Top Online PhDs in Public Administration

A Closer Look at Online Public Administration PhD Programs

If you’re considering an online PhD in public administration over a traditional, on-campus option, it’s important to know how it works and how it could affect your career.

A PhD is built to equip you with advanced knowledge and proficiency in research as well as your field of study. Graduates of these programs often pursue roles such as director of public affairs, chief administrative officer, or public policy researcher, where they apply specialized knowledge and skills to address complex societal challenges. This type of degree may be ideal for early- or mid-career professionals seeking to advance into leadership positions in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or research institutions.

You may also be a good fit for an online PhD program if you prefer the flexibility of remote learning. If you thrive in a self-directed learning environment and are comfortable with technology, online programs provide autonomy and convenience — without compromising on the quality of education. Start by previewing the programs below and considering whether any sound appealing.

PhD vs. DPA: Key Differences Explained

Though they’re both graduate programs, the difference between these two degrees is primarily in their areas of focus. The doctorate of public administration (DPA) is a professional doctorate with practical applications, ideal for mid- or late-career professionals. Meanwhile, PhDs are academically focused, best for those looking for careers in research and academia – and often, best for those still early in their career.

Keep in mind that these are general differences and that you’ll find some DPA programs with elements more associated with PhD in Public Administration programs and vice versa. Before enrolling in a program you will need to investigate the specifics of each public administration PhD program you’re considering.

Below is a comparison highlighting key distinctions between the two degrees:

Popular Questions About Online Public Administration PhDs

Are PhD programs in public administration fully or partially online?

Online PhD programs are offered in two formats: 100% online and hybrid. In the case of public administration PhDs, most of the work can be done remotely, so fully online options are available. In a hybrid format, part of the curriculum is offered online, but you’ll need to show up on campus for at least some of the program.

Residencies are another common reason for hybrid studies. These are learning experiences in which you’ll have a chance to network in person and attend workshops. You may also be required to attend as part of your capstone project or dissertation. Some residencies can be done online, but many require your physical attendance.

An example of a program that requires in-person residencies is Walden University’s PhD in Public Policy and Administration, which has four residency periods scattered throughout the program.

Can I get into an online public administration PhD program?

Like any PhD program, admission into online public administration PhDs is rigorous, with only the best students being accepted. Some of the requirements include:

• A master’s degree in a related field
• Relevant work experiences (in some cases, many years’ worth)
• A competitive GPA, usually at least 3.0 to 3.25
• GRE scores. Sometimes GSAT scores are an acceptable alternative.
• Multiple letters of recommendation from academic and professional sources, often three or more
• An essay or a statement of purpose which outlines your academic and career goals, and why you’re pursuing a PhD in public administration

What is a dissertation? Is it different from a capstone project?

Unlike DPA programs, PhDs usually require a dissertation: a comprehensive research project that PhD students undertake to contribute original knowledge to the field of public administration. Creating a dissertation is a lengthy process, typically lasting years, and you may be required to defend your dissertation and show your knowledge.

As for a capstone project, these focus on addressing real-world problems in public administration and are more common in DPAs. Some PhD programs allow you to choose between a dissertation and a capstone project, so you’ll want to fully understand what your program of choice requires before applying.

How much does an online PhD in public administration cost?

PhD programs are the culmination of your educational career and are often a big commitment of time and money. Tuition can vary widely, from $26,000 to over $100,000. For example, the total cost for the PhD program at Walden University can be anywhere from $57,785 to $133,610 depending on how long it takes for you to complete the program and how many transfer credits you can apply. Luckily, financial aid for public service degrees and student loan forgiveness are available.

What type of accreditation should I look for?

When selecting a PhD program in public administration, there are two types of accreditations to look for. The first is regional accreditation, such as the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC). These ensure that the institution meets national educational standards.

The second is accreditation by specific organizations, including NASPAA, which accredits programs related to public policy and administration. NASPAA evaluates programs based on their curriculum, faculty, and student outcomes, ensuring they meet high standards in public service education.

Online Specialization Tracks in Public Administration PhD Programs

Public administration is a very broad field, and there are plenty of chances to specialize. Specializations can help you establish your niche in academic discourse and in corporate hierarchy. In graduate studies, specializations are important because they allow you to transform the general knowledge you developed in your undergraduate work into a more applicable knowledge base. Below are a few common tracks.

Ethics and Transparency in Government

This track emphasizes ethical decision-making, promoting transparency and accountability within the government and its institutions. You will also be able to conduct research on the structure through which local and national public services are designed, implemented, and evaluated. You’ll be prepared to tackle complex ethical dilemmas in public administration.

Nonprofit Management

This specialization explores the unique challenges of leading nonprofit organizations, such as securing funding and preparing for audits. This type of specialization focuses on using private sector management principles in the context of public governance and public values. With this knowledge, you’ll be able to make a meaningful impact on the nonprofit sector.

Public Management and Leadership

In this track, you’ll focus specifically on developing strong leadership skills and learning strategies for effective management in the public sector. Administrative positions are common for graduates with this specialization. The curriculum combines behavioral science and financial management to equip students with the skill to tackle challenges pertaining to interpersonal conflict and budgeting.

Technology and Public Administration

Exploring the intersection of technology and public governance, you’ll learn how to leverage the latest tech for more efficient and effective public administration practices. The focus will be on integrating information technology into public leadership practices. Students who pursue this track can embark on roles such as IT director, information systems manager, and database administrator.

Urban and Regional Planning

For those who want to focus on sustainable city and regional planning, this specialization is perfect. Urban development, land use planning, and sustainability strategies are all part of the curriculum. Students are introduced to the theories and practices associated with the strategic development and use of public lands and physical facilities in public jurisdictions.

Employment in Public Administration

In most cases, those who pursue a PhD in public administration intend to enter a career that allows them to work in an academic or governmental settings. Some of those careers include professors, public relations specialists, and urban planners. However, there are more career paths to take with a public administration degree than the three detailed below.

Postsecondary Teacher

If you are interested in teaching beyond the high school level, then you might consider becoming a postsecondary instructor. As part of this career, you will be expected to develop syllabi that meets college standards, lecture, assess student’s progress, and advise students about which courses to take. If you intend to obtain a tenure position, you must research and publish a certain number of scholarly papers. The median annual pay, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, was $84,380 in 2023.

Public Relations Specialists

Public relations specialists are responsible for ensuring that their organization or agency has a positive public perception. In order to do this, public affairs directors grant interviews to reporters, write press releases, and participate in fundraising events. People in this profession make around $66,750, as of 2023, and the career is projected to grow by 6 percent.

Urban and Regional Planners

Urban and regional planners plan and manage programs for the use of land and physical facilities in cities and counties. They regularly interact with government officials, developers, and the public regarding land use and ownership. In this position you will be responsible for assessing the feasibility of development plans and staying current on zoning laws, building codes, and environmental regulations. As of May 2023, the median annual pay was $81,800 per year and the employment rate is projected to increase by four percent, which is the average growth rate for most professions.

Top Public Administration PhDs Offered Online

With numerous options available, it can be challenging to choose the right school and program. To provide you with a more succinct list to choose from, we have compiled the best online PhD programs in public administration based on factors like affordability, accreditation, and student services. Review this year’s top PhD online public administration programs below and see which one is right for you. If you would like more information on STEPS’s ranking methodology, visit the “About the Rankings” pop-up below.