Public Policy

The PhD in Public Policy Program trains candidates to conduct policy analytic research, help shape and execute public policy, and teach the next generation of educators, researchers, and practitioners.

The flexible nature of the program allows you to choose your own path in areas that most interest you—from microeconomic research to international development to climate change. Whichever program track you choose—economics, politics & institutions, judgment and decision sciences, and science, technology, and policy—you will have the opportunity to conduct scholarly research using the vast resources of Harvard University.

Students in the program have been involved in many diverse projects such as water research allocation in Zambia, racial disparities in the criminal justice system in Massachusetts, and the politics of the American welfare state.

Graduates of the program have gone on to teach at MIT, Duke, University of Texas, Penn State, and Yale. Others now have influential positions with NGOs like Resources for the Future, private institutions like JP Morgan and Analysis Group, and multi-lateral organizations like the World Bank and Global Innovation Fund. Among many illustrious graduates of the program is Larry Bacow, president of Harvard University.

Additional information on the graduate program is available from the Public Policy Program and requirements for the degree are detailed in GSAS Policies.

Admissions Requirements

Please review GSAS admissions requirements and other information before applying. You can find degree program-specific admissions requirements below and access additional guidance on applying from the Public Policy Program.

Academic Background

Applicants apply to one of the specific tracks listed below. Visit the Public Policy program site to review the track-specific admissions prerequisites.

Economics
Judgment and Decision Making
Politics and Institutions
Science, Technology and Policy Studies

Writing Sample

A writing sample is required as part of the application and should be no more than 20 pages long. The writing sample must be single-authored and written in English.