-solving expertise that prepare you to make positive contributions to the field.

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.

Meet Your Academic Team

Gregory Campbell
Core Faculty
Dr. 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.
Anne Hacker
Senior Core Faculty
Dr. 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.
Rebecca Stout
Program Director
Rebecca Stout, Ed.D., earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology and biology/premedical studies from Cornell College in Mt. Vernon, IA. Her master’s degree is in sociology from the University of Colorado, Boulder. In 2013, she earned her doctorate in educational leadership from Argosy University. Prior to working in higher education, Dr. Stout served as a program director for Learning for Life, a nonprofit organization in Denver, CO. She then moved over to working in higher education for various universities, teaching sociology and related fields.

Learning Outcomes

As a graduate of Walden’s online 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.

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. Walden’s online PhD in Public Policy and Administration program equips you with the advanced expertise to shape sustainable solutions to America’s most pressing issues.

Whether you want to advance into a leadership role or make a greater impact as a public service practitioner, a PhD can prepare you for bold new career opportunities. 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.

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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PROGRAM SAVINGS

Curriculum

Minimum Degree Requirements

Courses

Doctoral Writing Assessment

Foundation Course

Choose one course from the following courses:

Core Courses

Research Courses

Choose one course from the following courses:

Completion of Doctoral Capstone

Tuition and Fees

FINANCIAL AID

PROGRAM SAVINGS

Admission Requirements

An Online PhD Program That Puts You at the Center

Solve the Nation’s Pressing Issues

A Personalized Guide to Completing Your Doctorate

Meet Your Academic Team

Gregory Campbell

Anne Hacker

Rebecca Stout

Learning Outcomes

What’s the Career Impact of Earning a PhD in Public Policy and Administration?

What Can I Do With a PhD in Public Policy and Administration?

Testimonials

Related Articles

4 Courses You Might Take When Earning a PhD in Public Policy

You May Also Be Interested In

FAQ About Walden’s Online PhD in Public Policy and Administration Program

Questions about our PhD in Public Policy and Administration?

Have a Question?