The first year of coursework prepares you for independent research in public policy and management. Prior coursework in calculus, intermediate microeconomics, and multivariate statistics is required before matriculation. The first-year curriculum is full-time, earning 30+ credits, and includes:
- Research Design
- Institutional Perspectives on Management and Leadership
- Public Policy Processes
- Advanced Microeconomics for Policy Analysis
- Policy Analysis and Evaluation
- Quantitative Methods (two courses)
- Professional development seminar (Proseminar)
- Qualifying exam (must be passed to enter second year)
The second year of coursework enhances your research skills while focusing on a chosen field of research specialization in public policy or management or a related policy field (e.g. education, environment, urban affairs, nonprofit management, international development). Your second year curriculum is full-time, 30+ credits, chosen in consultation with your faculty advisor, and includes:
- Data Analysis Practicum
- Restricted electives in qualitative and quantitative methods
- Three or more courses in your chosen field of research specialization
- An elective teaching seminar and three-quarter teaching assistantship at the Evans School or elsewhere on the UW campus (some portions of this requirement can be waived depending on your teaching experience)
- Quarterly seminars on policy management and research
- Second-year assessment (a critical literature review designed to help you identify a dissertation topic)
The third year includes preparation for and completion of the General Examination and dissertation prospectus.
The fourth year of study can be completed full- or part-time and is focused on writing, completing, and defending your dissertation.
View application instructions for our Ph.D. program.
For more information, contact the Evans School Student Services office at evansphd@u.washington.edu or 206.543.4900.