About PhD Program,
A Ph.D. in Public Policy and Management at USC Price combines theoretical and advanced methodological training with specialization in a policy area such as economics, sociology, political science, and organizational theory. Engaging with faculty and world-renowned research centers, students receive expert mentoring and collaborate with faculty in cutting-edge research. Teaching and research seminars along with faculty-student workshops support professional development and prepare students for positions at leading universities and research institutes.
PhD Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
The Ph.D. program in Public Policy and Management requires the completion of 57-58 units of coursework. Students who do not have advanced standing will need to complete courses in a substantive field.
All students will produce a doctoral dissertation based on original research on an issue relevant to public policy, public management, or from an interdisciplinary perspective. The dissertation must adhere to the format prescribed by the Graduate School.
Students select 12 units of field courses which can be used to develop disciplinary expertise related to specialization interest, or additional methodological expertise. Fields are developed with qualifying exam committee approval, can include any combination of USC Price and outside courses, and are unique to each student.
PhD Funding Coverage,
All Ph.D. students are supported for four years through a combination of fellowships and graduate assistantships that provides year-round full tuition, a competitive stipend, and health and dental insurance. Students beyond their fourth year obtain support through teaching or research assistantships, or funding from USC and/or outside sources. Ph.D. students have access to stipends for conference travel.
Application Requirement,
- AUSC Graduate Application — For step-by-step admission guidelines, visit: usc.edu/apply
- $90 application fee
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Applicants from domestic institutions should have their university registrar send transcripts electronically to etrans@usc.edu. To expedite review of your application, you may upload **OFFICIAL** copies of your transcripts into your application but you must still have official transcripts sent electronically to etrans@usc.edu. Applicants with international transcripts must mail them to the address indicated on the USC Graduate Application.
- Official copy of test scores from the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) (Scores older than five years are not accepted. Institution codes: GRE-4852)
- A current resume
- A current writing sample that is approximately 10 pages in length. This writing sample can be published or unpublished work. Please do not submit unsolicited materials such as design portfolios
- Three letters of recommendation, at least two of which should be from academic sources. In general, the references should provide specific and substantial evaluations of:
- Academic performance and potential as a doctoral student
- Motivation and interest in teaching
- Research abilities
- Please note: Letters of recommendation must be submitted through the online application system. We will not accept letters of recommendation through postal mail.
- A 1,000-word statement of purpose (approximately four typed pages) addressing the following questions:
- International students must also submit the following documents:
- Official TOEFL/IELTS scores – Official scores must be received directly from the testing service and date no earlier than 2 years (24 months) prior to the start of your intended first term at USC. (Institution code: 4852)
- Official transcripts indicating the award of all degrees with the title and date conferred in the applicant’s native language and an exact translation into English of each document
Application Deadline,
Dec 01, 2024
Application Fee,
- $90 application fee
