Sapienza University of Rome

Overview

The PhD in Service Design for the Public Sector at Sapienza University of Rome is designed to cultivate research skills aimed at enhancing public services through citizen-centered innovation. This program emphasizes four key themes: green transition, digital transition, public engagement, and healthcare services, preparing students to tackle contemporary challenges in the public sector.

What you'll study

The Doctorate is structured around four thematic axes, allowing each candidate to tailor their research experience according to their project interests:

• Green transition: Focuses on creating sustainable public services, assessing environmental impacts, and responsible service redesign.
• Digital transition: Explores technology-enabled service innovations, the digital journey of citizens, and the ethical use of data and tools.
• Public engagement: Investigates participation methods, co-design practices, and strategies for improving trust and legitimacy in services.
• Health society and healthcare services: Examines service models in health and social care, prioritizing user needs and service effectiveness.

Research components include:

• Development of an original research project aligned with one of the thematic axes.
• Regular supervision and strategic research planning.
• Participation in academic activities such as seminars, workshops, and research presentations to bolster methodological and theoretical understanding.
• Progress reviews as mandated by the PhD regulations.
• Submission of a final dissertation or thesis, adhering to the guidelines set forth by Sapienza University.

Entry requirements

Applicants should possess a Master’s degree or an equivalent qualification recognized for PhD admission. The program does not specify minimum GPA or standardized test score requirements.

Proof of English proficiency is also necessary, with accepted qualifications including:

• TOEFL iBT: minimum score of 80
• PTE Academic: minimum score of 42
• IELTS: minimum overall score of 5.5

Admission entails a qualifications assessment followed by an oral interview. Required documentation includes a research project proposal, a letter of motivation, and a Curriculum Vitae (CV). Applicants should verify specific application details on Sapienza's official website.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Service Design for the Public Sector can pursue various career paths in both public and private sectors. Opportunities may include roles in public administration, consultancy, research institutions, and non-profit organizations, where they can apply their expertise to improve public services and contribute to societal well-being.