Doctoral in Public Administration

Overview of the program
A Doctoral of Public Administration is the terminal degree in Public Administration for those interested in making a future in administration in public, private and non-profit sectors.

Top Schools Offering Doctoral in Public Administration Degrees

Walden University Online

Capella University

Top Doctoral in Public Administration Programs

Structure and duration of the degree program
A Doctoral of Public Administration takes around three to five years to complete and the students have to go through rigorous coursework in the initial years of the degree. The latter years are dedicated to research culminating in a dissertation. Universities usually expect students to acquire necessary fieldwork experience before the degree is awarded.

Highlights of the coursework
Some of the courses taught as part of a Doctoral in Public Administration include theories of politics, economics, social services and health program evaluation, law and social control, housing and community development, institutional and public policy making, law and social control, responsibility, ethics and culture, law and justice among others. The taught part of the degree culminates in an examination followed by a dissertation.

Admission criteria and graduation requirements
To get admission in a Doctoral of Public Administration you need a Master’s degree in the relevant field including Public Policy, Political Science and Administration.

Career prospects and average salary
Being the terminal degree in the field, a doctorate can ensure lucrative jobs in the public sector, research organizations, private organizations, think tanks and even academics. The average salary for someone with a Public Administration Doctorate is around $100,000 which could be higher depending on your area of expertise.