Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's online Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration with a specialization in Interdisciplinary Policy Studies is offered in course-based and mixed-model formats. The mixed-model format is a more loosely structured program that includes the completion of Walden University's Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs) and focuses on independent study and close cooperation with a faculty member. The course-based format is more structured and includes a specific plan of study that you are required to follow. Some of the topics that are covered in the course-based program include current issues in homeland security, contemporary cases and issues in the courts, and current issues in regional and local public policy.

What Are the Prerequisites?

When you apply to Walden University's Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration program with a specialization in Interdisciplinary Policy Analysis, you should have some experience and knowledge of the public policy field. It is also beneficial if you have excellent problem-solving and critical-thinking skills. Applicants to Walden University's programs should be at least 24 years old and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent; applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Course Requirements?

The Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration program with a specialization in Interdisciplinary Policy Studies consists of 82 credits. The degree program is divided into core courses, specialization courses, a foundation research sequence, and a dissertation. Four Ph.D. residencies are required and one of three courses must be chosen to fulfill the core course requirement

Core Courses

• Foundations for Doctoral Study
• Ethics and Social Justice
• Finance and Budgeting for the Public Sector
• Strategic Planning: Collaboration, Cooperation, and Coordination
• Leadership and Organizational Change
• Writing a Quality Prospectus
• Governance and Public Policy
• Advanced Mixed Methods Reasoning and Analysis (Optional)
• Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis (Optional)
• Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis (Optional)

Specialization Courses

• Current Issues in Homeland Security
• Current Issues in Regional and Local Public Policy
• Contemporary Cases and Issues in the Courts

Foundation Research Sequence

• Research Theory, Design, and Methods
• Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Dissertation

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

When you have completed Walden University's Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration program with a specialization in Interdisciplinary Policy Studies, you have the opportunity to pursue jobs in the field. These job opportunities may be offered by nonprofits, government organizations, institutions of higher learning, and think tanks. If you choose to enter into the private and public sectors, you must be able to demonstrate to potential employers an ability to think critically and analyze current policy issues and trends. Conversely, you also have the opportunity to pursue a career as a professor in academia. Much of the time is spent as a professor is focused on teaching and advising students. However, professors also conduct research and submit papers to scholarly journals to be published. Some possible job titles may include:

• Public policy analyst
• Nonprofit manager
• Professor
• Federal public policy manager

Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association, www.ncahlc.org.