Be part of the next generation of leading scholars who produce methodologically sound, socially relevant research that makes important contributions to knowledge and theory.
SPA: Graduate Admissions 4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington , DC 20016 United States
SPA: Public Administration and Policy 4400 Massachusetts Avenue NW Washington , DC 20016-8070 United States
In the historic tradition of the AU scholar-teacher model, the PhD in Public Administration and Policy at the School of Public Affairs, a full-time degree, prepares students for careers in research and teaching in the fields of public administration and public policy.
For detailed program curriculum information, review the Program Handbook.
Our philosophy is that doctoral education should be about much more than coursework. Our program provides a rigorous and comprehensive introduction to the research enterprise. Our mission is to build the next generation of leading scholars, to advance theory, develop knowledge, and craft solutions to today's most pressing problems in public administration and public policy.
From the first day of orientation to the final dissertation defense, each student works one-on-one with a faculty mentor to develop and apply the skills needed for a career in academia. We encourage students to produce research that is methodologically sound and socially relevant, and that makes important contributions to knowledge and theory. By the time they graduate, virtually all of our students have presented their research at key conferences and published their work in peer-reviewed academic journals.
See our list of recent PhD Student publications and conference presentations.
Review faculty profiles and explore mentorship opportunities.
Read about recent research conducted by SPA faculty.
In addition to formal coursework students take four semesters of PUAD-089, in a series of research seminars by external scholars, departmental faculty, and PhD students on a variety of topics in public administration and public policy. These weekly seminars expose students to innovative research and provide a chance to interact with nationally-recognized scholars.
With expertise spanning public management, global health governance, regulatory policy and more, our PhD candidates bring the knowledge and action necessary to make great impact in the fields of public administration and public policy. Each of them pushes the boundaries of scholarship, educating the next generation of public affairs leaders and researching the significant issues of the day.
We place graduating students into the top programs in public administration and public policy. Students receive professional mentoring on the job search, the application process, conference participation, interviews, and job talks.
Review answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the SPA PhD Program in Public Administration and Policy.
For more information, please contact the SPA Graduate Admissions Office at 202-885-6230 or spainfo@american.edu.
