Public Administration

PhD Program Description

The doctoral program in Public Administration at Rutgers School of Public Affairs & Administration (SPAA) is a research degree that trains students for careers as scholars, researchers, and teachers in the diverse and dynamic field of public management and administration.

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Through disciplined research, the program in Public Administration seeks to expand the knowledge base and problem-solving capacities of universities, independent research organizations, government, and nonprofit organizations. Such entities are routinely expected to conceptualize and carry out research relevant to the processes of acquiring human, fiscal, and informational resources; utilizing those resources efficiently and effectively; and producing desired social and policy outcomes.

General Information

Degree Offered: Ph.D.

Degree Credit Requirements

Ph.D.: 60 credits

Career Opportunities 

Rutgers SPAA is among the top-ranked schools in public management and administration in the U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report. We have a widely published and internationally recognized core faculty, and our doctoral graduates are teaching and gaining tenure at dozens of universities throughout the United States and around the world.

Application Requirements and Deadlines

Before enrolling, applicants must have received an MPA or other relevant master's degree (e.g., public policy, political science, sociology, law, education, public health, social work, etc.). GRE required.

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Application Deadline: Consideration of applications begins on February 1 for admission to the fall semester. Admissions decisions are not made for the spring semester.

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