Public Policy PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships in Leeds

A PhD in Public Policy focuses on areas such as applied econometrics, political psychology, management and public budgeting. Whether you are interested in local governance, applying life-cycle thinking to public policy or environmental protection, you’ll be empowering policy makers to make informed decisions and improve the lives of millions of people.

What's it like to study a PhD in Public Policy?

Doing a PhD in Public Policy, you will become proficient in the skills necessary to contribute to a research portfolio which spans economics, decision-making, politics and institutions, and science, technology and policy studies.

Some typical research topics in Public Policy include: 

• applied microeconomics
• behavioural economics and decision science
• environmental economics
• international trade
• economic development

Typical Public Policy PhD research projects take between three and four years to complete. As well as undertaking research training within your department, you will also attend external meetings and conferences and may be submitting research posters as your research develops.

To be awarded your PhD, you must submit a thesis of about 60,000 words and defend it during your viva exam. 

PhD in Public Policy entry requirements    

The entry requirements for a typical PhD in Public Policy usually involves a Masters degree with at least a merit. You will also need to submit a compelling research proposal detailing your study plans.

PhD in Public Policy funding options

In the UK, PhDs in Public Policy are funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) who provide a tuition fee waiver and a living cost stipend. Depending on the programme, you may submit your own research proposal before being considered for funding or apply for a project that already has funding attached.  

It is also possible to apply for a PhD loan to help with the costs of a doctorate in Public Policy (although this cannot be combined with Research Council funding). Other options for financial support include university scholarships, graduate teaching assistantships and charities.   

If you are considering a part-time PhD in Public Policy, it may also be worth asking your employer if they are happy to sponsor you.    

PhD in Public Policy careers

A PhD in Public Policy could lead you down a number of different routes. You may choose to stay in academia and carry out more research and teach the next generation of policy makers. Or you may want to venture outside of academia and make a name for yourself in think tanks, multinational organisations, NGOs or the private sector.