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The Ph.D. in Public Policy and Administration prepares students for scholarly and leadership roles in settings including government, higher education and research organizations.

Our multi-disciplinary approach means you’ll work with faculty from across our programs and have the chance to specialize in areas including: public policy, public administration, criminal justice policy and urban policy.

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We are proud to announce historic achievements in the 2024 U.S. News & World Report graduate program rankings. For the first time, the Wilder School has been recognized as the nation's sixth-leading institution for Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness, marking a significant milestone in our commitment to academic excellence and innovation in public affairs.

This year, the Wilder School continues to be ranked among the nation's top schools:

• Ranked No. 39 in the top 40 Graduate Schools of Public Affairs
• Ranked No. 6 in Homeland Security Programs
• Ranked No. 33 in Public Management and Leadership Programs

All students are encouraged to pursue additional research and training while completing their degree, and those interested in academics careers are encouraged to gain additional teaching experience.

Classes are scheduled in late afternoons, early evenings and on weekends to meet the needs of working professionals and full-time graduate student

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Launched as the nation’s first homeland security and emergency preparedness program in 2005, we prepare students to manage the complexities of disaster planning and response.

Alumni often work in private and public-sector jobs related to emergency management, security or crisis planning, or pursue graduate study in fields such as government, international affairs, law enforcement, policy planning and law.

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The Wilder School is also recognized for demonstrating exemplary commitment in four areas recognized by Network of Schools of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA), the global standard in public service education.