Doctoral Program Frequently Asked Questions
Thank you for your interest in the Public Administration and Policy doctoral program. Follow a link below for specific questions and answers, or scroll down for the full FAQs:
- Which entrance exam should I take before applying to your program, GMAT or GRE?
- Do I need a master’s degree to be admitted to your doctoral program?
- What is the deadline for applications?
- Can I apply as a part time student?
- Where can I apply?
- Is financial assistance available?
- Can I transfer graduate credits taken at another university?
- How long does it usually take to graduate?
- What happens to students once they graduate?
Which entrance exam should I take before applying to your program, GMAT or GRE?
We normally require the GRE exam; however, we will accept GMAT scores in some cases. There is no minimum requirement but scores for most admitted applicants are above the 75th percentile.
Do I need a master’s degree to be admitted to your doctoral program?
Although no master’s degree is required for admission, most applicants already hold a master’s, generally a Master of Public Administration. Exceptionally strong students who hold only an undergraduate degree will be considered for admission. However, all entering students not holding an MPA degree will be required to complete the MPA core curriculum or its equivalent.
What is the deadline for applications?
The deadline to apply for domestic applicants is March 1st; international applicants must apply by February 1st.
Can I apply as a part time student?
Yes, but we seldom admit such students. Our program is designed for full-time students, most of whom are funded through an assistantship.
You may go to our website, http://publicadmin.eller.arizona.edu/doctoral/admissions/; there you will find links to the online application form, along with a list of other requirements for admission.
Is financial assistance available?
Most SPAP Ph.D. students receive research and/or teaching assistantships, which carry a work expectation of 20 hours per week, include full tuition waiver, and provide health benefits. The Graduate College usually offers tuition scholarships to doctoral students who do not receive funding. There are also several opportunities for financial assistance through the Financial Aid Office, but funding may be limited.
Can I transfer graduate credits taken at another university?
It is possible to transfer up to 12 credit hours from another graduate degree program, depending on the specific courses and subject to approval by the Ph.D. program director and Graduate College.
How long does it usually take to graduate?
Most of our Ph.D. students take between four and five years of full-time study to complete their degrees.
What happens to students once they graduate?
The focus of the degree is on academic research. Consistent with this focus, most of our Ph.D. students take tenure-track positions as Assistant Professors at other universities. A few students have taken research positions at non-academic institutions.
For additional information, please contact us.
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