Skip navigation Jump to navigation

PhD Program – Doctor of Philosophy in Public Administration

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Administration at Rutgers SPAA is a research degree. It trains students for careers as scholars, researchers, and teachers in the diverse and dynamic fields of public affairs and administration.

Specifically, the Learning/Program Goals are:

  • The development and attainment of research, scholarship and teaching skills in the fields of public affairs and administration
  • Conducting and producing original research
  • Professional career preparation

Through disciplined research, the PhD in Public Administration produces scholars who expand the knowledge base and problem-solving capacities of universities, independent research organizations, and government and nonprofit agencies.

Program Quick Facts

  • Credits: 60 (48 course work / 12 dissertation research)
  • Application Deadline: Jan. 10
  • PhD Program Director: Lindsey McDougle, PhD

Rutgers SPAA is one of the top-ranked schools in public management and leadership and nonprofit management in the U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report. We have a widely published and internationally recognized faculty, and our doctoral graduates are teaching and gaining tenure at dozens of universities throughout the United States and around the world. We are also proud that the Rutgers-Newark campus is one of the most diverse in the U.S., and that our PhD program contributes substantially to that diversity.

Curriculum

The PhD requires 48 credits of course work beyond the attainment of a relevant master’s degree and 12 dissertation research credits for a total of 60 credit hours. Up to 9 transfer credits from the master's degree are allowed. Most core and elective curriculum classes meet on Monday through Friday afternoons. Some electives meet in the evenings. Students may also take elective offerings at other Rutgers departments.

For course descriptions and prerequisites see Courses.

 

To Apply / Admission Requirements

For admission requirements and application information and deadlines see Apply Now.

 

Academic Policies, Procedures & Forms

 

PhD Dissertations, Job Placements & Fellowships

For more information on PhD dissertation topics and committees and positions see PhD Dissertations, Job Placements & Fellowships.

 

PhD Alumni

See the PhD Alumni Directory for a listing of PhD alumni and SPAA Alumni Highlights for information on SPAA PhD alumni activities.

 

PhD Student Highlights

To learn more about PhD student achievements see SPAA Student Highlights.

 

For More Information

To learn more, Request Information or Join a SPAA Info SessionIf you have questions about a program or the application process, contact Aaron Gibbs, associate dean of student and academic services, at algibbs@rutgers.edu.