Public Policy PhD Degree Programs

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Individuals successfully completing PhD programs in public policy will be prepared to solve complicated problems that are frequently encountered by private companies, colleges and universities, and government agencies. Since public policies within the United States often have global implications, many organizations seek experienced and highly educated public policy specialists. Many educational institutions offer specialized public policy programs in non-profit management, criminal justice, policy implementation, and homeland security.

The following are key concepts covered in many public policy PhD programs:

  • Urban, health, and environmental policy
  • Quantitative analysis
  • Microeconomics
  • Policy assessment strategies
  • Budgeting
  • Public finance
  • Development, implementation, and evaluation of public policy solutions

Students enrolled in public policy PhD programs are required to conduct original research and report their conclusions in dissertations. Many students enrolled in online programs also write articles that get published in scholarly journals.

There are many career opportunities available in the private sector, academia and government for those who successfully complete a PhD in public policy. Many public policy experts fill senior-level management positions with non-profit organizations or obtain professorships with large universities. Those with PhDs in public policy who opt to pursue careers in government usually make a little more than $65,000 a year. Government employees with PhDs usually make $10,000 more annually than their colleagues with master’s degrees.

PhD degrees in Public Policy


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