University of Chicago

What you'll study

The PhD programme emphasises methodological rigour and theoretical depth in the study of public organisations, public management, policy design and policy evaluation. Core training typically covers microeconomic theory for public policy, advanced econometrics and statistics, causal inference, and research design. Students take courses in public administration and organisational theory, political institutions and governance, regulatory policy, and programme evaluation. Coursework is often complemented by seminars in specialised areas such as urban policy, social policy, health policy, education policy, and environmental policy.

Training is interdisciplinary: students work with faculty across the Harris School, the Department of Political Science, the Department of Economics, and other research units. The programme emphasises empirical methods, including experimental and quasi-experimental approaches, structural modelling, computational methods and qualitative methods where appropriate. After coursework and passing qualifying examinations, students undertake original dissertation research under the supervision of faculty advisers and participate in workshops and research apprenticeships to prepare papers for publication.

Entry requirements

• Academic qualifications: A strong undergraduate degree is required; many successful applicants hold a relevant master's degree (for example in public policy, public administration, economics, political science or a related field).
• Quantitative preparation: Demonstrable preparation in mathematics, statistics and econometrics is expected. Prior coursework in calculus, linear algebra and introductory statistics or econometrics strengthens an application.
• Application materials: Applicants should submit academic transcripts, a statement of purpose outlining research interests, a writing sample (ideally demonstrating research or analytic skills), and letters of recommendation from academic referees who can speak to research potential.
• English language: Applicants whose first language is not English are normally required to provide evidence of English proficiency via an accepted test, unless exempted by institutional policy.
• Additional considerations: Research experience (for example as a research assistant), publications or relevant professional experience in public service or policy research are advantageous. The programme is highly selective and admissions decisions emphasise research potential and fit with faculty expertise.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue careers in a range of research-intensive and leadership roles. Common pathways include academic positions in public policy, public administration, political science and economics departments; researcher or senior analyst roles at think tanks and research institutes; leadership and analytic roles in national and subnational government agencies; positions in international organisations and intergovernmental bodies; and senior posts in public-sector consulting firms. The programme also prepares graduates for roles directing evaluation units, policy labs, or data-driven decision-making teams within NGOs and philanthropic organisations.

Why study at University of Chicago

The University of Chicago is known for its emphasis on analytical clarity and methodological expertise. The Harris School of Public Policy provides an environment where doctoral students receive intensive quantitative training alongside opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with economists, political scientists and social scientists across the university. Faculty supervision is research-focused, and students benefit from active seminar series, research centres and partnerships that provide access to data, field sites and policy-relevant projects.

Students also gain from close engagement with applied policy work through practicum-style opportunities, research assistantships and connections to municipal, state and federal stakeholders. The university’s research infrastructure and the programme’s focus on rigorous causal inference and theory-driven enquiry make it a strong choice for those aiming for careers in research, scholarship or high-level policy practice.