Degree Requirements

Graduate handbook information is updated and maintained by each program. Graduate handbooks are available within each program's office and online at https://utexas.box.com/v/UTAustinGraduateHandbooks. Please contact the program with concerns or questions.

Doctor of Philosophy

The doctoral program in public policy requires at least 36 hours of coursework beyond the master’s degree (in addition to the dissertation reading and writing courses) and includes supporting work in courses outside public affairs. The supporting work is intended to deepen the student’s understanding of an organized discipline and its application to public policy. Doctoral degree candidates must fulfill the following general requirements: (1) complete four core courses, Public Affairs 390C, 390E, 392C, and 392D;(2) complete two research methods courses typically taken in the first two years of study; (3) complete three courses in their substantive area of research; (4) pass comprehensive qualifying examinations; (5) defend a dissertation proposal; and (6) write and defend a dissertation. A student without a graduate degree from a policy-related academic or professional program may be required to complete supplementary coursework in addition to the number of hours required for the doctoral degree. Additional information on specific requirements and procedures is available from the school.