University of Memphis

What you'll study

The PhD in Public Policy Analysis combines advanced coursework in research methods with substantive study of policy areas such as health, education, urban policy, criminal justice and public finance. Early programme years typically emphasise core courses in microeconomics for policy, applied econometrics, programme evaluation, research design, statistics, and qualitative methods. Students also take seminars in policy theory and specialised electives tailored to their dissertation interests.

Training is research-led: students participate in policymaking seminars, present work in research colloquia, and complete supervised research projects. The degree culminates in an original doctoral dissertation that contributes to empirical and/or theoretical understanding of public policy. Many students pursue applied practicum experiences or collaborative projects with local agencies to ground their research in real-world problems.

• Core methodological areas: statistical inference, causal inference, programme evaluation, experimental and quasi-experimental methods, qualitative research methods
• Substantive policy areas: health policy, education policy, urban and regional policy, criminal justice policy, social welfare and poverty, public budgeting and finance
• Programme components: coursework, comprehensive/qualifying examinations, teaching or research assistantships, dissertation proposal and dissertation

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree (for example in public policy, public administration, economics, political science, or a related social science) or a strong bachelor’s degree with demonstrated research experience. Admissions committees typically look for evidence of quantitative preparation (courses in statistics, econometrics, or mathematics) and prior research or analytic experience.

Required application materials usually include a CV, academic transcripts, a statement of purpose describing research interests, letters of recommendation (often three), a writing sample that demonstrates analytic ability, and proof of English language proficiency for international applicants. Specific grade and test-score expectations are set by the university and may vary; prospective applicants should consult the department for exact criteria and advice on preparing a competitive application.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Public Policy Analysis typically pursue careers in several sectors. Many enter academia as faculty in public policy, political science, economics, or related departments. Others work as researchers and analysts in federal, state and local government agencies where they design and evaluate policy programs.

Additional career paths include roles at nonprofit organisations, policy and economic consulting firms, independent research institutes and think tanks, and international organisations. The methodological emphasis of the programme also prepares graduates for quantitative analyst roles in the private sector, including data analytics and programme evaluation positions.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers a doctoral environment with opportunities for regionally relevant, applied policy research and close faculty mentoring. The institution’s location in a mid-sized city provides access to diverse urban policy challenges and potential partnerships with local and state agencies, non-profits and community organisations—useful for fieldwork and practicum projects.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments and access to faculty with strengths in empirical methods and policy areas such as health, urban affairs and criminal justice. Funding opportunities, including assistantships and research project roles, support student training while providing hands-on experience in policy analysis and communication.

Prospective students should contact the department to discuss faculty interests, potential research fit, and detailed information on funding, teaching responsibilities and programme milestones.