Ph.D. in Public Affairs

This program emphasizes public administration scholarship, public policy, public management, and criminal justice/criminology in preparation for positions in academia and consulting firms, public management and administration, public policy analysis, politics and advocacy, and nonprofits.

The Ph.D. program requires an intense commitment. Most core courses are offered during the late afternoon or early evenings. On average, students take four to six years to complete all of the requirements for the Ph.D. program. The School of Public Affairs will fund a small number of doctoral research assistantships each year based on the applicant's financial availability and qualifications.

Public affairs topics are at the center of almost every national debate. From education policy to affordable housing, criminal justice reform to energy independence, these issues affect our neighborhoods, cities, and society. To move forward and find solutions, the country needs leaders and collaborators with in-depth knowledge and a long-term vision.

Determined to make a difference in your community? As Colorado’s top school for public affairs, public administration, and criminal justice, CU Denver School of Public Affairs is a great place to start.