The Best Online Doctorate in Public Policy Programs

Students with strong analytical skills and the drive to create positive change through political action may benefit from an online doctorate in public policy. Public policy has a significant impact on people’s lives. With an online Ph.D. in public policy, professionals can shape regulatory policy, research public policy impact, and train the next generation of policy advocates.

An online format makes a doctorate more accessible for working professionals and busy students. During an online public policy doctoral program, graduate students complete coursework requirements using a virtual learning platform. Enrollees must also meet practicum requirements and conduct research in their local areas.

Our list ranks the best doctoral programs in public policy that offer online enrollment options. By reviewing the rankings, prospective doctoral students can identify the programs that best fit their unique needs. This article also introduces common courses and focus areas for Ph.D. students in public policy, along with career paths and tips for choosing the right program.

A Ph.D. program in public policy trains graduates to analyze proposed policies and assess the impact of existing policies. This research-based degree prepares graduates for academic, governmental, or nonprofit roles that require analytical and research skills.

During an online Ph.D. in public policy, doctoral students build strong research skills. Programs incorporate courses on both quantitative and qualitative research methods to help students become versatile researchers. Students also gain a theoretical and practical perspective on public policy. Coursework emphasizes analytical and methodological skills.

Each doctoral student chooses a research area to focus their studies. Doctoral students may focus on regulatory policy, international economic policy, social policy, or environmental policy. Depending on the program, they may also choose secondary focus areas. Candidates also conduct original research and write dissertations.

Earning a doctorate in public policy typically takes several years. Before applying to doctoral programs, applicants should ensure that they meet admission requirements. For example, a candidate may need a master’s degree. Many programs also require GRE scores, course prerequisites, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.

An online Ph.D. in public policy is a major commitment of time, effort, and money. As a result, prospective applicants should carefully research programs before submitting their applications.

Several factors can help applicants find the best fit to reach their goals. For example, many applicants begin by looking at the total cost of a degree, the program length, and specialization options. At the doctoral level, graduate students should also research faculty mentors to find a good fit.

Some public policy doctoral programs emphasize research, while others focus on practice. Candidates should consider which of these best suits their professional goals when applying to programs.

A prospective doctoral student should always choose an accredited university for their online Ph.D. in public policy. Regionally accredited schools meet the highest standards for academic excellence. An accredited degree also fulfills the requirements for licenses and professional certifications.

In addition to choosing an accredited university, applicants should also research accreditation for public policy programs. The Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration grants accreditation to public policy programs.

A doctorate in public policy builds strong research and analytical skills. During a Ph.D. in public policy, doctoral students focus their training by choosing concentrations or specific research areas. Doctoral candidates can focus on the financial side of public policy by taking courses in budgeting, economic regulations, and public administration.

In addition to coursework, doctoral students must pass comprehensive examinations and write dissertations to earn their degrees. The training prepares graduates to work in policy-making, research, or academia.

While a full-time student can typically complete their online Ph.D. in public policy in 2-4 years, the length of an online degree depends on several factors. Residency requirements, dissertation procedures, and transfer credits all affect degree length, but program structure and format play the most significant role.

To provide maximum flexibility, many schools offer their online degrees in an asynchronous format. Featuring more relaxed deadlines and flexible coursework, asynchronous programs allow working professionals to review lectures and complete assignments at their convenience. While this format allows candidates to complete their studies quickly, it also requires strong organizational skills and personal dedication.

By comparison, cohort-based programs are highly structured, with stricter deadlines and scheduling requirements. Courses may require students to be online at specified times to complete group discussions and collaborate with cohort members and faculty. While cohort learning can be more time-consuming, it also provides more academic support and accountability.

In addition to strengthening a range of broadly applicable skills, an online Ph.D. in public policy allows enrollees to specialize in particular areas of interest. Individuals with strong analytical skills and the drive to create positive changes through political action can pursue diverse roles in the field. Below are a few such roles.

Doctoral degrees in public policy prepare graduates for academic roles as professors and researchers. Professionals with doctorates in public policy may also work for nonprofit think tanks, government agencies, or other non-academic research institutions.

According to PayScale, professionals with a doctorate in public policy analysis earn an average salary of over $106,000 per year.

Public policy specialists work for legislative bodies, governmental agencies, and nonprofit organizations. Public policy professionals with doctorates can also pursue academic careers. These careers tend to be prestigious, though actual experience varies by professional.

Public policy has a significant impact on the way people live. The study of public policy trains thinkers to identify successful public policies and develop strategies for improving public life.

Header Image Credit: mavo | Shutterstock