Fully Funded PhD in Public Administration and Policy at University at Albany

About PhD Program,

Gain authoritative knowledge of multi-dimensional public policy and public management problems and master the social science methodologies used to analyze and address them.

Rockefeller College’s PhD in Public Administration and Policy program will prepare you for a successful research career, primarily in academia, by providing advanced education and mentoring in theory-driven interdisciplinary social science research.

Our faculty are committed to training you to produce original research on systemic public problems and public service professionals to address practical challenges. Through our doctoral you will create and implement rigorous research designs, use quantitative and qualitative methods, inform the development of theory, contribute to improving practice in the public and nonprofit sectors, maintain high ethical standards in research, and consider the role of competing public values when making policy and administrative decisions.

PhD Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,  

  • Completion of courses in the core curriculum, and personalized courses in research tools and concentration electives
  • Empirical research paper
  • Literature review
  • Outline of the dissertation proposal

This program requires an internship, field experience, study abroad component, or clinical experience requirement. Students who have previously been convicted of a felony are advised that their prior criminal history may impede their ability to complete the requirements of certain academic programs and/or to meet licensure requirements for certain professions. If applicants have concerns about this matter please contact the Dean’s Office of the intended academic program.

PhD Funding Coverage,

The department offers fellowships with multiple years of funding that includes a full tuition waiver and stipend. In these fellowships, you work as a research and teaching assistant, enabling you to gain valuable experience to prepare for your dissertation and academic job market.

Rockefeller also provides financial support to PhD students attending academic conferences, including those who are not on a fellowship. All students are able to visit the career services office for assistance with locating additional sources of employment during their studies. With a strategic location in the Capital District, there are numerous opportunities for Rockefeller College students to work in government positions to gain experience.

Application Requirement,

  • Transcripts of all post-secondary schools attended
  • Statement of Background and Goals
  • Resume
  • Graduate Assistantship/Fellowship Application
  • Your recommenders’ names and email addresses
  • Any program-specific application materials listed above (such as standardized test scores, a writing samples, a portfolio, etc.)

Application Deadline,

Jan 01, 2025

Application Fee,

The non-refundable application fee is currently $75 for degree or certificate programs. The University cannot process an application until the required fee has been paid.