Ph.D. in Public Affairs

The Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Public Affairs offers rigorous, advanced study that prepares researchers to enter academia or join highly respected institutions involved in cutting-edge research in public affairs, policy, planning, and management/governance.

Successful applicants are clear about their research interests and why the Humphrey School is the best place to do that research. Students are expected to make original theoretical, methodological, or substantive contributions in one of four specialization areas: Public Policy; Urban Planning; Management and Governance; or Science, Technology, and Environmental Policy.

The Humphrey School of Public Affairs at the University of Minnesota ranks among the country’s top 10 professional public policy and planning schools, widely recognized for its success in advancing the common good through a comprehensive, world-class program. The School offers six distinctive master’s degrees, a doctoral degree, and six certificate programs that match students’ passion with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to solve real-world challenges.

Long noted for equipping students to play key roles in public life at the local, state, national, and global levels, the Humphrey School is respected for its role in shaping public policy, its focus on social justice and human rights, and its expertise in planning, leadership, and management.