Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

The curriculum of Walden University's Ph.D. in Human Services program with a specialization in Social Policy Analysis and Planning combines a foundational education in human services development and social change with more focused coursework in strategies, legalities, and analytical processes in public policy and public administration. Topics of discussion in this program include social change theories and management principles, social development, counseling theories, public policy evaluation methods, legal research techniques, court decisions impacting public policy, and interactions between different levels of government. You must also complete a dissertation and doctoral residences. The program is offered in a traditionally structured course-based format, or in a self-directed format that allows students to work more independently under the guidance of a faculty mentor.

What Are the Prerequisites?

Prospective students of Walden University's Ph.D. in Human Services program with a specialization in Social Policy Analysis and Planning should hold a master's degree and possibly have an educational background in public administration or a related area. Some professional experience in the public sector is helpful. Most of Walden University's doctoral programs require three years of related academic or professional experience.

What Are the Program Requirements?

Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change, and you should contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program. You must earn between 100 and 102 credits to successfully complete Walden University's Ph.D. in Human Services program with a specialization in Social Policy Analysis and Planning. The specific number of credits required depends on the program format you pursue. The 102-credit self-directed format consists of 36 credits in core Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs), 24 credits in specialized KAMs, and a six-credit foundation course. The course-based format requires 100-102 credits, including 45 credits in the core curriculum, 14 to 15 credits in specialization courses, a one-credit foundation course, and a four- or five-credit elective. In either format, you must complete four residencies for a minimum of 16 credits, 16 credits in foundation and advanced research, and a 20-credit dissertation process.

Social Policy Analysis and Planning Course Requirements

Course-Based Format:

• Foundations of Human Services
• Organizational Management and Leadership
• Research Theory, Design, and Methods
• Social Change, Leadership, and Advocacy for Counseling and Human Services Professionals
• History and Development of Human Services
• Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Human Services Theory, Research, and Practice
• Ethics and Social Justice
• Culture and Psychology
• Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Human Services Administration
• Writing a Quality Prospectus
• Choose one of the following:
  • Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
  • Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
  • Advanced Mixed Methods Reasoning and Analysis
• Finance and Budgeting for the Public Sector
• Public Policy Analysis
• Choose two of the following:
  • Policy Analysis in the Criminal Justice System
  • Public Sector Economics
  • Strategic Planning: Collaboration, Cooperation, and Coordination
  • Fundamentals of Law and Public Policy
  • Legal Research for Policy Practitioners
  • Contemporary Cases and Issues in the Courts
  • Mental Health Law
  • Psychology and Social Change
  • Intellectual Traditions of Public Policy and Public Administration
  • Community Psychology
  • Transformative Change in a Shared-Power World
• Elective course
• Dissertation

Self-Directed Format:

Foundation Course

• Foundations for Doctoral Study

Core KAMs

• KAM I: Principles of Societal Development
• KAM II: Principles of Human Development
• KAM III: Principles of Organizational and Social Systems

Specialized KAMs

• KAMV: Advanced Theory and Practice in Human Services
• KAM VI: Intervention Strategies in Human Services

Dissertation

• Dissertation

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

You could be prepared to assume greater responsibilities or to apply for management or leadership positions after completing Walden University's Ph.D. in Human Services program with a specialization in Social Policy Analysis and Planning. You could work in community centers, state or federal government legislation offices, administrative agencies, lobbying organizations, or nonprofit organizations. Positions you could pursue include:

• City manager
• Lobbyist
• Policy analyst
• Public interest group director