Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration program with a specialization in Homeland Security Policy and Coordination combines a foundational education in governance, organizational management, and research while building an understanding of policies and systems used in protecting the public against terrorism and in managing emergencies. Topics addressed in specialization courses include details about the Patriot Act, various forms of terrorism, the balance of policy enforcement and constitutional rights, emergency planning strategies, and leadership theories. Core courses offer discussions in change management, administrative decision-making processes, governance theories, collaborative strategies, and public sector funds management. You can choose between a structured course-based format and a mixed-model format, which offers a combination of independent and mentored study through online courses and Knowledge Area Modules (KAMs).

What Are the Prerequisites?

A master's degree and current experience working in a government office setting or security firm are important for prospective students of Walden University's Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration program with a specialization in Homeland Security Policy and Coordination. An educational background in management is helpful.

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. There is a slight variation in the course requirements for Walden University's Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration program with a specialization in Homeland Security Policy and Coordination depending on the format you choose. In the more traditional course-based format, you will be required to complete a total of 82 credits, which includes 35 credits in the core curriculum and15 credits in specialized courses. In the mixed-model format, you must complete 101 credits, with 30 credits in core courses, 15 credits in specialization courses, and 24 credits in KAMs. Both formats require 12 credits in research courses, a 20-credit dissertation process, and four Ph.D. residencies (to equal a minimum of 16 credits). The course requirements for both the course-based and mixed-model formats are listed below, followed by the additional KAMs required for the mixed-model format.

Course Requirements

• 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
• Choose one of the following courses:
  • Advanced Mixed Methods Reasoning and Analysis
  • Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
  • Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Public Policy Implications of Terrorism Legislation and Policies
• Terrorism: A Systemic Approach for Emergency Preparedness
• Critical Incident Planning and Leadership
• Foundation Research Sequence
• Dissertation

KAM Requirements for the Mixed-Model Format

• KAM V: Democratic Governance
• KAM VI: Organizational Leadership and Change

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities

As a graduate of Walden University's Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration program with a specialization in Homeland Security Policy and Coordination, you could seek executive or management positions relating to security policy development and administration in the public sector. A doctoral degree could also qualify you for instructional or administrative jobs in a college or university. Areas in which you could act as a policy analyst or policy administrator at the state or federal level include:

• Customs
• Border patrol
• Immigration
• Law enforcement
• Transportation administration

Career opportunities may require additional experience, training, or other factors beyond the successful completion of this degree program.