Public Policy (PhD)
Department website: https://lbj.utexas.edu/
This is a research-oriented program designed to give the student substantial knowledge of one or more disciplines, an understanding of the policy process, and technical mastery of advanced research skills. It aims to develop research scholars and university faculty who will make substantive contributions to our understanding of complex public policy problems and who can conduct research in multidisciplinary settings.
The program requires coursework beyond the master’s degree and includes supporting work outside public affairs. The supporting work is intended to deepen the student’s understanding of an organized discipline and its application to public policy.
Graduate Handbook
Graduate handbook information is updated and maintained by each program. Graduate handbooks are available within each program's office and online. Please contact the program with concerns or questions.
Admission
Admission decisions are made by an admissions committee. The committee considers applicants' academic and employment records, their scores on the Graduate Record Examinations General Test, three letters of recommendation, a writing sample, and a proposal of study that addresses the applicant's interest in and preparation for doctoral-level public policy research. A résumé and transcripts for all college coursework are also required.
Additional information on degree requirements and the application process is available from the school's website.
Total Hours Required: 36
Requirements
| Code | Title | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Major | ||
| Program curriculum | 12 | |
| Research methods (taken in the first two years) | 6 | |
| Hours chosen from: Substantive area of research | 6 | |
| Qualifying paper | ||
| Additional hours | 12 | |
| Dissertation | ||
| Dissertation | ||
| Dissertation | ||
| Dissertation | ||
| All students in this program must also follow these requirements and policies: | ||
| Graduate Public Affairs Requirements | ||
| Graduate University Requirements | ||
| Total Hours | 36 | |
Additional Requirements and Policies
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.